Halting running toilet

hHalting running toilet

A new device can keep water waste and bills in check by sensing when a toilet runs excessively and shutting off the water supply.

The H2Orb Water Management System from AquaOne Technologies attaches to the fill valve and stops water from flowing to the toilet in the event of a leak or overflow.

It also sounds an alarm to alert you and indicates the source of the problem.

The device can be ordered for $127 at www.theh2orb.com.

What hues to use

When in doubt about pairing colors, use white. It goes with everything. Gail Abbott illustrates this in “Living With White: Decorating With Shades of White, Texture, and Accents of Color” (Cico Books, $29.95), using it indoors and out, on walls, floors, furniture and decor.

For a lesson on understanding color properties, light and perception, see “The Color Design File” (Ryland Peters & Small, $19.95) by Leslie Geddes-Brown. It covers pinks, blues, oranges, neutrals and more.

Tips for vintage virgins

Vintage virgins can check out “The Vintage Home: Clever Finds and Faded Treasures for Today’s Chic Living” by Judith Wilson (Jacqui Small; $19.95) for ideas on rocking the style.

You may be surprised to learn that, defined by a timeworn and casual mood, vintage has five key looks: country, boudoir, retro, urban and modern. All can be mixed for an eclectic feel.

Like most styles, it’s the furnishings that create results.

Hardware can really put the vintage seal on your home, but lighting and soft furnishings can, too.

Combined dispatches