Sometimes moving into a planned community poses challenges for a gardener. There are homeowner association (HOA) rules, smaller lots and restrictions for fences, and if the lot happens to be on a golf course, that just adds to the puzzle. Master Gardener Linda Broun embraced these constraints, even celebrated them, as she created a garden […]
décor
Posted inHome
This May Quickly Become the Most Enjoyable Room in Your Home
Looking for a great way to revitalize your home? A way to make the time you spend at home more enjoyable? Possibly even increase your home’s resale value? Then consider adding a new, special-purpose room. A special-purpose room is a space dedicated to a specific activity, like a golf simulator room. In recent years, indoor […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Celebrating Community and Healing
Gig Harbor artist Mardie Rees’ statue, “Saint Anne,” was recently unveiled at the Saint Anne Hospital in Burien. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) commissioned Rees to create the likeness of patroness Saint Anne for the hospital. Saint Anne was the mother of the Virgin Mary and considered to have the eternal presence of a grandmother […]
Posted inGarden
Aromatherapy in Your Garden
How about am aromatic garden? Perfume-scented flowers, blooming trees and herbs in the garden are so important for insects, animals and people. Plant fragrances change your mood and brighten your spirits and can be very calming. You can create a scented haven with little effort, as Mother Nature will assist you with her magic wand. […]
Posted inGardeners Corner
Boost the Beauty and Comfort of Your Outdoor Spaces
Add some comfort and beauty to your outdoor spaces this year. Look for options that fit your lifestyle, budget and schedule. Even simple changes can make a positive impact on the time you spend relaxing and entertaining on your patio, deck or other outdoor spaces. Freshen up the look and comfort of these areas with […]
Posted inPeople & Places
A Boat as a Muse
Close your eyes. Think of rowing, alone, across the Tacoma Narrows, maybe to Vashon, maybe to Commencement Bay. The currents are strong, wind fierce and, well, it is midwinter and sleeting. This was life before the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Yes, there were the Skansie Brothers’ ferries, but they just went from Tahlequah to Point Defiance. […]
Posted inHome
Design Trends in 2024
Every year, we gather our panel of design experts to discuss some of the hottest design trends. In 2024, expect to see natural-looking finishes, natural materials like wood, and more recycled and upcycled choices for the environmentally conscious. Comfort is the key for families. A “must-have” is gathering areas, where you can meet and converse […]
Posted inHome
Touring German Haus Fair 2023 with the National Kitchen & Bath Association
Foreign travel is great for sparking a designer’s creative juices; however, mixing business with pleasure can be the ultimate reward. In that vein, I have made a point of attending kitchen and bath industry trade shows on a regular basis in North America and Europe. This year, I was selected by the National Kitchen & […]
Posted inHome
A Timeless Dream of Home
This home grew from humble beginnings. The lady of the manor says her husband is a man of vision who has infinite energy from his excitement about life. They began their marriage in a tiny, 750-square-foot home in Puyallup, with the garage serving as the man’s office. Their first son was brought home to this […]