Backyard Cottages
In the past, backyard cottages were sometimes designed for seasonal guests or an elderly parent. They were often quaint dwellings with one or two bedrooms with a small deck and perhaps a garden. Cottages
Staying Cool
In some areas of Canada, an air conditioner is de rigueur equipment to keep cool in the humid months of July and August. In other areas, such as the West Coast, air conditioning is
Duck Eggs Are Better
In most cities, homeowners are allowed to keep ducks and chickens in their backyard. They are a wonderful way to reconnect with our food ecosystem and, when we can influence where our food comes
Frugal Resolutions
The word frugal is derived from the Latin frugalis, which means value and virtue in thrift. A frugal mindset helps us decide how, when, and why to spend or save our money. Practicing frugality
Steam Cleaning Basics (Revised)
In commercial operations, steam is a widely used cleaning and sanitizing tool. It can reach in the areas that are often in accessible to other cleaning methods such as brushes and cloths. This makes
After Market Solar
A solar power installation is only as good as its design so it's important to work with a reputable company that has engineers on staff. A viability study is required to choose the right
Central Vacuums
A central vacuum cleaner is a system that is built into a new home to make cleaning easier and quieter. They feature ducts in the walls that carry dust and debris to a central
Easy, Edible Perennial Gardens
One of the best uses for perennials plantings is edibles. Perennials go dormant in the winter and return each spring. Many vegetables and herbs are perennial which means you can enjoy bigger and bigger
Most Desirable House Features For 2021
A home is defined by how we use it which means it needs to fit our lifestyle and our expectations. We need them to be trouble-free, efficient, and comfortable. Modern houses are evolving from
Construction Trends For 2021
Each generation of design takes cues from the past and incorporates them into visions for the present. Sometimes the result is brilliant. Other times it can be a mashup of incompatible theories. Today, the