Did you know that the word picnic is derived from the French word pique-nique, which is used to describe light meals taken outside. It was popularized during the French Revolution when the classes visited and mingled in parks and areas [...]
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 power unit and collection canister, usually [...]
The word green has the same Germanic root as the words for grass and grow. During the middle ages, it was associated with wealth and the gentry class of England. Today, we associate it with nature, spring, and optimism. It [...]
You may have visited a brand new home while shopping for real estate. They are the benchmark for home buyers everywhere. House-hunters will visit a show home and then compare everything else they see to that standard. The first thing [...]
For some people, their home is the ultimate sanctuary of utter calm. It's place of blissful quietude to reset the day, a refuge from the storms of urban life. It is, or can be, a place to relax, gather, and [...]
Many people don't realize how important it is to inspect their house on a regular basis. You may be able to do a complete inspection on your own, but if not, consider hiring a home inspector. Inspectors are trained professionals, [...]
Wet and soggy afternoons bring their own delights for adults and children. They're an opportunity to indulge in one's hobbies or to escape the house in search of treats and pleasures. A rainy day is the perfect excuse to catch [...]
One of the nice things about buying a condo is the sense of security in a collective. Neighbours usually have similar lifestyles and expectations for their home. There is a congruence of feeling and a will to develop and maintain [...]
Luxury hotels make tremendous investments in bedding and towels that is apparent by the way they look and feel. “Hotel quality” is often synonymous with thick, absorbent cotton fabrics. Sheets are measured by the hundreds or even thousands of threads-per-inch [...]
In ancient times, light was the primary consideration of the architect and builder. The sun and it's position during the day prioritized the siting of the dwelling and it's openings. The more light, the more benefit to the occupant. Today, [...]
