Tension rods by Umbra offer form and flair

Tension rods by Umbraoffer form and flair
Tension rods are usually more practical than pretty, but Umbra has changed that.
The company, known for making functional objects with flair, introduced drapery tension rods designed to look good and work well. The rods come in aged brass, pewter, black and white, and have decorative finials in contemporary and traditional designs. The rod and its spring mechanism are also better quality than run-of-the-mill tension rods, the company says.
Three styles are available, two in sizes ranging from 10 to 54 inches and one also available up to 90 inches long.
They can be ordered at www.umbra.com, for prices ranging from $14.50 to $27.50.
'Stone by Design'rocks masonry world
Calling Lew French's work masonry is like referring to Michaelangelo's as stone-cutting. French is an artist whose medium is the stones he fits together with exacting care into buildings, walls, fireplaces and other structures -- works that take on a character and soul all their own.
Until now, French's creations have been seen mostly by visitors to Martha's Vineyard, where most of his work is found, and by readers of newspapers and shelter magazines that have featured him. Now he's sharing his work with the world through "Stone By Design," a coffee-table book that celebrates his creations.
The book not only presents French's work in photographs by Alison Shaw, but also tells the story of how some of the structures came to be and discusses his philosophy and approach toward his work. French works mostly with the stone's natural shape, cutting to fit only where it won't show.
"Stone By Design" is published by Gibbs Smith, Publisher and sells for $29.95 in hardcover.
'Real Simple Solutions'
The second book from Real Simple magazine is out, and if you're not a fan of the magazine, it's recommended that you skip the hardcover "Real Simple Solutions" (Time Inc., $24.95).
But devoted magazine readers will gobble up the nearly 200 pages of tips, shortcuts and advice, such as how to organize bookshelves, eight steps to painting a room, the many uses of dental floss (umbrella mender) and the list of entertaining must-haves (stain-fighting kit).
Doors make the look
Doors can add dramatically to the look of a house without great expense.
On the outside, paint one in a bold color or strip it to uncover what may be its original beautiful wood.
Make it elegant without a big investment by adding an antique knocker or changing the hinges.
For instant charm inside, lean an old door that has been carefully stripped and protected with tung oil against an interior wall. Glue mirrors to the panels and attach hooks ready to hold coats, scarves and hats.
Combined dispatches