While trends in home decor often change, there is one constant design feature that continues to shine, literally: metals. Today, you can find creative ways to incorporate a regal touch that produces a timeless look with modern appeal. Take the Temperature A first step in implementing metallic decor is understanding the temperature of the metals. […]
home
Posted inAt Home
Etiquette Basics for Guests and Their Hosts
It’s that time in early January when the rain soaked days are dark, Christmas lights are being removed and stored for another year, and as the doldrums of winter are descending, the mind wanders. With the flurry of holiday parties and gifting behind us, I decided to reflect on the customs of courtesy and etiquette. […]
Posted inHome
Beauty and the Beach
“Life is Short. Buy the Beach House,” says the sign in the kitchen. It’s a motto this family took to heart. Dan and Shannon* and their three daughters first discovered the joys of life by the water in Indianola, but the beach was rocky and Dan’s commute to the Bainbridge Island ferry was long. So […]
Posted inAt Home
Porcelain Tile vs. Ceramic: How to Choose without Jeopardizing Style
When installing tile, there’s the eternal question: Should you go for porcelain or ceramic tile? The answer will ultimately depend on your budget and what your list of pros and cons looks like. And let’s not forget the important question of style — certain materials and designs look better than others, depending on your choices. […]
Posted inGarden
A Gardener’s Tapestry
Perched at the rise of a hill, near a dead-end road in Olalla, a small home is surrounded by artfully designed floral and shrub borders. Birds swoop downward into the small canyon on the far side of the property, then return to the hanging feeders and birdbaths scattered throughout the garden. “I see my garden […]
Posted inAt Home
Window-Coverings Industry Switched to Cordless Products
If you’re used to buying corded window coverings, you’ll need to rethink your style — due to a new safety standard that went into effect Dec. 15, 2018, a vast majority of window covering products sold in the United States will be cordless or have inaccessible or short cords. This new requirement applies to stock […]
Posted inHome
2019 Color of the Year — Metropolitan
Benjamin Moore announced its color of the year — Metropolitan AF-690, a stylish gray with cool undertones. The company also unveiled Color Trends 2019, a corresponding palette of 15 harmonious hues that further amplify the cultured grace of Metropolitan AF-690. Ranging from ethereal neutrals to frothy pinks to rich blues and greens, emphasizing the calming […]
Posted inHome
Transform Your Home — Take it From the Top
The roof often goes without notice, greatly underappreciated for its contribution to protecting your house and family. Roofs only account for roughly 5 percent of the building cost of a home but protect the other 95 percent of your investment from the sun, rain, wind and other forces that can damage your home and belongings. […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Is Your Dinner Contributing to Plastic Pollution in the Ocean?
Did you know that the choices your local grocery store makes can have a global impact on the environment? From the types and brands of seafood sold to the way foods are packaged and carried out of the store, oceans worldwide are affected by the operations of grocers near you. Fortunately, supermarkets across the country […]