Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Bathrooms That Make You Go 'Ahhh'

New luxury and convenience items provide for the perfect home retreat(ARA) - If there is one room in the house that has been completely redefined in recent years it is the bathroom. Kitchens are still for cooking, living rooms are still for living and rec rooms are still for recreation. But the bathroom has evolved so far beyond its traditional functions that to truly reflect its current stat. . .

Adhesives Provide 'Nail Power' Without the Nails

(ARA) - Homeowners are finding that adhesives are indispensable when it comes to do-it-yourself projects around the home. Adhesives add stability and strength to most projects and offer an easy way to make projects "stick."In fact, professional contractors say using the right adhesives can prevent a lot of costly maintenance down the line. And, a degree isn't needed to select the right adhesi. . .

Become a Master of Illusion with Wallpaper (Decorating wi...

(ARA) - Trompe l'oeil, or "deceive the eye," is a time-honored decorative effect for adding architectural details, textures and even furnishings or whole scenes where they do not really exist. Today, thanks to sophisticated printing techniques, trompe l'oeil images once achieved only by master painters are available on wallpaper.So realistic looking is the stone wallpaper in the First Class Mal. . .

The 'Sink' Sense: Choosing a Sink That's Right for You

ARA ContentAbout The AuthorrCourtesy ARA Content, www.ARAcontent.com; e-mail: info@ARAcontent.com EDITORS NOTE: For more information, contact Ginny Long, Director of Public Affairs, Moen Incorporated, (800) 321-8809, Ext. 2019 or Chris R. Lynch, Robert Falls & Co. Public Relations, (216) 696-0229.Moen Incorporated is one of the world's largest producers of residential and commercial plumbing p. . .

Show Your (Decorating) Colors

(ARA) - Because of recent tragedies, Americans are looking more to home and family this year and want to create a safe and comforting haven in their homes. We are seeing a resurgence of national pride, as the flag is being flown everywhere. For many, money allotted for travel and entertainment will be re-channeled toward creating a refuge for our hearts, bodies and souls this fall and winter.So. . .

Mulch Your Spring Bulbs In The Fall For A Beautiful Sprin...

Flower bulbs need a good, long, winters sleep. Like some people we know, if they wake up before they are fully rested, they get kind of cranky, and then they don’t bloom well at all.Actually what happens is during a mild winter, the soil stays too warm, and the bulbs begin to come out of dormancy early. They start to grow, and once the tips emerge above the soil line, they are subject to freezi. . .

Rustic Accessories the New Buzz in Home Decor

(ARA) - As the cooler seasons draw closer, thoughts and activities drift slowly from the outdoors to the inside, and the annual human version of hibernation begins. We re-acclimate to shorter days and longer, colder nights. There is a sense that the house must be buttoned-up for the winter. More time is spent indoors, and so this is also when many people decide to give their home decor a new l. . .

It's Not Just Water Under the Bridge

Americans want better drinking water -- and are doing something about it(ARA) - Did you know nearly 90 percent of Americans have a serious drinking problem? The problem? Significant concern about the quality and taste of their drinking water.That's according to the results of a new 2001 National Consumer Water Quality Survey which analyzed respondents' perceptions about their household water su. . .

Decorating Tips: How To Make Windows The Focal Point Of Y...

(NC)-Windows are such an important part of any room, that it's amazing the number of times we ignore their many possibilities for creating or complementing a room's entire mood and theme. They are the source of light, air and sunshine, which are direct and integral sources of our feelings of comfort. Therefore, the task of how to dress them should become a focal point.Even if the windows themse. . .

The Debate Around Controlling Pests In Our Gardens

(NC)-An important hobby for many Canadians, and one that is increasing in popularity is gardening. "I have a firm belief that the gardening industry is getting bigger," says Mark Cullen, President of Weall and Cullen Garden Centres. Mark is well known across the country for his gardening expertise and from his syndicated radio show and TV program on Better Homes and Garden Television."This is a. . .

There's No Negative In My Program - Part 2

Well you know about the young hero who saved his brother, but that was just the beginning of the incredible feats of these young men. His younger brother arrived at the hospital with a broken back. The doctors told him he would never be able to compete again. The interviewer asked the young man, "What did it feel like when the doctors told you you'd never be able to ride again?" With. . .

From The Science Desk

Q: How should pesticides (for home use) be stored? What is the shelf life?A: Pesticides should be stored in a secure, well-ventilated area, preferably locked in a safe cupboard, garage or garden shed. Most pest control products can be stored for extended periods at temperatures above freezing. Check all labels carefully for specific information.Other safety rules to follow: Store products ONLY . . .

Decor Tips: A Glossary Of Key Window Decor Terms

(NC)-So you've moved into your new home and have nothing but bed sheets obstructing your neighbors from peering into your windows. Looks like you're in dire need of quality window treatments. But before you run off in search of the perfect window dressings, here's a helpful glossary of window décor terms from the experts at Blinds To Go to help you navigate through the sea of design choices. Bl. . .

Washing Window Tricks

Have you ever wondered how those professional window washers move so fast with the squeegee, and how the windows turn out perfect? Well, there really are some tricks to it that are simple to learn, and once you do, dare I say it, you may even enjoy washing windows? It is possible!The first trick is to invest in a good squeegee. They aren't very expensive and they are worth every cent! Those . . .

The Open Electricity Market: How It Affects You

(NC)-In the open electricity market, you have the power to decide which company sells you the electricity you use. There are a variety of licensed retailers who may offer competitive pricing packages, as well as other products and services. Or, you can continue to have Hydro One Networks purchase electricity on your behalf and sell it to you through "Standard Supply Service". This means they bu. . .

Eastern Influences On Western Interiors: Japanese Décor -...

The topic of eastern influences on western interiors is a very broad subject. Many countries, such as China, Japan, Tibet, etc., have had an influence. Therefore, I have chosen to focus on one country for this article, Japan. Characteristics of Japanese Interiors 1.. COLOR:Japanese interiors generally use neutral, natural colors, to provide a simple background. Interiors emphasize architecture,. . .

Fresh Ideas Herald Fall Decorating

(ARA) - Looking for a room with a view when there is none? Can't afford to move, or renovate? Check out the latest in affordable decorating trends, including wall mural graphics, accent pillows, throws and rugs and greenery. It's easy to change accent elements in a room to make the transition to fall décor. If your larger pieces of furniture are covered in solid or tone-on-tone fabrics, you can. . .

Finding the Perfect Wallpaper Pattern May be as Close as ...

(ARA) - Technology can do wonderful things. If you surf the Internet, you can find the right wallpaper pattern for your decorating project -- fast. You may want to browse through floral patterns or you may have a pattern in your imagination and want to know if it exists and if so, where do you get it? Historically, you would have gone to a wallpaper store (or many!), browsed through dealer sa. . .

20 Gas & Electric Money Savings Tips

Did you get sticker shock when you opened your last utility bill? If you did, you're not alone. People have reported huge increases in their energy bills. My gas bill went up about 40%, so I decided to make my home more energy efficient. You would be surprised just how much you can lower your utility bills by taking a few of these simple steps. Here are 20 quick and easy tips: Close the heating. . .

25 Tips and Tricks for an Organized Move

Worried because you're moving soon? This really doesn't have to be a stressful, chaotic time. Here are some tips to help you achieve a successful, organized move. 1. USE A MOVING CHECKLIST. Make yourself a moving checklist outlining everything that needs to be done before, and after, your move. 2. LEAVE IT BEHIND. Avoid moving anything you don't really need. It is expensive, time-consuming, and. . .

Funky, Fun Garden Plants

I have a love for funky, fun and unique garden plants. Here's one to try. It's called Sea Holly, and it's actually in the thistle family. Sea Holly is a perennial garden plant, which means you plant it once and it comes up year after year, somewhat depending on your climate. This plant never did fail to bring attention and comments from people seeing my garden. It grows about 3-4 feet high, ver. . .

Tips For A Pleasant Smelling Home

If you're anything like me and the scent of something pleasant can instantly lift your mood, then a house that is pleasant smelling will be a constant lift-booster. Here are some ways to do it. 1. As far as possible, keep unpleasant smells away from the house or at least away from the main living areas. Ask family members to leave smelly shoes outside. Ban smoking in your house. Make sure the t. . .

Energy-Efficient Windows: It's About Home Comfort

(NC)-If any of the windows in your home are leaking air and you are thinking about replacing them, a little bit of planning will cut your energy bill and guarantee you a more comfortable, draft-free home for years to come.When buying new windows, it's worthwhile to select the best high-performance models available. They'll pay you back in increased comfort, better draft and moisture control, im. . .

How To Select Scraped//Distressed Hardwood Flooring

Hand-scraped and Distressed hardwood floors are becoming a popular choice in today’s upscale homes and commercial buildings. These floors are a newer trend but are rooted in history. Before today’s modern sanding methods, floors were hand scraped on site to make the floors flat. Today’s hand scraping is done to add texture, richness and uniqueness.Distressed hardwood flooring is done by mach. . .

Ten Things You May Not Know About Selecting Hardwood Floo...

1) Red Oak is not the only choiceIf you want your home to look like everyone else’s, this is a great choice. If you want your home to be unique try hickory, cherry, walnut, white oak, maple or many others. Go to flooring retailers or search the Internet and see what is available. If you really want red oak try using wider widths or character grade for variety and uniqueness.2) 2 1/4 inch is n. . .

Home for a Gnome?

Kitsch is defined by several dictionaries as relating to poor quality or gaudy art objects that appeal to “low-brow” taste. But in the garden, kitsch categorizes folksy or commercial art that’s viewed condescendingly by some, and with irony by others. It’s this irony (this stuff is so bad it’s good) that has made items such as pink flamingos and garden gnomes more widely popular in recent years. . .

Make a Grand Entrance of Your Front Door

You may find it difficult to believe that the days will start getting longer in the Northern Hemisphere in just four short weeks. You can find yourself this time of year coming home on dreary days, or welcoming evening visitors in the dark. It's neither safe nor inviting. But good lighting at your front entrance gives a warm and secure welcome to any who enter. Mention outdoor lighting at this . . .

10 Exotic Centerpieces for the Holidays

1. Shoe Magic - Buy gleaming fuchsia (stylish) or red (festive) colored high heeled glass bottom stilettos and fill one of it with flowers of appropriate size for a trendy table top which will set off a trendy, modern theme. You can get a pair at Bobbi's Gift & Leather website. http://www.gift-leather.com/ 2. Quick Centerpiece - Fill a goblet with cranberries and tie a bow at its stem for a qui. . .

Tips for Choosing Log Furniture

If you just love that rustic look, and are finally ready to finally buy log furniture for your home, there are a number of “rules of thumb” that can help you in making good choices.Begin by considering the overall style of your home. Do you have a log home that is overwhelmingly rustic? Or are you seeking to add a rustic touch to one or more rooms of a more conventional home?Size is Everythi. . .

Seeing the Light

Lighting"Light has illuminated the path of humanity" – While Einstein was probably referring to one of his mind-blowing theories, lighting has also revolutionized the home. Before incandescent and fluorescent lighting, most activities stopped after dusk. Only royalty and the aristocrats had the money for torches, lamps, and candles. Yet nowadays, lighting is used for more than just being able t. . .

Light Up the Night! Quick Facts about Outdoor Lighting

When the days start to get shorter, the darkness may drive us inside from our porches, patios or decks. Don’t despair – outdoor lighting can lengthen the day and dramatically extend the potential of our outdoor living spaces. The first step, as with any project, is to plan. How do you want to use this space after dark, and what lighting will you need? Lighting can be summarized in four categori. . .

Art and Design

Maybe you’ve faced it before – a new house with an empty room or two. This room is just crying out for some furniture. So off you go to purchase a sofa you admire - then a chair. Or perhaps you purchase a full living room set complete with tables and rugs. With delivery a few weeks off you can just picture your living room (and not surprisingly, it looks just like the showroom). The delivery d. . .

How to Decorate your Outdoor Space without Breaking the Bank

Noted English clergyman Sydney Smith (1771-1845) is quoted as saying, "Economy in the estimation of common minds means the absence of all taste and comfort." But finding thrifty ways to decorate your outdoor living space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice either of those things. Here are some ideas to help you: Forget trying to find that perfectly matched 9-piece patio set at the first garage s. . .

Warm Up the Night! Patio Heaters and Fire Pits

In some areas right now, the weather is ideal for sitting outside in the evening -- the bugs have gone and the sky is clear -- but the nights are chilly. Don't let the cool evenings send you inside -- extend your outdoor living season by heating your deck or patio. Different heaters are available for different needs and circumstances. A heater will be powered by propane, natural gas, alcohol-ge. . .

Rodent Proofing Your Home

It's that time of year where rats and mice are apt to enter our homes. Lets talk a bit about their abilities and senses first. Rats and mice cannot see very good beyond 3 or 4 feet but have a very good sense of motion up to 30 to 50 feet away and for the most part they are color blind. Rodents are most active at night. These rodents have a very good sense of taste so baits may be rejected by th. . .

Luau! Decorating with a Hawaiian Theme

Hawaii is a first choice travel destination with millions of people - and for good reason. Bring a little of that island feeling into your home, either indoors or in your outdoor living space. You can apply this theme to an elegant dinner party, a fun and funky luau, or anything in between. 1. First, look at the space itself, including floors, walls, roof or ceiling. TextureThink natural materi. . .

Store Your Outdoor Furnishings to Make Them Last

In many parts of North America, the end of "porch season" has arrived. Whether you're clearing out for some oncoming bad weather, closing up the cottage for the season, beating the vandals on devil's night, or just retreating to your nest for the winter, you'll want to store away all of your outdoor items with maximum care. Dirt particles can settle deep into fabric and wood fibers and making t. . .

Cork's Coziness Makes It Ideal Flooring

In kids' bedrooms, and family, music and rec rooms, Cork feels cozy to the toes.(NC)—I remember the cork flooring in my old public school. Durable, easy to care for and very comfortable underfoot — but it was like a huge bulletin board on the floor!I've recently discovered, however, that Cork has become one of the most beautiful and sensuous flooring materials on the market.Cork floors have bee. . .

Maximizing Your Living Space

Look to contemporary (modern) décor to maximize space. TORLYS Uniclic® Cork flooring, with its sensuous texture, can warm up a modern interior, preventing it from looking stark.(NC)—Whether we live in a 2,800-square-foot, two-storey in the suburbs or an urban 900 square-foot condo, we all look to maximize our living space — if not physically, at least visually.Space gives us a sense of freedom.. . .

Carpet Takes Center Stage

(NC)—From soft, layered intricate vine and floral designs to multi-levelled patchwork weaves to tailored ribs, geometric loops and lattices to nubby, terry-like twists, there are more than 200 styles and 4,000 colours of wall-to-wall carpet on the market today. "The unique and innovative patterns, textures, and colours that are available today, resulting from the latest fibre and manufacturing . . .

Adding Texture To Your Floors Adds Texture To Room

Texture is key in flooring as well. The Perspective 4 plank line of floors features bevelled edges along both the width and the length of planks.(NC)—Home owners today want their interiors to be less complicated and easier to maintain — a style that goes a long way to reducing the stress of daily living. Simple is great, but it is hard to achieve! You don't want to follow this style literally, . . .

Year-Round Tree House: Attic Renovations Create Fun Space...

(NC)—Tree houses are great in theory but pose a number of safety issues and aren't ideally suited to cold weather play," says David Flood, Insulation Expert, Owens Corning. "If you have an attic with adequate headroom, a clever alternative is to create a year-round fun space for children in the upper reaches of your home. With a few renovations – and some clean-up – you can transform the attic . . .

Essential Tools For Home Improvement

(NC)—While the home may be a family's castle and an escape from today's hectic world, it's probably not perfect. Decorating styles change. There are pictures to hang and shelves to install. Things break. It's too pressing to ignore, but too minor to engage a professional. The question becomes one of where to begin.Start with a highly recommended how-to book, such as Better Homes & Gardens – New. . .

Use Shelves And Storage Units To Conquer All That Stuff!

(NC)—Stuff! Stuff! Stuff everywhere! The clutter starts to overwhelm. However, life can by simplified and clutter tamed with a few organizational hints and a good shelving or storage system.Planning. Determine the purpose and style of the unit. Will it be for display or storage? Units come in varying depths and lengths. Identify a location. Ample room for access once the unit is installed is im. . .

Using Colors in Your Room

Colors play an important part in your Home Decor process. Colors are what give life and personality to your room. Here are some quickies to keep in mind when deciding over colors. 1. If you are using many colors in one single room, make sure you use a color at least three times in the same room. You could use shades and tints of that color. For eg. your curtains, pillows and tablecloth can be o. . .

It's Party Time - Let's Decorate!

Holidays are here and so is the spirit of partying. Here are some wonderful ideas for transforming your home into an innovative party scenario and giving your guests an occasion that will forever remain etched in their memories.1. Entrance: Do up your entrance. The entrance to your home should be magnificent and welcoming. Line the driveway with luminaries. Place a guest book at the front door . . .

Design Elements

A well-decorated room can still lack personality. To give your room a personality, choose from among these basic design elements, modify them to suit your tastes and implement them in a way which is just right for you. 1. A Theme - A 'themed' room says something about you, the person who has done it, your family or the place where you live. A theme will also provide you a place to showcase your. . .

How To Build A Waterfall

The number one, most asked question that I receive about water features is "How do I build a waterfall?"The first advice I give is to visit natural waterfalls or at least look at photos. Don't try to memorize just how they look...just get a general idea how the water flows around and over the rocks.The design of your falls will depend on topography, pump and pipe size, length of water flow from. . .

Come With Me To The Casbah!

A ripe persimmon is a thing of beauty – sweet, succulent and an amazing shade of orange-red. Orange and red continue to be popular colors in decorating this year but 2004’s shades are softer and more vibrant, like ripe persimmons and pomegranates. Don’t limit these jewel-tones to the inside of your house. They can be incorporated into a beautiful outdoor theme by using the rich and exotic influ. . .

Operation Closet

When the wife comes to you one fine day and says, “dear, I think we need a new closet for the bedroom”, the heart surges in joy. Immediate thoughts of grabbing the coat and rushing off on a mission to the nearest DIY center enters the mind before realization dawns that first must come a shower and then work. Thursday today, Saturday would be best! A whole day of fun and joy to look forwards to!. . .