Home & Garden

Green, green and more green. The word has really become quite important today in the perspective of increasing danger of global warming.  We need to protect our resources and ensure that a minimum is wasted, and better if the wasted ones are recycled as well.  So the entire focus is on saving the natural resources, be it the construction of your bedroom or renovation of the bathroom. Government and some private organizations like green building association are working towards it and helping residential communities, Realtors, and individuals.

Natural light is one of our most valuable resources, however is frequently under utilized in the home, especially in the sun drenched Southern states. The sun’s natural rays are an important tool for bringing a home interior to life, and just as importantly, it doesn’t cost a dime. 

Every house has a story; every room a long history.  At the very beginning of design is the structural façade of the building.  Alongside the layout, window placement within the structure also functions as a key role.  They are a permanent feature of the room.  Windows also create the lighting for the room, thus helping to determine the best color palate.  Many in today’s world would tell you the focalization of any room should be centered on a furniture piece; yet, the real key lies in utilizing the windows for both functionality and design highlights. 

Homeowners Referral Network, providing free contractor referrals to homeowners, is celebrating their 5th anniversary.  Bonnie Stauch, owner of the popular referral service, is well established with over 1,000 clients that select HRN to hire licensed, insured and experienced contractors. 

Home maintenance services benefit all homes.  Keeping your property in top shape will save you money in the long run.  A home maintenance professional can help you with time consuming home maintenance jobs, leaving you more time to enjoy your home and more time to enjoy life.

“Wow, what a beautiful garden!” How often have you expressed this view after observing the wonderful vista in front of you? Do you long to create the same magic in your own home garden so that you become the envy of your friends and neighbors? Well, here’s how:

Long ago, there were traditional rules for picking out china such as only brides select china, china has to be fine and match everything, plate settings, glass ware, flatware, etc., and sets should be only eight place settings.  Times sure have changed.  Now, it’s really stylish for non-brides to purchase more than eight settings of casual china in fun colors and patterns.  Just read these china buying rule breakers below, so you can get some ideas on your next china purchase.

In this time of economic challenges, it’s extra important to maintain your home.  Save money by making sure everything is serviced and working properly; you don’t want little problems to become big expenses.
Paint- Make sure there’s no cracking around trim, for example, windows and doors.  If your home is weathered or chipping, repaint it and be prepared for the summer months.

As we launch the second half of the 2008-09 school year, the Hart District has many accomplishments of which it can be proud, and some exciting challenges.

The arrival of the New Year signals the beginning of summer-flowering bulb planting season.  Gladiolus, dahlias, lilies, freesia, cannas, and many other summer blooming bulbs should be planted now.  A little time spent in the garden this month will ensure a wealth of color all summer long.

We are well into the New Year and if getting organized is one of your goals, don’t let organizing “myths” deter you.  If you are tired of your cluttered home/office, missing appointments and feeling “stuck,” and want peace of mind and less stress, let’s attack some myths about organizing.

When doing exterior or interior painting, an important decision is the quality of paint to be used.  Top quality paints are designed to produce the best-looking and longest-lasting results.  And even though quality paints may cost a little more, they provide a smoother, more uniform appearance, and can last more than twice as long as ordinary paints — so they are really more economical in the long run.  Here are some of the specific benefits of using top quality paints, compared with using economy paints:

What should your earthquake preparedness kits contain?  If you live in a region of the world that is susceptible to these natural disasters, then being prepared is an unpleasant fact.

With the mandatory removal of automatic water softeners throughout the Santa Clarita Valley there are many issues for homeowners to address.

SCV Pools, Spas and Masonry Inc. spells “freedom” as their newest line of pool, spa and shower equipment from their supplier Aqua Creek Products.  If physical limitations are hindering you, family members, friends or patrons from enjoying the benefits of a pool or spa, SCV now has the solution. 

Imagine sipping your coffee and reading the morning news outside on a beautiful spring morning.  Or maybe enjoying an evening glass of wine on a bar set with your spouse.  Bistro and bar sets are a great choice for small spaces such as terraces, verandas, and front porches.  In addition to being functional, bistro sets and bar sets can add a welcoming effect to your outdoor space.

The City of Santa Clarita is proud to announce the dates of the major performances, lineups and attractions for the 2009 Cowboy Festival, taking place April 22 to 26, 2009 at Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio and other venues around the scenic Santa Clarita Valley.

The kids are out of school, the weather is getting hotter and summer is officially here.  It’s the time most people take their much earned vacation days and plan a summer trip that will be sure to relax even the most stressed out family members.  Whether it’s camping by the beach or booking a room at a hotel resort, summer brings endless vacation options.