“Green” has long been a part of my interior design. I have grown probably hundreds of different varieties of tropicals and houseplants, from African violets to zebra plants. Exotics such as orchids and bonsai also make up a part of my current collection.

Have you ever looked for something you know is in your home and been unable to find it? Have you lost the infamous critical document or something infrequently used? We’ve all had these experiences, and they can be very frustrating.

    A shady garden is a welcome haven during our hot summers. Just the sight of a shady spot gives the sensation of a pleasant, inviting environment. Shade actually is cooler, and without it, outdoor spaces are sometimes rendered practically unusable for a portion of the year.

  Choosing furniture that suits your space, is a good value and that you and your mate can agree on is sometimes a big challenge. The furniture industry is tougher than ever to navigate due to changes in manufacturing, raw materials, construction methods and styles. All of these factors can produce confusion.

In the design toolbox, lighting is probably the single most versatile and powerful design element. Inside or out, good lighting has the power to enhance and complement any setting or feature. Conversely, poor lighting can detract from or make even the best design appear dull, uninteresting or hardly noticeable.

If you own a home you undoubtedly have projects that need doing around the house. Large or small, home improvement projects vary from simple and straightforward to daunting and complex. Some may be as routine as maintenance and repairs.

Blossoms, berries and foliage are to the garden what paint is to a work of art. In both instances, color is a vehicle of expression and creativity and is provocative in its very essence. Unlike a work of art, color is fleeting and transitory in the garden.

Throughout history, the importance of treating oneself to a luxurious bath is a recurring theme. Beyond the fundamental need for hygiene, people have long been drawn to the restorative effects of relaxation and pampering. Basic and fundamental to life is the need for hygiene, and throwbacks are evident also to the restorative effects of relaxation and pampering.