After a long summer relaxing on your deck or patio, autumn is a great time to renovate your outdoor space - or build one from scratch. Home improvement expert Alison Victoria, host of HGTV’s “Windy City Rehab,” offers five tips for fabulous fall fix-ups.
1. Get decked out. Fall is an ideal time to tackle a deck project, whether it be repairs, board replacement or a completely new build. In addition to offering more pleasant temperatures for working outside, fall and winter are typically slower times for contractors, meaning you won’t have to wait as long to get onto their schedules. Contractors may also be willing to offer offseason discounts on their services or materials, which tend to be cheaper after the spring and summer rush.
“Another big advantage of waiting until the off-season to tackle outdoor projects is contractor focus,” explains Victoria. “Rather than being one of many projects a contractor is juggling, you can be one of the few, which often translates into greater attention to quality and better customer service.”
2. Think high and low. Research the best materials available for your budget and be sure to keep maintenance in mind. After all, the last thing you want is a deck that requires constant upkeep. Victoria suggests looking for materials that are both high performance and low maintenance.
“Trex decking is my go-to material for outdoor projects,” explains Victoria. “It’s a composite material that delivers the beauty of wood without the environmental impact, the laborintensive upkeep or the natural deterioration over time. I love that it’s made from 95% recycled materials and only needs an
occasional cleaning with soap and water to maintain its beautiful appearance for decades.”
3. Raise your railing game. Railing is one of the most visible elements of a deck and has tremendous impact on a deck’s aesthetic and curb appeal. In recent years, the industry has seen an influx of statement-making railing styles inspired by contemporary architecture and commercial design. Give your outdoor space an instant facelift by replacing your old wood deck railing with sleek, sophisticated aluminum railing. Trex Signature Railing comes in a variety of modern designs, including rod, mesh and glass that can take any deck from drab to dramatic.
4. Hide and chic. Nothing dampens the enjoyment of an elegant al fresco gathering quite like the sight of unattractive trash bins or nosy neighbors. Providing function and design, lattice is perfect for concealing storage areas or unsightly views and enhancing privacy. With styles ranging from romantic to deco, lattice panels also can be applied to structures such as arbors and trellises, or used as wainscoting or deck skirting.
5. Light it up. “Lighting is a must for any outdoor space,” says Victoria. “In addition to amping up the ambiance, it enhances safety and helps to extend the time you can enjoy your outdoor space.” Outdoor lighting can easily be integrated into deck boards and stairs, as well as railing posts and caps. Trex offers DIY-friendly components that feature plug-and-play installation and energy-efficient LED bulbs that are dimmable and cool to the touch, making them safe for kids and furry friends.
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TIME FOR A CHANGE
Color has the power to completely transform the feel of a space. The right palette can energize a lackluster room or convey a sense of calm in a busy home. And for those of us who have spent the past several months at home, a fresh start might be just what is needed. As much as we’d love to move past the chaos that has been 2020, the year is not without some valuable lessons. We’ve rediscovered our love for nature, old hobbies put to the wayside, and the places we call home (the latter for better or worse). And one cancelled vacation after another has allowed many of us to begin investing within our own four walls, transforming our homes into a more ideal, inspired place to live, work, and play.
If you are thinking of a small renovation, a new coat of paint remains one of the most economical ways to make a change.
Both natural and serene, the 2021 paint colors were chosen to bring warm lightness and a sense of calm to a space.
These reignited passions for nature and creating a beautiful home—along with the ever-growing need for more peace and serenity in our daily lives—have influenced many of the anticipated color trends Earth tones, ocean-inspired blues, and forest greens are all expected to be top colors in the coming year. And, of course, pure white. A classic, white paint can brighten any room. Pair it with a popular 2021 color and your whole environment will bring a new look to welcome you every day!
If you’re looking to make changes to your living space, head on down to your nearest paint store and check out all the new colors from the major paint companies. You won’t be sorry!
rought or no drought, your garden can have bling in spring. But to enjoy this miraculous March show, you need to get to work now. Planted in November, spring-flowering bulbs can turn a boring landscape into an awesome display of color. Do not just dig a hole and throw the bulb in. For the best growth, you should prepare a bed ahead of planting. This means that you’ll need to remove weeds and loosen the soil. It is also a good idea to add compost for nutrients or sand for drainage before you plant. Make sure that you choose a spot with at least six hours of sunlight. Bulbs like soil that is rich with organic matter or compost, and they love well-drained soil. Soggy soil or overwatering will cause them to rot. Finally, when you are ready to plant, the general rule of thumb is to plant a bulb three times as deep as the bulb is tall, making sure the pointy part is facing upwards.
Nowadays, many stores are selling their fall bulbs in July or August because they want gardening supplies out of the way in time to set up holiday displays. This means that you’ll either need to store your bulbs carefully for a month or three, or you’ll need to order online or by mail at planting time so that you have fresh, healthy bulbs. If you are stuck buying your bulbs early, then make sure they are firm and plump, with no mold or rot. Leave them in the bag that you purchased them in, and then place that bag in a paper lunch bag so that you can store the bulbs in the fridge without making a mess.
Not all bulbs should be planted in the fall. Dahlias and gladiolus should be planted in the spring, for instance, while daffodils and tulips do well when planted in late summer or early autumn. If you are planting a bulb that blooms in the spring, plant it in the fall. For bulbs that bloom early summer or later, plant them in the spring.
Once you have the bulbs in the ground, they’ll stay dormant for the remainder of the fall and winter, so you won’t need to bother with fertilizing. Wait until you start to see the first shoots of spring, because that is an indicator that the roots are growing and ready for nutrients. You’ll also want to make sure that you don’t fertilize after the bulbs start to flower because this will inhibit bulb growth. If you haven’t tried bulbs in your garden, you definitely should. With daffodils, hyacinths, tulips and other early spring bloomers, bulb beds will give you beautiful color long before the rest of your garden starts to grow.
Some of the more popular bulbs are Daffodils, Tulips, Hyacinth, Dahlia, Lily, Amaryllis, Iris, Gladiola, and Ranunculus. For shady areas check out Hosta, Lily of the Valley, and Begonias.
The time you take in the fall to prepare the soil and plant your bulbs will reward you with a beautiful array of flowers in the spring!
Home improvement projects aren’t limited to indoors. In fact, not only can upgrades to areas outside the house expand your livable space, they can also increase your home’s value.
Outdoor living projects account for almost one-third of renovation projects, according to a survey conducted by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. The findings echo trends reported by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, which found 43% of respondents said they designed outdoor kitchens in the past year and 41% expected an increase in outdoor projects in the coming year.
OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Our clients are asking for entertaining areas, which can be anything from a fully engineered cabana or a new paver patio with a pergola. We love being creative with materials in our designs and installations. One of my personal favorites is an outdoor kitchen we wrapped in hardwood with a granite countertop. It has clean lines and a unique custom look.”
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Custom-built and prefabricated kitchens are also in high demand, Garcia said, along with recreation features like putting greens, bocce ball and basketball courts. Hardscape features that add function and ambiance top many homeowners’ lists, as well. Examples include fire pits and fire tables, as well as water features like fountains, waterfalls, basalt columns and bubbling urns.
Understanding Landscaping Elements
Creating the ideal outdoor living space requires thoughtful planning and a holistic approach to landscaping. Typically, when people consider landscaping, they think of plants and flowers. However, landscaping includes a wide range of elements in an outdoor design that can generally be grouped into two main categories: hardscape and softscape.
Understanding the components and options within each category can help you create a cohesive design for maximum enjoyment.
The hardscape encompasses the man-made elements that bring function and aesthetic appeal to the design. Examples include concrete pavers, natural stone features, seating and retaining
walls, wood and composite decks, pergolas, fencing and synthetic lawns.
Softscape elements are the living components that add beauty and character to your outdoor space. These include the grass, shrubs, trees, flowers and plants. Your softscape may also include enhancements like mulch and an irrigation system to help care for the vegetation.
Although the hardscape and softscape elements are distinct, an effective landscape design integrates both to create the look and feel you want for your outdoor living space.
Getting Started
Once you’ve considered the landscaping features necessary to bring your vision to life, it’s time to get your project in motion. Set a budget and consider whether you will need the help from a professional.
You can achieve the look you desire with your home’s unique characteristics in mind, while helping manage your timeline and expenses.
Find more remodeling advice and contractors in your community at remodelingdoneright.com.
Family Features
WITH LANDSCAPE APPEAL Culinary Herbs
Vegetables grow mostly in designated vegetable gardens because they are not appealing enough for the rest of the landscape. Flowers for cutting might grow in designated cutting gardens, from which they are not missed after harvest. Culinary herbs can grow in herb gardens for the same reasons. Some might not be very pretty. After harvest, some might be too shabby for the landscape.
Of course, such perceptions are debatable. Home gardens are casual and customized. If Swiss chard, artichoke and other vegetables can grow in front yard landscapes, then culinary herbs can too. In fact, some already do. Rosemary, thyme, lavender and
By Tony Tomeo
a few other culinary herbs happen to be popular for landscapes because they are so appealing and practical.
There is a slight catch.
Culinary cultivars of herbs are distinct from landscape cultivars. Trailing rosemary is a landscape cultivar with sprawling growth that works well as a resilient ground cover. Another cultivar exhibits more sculptural upright growth. Both are well flavored. However, neither is as richly flavored as culinary cultivars of the same species. Yet, culinary cultivars are not so remarkable for landscaping.
Most of us are satisfied with landscape cultivars of rosemary for culinary application. Alternatively, culinary cultivars, which are rare in nurseries and landscapes, can adapt to landscape functions. Cultivars of culinary rosemary happen to make nice low and mounding hedging. Infrequent shearing or selective pruning does not constantly deprive it of too much of its more flavorful new foliage.
The same applies to several herbs that have both culinary and landscape applications. Compromise might be in order.
Incidentally, two culinary herbs, Grecian bay and bronze fennel, are presently quite trendy. Grecian bay or sweet bay (which
is not California bay) is a very popular potted plant. In the ground, it can grow into a midsized tree. Bronze fennel is supposedly comparable to common fennel, but with sepia toned foliage. Chive, parsley and borage all work nicely with mixed perennials and annuals.
California bay
Because of the common name, California bay, Umbellularia californica, sometimes substitutes for Grecian bay. The two are actually very different. Grecian bay is a culinary herb that grows as a compact tree. California bay has a distinctively pungent flavor that is objectionably strong for most culinary applications. It grows fast to thirty feet tall, and gets a hundred feet tall in shady forests.
Because it gets so big and messy, California bay is not so popular for planting into home gardens. However, because it is native, it sometimes self sows into landscapes. Some mature trees live within gardens that developed around them. California bay can work well in spacious landscapes, with plants that do not mind its shade and leaf litter. Annuals and seedlings dislike the leaf litter. Old forest trees make the impression than California bay typically develops an awkward and lanky form. That is only because they
do what they must to compete for sunlight. Well exposed trees, although lofty as they mature, are more densely structured. Some have a few big trunks, with checked gray bark. Old trees are likely to develop distended basal burl growth known as a lignotuber.
Summary: Herbs need not stay confined to herb gardens. Several work well in landscapes. However, some culinary herbs are different from their landscape counterparts.
Horticulturist Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.
FOR FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS Fire Safety
If you have a fire escape plan in place for your home, you’re steps ahead of many Americans. According to the National Fire Protection Association, only 30% of American households have developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. It’s important for families to stay ahead of the curve and be prepared in the event of a fire.
If an emergency occurs, every member of the household should be accounted for, including pets.
Every year, 500,000 pets suffer from smoke inhalation and 40,000 die due to home fires, according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation. With 90% of pet owners stating they consider their animals members of the family, according to UBS, it is important to be prepared to rescue four-legged friends when disaster strikes.
Pets are part of our families, so it’s important to recognize they’re vulnerable to the same fire risks as people. There are simple ways to keep pets safe at home. Most importantly, recognize every second counts in case of fire, so pet owners should install smoke
and carbon monoxide alarms as well as fire extinguishers. Make sure alarms are replaced every 10 years and fire extinguishers every 12 years.
Protect your pet – and your human family – with these tips. Minimize smoke alarm reactions. Dogs may become unsettled or anxious when a smoke alarm sounds, running and hiding rather than heading toward the door. Particularly if your pet shows signs of agitation when you test the alarm, enlist assistance from professional trainers to help your canine friend learn how to properly respond. Some websites offer online tips, too.
Use window cling alerts. In an emergency, first responders
need to be able to quickly assess the number of pets in a home. Consider attaching a non-adhesive decal to a window near your front door to let rescuers know how many animals are inside.
Account for pets in evacuation plans. Pets should always be included in a family’s evacuation plan. Always involve your pets and stay aware of their typical hiding spots or safe places where they often nap, in case you must evacuate quickly. Be sure to practice your evacuation plan periodically. Also assign a family member to be responsible for each pet’s escape. Keep an emergency kit with food, medication, a leash and collars near the exit.
Keep alarms current. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms must be replaced after 10 years. In addition to testing alarms once each week, check the manufacture date on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to make sure they’re current. If they’re older than 10 years of age, it’s time to replace them. Some options, like Kidde’s Wire-Free Interconnected Alarms, feature built-in 10year sealed batteries and offer simple setup without the hassle of hardwiring or a Wi-Fi connection.
Plan ahead for emergency care. If the unthinkable happens, make sure your pets will be cared for. Save contact information for your veterinarian in a place where you and other family members can easily access it, such as your phone contacts list or a cloud-based shared file. Research local boarding options, hotels that allow pets and friends or family members who might take in your pet temporarily. Also be sure your pet’s microchip information is current in case you become separated in an emergency.
For more pet fire safety tips, visit Kidde.com/petsafety
Family Features
HOME IMPROVEMENT IDEAS
Whether you’re thinking about a bathroom update, kitchen overhaul or any other type of home improvement project, these tips from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and www.coastalhomeandgarden.com can help you get started.
CREATE A PLAN
Improving your home can be one of the most exciting projects to undertake. Start by setting realistic expectations, determining your goals and needs, finding inspiration start a color, style, finishes and texture chart that matches the look and feel you want to achieve and, perhaps most importantly, set a budget.
RENOVATE THE BATHROOM
You can improve your home’s usability and increase its value with bathroom updates or a full renovation. Before you get started, think about these factors: the amount of space and storage you need, features that are important to you, sustainability concerns and accessibility considerations. With a bathroom renovation its best to consider hiring a designer, especially with a master bathroom.
UPDATE THE KITCHEN
The kitchen serves as command-central for most homes, and you can get the most enjoyment out of yours by making purposeful changes, reconsidering the physical space, re-evaluating your shopping style and choosing appliances with care. Open space
floor plans have become so popular and functional consider removing walls for better flow for your family and entertaining.
START A REMODEL
If it’s time for a serious undertaking, a full-blown remodel may be necessary (or simply desired). Remodeling typically calls for hiring a professional designer and contractor, a process you can go about by gathering local recommendations, asking for licensing and insurance, checking references and comparing bids is always a good practice.
Find more home improvement ideas and solutions at remodelingdoneright.com
Bees are vital for the pollination of one third of our basic food staples. These insects have been pollinating plants for millions of years, as long as there have been flowers on the planet, giving us bountiful fruit, herbs, and vegetable harvests. A bee garden can be a beautiful and fun way to view bee activity, as well as enjoying the fruits of their labors.
The first thing to decide when considering planting a bee garden is location. You need only a small plot of land for a bee garden—it can even be a window container or rooftop—to create an inviting oasis for bees. If you have room, consider growing your bee garden in a part of your yard that is currently lawn. This will reduce your yard’s water consumption and provide you with something much prettier to look at than the grass. If that is not an option, pick a beautiful, sunny spot where you can view your beautiful garden the bee activity going on.
Select single flower tops for your bee garden such as daisies and marigolds, rather than double flower tops such as double impatiens. Double headed flowers look showy but produce much less nectar and make it much more difficult for bees to access pollen. Plant at least three different types of flowers in your garden to ensure blooms through as many seasons as possible. This will provide bees and other pollinators with a constant source of food.
In Spring plant crocus, hyacinth, borage, calendula, and wild lilac. Summer calls for hosta, foxglove, snapdragons, and cosmos. Fall enticers can include goldenrod, asters, and zinnias. Avoid using herbicides or pesticides in the bee garden as they not only can be toxic to bees but also are best not introduced to children or adults that visit your garden. Ladybugs, spiders, and praying mantises will naturally keep pest populations in check
Herbs are especially useful for attracting bees. They grow well alongside other garden species, or in specially designed areas, and some are suitable for containers. Low-growing herbs, such as cotton lavender and thyme can even be used to make fragrant green paths. Chives, Fennel, Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, Rosemary, and Sage (especially if left to flower) are favorites.
Let’s not forget that bees need a place to get fresh, clean water. Fill a shallow container of water with pebbles, twigs, or even wine corks for the bees to land on while drinking. Make sure to maintain the container full of fresh water to ensure that they know they can return to the same spot every day in your bee garden.
CHOOSING THE HARDWOOD FLOOR THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU
After kids go back to school, homeowners finally have time to complete remodeling projects. This makes autumn a popular time for home improvements. In fact, since Covod-19 appeared and so many of us are working from home or homeschooling improvement activity is has peaked in 2020.
Installing hardwood flooring is one of the most popular renovation projects. That make your home feel fresh and new. Homeowners desire hardwood floors for many reasons. They’re durable and can withstand the wear and tear of playful kids and pets. They retain a classic, natural look and feel, adding to a home’s elegance. Plus, hardwood floors are simple to clean and if you get tired of the finish you can always have them sanded and stained to look new.
Since a floor is a key design element, it’s important to make sure the right one is selected based on its location and the homeowner’s lifestyle and personal preference. With the wide variety of flooring types, choosing the right floor for a space can be overwhelming. These key tips will help homeowners find and install the perfect flooring.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Where the flooring will be installed is an important consideration to ensure the floor will retain its beauty for generations. If on or above ground level, there are a wide variety of options available, from solid hardwood to bamboo varieties. For below-groundlevel installations, such as basements, it’s important to choose
a flooring type - such as engineered hardwood - that can withstand moisture.
SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE
If the hardwood floor will be in a well-traveled part of a home, or serve as ground zero for active kids and pets, it’s best to choose a wood variety that is at least as hard as red oak, as this is the industry benchmark for comparing the relative hardness of wood species. Viewing how floors compare on this scale and considering lifestyle attributes will help determine the flooring that’s right for a room. In addition, there are other flooring varieties to consider such as cork, laminate and vinyl for those who want the most durable hardwood alternative.
COLOR YOUR HOME WITH STYLE
Various hardwood floor hues and finishes can complete the look of a room or set the foundation for a room’s design, so it’s important to base color and species on personal preference. To help find a color preference, online applications allow customers to mix and match flooring styles with room decor. Search the web to get your ideas then visit your local flooring companies. After finding the perfect floor, it’s time to install it. People can hire professionals or save money by doing it themselves. Check with the flooring store you choose to purchase materials from about the cost and time frame for installation, then you can decide if it’s a project for you or them!
CREATING YOUR HOME Workspace
These days more and more people are working and schooling from home. If your day is going to consist of working and/or studying, a pleasant environment is the place to be. Since more people are working from home these days and kids are distance learning, a space for learning and working makes sense.
First things first—find your ideal workspace. Plan ahead for all the things that you’ll need to work comfortably and efficiently in your home office and keep your project within budget. Start with proper temperature control and lighting. Your desk chair will be moving around in the space, so flooring should be a hard surface, at least near the desk. If you’re fortunate to have a window nearby, select window coverings that will allow you to control the light in your area. If you don’t have windows, then you will need to come up with good lighting sources for your area.
This is your professional space. Your desk, shelves, and storage should serve you, not the other way around. If you have clients visiting your home office, keep things as professional as possible—be sure that they don’t have to walk into your office area and see all your professional documents laying about. Consider the privacy of your work. If clients will be waiting for an appointment with you, provide comfortable seating, a reading light, and interesting literature. Consider your workflow and what items you need at your fingertips before investing
in furniture, and then look for pieces that are both beautiful and functional.
Let’s not ignore the office chair. You spend hours parked in your office chair; a beautiful, ergonomically correct, comfortable seat is worth every dime. Don’t skimp, your back and shoulders will thank you.
Position your desk so you can look at something more interesting than a blank wall when you need a brief break. A beautiful view, whether it be the ocean, the mountains, your garden, or the blue sky, will always make you feel better about your day. A window’s natural light is ideal, but if you’re in a windowless space, hang a pretty picture above the desk, or position your chair to face the door. Facing a corner is never a good idea when forming a home office.
There’s not much you can do to beautify the computer, printer and phone, but you can hide unsightly cords. Tame the cord jungle on the floor with cord winders, tubing, or a wire organizer that’s attached to the desk and lifts the cords off the floor. Electrical cords can become a tangled mess inside a drawer or desktop. Use a small, stylish storage container to store and hide all the wires.
Probably the most important piece of furniture you will have will be your desk or work surface. Whether you select a custom-
designed desk or use two file cabinets with a door stretched across them, it should be large enough and the right height to comfortably do your work. To make the most of the limited space, have shelving installed behind your desk so books and supplies will be easy to reach.
By planning your home office space, getting it organized, and decorating it to express who you are, you’ll enjoy it more. Your work will be better, you’ll appreciate being at home, and you’ll have the perfect place to work: your home.
IS GRANOLA GOOD FOR YOU?
GRANOLA IS USUALLY CONSIDERED A HEALTHY BREAKFAST CEREAL.
It’s a toasted mixture of rolled oats, nuts, and a sweetener like sugar or honey, though it can also include other grains, puffed rice, dried fruit, seeds, spices, and nut butters. Many types of granola contain healthy ingredients that may offer numerous benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and gut health.
Yet, some ingredients — such as chocolate, oils, and syrups — may be high in added sugars and fats. In general, granola with more dried fruits or added sweetener is higher in sugar, nut- and seed-based varieties are higher in protein, and those with more whole grains are higher in fiber.
Because ingredients vary widely by brand, it’s important to read nutrition labels carefully when shopping
for granola. The first few ingredients should be whole foods, such as oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Avoid products that list sugar or sweeteners —including natural sweeteners like honey — within the first few ingredients. You may also want to look for varieties high in protein and fiber. Aim for at least 3–5 grams of fiber per serving.
You should carefully consider serving sizes, which vary from 2 tablespoons to 2/3 cup. Particularly small serving sizes can be misleading, as you’re likely to consume more than that amount.
Finally, you can make granola yourself to minimize or eliminate added sugar and fat. However, remember that nuts and seed are still calorie-dense, so be sure to watch your portions even for homemade varieties.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 250 and prep a cookie or baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, almonds, coconut, and nuts. In another mixing bowl beat the egg whites until peaks form. Then beat in the vanilla extract and cinnamon. Fold the contents from the second bowl into the ingredients into the first bowl. Transfer the granola to the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake the granola for 50-60 minutes or until it is crispy and browning. Be sure to stir in every fifteen minutes or so to allow the granola to baked evenly and not burn. Allow the granola to cool and then stir in the dried fruit.
Sugar Free Granola
3 cups rolled oats
3/4 cup Shredded or Flaked Coconut
2 cups unsalted nuts. This can include almonds, cashews, pecan. You can also split this into two parts: 1 cup nuts and 1 cup seeds.
3 egg whites
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 teaspoons ground Cinnamon Optional: 1 cup Dried Fruit– Raisins and similar smaller fruit work best.
Level: Easy
Total: 1 hr 25 min
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 1 hr 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Not Sugar Free Granola
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup slivered almonds
1 cup cashews or seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, etc.)
3/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup (sugar free)
1/4 cup coconut oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
Level: Easy
Total: 1 hr 25 min
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 1 hr 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Fall & Winter Gardening
On The Central Coast
If you’ve never gardened before or you are a seasoned gardener, you’ll soon figure out that fall is a great time to grow your own produce. Cooler temperatures & milder sun can spell success for any gardener who takes up the trowel as autumn approaches.
Growing cool weather crops is easy, with less watering and care needed for a successful garden. Cool crops will start out strong, growing quickly and then slow their growth as days become shorter and cooler. You’ll also need to work less to protect your garden from pests, as both insects and animal populations will taper off in fall. And since weeds will germinate less frequently and grow slower, weeding won’t be a time-consuming task. Finally, more rain and less sun and heat mean you’ll need to water less.
Once you decide what you’ll be planting, it’s time to get the ground ready. Remove any garden debris from the past season’s garden and remove weeds before they go to seed. Loosen compacted soil, fluffing it up with a garden fork. Adding a two inch layer of bagged compost is always good practice. Plants will need an inch of moisture per week, either through rain or supplemental watering. Most vegetables need full sun - at least six hours per day. When frost threatens, cover your plants with something to keep them warm.
You can start out with starter plants or seeds. Of course, starter plants are faster but if you prefer seeds you can germinate them easily on your windowsill and move them outside or you can plant them directly in the garden soil.
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Choose crops that your family likes to eat. Popular fall favorites include:
BRUSSELS SPROUTS
BEANS
A cousin of the cabbage, these globes need room to spread out, so space them 18- 24 inches apart in an area that gets six or more hours of sun daily. Lay down a 3-inch layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and prevent weeds. Harvest when heads are firm and green. They should be 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
KALE
A cold-hardy vegetable, kale leaves sweeten after frost. Kale is a super food, and kale leaves extend excellent health benefits, lowering cholesterol, fighting cancer and decreasing inflammation.
BROCCOLI
Many greens love the fall, and broccoli is no exception. Plant stalks 18 inches apart and get ready for an easy, hearty harvest. Broccoli is high in fiber and calcium.
CABBAGE
Cabbage is the quintessential fall vegetable. From salads to stews, cabbage adds a punch of flavor and nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamins C and K, and plenty of fiber.
ROMAINE LETTUCE
Romaine packs a big punch with more vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients than other popular types of lettuce. Rich in fiber, vitamin C and beta-carotene, romaine is especially good for heart health. Space transplants 18 inches apart.
Beans of all types grow quickly and can produce abundant harvests up until frost. This makes them ideal for succession planting, meaning planting at intervals throughout the growing season. Sow outdoors directly in the soil. If you’re growing pole beans, add a trellis; if you’re growing bush varieties, no trellis is needed.
BEETS
Beets are an ideal fall crop. Sow seeds directly outdoors; you can pre-soak seeds to help with germination. In warmer climates especially, sow seeds in late summer under taller crops like tomatoes or peppers to provide a little shade.
RADISHES
Radishes are one of the quickest maturing crops at four weeks from seed to harvest. Like beets, you can sow under taller summer crops to provide a little shade. You can stagger plantings to get a couple harvests of radishes from late summer through fall.
ARTICHOKES
Artichokes are considered a cool season crop but can be grown as a perennial. They require lots of sun, plenty of water, and occasional protection from frost. During the growing season, the artichoke needs to be irrigated about once weekly. The best time to plant is in September–October. Two crops per year can be expected. After spring harvest, cut off the old stalks just below ground. New shoots will develop and produce a fall crop.
Brussels sprouts ................. Fall to early spring
WHEN TO PLANT YOUR WINTER VEGETABLES
APRICOT BARLEYWINE
All Grain
Boil Time: 90 min
Fermentor volume: 6 gallons
8 gallons in kettle Efficiency: 75%
GRAIN BUILD
18 lb Pale 2-Row
5 lb Munich
1 lb Honey Malt
0.50 lb Caramel / Crystal 120L
0.50 lb Caramel / Crystal 60L
0.50 lb Carapils (Dextrine Malt)
1 lb Rice Hulls
MASH
Mash temperature between 152° F -154° F for 75 minutes (test conversion with iodine)
Sparge temperature 170°
HOPS
0.5 oz Calypso Leaf/Whole 60 min 2.5 oz Calypso Leaf/Whole 30 min 3 oz Azacca Leaf/Whole 10 min
ORGANIC DRIED APRICOTS
1.5 lb chopped & simmer in water to soften (optional) after softening puree apricots Add to boil last 20 minutes of boil
YEAST
Wyeast 1272 American Ale II Yeast Optimum temperature: 64-72°F
The most wonderful time of the year has not truly started until you’ve indulged in your first cup of mulled wine. It’s a winter favorite enjoyed by mankind since antiquity. During the 2nd century the Romans would heat wine to defend their bodies against the cold winter, hence the origination of mulled wine. As the Romans conquered much of Europe throughout the next century, their love for mulled wine spread across their empire and the regions they traded with.
As its popularity continued to grow throughout the middle ages, Europeans would mix heated wine with spices because they believed it would promote health and avoid sickness. They would also use herbs and flowers as natural sweeteners to make unpalatable wines taste a lot nicer. More and more alternatives of mulled wine developed over time and in 1609 recipe books started using the collective name Glögg for mulled wine. As it gained popularity, many names evolved in different countries; glühwein in Germany, Grzaniec Galicyjski in Poland, vin Brûlé in Italy, and Vin Chaud in France.
In the 1890s, Glögg became associated with Christmas. Every wine merchant across the country had their own unique recipe to share. They started marketing their recipes in their unique bottles (most depicting Santa Claus) and distributed them throughout the rest of Europe. Charles Dickens even wrote about a version of mulled wine called Smoking Bishop in his 1843 novel “A Christmas Carol.” Henceforth, mulled wine’s association with the holidays was solidified.
Over the next several decades, mulled wine become a global phenomenon, with countries all over the world creating their own unique blends. Variations now include everything from red and white wines to sangria blends and vermouth to port – each country’s method slightly different from the next.
Most modern-day versions have orange, cinnamon, nutmeg, dry red wine and a bit of port or brandy. When winter settles in and the holidays are near, get out your Mulled Wine recipe and enjoy!
MULLED WINE
1 bottle fruity, bold red wine (inexpensive is fine)
2 Oranges – one sliced into rounds, the other for garnish
6 whole Cloves
5 Cinnamon sticks, 3 for the wine, 2 for garnish
3 Star Anise
1/4 c. Honey
1/2 c. Brandy
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients. Bring to a simmer not a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer gently over low heat for 10 minutes. Serve warm and garnish with more citrus slices and cinnamon sticks.
Additional options: maple syrup, cranberries, lemon, nutmeg, sugar.
CrockPot Version
Double the above ingredients. Heat on LOW until hot. It will take about an hour for the mulled wine to get hot. Resist the urge to heat on HIGH so that you don’t boil the alcohol away and to give the spices time to permeate the beverage.
Reduce heat to WARM and serve. Mulled wine actually improves as it sits; the flavors mellow and the spices perfume the whole house.
HAVE YOUR WINDOWS PASSED THEIR PRIME?
Replacing Your Windows May Be One Of The Most Cost-Effective Home Improvements You Can Make.
When considering new windows, look for easy-clean features, durability, and quality construction. While replacing your windows can reduce energy costs and increase security, the style, color, and material can also benefit your home. Innovative designs like between-the-glass blinds, shades or grilles not only contribute to less time spent cleaning, they can also reduce the dust and allergens in your home. New and improved windows can boost your home’s curb appeal, adding visual interest and can help increase your home’s overall value.
How do you know if you need to replace windows in your home? Perhaps you recently noticed that one or more of your windows have become difficult to open, maybe there’s too much sound pouring in from the street in front of your home, or condensation has begun building up between your double glass panes. Or, maybe you just realized that you’re spending more money each year in heating and cooling costs.
Quality windows are available with glass options that can increase the safety of your home. Tempered glass is less likely to cause injury when accidentally broken, as it is designed to break into small granular chunks instead of splintering into jagged shards. Laminated glass has a polymer interlayer that holds the glass together if shattered.
The answer to this question depends largely on the budget of the homeowner. While windows are often replaced in two or three stages (typically starting with the front of the house and then moving to the back, and finally to the upstairs), it is also important to know that once you order ten or more windows,
the cost per window tends to remain the same.
The decision on which windows to install in your home is a daunting one but can be broken down into four considerations: material, type of window, glass package, and budget. Most window frames are made of one of three materials: wood, fiberglass, or vinyl. Wood windows are a good choice if you’re looking to match the window to an existing wood trim on your home’s interior. The most durable of the three materials, fiberglass windows (also known as composite windows) will typically have the longest lifespan. Finally, vinyl is the most popular by far, making up about 75 percent of all windows sold, and are available in a number of different colors. There are a handful of options available for the type of window you can install in your home as well. Double-hung windows are the most popular of the group. These are designed to tilt into your home and can be cleaned without the need for ladders or stools. Sliding windows are a wider but shorter type of window and are also a good choice depending on your needs. Lastly, crank-out windows should also be considered as not only can they be used in a variety of different openings but are also the most energyefficient option as well.
Calculating the cost for new windows can be tricky as there are a handful of factors that contribute to the final price. The cost to replace windows will vary depending on size, amount of windows needed, style and quality. It’s important that you know what you’re looking for before you start calling contractors. Typically, window frames are made of either wood or vinyl.
Cheaper than wood, vinyl frames also have a longer life span and tend to be easier to clean. Wooden frames tend to be more expensive and more challenging to maintain as they can peel and rot as a result of water damage.
Additional items to consider for the type of Low-E used on glass is the hue the Low-E has. 3-coat Low-E glasses often have a more pronounced hue registering as a bluish or greenish cast on the glass, whereas 2-coat Low-E glasses tend to be clear with little to no noticeable hue. The more coats of Low-E a glass pane has the less light is going to transfer through.
Because the weather is warmer, late Spring, Summer, and early Fall are the most popular times for homeowners to replace their windows. Although replacing a window can be quick, having a window removed for roughly a half to full hour can have an impact on your home’s temperature, making the warmer months ideal for anyone who can’t stand the cold.
However, if you can tolerate the cold of replacing windows during the winter months, then you could save some money by opting to wait for the inclement season. The other benefit of replacing windows in the first part of the year is that you get to enjoy their benefits throughout the summer, which is important given newer windows’ ability to reduce heat gain during the hot summer.
Prior to an installer’s arrival, homeowners should remove any curtains or blinds from their openings so that the window
installer has access to the interior to set and caulk the windows.
As installers need access to the interior of the windows for replacing, homeowners should also move any furniture to at least 3 feet away from the openings, as well as anything of value located around the windows. If there are alarm systems on the windows, the alarm company also needs to be notified of the upcoming work. The sensors will need to be removed and the alarm company may need to come to the house so that they can be reinstalled.
On installation day, probably the most important thing a homeowner can do is relax, run errands or return to work and let the installers do their job. This will limit any potential stress involved for both the homeowners and installers alike.
DIRECTORY BUSINESS SERVICE
BANKING
BAY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
831.479.6000
www.bayfed.com
Bay Federal Credit Union is a full service, not for profit financial cooperative. We provide personal and business banking services but, unlike a bank, we’re owned by our accountholders and members like you! Our goal is to be better than a bank by delivering outstanding service, competitive savings yields, low loan rates, and many low and no-cost services. Our Board of Directors is made up of unpaid volunteers who spend countless hours ensuring the safety and stability of your money in the Credit Union.
CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES
APTOS LANDSCAPE SUPPLY
5035 Freedom Blvd, Aptos 831.688.6211
www.aptoslandscapesupply.com
In business since 1966, Aptos Landscape Supply is a family-owned company providing high-grade landscape supply and equipment to the homes of the most beautiful landscapes in Santa Cruz County. We continue to supply the material for homes of the most beautiful landscapes in Santa Cruz County. Trust our knowledgeable and friendly staff for quality landscape supplies at affordable prices. Call us for landscaping supplies, gravel supply, mulch supply, and more. We look forward to seeing you.
Central Home Supply offers over 2,500 products; there are over 100 types of natural stone alone! But most importantly, if we don’t have it, we can locate the unique, the hard-to-find, the unusual, and get it for you. Service comes first!
GRANITEROCK
831.768.2000 (Watsonville)
831.471.3400 (Santa Cruz) www.graniterock.com
For more than a century, Graniterock has been providing the construction industry with quality materials and products: the keys to ensuring a perfect job, every time. This requires us to anticipate and exceed customer needs and expectations. The result is that you get what you need, whether it’s the right sand or the right information. Whether you need aggregate, ready-mix concrete, hot mix asphalt, or building materials for a new building site or your next home improvement project, get to know Graniterock. Graniterock stores welcome homeowners and most are open Saturday. Let us bring your ideas to life and share our expertise with you. See how you can have functionality and beauty, too.
FLOOR REFINISHING
Mr. Sandless Greater Monterey Bay 8042 Moss Landing Rd. #30, Moss Landing 831.747.7476 www.mrsandless.com gmb@mrsandless.com
Mr. Sandless refinishes all types of floors including hardwood, softwood, engineered, laminate, historic, unique, natural stone, and more. Service is clean and Certified Green. There’s no dust, no odor, and most jobs take only one day. Significant savings over traditional sanding and we also provide a five year warranty.
EQUIPMENT RENTALS
A TOOL SHED
EQUIPMENT RENTALS
3700 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz 285 W. Beach Street, Watsonville 831.477.7133 (Santa Cruz) 831.722.0334 (Watsonville) www.atoolshed.com
A Tool Shed is your equipment rental solution for all your rental needs. We have the rental inventory to help you get your job done quickly and easily. You’ll appreciate our large rental inventory and wide selections of rental tools available from the novice or do it yourselfer to the experienced contractor. Rental equipment is our specialty with fast delivery services just a phone call away.
FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR
AMERICAN LEISURE
1118 Ocean St., Santa Cruz 3550 Stevens Creek Blvd., San Jose
831.423.2425 (Santa Cruz) 408.446.9350 (San Jose)
www.americanleisure.com
American Leisure has been family owned and operated for over 40 years. We have two locations to serve you. Come see our outstanding collection of indoor and outdoor furniture, home décor, umbrellas, fire pits, patio heaters, gifts, cushions, teak, artwork, and much more. We are not happy until you are happy!
GARAGE DOOR
A-1 OVERHEAD DOOR CO.
238 Wheelock Road, Watsonville 831.688.5892
www.aonedoor.com a1ohd@att.net
With over 39 years’ experience in garage door repair we have built a strong reputation for providing the highest quality work by giving personalized services to our clientele. It is our focus on quality and affordability that propels A-1 Overhead Door Co. ahead of the competition. We provide prompt, reliable sales, repairs and service. Call or e-mail for a free estimate.
GARDEN AND HOME
KNOX GARDEN BOX
46-A El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley 831.461.9430
It’s easy to create a smaller, more manageable and prolific garden with a preassembled Knox Garden Box. Solve problems with overly compacted soil, poor drainage, voracious garden pests, damage cold temperatures, water shortages, and sore muscles from incessant bending and kneeling. Having your garden raised off the ground has a few other benefits besides reducing the need to bend over and kneel. The boxes provide exceptional soil drainage and solve the problem of gophers, which can destroy a whole garden in a day.
OUTDOOR SUPPLY HARDWARE
161 41st Ave. Capitola
831.316.3823
www.outdoorsupplyhardware.com
At Outdoor Supply Hardware, we don’t come with preconceptions or a ‘Big Box’
mentality. We want to add to the quality of life that makes living here special. There are a lot of reasons to love living here and we strive to be one of them. We believe that a business is about more than making money, it’s also about community. If you create a service business and focus on the business aspect more than the service to your community, it probably won’t go well. We are your neighbors and neighbors are welcome any time.
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
J.C. HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
831.475.6583
www.jcheatingsc.com
J.C. Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. has over 40 years of experience providing full-service heating, air conditioning, and ventilation. We are the first choice when it comes to providing the dedicated service you and your family deserve. No job is too big or too small for us, and we do the job right every time. Each employee is trained to see your job through from start to finish, making sure the unit or system performs up to your expectation. We provide quick, professional and complete service.
LANDSCAPING
JAY WELTY LANDSCAPING
831.684.0433
Specializing in creative garden renovations: waterfalls, stone patios, lighting and irrigation, Jay Welty has been creating beautiful landscapes since 1978. See what you can design with Jay Welty! Call for a free consultation.
PAINTER
SHELTON PAINTING
831. 435.0563
bryan@bryansheltonpainting.com
Shelton Painting is a sole proprietorship owned and operated by Bryan Shelton, specializing in residential and commercial painting. The goal of Shelton Painting is to function as a key member of professional painting projects in the Santa Cruz area by upholding the proven job site experience that always translates into beautiful, finished products. Bryan infuses his sense of artistic design and high work ethic into each task, from live-in painting projects to brand new construction, making sure to
maintain a healthy indoor air quality by using 0 VOC products when applicable.
PET AND LIVESTOCK SUPPLIES
APTOS FEED
7765 Soquel Dr Ste C, Aptos 831.685.3333
Family owned since 1990, Aptos Feed carries everything you need to nurture your pet! We have an extensive variety of supplies for all your pet friends, including domestic, farm, and outdoor wildlife. Come browse our aisles for pet toys, wild bird feeders and seed, frozen and raw natural food, and treats. Our friendly staff can help you find whatever you are looking for and are very knowledgeable about our products. Aptos Feed is your local go-to feed store for all your pet needs. Visit us on Facebook!
CORRALITOS FEED
831.722.7884
2895B Freedom Blvd.
831.728.2244
1486 Freedom Blvd. www.corralitosfeed.com
At Corralitos Feed we specialize in pet and livestock nutrition. We offer a wide variety of natural foods and carry everything you need to keep your pets and livestock healthy and happy. Visit our two stores to check out our great selection of boots and western wear as well.
PET
PALS
3660 Soquel Drive, Soquel 831.464.8875
www.petpals.com
Pet Pals Discount Pet Food and Supplies has been family owned since 1987. We aim to provide brand name pet food and supplies at the lowest discount prices at our 17,000 square foot warehouse store. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you and your four-legged friend find exactly what you need. We take pride in our local roots and give back to the Santa Cruz County pet community whenever possible. We offer a low-cost vaccination clinic and host pet adoptions every weekend. Pet Pals is not a chain or franchise.
PHILANTHROPIC
DOMINICAN HOSPITAL FOUNDATION
1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz 831.462.7712
www.supportdominican.org
The Dominican Hospital Foundation was established to cultivate philanthropic support to meet the changing healthcare needs of our community. Established in 1966 when a citizens’ committee raised $1 million to build the first phases of Dominican Hospital’s present facility, the Foundation continues to be led by community leaders who donate their time, expertise, and financial resources.
REAL ESTATE
DAVID WEBB
Century 21/M & M and Associates
828 Bay Ave., Capitola
831.818.0310
www.santacruzrealestate.net
dwebb@c21mm.com
David Webb, your Santa Cruz Real Estate agent can help you find your perfect home. Learn about Santa Cruz neighborhoods, Santa Cruz suburbs, and the best places to live in Santa Cruz. You will find a wealth of useful Real Estate information for home buyers and sellers on my website! Before you buy or sell a home, be sure to either contact me or view the current market information here within my website.
JIM FURLONG
1602 Ocean St. Santa Cruz
831.212.9648
www.jimfurlong.com
Expect only my best in professional real estate marketing of your home. Allow me to share my energy in making your home transaction an enjoyable experience. I work hard, seven days a week to meet each client’s goals and needs, whether it’s buying or selling a property. I will make your needs a reality using good honest sense, knowledge, and credibility. You have my word! I would be happy to share my enthusiasm as a REALTOR® with you.
ROOM REAL ESTATE
831.234.6683
www.roomsantacruz.com
Founded by local real estate experts Jayson Madani and Maaret Forst, we are a boutique real estate agency serving buyers and sellers in the Santa Cruz area where Jayson was born and raised, and where he has sold properties since 2004. Our team members know the local neighborhoods and communities very well, and our
clients benefit from their knowledge and experience. Our ultimate goal is to continue building our team and business while sacrificing none of the stellar client service we’ve become known for.
ROOFING
KNOX ROOFING
46 El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley 831.461.0634
www.knoxroofing.com
Keeping the roof over your head in top condition is key to protecting you and your family, plus it protects your home’s longterm value. As residential and commercial roofing specialists, we can perform new installations, repairs and roof replacements to ensure that your roof performs like it should. Our dedication to customer satisfaction has been the key to our success serving the California Central Coast.
SANITATION
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SANITATION
701 Ocean Street, Room 410, Santa Cruz 831.454.2160
dpw.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Home/Sanitation. aspx
The Sanitation Division of Santa Cruz Public Works is responsible for the collection of wastewater (sewage) for several sanitation districts and county service areas located within Santa Cruz County, providing water service (Davenport only), and Environmental Compliance.
SHOPPING CENTER
APTOS VILLAGE SQUARE
7960 Soquel Dr., Drive, Aptos
Conveniently located off Highway 1 and just outside Aptos Village, Aptos Village Square is host to several Aptos favorites, including Uncle Kwok’s, Showtime Pizza, Fleet Feet, Hotsource Yoga, Studio E Dance, Quality Water, Jansen Music, The UPS Store, CrossFit Aptos, and Let It Shine Hair Salon, and Caledonia Salon. Follow us on Instagram!
The Soquel Creek Water District is a non- profit, local government agency that provides water resource management and a safe, reliable supply of water to mid- county residents and businesses. The District serves approximately 40,400 customers through 15,800 connections in four service areas within mid-Santa Cruz County solely with groundwater. Ninety percent of our customers are residential. We are a public agency dedicated to providing a safe, high quality, reliable, and sustainable water supply to meet our community’s present and future needs in an environmentally sensitive and economically responsible manner.
WINDOW COVERINGS
McCARTY’S WINDOW FASHIONS
1224 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.466-9167
www.mccartyswindowfashions.com
A local family owned business, McCarty’s Window Coverings has been in business since 1995. Call for an appointment to visit our beautifully updated showroom on Soquel Avenue and take a look at our vast array of window coverings, including many Hunter Douglas products. Our displays allow you to see, touch and operate many different window coverings styles, fabrics, and lift systems so that you can make an informed decision for your home. We also offer blind, shade, and shutter repair services. We are a Certified Hunter Douglas Repair Center and can beautifully restore your existing window coverings.
WINDOW AND DOOR REPLACEMENT
LIGHTHOUSE WINDOWS
317 Potrero St, Santa Cruz
831-426-2601
kelli.lighthouse@gmail.com
Lighthouse Windows proudly serves its clients in the Bay Area – including but not limited to Santa Cruz, Capitola, Soquel, Aptos, Watsonville, Freedom, Salinas, Scotts Valley, Felton, and Boulder Creek. Our knowledgeable staff is trained in all aspects of the design and performance of our products and are here to assist you in all your home improvement, remodeling, retrofit and new construction needs. Give us a call to set up your free estimate in your home or a virtual estimate.
THE FAMILY KITCHEN—STILL AT THE CENTER
Ever since fire was discovered, the kitchen has been at the center of family life.
Originally communal living took place around the cooking fire with several families and generations sharing the space, the food, the warmth made it comforting. More so today many homes are designed with a large open space that combines the kitchen, eating and living areas for ease of use.
Over the years there have been attempts to move the family out of the kitchen into such rooms as the Parlor, the Dining Room, the Living Room, the Den, the Recreation Room. But somehow the aroma of food cooking and the convenience of being close to the refrigerator for snacks and the handiness of the kitchen table between meals for homework, keeping accounts, using the laptop or iPad.
Many of today’s kitchens are indeed multi-purpose areas where you can entertain while preparing and serving hors d’oeuvres and drinks or a meal on countertops made of polished granite or quartz or wood or a variety of man-made materials.
In the modern kitchen the family is surrounded by laborsaving, easy-to-clean, newly reinvented fixtures and appliances that include the combination refrigerator/freezer built in or free standing, range or cooktop, ovens, microwave, dishwasher, coffeemaker, toaster, mixer, food processor, and hidden in the depths of the kitchen is… the new flat screen TV all come in amazing new finishes and colors..
Actually there are many designs of kitchens for every situation. Here are few common kitchen forms characterized by the arrangement of the kitchen cabinets and sink, stove, and refrigerator:
• The single-file kitchen has all of these appliances and features along one wall. While not optimal, it may the only solution if space is restricted such as a studio apartment.
• The double-file kitchen has two rows of cabinets at opposite walls, one containing the stove and the sink, the other the refrigerator. This is the classical kitchen.
• In the L-shaped kitchen, cabinets occupy two adjacent walls and there may even be space for an additional table at a third wall.
• A U-shaped kitchen has cabinets along three walls, typically with the sink at the base of the “U”.
• A G-shaped kitchen has cabinets along three walls, like the U-kitchen, and also a partial fourth wall, often with a double basin sink at the corner of the G shape.
The island kitchen - a more recent development – is typically found in open kitchens. Here, the stove or both the stove and the sink are placed in a freestanding “island”, separated from the other cabinets. An open kitchen, it makes the stove accessible from all sides so two persons can cook together. As the cook does not face the wall, this allows for contact with guests or the rest of the family. Also, the kitchen island’s counter-top can function as an overflow-surface for serving buffet style meals or sitting down to eat breakfast and snacks.
No matter the shape, the kitchen is where many of life’s lessons are learned while setting the table, preparing the meal, washing and putting away the dishes or even taking out the garbage. Enjoy your kitchen; many memories will begin there.
