Dear James: Whenever we use our great room fireplace, some smoke comes out into the room. I am going to add one to the master bedroom. How can I keep the new fireplace from being smoky? -- Ron T. Dear Ron: You definitely are not alone with the problem of a smoky wood-burning fireplace. More than half of fireplaces cause some smoky conditions inside homes, and it is difficult … [Read more...] about Here’s How to Build a Wood Burning Fireplace – Minus the Smoke
Home Design
Tablescapes 101
Designing a tablescape for a special dinner should take into account the decor of the home, the occasion, the food to be served and even the guest list. The beauty of setting a table is that you can be as simple or as extravagant as you wish. Every table can tell a tale -- or set the theatrical background for tales to be made. A tablecloth can be considered the foundation … [Read more...] about Tablescapes 101
Searching For an Architectural Soul
Many think that the architecture of Palm Beach is one that never changes -- building in Palm Beach is no easy task. It is but for a fortunate few who can first and foremost afford it, and secondly jump through Architectural reviews, neighbor's approvals and sometimes a lawsuit or two. Architecture is not taken lightly, and while some see the island as a place where things never … [Read more...] about Searching For an Architectural Soul
Home Design – The Space Under the Stairs
Sometimes helpful solutions are hiding in plain sight. It is common to become so familiar with our surroundings that we no longer see them clearly. When you pass by something dozens of times a day, it becomes invisible in a way, so we miss opportunities. What if you challenged yourself to find places with extra function? One of my favorite spaces is the area under the … [Read more...] about Home Design – The Space Under the Stairs
Home Design – Traveling is the Best Source of Inspiration
Traveling is the best source of inspiration for almost any design project. Great designers know how to "borrow" an idea from one place and transform it into something quite fresh and new. When traveling throughout the country and around the world, it is almost impossible to notice that certain colors are a kin to certain places. For example, in the southern United States, … [Read more...] about Home Design – Traveling is the Best Source of Inspiration
Virtual Interior Design – Does It Work?
Perhaps you have purchased a book online, or gifts during the holidays for family members or friends. The online commercial revolution has made it possible to buy almost anything on your computer swiftly comfortably -- and certainly at better prices than you ever imagined. In less than a decade, half of our purchases will be made through our smart phones. How will this new … [Read more...] about Virtual Interior Design – Does It Work?