Look in any magazine that features kitchens and baths and you may notice that 90 percent of the rooms show inset cabinetry. Many people don’t notice the difference but they comment that is looks very sleek. So what are inset cabinets? Inset cabinetry … read more

The first thing that jumps at you when you see Susie “Sooz” Mansueto’s tiny wood dwellings is the whimsy — bright, lovely designs that instantly put a smile on your face. But pause to study them, and you realize there’s something much deeper … read more

If you’re looking for an excuse to grab a lunch out or go on a dinner date on a “slow” night, this Thursday, April 28, is your chance to eat out, support a local business — and contribute to a good cause. Dining … read more

Model Tested: 2016 Ford Mustang GT Coupe Engine: 5.2-liter, TI-VCT 8-cylinder Transmission: 6-speed manual EPA Ratings: 15/city, 25/highway, 19/combined Base Price: $36,395 As Tested: $42,275 Overview: After a major remake last year, 2016 is the second year of the sixth-generation Ford Mustang. Upgrades … read more

Orange is a real monster — not intentionally, but a color that can sneak up oh, so slowly and not be the pillow-pal one might have expected. “Confrontational” may be a more appropriate word. It is a love-or-hate color that balances on interpretation. … read more

Model Tested: 2016 Nissan Altima SV Engine: 2.5-liter, DOHC 4-cylinder Transmission: Xtronic CVT EPA Ratings: 27/city, 39/highway, 31/combined Base Price: $25,460 As Tested: $28,425 Overview: The number of “midcycle” refreshes in the midsize sedan segment is an indicator how competitive this segment is. … read more

If you remember hardy fuchsias in grandma’s backyard, you know that they have been grown for a long time in our maritime climate. Originally native to South America and New Zealand, many fuchsias are in local display gardens, including one in front of … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Kia Sportage SX Turbo Engine: 2-liter direct injection, 16-valve turbo 4-cylinder Transmission: 6-speed automatic EPA Ratings: 21/city, 26/highway, 23/combined Base Price: $32,500 As Tested: $34,000 Overview: The compact SUV segment now leads the U.S. automotive market, so automakers have to … read more

The temperate weather of Western Washington and the long growing season create a gardener’s paradise. This year, due to unusually warm temperatures, I have found myself out in the garden early, visiting with my plant friends that have lain dormant all winter. I … read more