Q + A | House + Home

Handyman

Install new walls, or modify the existing panels?

The previous owner of my house installed strand board panels in the living room instead of Sheetrock. I overlooked it, figuring that one day I’d do something about. I prefer not to rip everything out to install Sheetrock. A friend suggested doing a “skim coat” that, if done well, will look like Sheetrock. What’s your opinion on this? Should I tear out and install new walls or go with skim coating?

Drawing Board

The ‘Cobain’ is an elegant, minimalist lighting solution

My wife and I find ourselves in the midst of our own grunge movement — the ongoing renovation of our house in Brookside. Like many other creative and fiscally challenged couples, we are interested in creating dynamic and inspired spaces without breaking the bank. Predictably, we have fully embraced the “Cobain,” named for Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of Nirvana.

KC Gardens

Poodles pine tree

Hi, So happy I found your site! I purchased a Poodles Pine tree for my balcany in NYC 2 yrs ago & Poodles isn't looking good these days ;-( Love the tree, but she's getting dry, though I water her regularly. Her needles are fallin off, with the exception of some green coming out on the tips on the top