Author Image: Stacy Downs

Stacy Downs

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Rising tide favoring small pools

Move over, large lap pools. Smaller swimming holes are making a big splash. Sure, the economy is playing a role in making this luxury littler: Smaller pool equals smaller budget....
A splash of color and outdoor furniture fill a covered porch. Thicker aluminum furniture adds substance. Use the style of your house as a guide to the furniture outside.

A patio makeover can be a one-weekend wonder

Ready for a weekend porch makeover. Landscape architect Joann Schwarberg leads us through a weekend action plan for transforming our dead-leaf-riddled outdoor spaces into true retreats. She recently tackled her...
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TV host says no to DIY

As a general contractor and host of the popular "Holmes on Homes" and "Holmes Inspection" series on HGTV, Mike Holmes has seen his share of shoddy construction. Uncovering problems from...
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Give old spaces new purposes

There's no need to feel stuck in your house. You can move out and up within your own home. The latest trend is shuffling the old floor plan — without...
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Going to great lengths: A basic guide to ropes

Rope is something most of us have around the house, but either it mysteriously disappears when we need it, or we overlook its many uses. It's especially handy for backyard...
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Got a problem? Candles may solve it

Candles create a festive glow for celebrations. When used safely, they can be problem-solvers, especially this season. A burned side dish The candle solution: A candle with essential oils can...