10 per cent of Canada’s labour force – or 2.5 million Canadians – work outside the office at least one day a week* and 80 per cent of households own at least one computer. These are just two two reasons why building an office in your home is a good investment. Whether it’s for business or personal use, here’s a few ways to ensure your new home office is both functional and comfortable.
Your first step is to find the ideal space for your home office. Look for a room with enough space to accommodate a desk, office chair, bookshelf, and equipment such as a fax machine, printer, or filing cabinet. If possible, ensure the room isn’t too close to high traffic areas like the kitchen, living room or any other area that may cause distractions. You’ll also want your room to have sufficient natural light, ventilation and easy access to phone lines and electrical outlets.
If finding the perfect space for your office proves difficult, you can always try transforming a large storage area, walk-in closet, or even a section of the basement. Partitioning an existing room is also possible with the help of a few strategically placed bookshelves.
Next you’ll want to plan your work area. To save time and a lot of moving, measure your furniture and the room’s dimensions and draw up a floor plan beforehand. Make sure to leave a clear path from the office door to your seat to prevent constant maneuvering around furniture, and situate your desk near electrical plugs and phone jacks. Install shelving behind your desk for easy access to books and supplies, and position your computer screen at a 90 degree angle from any light source to avoid any glare while you work.
Your final step is to add some style to your office. First choose a colour scheme. Warmer colours like reds and yellows make for a comfortable, upbeat environment, while pastels and darker colours will give you a sophisticated, classy look. Give some visual punch to your office by adding paintings, sculptures, framed photos, or sports memorabilia to walls and bookshelves. Finally, use flowers or green plants to create a little ambiance and improve the air quality. Now your new home office will be ready for work, rest, or play.
*Canadian Telework Association.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Royal LePage Shelter Foundation Garage Sale
The rain held off, and I think everyone who took part had a really fun time.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Eco-Smart Gardening Offers Clever Solutions
Eco-smart gardening makes a lot of sense. It can help reduce carbon dioxide levels, promote environmental sustainability, and even save you a little money. Here are a few quick tips to get you started:
De-fuel. According to Statistics Canada, using a standard gas mower for one hour causes the same amount of pollution as driving a new car 550 kms. For a greener alternative, try using push reel or electric mowers and cordless trimmers. These non-gasoline powered solutions help eliminate harmful emissions, are quieter, and can save you anywhere between $55-550 in annual fuel costs.*
Cut high. Set your lawn mower so it cuts high (approximately 7-8 cm from the ground) to encourage the growth of deep roots. Taller blades and deeper roots make grass more naturally resistant to insects, help control crabgrass, and conserve moisture better by shading the soil.
Grow up, not out. For condo dwellers and those who lack landscape space, growing vertical plants or herbs on the side of your building is a great alternative to a traditional garden. Vertical plants require minimal care, help cut down on noise, and will improve air quality around your living space.
Waste not, want not. 50 per cent of water used for gardening in Canada is wasted as a result of overwatering.** To prevent water waste, use the soaker instead of the mist setting on your hose. This delivers water directly to the base of the plant and reduces water loss due to evaporation. If using a sprinkler, keep the water low to the grass and make sure it doesn’t fall on nearby sidewalks or driveways.
Let it rain. Rainwater, not chemically-treated tap water, is the best source of nutrients for growing your plants and collecting it is always a good idea. Creating your own rainwater collection system can be as easy as setting up jars, bowls, or barrels to collect and store water for drier periods. You can also take advantage of rainwater by positioning downspouts so that water flows directly onto planted beds, lawn areas, or directly into your rainwater collection system. Either way, you can watch your plants grow up, and your water and utility bills go down.
* Analysis based on data from Environment Canada.
** Natural Resources Canada.
De-fuel. According to Statistics Canada, using a standard gas mower for one hour causes the same amount of pollution as driving a new car 550 kms. For a greener alternative, try using push reel or electric mowers and cordless trimmers. These non-gasoline powered solutions help eliminate harmful emissions, are quieter, and can save you anywhere between $55-550 in annual fuel costs.*
Cut high. Set your lawn mower so it cuts high (approximately 7-8 cm from the ground) to encourage the growth of deep roots. Taller blades and deeper roots make grass more naturally resistant to insects, help control crabgrass, and conserve moisture better by shading the soil.
Grow up, not out. For condo dwellers and those who lack landscape space, growing vertical plants or herbs on the side of your building is a great alternative to a traditional garden. Vertical plants require minimal care, help cut down on noise, and will improve air quality around your living space.
Waste not, want not. 50 per cent of water used for gardening in Canada is wasted as a result of overwatering.** To prevent water waste, use the soaker instead of the mist setting on your hose. This delivers water directly to the base of the plant and reduces water loss due to evaporation. If using a sprinkler, keep the water low to the grass and make sure it doesn’t fall on nearby sidewalks or driveways.
Let it rain. Rainwater, not chemically-treated tap water, is the best source of nutrients for growing your plants and collecting it is always a good idea. Creating your own rainwater collection system can be as easy as setting up jars, bowls, or barrels to collect and store water for drier periods. You can also take advantage of rainwater by positioning downspouts so that water flows directly onto planted beds, lawn areas, or directly into your rainwater collection system. Either way, you can watch your plants grow up, and your water and utility bills go down.
* Analysis based on data from Environment Canada.
** Natural Resources Canada.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Fence Me In: Ideas for Defining Your Outdoor Space
Good fences make good neighbours – and the right fence can really make your yard. These steps can help you find a style that works for your space.
Step 1: Determine your needs
First, figure out the purpose of your fence. Do you want it to provide privacy? Beautify your yard? Keep kids or pets in? Comply with pool safety standards? Define your property lines? Add to the value of your home? Determining your needs can help you choose the right fence for you.
Step 2: Choose your style
- Private. A solid-board fence blocks an unattractive view completely, but it also cuts out light and breezes and can make you feel boxed in.
- Semi-private. This style, which can have subtle spacing, louvers or lattice to let in light, is friendly, comfortable, and makes your yard feel bigger.
- Open. Great if you want to enclose your property but don’t want to block it off visually.
Step 3: Select your material
Your options are limited only by your imagination and, of course, your budget.
Chain-link. Definitely the most cost-effective choice, but not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing. It’s good for defining boundaries, keeping kids and pets in, and maintaining a sense of openness. If you’ve got a big yard and a small budget, this is the way to go.
Wood. Styles range from split rail and picket fences to board-on-board styles that look great on both sides and offer privacy, yet let in air and light. The downside to wood? It needs regular maintenance to look good over time.
PVC/vinyl. Vinyl fencing looks just like painted wood, but you’ll never need to paint it – all you have to do is clean it once a year.
Iron, aluminum or steel. Use it if you want an open, formal look. Aluminum, which looks like wrought iron but is less expensive, is the most budget-friendly choice. If cost isn’t an issue, custom ironwork is an excellent way to incorporate a fence or gate that’s completely unique.
Natural “fencing.” Hedges and shrubs reduce noise and dust better than a fence, are less expensive, and look lush and beautiful. You’ll just have to be patient while your “fence” grows in.
A great-looking fence adds tremendous value to your home – whether it’s resale value or your own enjoyment of it over the years. Think carefully about your needs and your personal style, then go ahead and build a fence you’ll love.
Be nice to your neighbours.
Talk to them before you do anything. Choose a design that looks good from both sides, and make sure you know exactly where your property lines are.
Think outside the box.
You may not need to surround your whole yard to get the privacy you want. Consider using a fence to screen in a sitting area or create an outdoor room.
Step 1: Determine your needs
First, figure out the purpose of your fence. Do you want it to provide privacy? Beautify your yard? Keep kids or pets in? Comply with pool safety standards? Define your property lines? Add to the value of your home? Determining your needs can help you choose the right fence for you.
Step 2: Choose your style
- Private. A solid-board fence blocks an unattractive view completely, but it also cuts out light and breezes and can make you feel boxed in.
- Semi-private. This style, which can have subtle spacing, louvers or lattice to let in light, is friendly, comfortable, and makes your yard feel bigger.
- Open. Great if you want to enclose your property but don’t want to block it off visually.
Step 3: Select your material
Your options are limited only by your imagination and, of course, your budget.
Chain-link. Definitely the most cost-effective choice, but not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing. It’s good for defining boundaries, keeping kids and pets in, and maintaining a sense of openness. If you’ve got a big yard and a small budget, this is the way to go.
Wood. Styles range from split rail and picket fences to board-on-board styles that look great on both sides and offer privacy, yet let in air and light. The downside to wood? It needs regular maintenance to look good over time.
PVC/vinyl. Vinyl fencing looks just like painted wood, but you’ll never need to paint it – all you have to do is clean it once a year.
Iron, aluminum or steel. Use it if you want an open, formal look. Aluminum, which looks like wrought iron but is less expensive, is the most budget-friendly choice. If cost isn’t an issue, custom ironwork is an excellent way to incorporate a fence or gate that’s completely unique.
Natural “fencing.” Hedges and shrubs reduce noise and dust better than a fence, are less expensive, and look lush and beautiful. You’ll just have to be patient while your “fence” grows in.
A great-looking fence adds tremendous value to your home – whether it’s resale value or your own enjoyment of it over the years. Think carefully about your needs and your personal style, then go ahead and build a fence you’ll love.
Be nice to your neighbours.
Talk to them before you do anything. Choose a design that looks good from both sides, and make sure you know exactly where your property lines are.
Think outside the box.
You may not need to surround your whole yard to get the privacy you want. Consider using a fence to screen in a sitting area or create an outdoor room.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Porches and Patios: Optimize No Matter What Size
Spring has sprung, and the time to prepare your outdoor space has come. Whether you own a small porch, balcony, or a full-size patio, now is the time to get it ready for warmer weather and welcoming guests.
Beautify a Balcony
A balcony can be transformed into a cozy oasis with little work, and little expense. Get the ground in shape for bare feet by covering it with outdoor carpeting or rattan mats. For low-cost comfort, choose a chair or lounger with weather resistant cushions and add a small table for placing books or drinks. For year-round greenery, buy a large synthetic tropical plant and use planters to add seasonal colour. Top it all off with an interesting bird feeder, a small water fountain, or some wind chimes for interest and relaxation.
Personalize Porches
If front porches could speak, they should say “welcome”. Choose simple furniture that is inviting and relaxing such as rocking chairs or compact swing gliders. Put one or two large planters or urns near the entrance to your porch or home to greet visitors and use them to make a statement with seasonal arrangements that reflect your personal style. Add colour with bright containers of flowers until spring colours emerge from the garden view. Complete your work of art with the one thing every porch needs… a welcome mat!
Perk Up Patios
Patios are a place to escape from the bustle and activity of the home. To help you get a little closer to nature, consider adding an arbor over your patio. Attach climbing plants or vines around your arbor and scatter container plants of seasonal colour to soften your hardscape. Stepping stones angled away from your patio adds dimension, even in the smallest of areas. Add a birdbath or water fountain for tranquility and your patio haven becomes the ideal spot for relaxing solo or a serene backdrop for entertaining.
To spring ahead, think ahead. Start sprucing up your outdoors now and you’ll extend your enjoyment right through to the warm, sunny days of summer.
Beautify a Balcony
A balcony can be transformed into a cozy oasis with little work, and little expense. Get the ground in shape for bare feet by covering it with outdoor carpeting or rattan mats. For low-cost comfort, choose a chair or lounger with weather resistant cushions and add a small table for placing books or drinks. For year-round greenery, buy a large synthetic tropical plant and use planters to add seasonal colour. Top it all off with an interesting bird feeder, a small water fountain, or some wind chimes for interest and relaxation.
Personalize Porches
If front porches could speak, they should say “welcome”. Choose simple furniture that is inviting and relaxing such as rocking chairs or compact swing gliders. Put one or two large planters or urns near the entrance to your porch or home to greet visitors and use them to make a statement with seasonal arrangements that reflect your personal style. Add colour with bright containers of flowers until spring colours emerge from the garden view. Complete your work of art with the one thing every porch needs… a welcome mat!
Perk Up Patios
Patios are a place to escape from the bustle and activity of the home. To help you get a little closer to nature, consider adding an arbor over your patio. Attach climbing plants or vines around your arbor and scatter container plants of seasonal colour to soften your hardscape. Stepping stones angled away from your patio adds dimension, even in the smallest of areas. Add a birdbath or water fountain for tranquility and your patio haven becomes the ideal spot for relaxing solo or a serene backdrop for entertaining.
To spring ahead, think ahead. Start sprucing up your outdoors now and you’ll extend your enjoyment right through to the warm, sunny days of summer.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Your Place in the Past: Researching the History of Your Home
Who lived in your home before you did? What’s the history of your condo conversion? What was the land used for before your house was there?
If the answers to those questions intrigue you, you may want to research the history of your house, building or the land it’s on. You may be surprised at the interesting information you uncover. Here are a few ideas to help you get your research started:
Check the structure, style and materials of your home.
Style can give you a rough sense of when it was built. Look for original hardware, wallpaper or flooring for further clues. If you’re renovating, check inside the walls for old newspapers, which were often used as insulation.
Open up your filing cabinet.
Your deed, assessment notice, and tax bill can give you clues about the history of your property.
Talk to your neighbours.
Long-time area residents are a great resource. Talk to them – they’ll probably enjoy sharing their memories. Find out if they have old photos of the neighbourhood. You can even track down the former owners of the house and see if they’re willing to chat.
If you live in a newer neighbourhood, check if there’s an older house nestled in among the newly built ones. Talk to the owners – they may have insights into the neighbourhood and the people who once owned the land where your house now stands.
Look online.
Google your street name or neighbourhood. You could find old photos, information about former residents, and details about the properties in your area.
If you own a recently built house or condo, visit to your developer’s website or contact them directly. Condos that have been converted from heritage buildings often include information on the building’s history. You may also find information on suburban developments built on former farms, and urban infill projects may have some interesting history as well.
Visit your local library, archive or museum.
Look for information about your neighbourhood as well as your house or building. Check these resources:
a. Fire insurance plans. Includes info about the date a house or building was built, modified or demolished, what materials were used and the lot size and shape.
b. Property tax assessment rolls. Contain the name and occupation of the owner(s) at time of assessment, as well as a list of occupants, a description of the property and its assessed value.
c. City directories. Listings include the name and occupation of the owner(s).
d. Photographs. Look for images of your home, street or land, or aerial photos of your neighbourhood.
Also look for census record, building permits, and voters lists. Talk to the people that work in the library, museum or archive – they may know about great local resources not mentioned here.
Call the land registry office.
They can tell you how to search for titles to your property, which indicate who built your home and who has owned it over the years.
Finding about your home’s past can be a fun challenge – learning about your property and the people who lived or worked there before you is a great way to get a sense of history, find details to make your restoration historically accurate, get to know your neighbours, and appreciate your home in a whole new way.
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