Home Improvement & Gardening

by Laura Bednar The idea of permaculture landscape design goes further than just being “eco-friendly” by replicating the existing systems in nature. Sabrena Schweyer of Akron-based landscape design group Salsbury-Schweyer, said permaculture is a type of regenerative design, meaning that the design is meant to restore an environment to its former state. It looks at […]

by Michele Collins “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence,” so goes the familiar proverb. But it can be greener – or at least get greener – on your side by using a simple soil test, according to Sandy Barbic, education specialist with Summit Soil and Water Conservation District. According to […]

by Melissa Martin It usually starts with a small puddle in the yard following the spring thaw and quickly transforms into a wading pool after a heavy rainstorm. It’s the source of all those muddy tracks leading into your home and the breeding grounds for mosquitoes that crash your summer barbecues and autumn bonfires. Sound […]

by Judy Stringer We’ve all heard – time and time again – about the important role diet and exercise play in our overall health, but few of us realize home design can factor into optimal wellness, too. Dwelling among natural elements like wood, stone and organic textiles, can boost your mood, increase your productivity and […]

by Martin McConnell When it comes to speakers and solutions for playing music in your home, simply wading through the sheer range of options can be a daunting task. There is something for everyone, whether it be sound bars, smart speakers or whole-home solutions. Tony Fabrick is the president of Broadview Heights-based Xtend Technologies and […]

by Laura Bednar While the green movement in homes is still in its early stages, energy efficient upgrades are additions that homeowners will value in the future, according to homebuilder and realtor with EXP Realty Laura Lynn Reising. Today’s housing market has left buyers competing with dozens of other bidders for the limited number of […]

by Judy Stringer The color gray has established a firm toehold in the interior design world, and with good reason. It comes in a broad range of beautiful shades and creates a neutral backdrop for decorating, according to Hudson designer Lindsey Putzier. The problem is some of us have taken the gray look too far. […]

by Nicole Rosselot Homeowners throughout Northeast Ohio are investing in pools and turning their backyards into personal resorts. “Backyard pools have skyrocketed since COVID-19. Everybody is about a year and a half out as far as building [in-ground pools],” said Chris Hlavin, vice president and co-owner of Aqua Pools Inc., a company offering residential and […]

Homeowners can tackle weeds without endangering honeybees by Melissa Martin As Northeast Ohio begins to take on a familiar green hue following this year’s snowy winter, spring’s longer days and warmer temperatures are unquestionably a welcome sight. What’s not so pleasant this time of year for many, though, is a glimpse of dozens of golden […]