Beauty, comfort and function
Do-it-yourself decorators recognize Rachel Ashwell, the British-born author and designer, as the godmother of shabby chic, a look she pioneered by updating flea-market finds. Now Ashwell’s Shabby Chic furniture line is available through Djuna (221 Detroit St., 303-355-3500, ), and her Treasures by Shabby Chic line of stationery, craft and gift products is available at Michaels craft stores. With that in mind, Ashwell recently compiled these tips to help homeowners shake the winter blues and get ready for spring:
Remove heavy drapes: Sheer materials such as voile or lace are often available at affordable prices from flea markets. Ashwell also encourages DIY decorators to hit the fabric store, then pin up their new window treatments or sew a simple rod pocket.
Think summery slipcovers: Throw on light-colored or floral slipcovers instead of recovering older furniture.
Replace heavy rugs: Light-colored sisal is best for this look.
Say it with flowers: Fill bud vases with wildflowers or seasonal blossoms.
Romantic travel contest
To celebrate the launch of its gift registry and newly designed website (), Sur La Table, the cooking and entertaining store, has launched a dream honeymoon giveaway to the Cook Islands, “a haven for romantics young and old.” Use the store’s gift registry, then log on to cook by April 6 to enter the contest. The grand prize includes airfare from Los Angeles to the Cook Islands, accommodations and spa treatments. Now that’s something to celebrate!
Warming up to a new furnace
Among homeowners’ winter headaches: furnace malfunctions and extra high heating bills because of an outdated furnace. Napoleon Fireplaces, manufacturers of this Hybrid 150 Triple Fuel Combination Furnace, compiled these tips for furnace shopping:
Size matters: The furnace should be an appropriate size for the home.
Fewer emissions: Some furnaces, especially newer models, are greener than others.
Don’t buy on price alone: Annual operating costs should factor into your selection.
Get the right documentation: Any reputable installer or manufacturer will include a purchase agreement and warranty information.
Installation and maintenance: Using professionals can ensure that the installation is safe and efficient.
An idea that’s sew smart
Do you have an unused sewing machine? The Sewing Machine Project is a nonprofit organization that collects and redistributes used sewing machines to women around the world. Its mission: “To mend communities, one sewing machine at a time.” To learn more, go to
Items compiled by Elana Ashanti Jefferson
