The Victory Garden Companion
Author Michael Weishan, also host of the popular television series, “The Victory Garden,” and Laurie Donnelly, its executive producer, supplement the show with a beautifully illustrated companion guide that is specific in its aim of showing the reader “how to” turn any garden into an inspired garden. Good gardening practices—from the inception of a plan joining the land and structure of a home, to the practical execution of that plan, are given in a clear and concise manner that guarantees it comes from years of experience—and tried and true methods.
And the tried and true is invaluable. The authors provide the example of a large blue spruce that seemed to overwhelm a yard, but decided to hold off cutting it down for a year in order to gauge the effect of its loss. Early spring clearly proved that the tree was an essential windscreen for the house as well as the home to a variety of birds that the homeowner loved. Moral of the story? Drastic changes should be made carefully and with a regard to passing seasons.
Nine chapters cover lawns, the edible garden, flowers, entrance and exit features, urban gardens, and fixtures. Over 250 photographs provide inspiration enough to spur on any gardener. With a keen eye for color and design, The Victory Garden Companion incorporates the science of gardening and the art of it. Practical advice garnered over years of experience provides an invaluable guide to gardeners of any skill, for any size project, and in varying parts of the country. Novice and experts alike may find it a valuable addition to their gardening library.
The New Bungalow Kitchen
History carries the bungalow style as an enduring one—adaptable, versatile, rich in detail, and reflective of a craftsmanship that is broadly appealing. Author Peter LaBau carries his admiration for this style from the office of his architecture and design firm, The Classic Group, to the pages of his new book, relaying how we can remodel, or build from the floor up, a kitchen that reflects the style’s allure.
The bungalow style originated within the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century and is recognizable for its substantial wood trim, built-in furniture, use of stained glass, tile work and earth-tone palette. Room flow was a major consideration, as was functionality and efficiency. Maintaining these basics while incorporating today’s needs for additional storage, eating and prep space, all while using updated appliances, lighting, and materials, is where LaBau’s expertise intervenes.
From the oft-seen original design of an isolated kitchen at the back of the house, to today’s preference of more open spaces, the reconfiguration of doors and walls is shown as a relatively small adjustment that can have a huge impact without having to alter the original layout design. Of course, starting from the ground up has its advantages and The New Bungalow Kitchen offers a guide on how to take advantage of what new construction has to offer with the appeal of an historic design behind it.
New materials for flooring, counters, ceilings and walls bring another aspect to the design and can be interpreted in such a way that they actually compliment and enhance the original idea. Photographs showing the use of tile, beadboard, wood, and glass as in the original designs illustrate how linoleum, granite and stainless steel can carry on the tradition.
LeBau agrees with the spirit of the adage that says, “God is in the details.” From the use of color, to light switches and cabinet pulls, any kitchen can be nudged toward the bungalow design with less-than-major effort. And a major effort can create a stunning result. With The New Bungalow Kitchen in hand—its photographs as guide alone—the accomplishment of a bungalow kitchen is well on its way.