Dear James: I want to strip and refinish some very old woodwork in our farmhouse. What is the best method to do this so that this antique woodwork is not damaged and looks original? — Adam C. Dear Adam: Older, ornate woodwork is beautiful and an attraction in older houses. It is important to not…

By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service Wood can be inviting and cozy, as well as the perfect way to warm up nearly any space. Mix in other materials from glass to steel and you may have the perfect recipe for a space is that is both inviting and architecturally interesting. What are some ways…

The warmth of natural wood trim is the finishing detail that outlines windows and doors and adds distinction to a room. Whether furnishings are stark contemporary or tried-and-true traditional, any furniture style is complemented by wood trim, and white oak is one of the most popular choices. If you’re remodeling, a sure way to tie…

By Cathy Hobbs From Tribune News Service Built-ins remain popular in home design, but they do have their positives and negatives. In the positive column are the space saving benefits and for some, the negative column is dominated by fear that built-ins create a “dated” look. What are the best ways to incorporate built-ins into…

On April 15, 2019, the world was aghast. People gazed in horror at their screens, and Parisians took to the streets to see for themselves as Notre Dame Cathedral burned out of control. As the fire raged on, French President Emmanuel Macron told AFP, “We will rebuild this cathedral.” More than two years later, the world…