Running for a cause The EcoMill produces energy instead of using it up. Ever look up from your elliptical at the gym and realize that you were in a sea of energy-guzzling machines? Running outside is the obvious environmentally friendly alternative, but if air conditioning and daytime television shows are more your thing, consider manual […]
Leafin’ fine Need a container that’s as lovely as the plants it will house? We like the classic lines of these urns from Ivy Nursery. They vary in price and size, but they’re all versatile enough to work on the deck of your contemporary cottage or the patio of your historic colonial. […]
Free-form for all Problem: Integrating kids in every room When architect and mom of two Kendra Guiffre designed her family’s home on Lake Monticello, her struggle was to create a modern structure that would reflect her professional and personal aesthetic, but also respect the more traditional lake community where she was building. But she had […]
My mother always told me your hardware is like jewelry for your cabinetry and furniture. And this is from a woman who wouldn’t think about entertaining guests without her best pearls. As always, Mom is right. Your choice of hardware (knobs, pulls, handles) can really dress up your cabinetry, update your space, and create that […]
The wrench is a crucial implement in your bag of D.I.Y. tricks. It’s what you’ll need for gripping and applying torque to objects that need to be turned, fastened or tightened such as nuts and bolts. As with most tools, there are many different kinds of wrenches designed for specific jobs, but I’m here to […]
Fair play Strap on your bicycle helmets and shake out your reusable canvas totes: It’s time for Eco-Fair 2010! With plenty of activities for children (Bike Rodeo, anyone?!) and more booths than you can shake an organic seed packet at, this year’s Eco-Fair promises to be quite a celebration. As part of Earth Week, Eco-Fair […]
Flights of fancy What is home sweet home when you’re a feathered descendent of the dinosaurs? Well, if there are friendly humans in the neighborhood, it might mean one of these charming birdhouses from Wild Birds Unlimited. Move-in condition; great for raising a family. Wren house, $18.99. One remote to rule […]
Mustard greens: The brassiest brassica The mustard plant is a member of the brassica family—that’s right, brother to broccoli, cousin to cauliflower—and may be the brassiest vegetable that finds its way onto our table. Mustard greens grow in a fashion similar to kale, collards and chard, with thick stems and long, broad leaves that fan […]
The fashion underground Problem: Finding space and privacy for a maturing teen When Mary Casell renovated her Woolen Mills home, she bucked the advice of others by making a significant investment in the basement. Choosing to compromise on budget elsewhere, she splurged on reclaimed hardwood floors and gave the semi-subterranean level the same thoughtful fit […]
No matter how nice the rest of your house is, guests will gather and even force themselves into your kitchen during parties. The kitchen, being such an integral part of the home, can really make or break a rental. When it comes to the kitchen, many renters often complain about a lack of storage, workspace/counterspace, […]