Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Nothing says the arrival of Spring quite like a weatherbeaten patio. All that effort you put in last year (or always intended to) so as to make the most stylish alfresco space possible, bashed around by rain, snow and general neglect. Which is why, as days get a little longer and our desire to live beautifully outdoors returns, we need to know the ways to revive a patio after winter, little tricks that make a big difference.

Which is why we've asked our favorite landscape and garden designers, what they do to patios right now, this month. how they spruce up the paved areas of backyards in order to make them visually appeal once more.

From pruning and potting up new plants to welcoming wildlife and accessorizing, find out how to return a lackluster patio to its Spring/Summer glory.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

It's not just our homes that require a spring clean, but outside spaces do too. From languishing leaves and other debris to dead plants and muddy footprints, dirt builds up. A good sweep and wash down of your decking, tiles or stone flooring (with eco-friendly dish soap and hot water) will revitalise it.Consider whether the weather is fine enough to remove bulky furniture covers too.

'Early spring is also a good time of year to clean and care for your outdoor furniture,' says New York-based Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder of Staghorn NYC and The Cultivation by Kat.

'Metal furniture is easily sprayed off with a hose (if need be), or wiped down with a damp cloth. For wooden furniture, I like to clean these off with a stiff brush, hose and mild, diluted soap.Its also good to use an oil or conditioner on your wooden furniture once a year, so now is a good time to apply that once its completely dry.'

'I like to declutter the patio area and make it light,' says Miami-based landscape designer, Rituparna Simlai, founder, Studio Arth. 'The spring season resonates with light and a minimalist ambience, so remove all that is not necessary and let the space flow.'

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Plants can look a bit tatty after winter, and whilst we welcome a wild look, some trees, plants and grasses may need trimming and pruning.

'One of the first things I do to refresh my patio in early spring is to cut back any remaining dead or spent growth from the previous year,' says Kat Aul Cervoni.

'This is particularly important for most ornamental grasses, such as pennisetum, miscanthus, sporobolus, panicum and hakonechloa. The exception is Mexican feather grass, which should be combed out to remove old growth.

'Any lingering dead perennial growth should also be pruned back to about 1-2 at this time as well to allow for fresh new growth to come through.'

'I'll also do some shaping to evergreen shrubs like ilex and boxwood that have any wayward growth from the previous fall. Other woody plants like lavender, panicle hydrangeas, butterfly bush and smokebush also do well with pruning at this time of year.'

(Image credit: Javier Alba)

Even with the best of care, it is likely you may have lost a plant or two in cold or windy weather. So once you've looked around to see what needs trimming, pruning or composting, consider what else to introduce to the pots on your patio.

'Refreshing your patio or backyard with accent pollinator species will not only add color but will animate your garden too,' says Riturparna Simlai. 'Choose native species with nectar-rich flowers that provide food sources for pollinators such as hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.' Our guide to the best flowers for bees will help you here.

'A combination of plants in a pot, with a low flowering bed in the bottom instead of pebbles, some accent plants in the base that contrast with the flowering bed and a sculptural tree off centre will enhance the look and liven the space making it more than just a potted plant.'

'I love potted plants around a patio to bring color, dimension and seasonality to the space,' says Kat Aul Cervoni. 'While I keep simple boxwoods in some, I like using seasonal annuals in others for a more colorful arrangement that can be switched out and adjusted throughout the seasons.

'For early season color while its still a bit cold, I love pansies, violets and violas which can handle the colder temperatures much like spring-flowering bulbs.'

(Image credit: Studio PYG)

'Install a bird bath to provide a water source for local birds and butterflies,' says Rituparna. 'As well as enticing them to visit, it will add a charming touch to your spring garden.'

If you have a bird bath already, give it a good scrub and fill it with fresh water. Add a couple of large rocks for birds to perch on, as it can help protect them from predators. Or consider installing a second or third bird bath on or near your patio.

These sculptural pieces are decorative, low-maintenance and provide a lifeline to feathered friends.

(Image credit: DAN CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHY)

If it's warm enough where you live to remove outdoor furniture covers and clean tables and seating for use, it's time to bring accessories out of storage too.

'Springtime means warmer weather is on the way, so cushions for outdoor furniture can be brought out of storage,' says Kat. 'I wash any machine-washable cushion covers or use a stiff brush to clean off any dust gathered over winter.'

'Decking lighting plays a crucial rule in creating the right ambience with changes in the weather,' says Rituparna. 'Moving from an inviting and warm ambience of lanterns and string lights in the winter to a more romantic setting with accent pendant lights hanging off of large trees or the pergola is ideal in the spring.

'Introducing pillows with vibrant spring colors or floral pattens enhances the celebratory and uplifting mood of the spring season too.'

Outdoor String Lights,100ft

Outdoor Pillow in Seychelles Palm

Visit link:
5 Ways to Revive a Patio After Winter Small Tricks Landscape Designers Rely On - LivingEtc

Our Top Picks

Let's face it: Gardening brings joy but strains the body. The act of bending over to plant or weed can lead to discomfort, impacting the enjoyment of this hobby. Enter garden stools, versatile aids offering support without compromising well-being. With numerous options available, finding the ideal garden stool can be overwhelming. I've curated a selection of top-notch stools, considering durability, comfort, and usability. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice, a premium garden stool ensures you tend to your plants effortlessly and comfortably, enhancing your gardening experience.

Unveiling the Sunnydaze Marrakesh Ceramic Garden Stool, a versatile indoor/outdoor decor piece designed to elevate any space. This stunning ceramic garden stool features a intricate lattice design and a white glazed finish that complements any color scheme. The generously sized 17.75-inch height provides a comfortable seat or a stylish side table, while the durable ceramic construction ensures long-lasting use. Surprisingly easy to move around, this garden stool adds a touch of elegance to your patio, garden, or living room without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on this affordable and charming decor piece.

Rated 9.9 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Indoor/Outdoor use, Beautiful lattice design, Durable ceramic material

Meet our latest TomCare Garden Stools, the perfect solution for anyone who loves gardening but hates the aches and pains that come with it. With its generously sized EVA foam pad and foldable design, this garden stools and bench combo makes gardening surprisingly easy. And with the added convenience of a tool bag pouch, you'll never have to worry about misplacing your pruning shears or trowel again. Best of all, this garden stool is affordably priced, making it a great gift for any avid gardener in your life. Don't let gardening be a pain upgrade to the TomCare Garden Stools today!

Rated 9.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Foldable and portable, Easy to use, Comfortable foam pad

Cons

Height is taller than expected

Introducing the Pure Garden Gardening Stools, the perfect tool for any garden enthusiast. This gardening stolls offers comfort and protection while planting and weeding. With two tool pouches and handles, it's surprisingly easy to carry and use. The generously sized seat and kneeling pad make gardening a breeze, while the sturdy construction ensures long-lasting durability. And, with its affordable price point, this gardening bench is a must-have for any gardener looking for comfort, convenience, and value. Upgrade your gardening experience with the Pure Garden Gardening Stools today.

Rated 9.5 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Foldable for easy storage, Comfortable foam pad, Convenient tool pouches

Cons

It may quite light weight for seniors

Experience the ultimate comfort and convenience while gardening with the Original Garden Rocker Comfort Seat. With its height adjustable contoured comfort seat and patented rocking base, this gardening stool will make your gardening tasks surprisingly easy and enjoyable. Made in the USA with high-quality materials, this generously sized seat offers exceptional durability and value. Its unique design helps reduce strain on your back and knees, allowing you to spend more time in your garden. Don't settle for an ordinary gardening stool, upgrade to the Vertex Garden Stool Rocker and make your gardening experience a pleasure.

Rated 9.2 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Adjustable height, Comfortable contoured seat, Patented rocking base

Cons

May not be suitable for very tall individuals

If you've ever faced the challenge of gardening for hours on end, you know how tough it can be on your knees and back. That's where the DEERFAMY Garden Stools comes in to save the day! With a generously sized seat and load capacity of up to 350 lbs, this heavy-duty gardening stool is the perfect solution for seniors and women who love to garden. The surprisingly easy-to-use design transforms into a garden kneeler with an extra kneeling pad, so you can take a break and get back to work in no time. Plus, with two tool pouches and claw gloves included, you'll have everything you need at your fingertips. And at such an affordable price, this stool is a no-brainer for any garden enthusiast!

Rated 9 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Durable and sturdy, Multiple functions, Elderly-friendly design

Cons

Stability may be compromised

If you want a gardening tool that can double as a comfortable seat, look no further than the AZBESTPRO Garden Stools. This heavy-duty, foldable gardening stool is surprisingly easy to use and prevents knee and back pain while you work in your garden. The 2024 upgraded design is widened to 10 inches for added stability and wear-resistance. Additionally, the two large tool bags make it easy to keep your gardening essentials close at hand. With a beautiful logo and gift-worthy presentation, this product offers unbeatable value and affordability for any gardening enthusiast.

Rated 8.9 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Versatile kneeler and seat, Widened base for stability, Easy to fold

Cons

May not be comfortable for taller individuals

Some people love gardening but hate the aches and pains that come with it. That's where the H> Garden Stools comes in. This foldable garden stool is both a heavy-duty gardening bench and a comfortable place to kneel, preventing knee and back pain. It's perfect for seniors, women, grandparents, and anyone who loves to garden. The modern design and green color make it a stylish addition to any backyard, and the affordable price is surprisingly easy on the wallet. Generously sized and built to last, this garden kneeler and seat is a great value and a must-have for any gardener.

Rated 8.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Foldable for easy storage, Can be used as kneeler or seat, Durable and heavy duty

Cons

May need extra cushion

Q: What materials are garden stools made of?

A: Garden stools can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, wood, and even plastic. The choice of material will depend on the intended use, style preference, and budget.

Q: Can garden stools be used indoors?

A: Yes, garden stools can also be used as indoor seating or decor. Many people use them as accent tables or plant stands in living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms. They can add a touch of color and texture to any space.

Q: Can garden stools support heavy weight?

A: Crafted for durability, garden stools are designed to support varying weights. High-quality options can withstand substantial loads, typically ranging from 200 to 300 pounds. Checking the specific weight capacity of each stool ensures reliable performance, providing users with secure seating or standing options during outdoor activities.

Q: Can garden stools be used on uneven surfaces?

A: Absolutely! Premium garden stools are engineered with stability in mind, featuring anti-slip bases and sturdy construction. Their versatile design allows for use on various terrains, including uneven surfaces like grass or gravel. Prioritizing stability ensures a secure and comfortable experience, making these stools ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities on diverse landscapes.

Q: Are garden stools weather-resistant?

A: Absolutely! Premium garden stools are crafted from weather-resistant materials, ensuring durability against the elements. UV-resistant finishes and rust-resistant frames protect them from sun and rain, guaranteeing long-lasting performance. These stools are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, making them an excellent investment for your garden or any outdoor space.

Delving into comprehensive research and evaluating diverse garden stools, it's evident that these versatile tools are indispensable for various outdoor activities like gardening, painting, and leisure. Available in diverse materials, sizes, and designs, each stool presents distinctive features and advantages. From foldable, portable options with storage pouches to robust stools with added padding and tool compartments, these stools deliver comfort and convenience for any outdoor pursuit. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or someone who relishes outdoor moments, a garden stool proves to be a valuable addition to your outdoor gear. Consider incorporating one into your toolkit today to elevate your outdoor experience.

Link:
8 Best Garden Stools of 2024 - The Jerusalem Post

The proposed new home of the Oakland A's in Las Vegas remains unbuilt, but recent developments show that work could soon get unde way to house the MLB's newest franchise.

The Tropicana Las Vegas casino resort has been designated as the site for the team's new, $1.5 billion venue on the Vegas strip. According to the Nevada Independent, the hotel is not accepting any bookings after April 1, 2024.

Although MLB baseball is not expected to come to Vegas until 2028, this could mean that construction could soon get underway.

The 35,000 retractable roof stadium will take years to complete. Meanwhile, the Oakland A's lease of their home stadium, the Oakland Coliseum, expires at the end of the 2024 season. For the team that finished with the worst record in the MLB last year, it leaves far more questions than answers.

Several venues have been mentioned as potential place-holder homes for the Athletics. Among them are Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, home of the San Francisco Giants' Triple-A team. Moreover, a consortium of business interests recently erected several billboards in Utah, lobbying for the A's to make the Beehive State their temporary home.

Approval for the move was approved by a unanimous vote put to MLB owners earlier this year. Despite the decision having been made, Oakland Athletics fans remain committed to keeping the team in Oakland and have staged several demonstrations over the past months demanding that owner John Fisher sell the team.

The move follows the NFL's Oakland Raiders, who became the Las Vegas Raiders after a relocation to Sin City in 2020.

When the Oakland A's finally move into their new park on the grounds of the Tropicana hotel, it will mark the first time in over 100 years that the organization will not share the venue with another team.

Whatever comes of the Oakland A's in 2024 and beyond, the focus needs to be on 2024.

With a record of 50-112 in 2023, the A's finished six games behind the Kansas City Royals, who were the second-worst club in baseball. There are indeed plenty of uncertainties, but that should not distract from trying to avoid a disastrous 2024.

See the original post:
Las Vegas strip's demolition plans seemingly fast-tracked as Oakland A's awaits construction to begin for their new ... - Sportskeeda

Demolition has begun at Engaging Heaven Church on Union Street in New London after a steeple on the 200-year-old church collapsed on Thursday.

A crane was brought in on Friday and there is now a gaping hole where the front of the house of worship stood.

City officials said the entire church will need to be demolished, and it could take several days.

Roads remain closed on Friday after a steeple on a 200-year-old church collapsed on Thursday and officials said they will demolish the two steeples that are left standing.

Firefighters and a structural engineer used a ladder truck to inspect the church from above on Friday afternoon before the demolition started.

Parts of State Street, Union Street and Masonic Street remain closed on Friday. City officials say they're working out issues with traffic and parking downtown.

Engaging Heaven Church owns the downtown New London church, which was built in 1810. An addition was added in 1975, according to property records.

The steeple that toppled Thursday was a local landmark.

"The skyline in the city has permanently changed and we lost a significant piece of history," Mayor Michael Passero said.

From where I live over on Huntington Street, look over the parking garage over here and I could see the steeple. When I looked out this morning, its gone, Ken Sentell, of New London, said.

Its not clear what caused the steeple to collapse. City officials said they are working to preserve as much evidence as possible to help determine the cause.

The mayor went on to say that there are a number of structures the city hopes to inspect following this incident. However, there's no reason to believe any other buildings are structurally compromised.

Passero said it was one of the oldest religious structures in the city.

We've suffered a very serious setback here in downtown New London with the loss of one of the oldest and and certainly one of the most gorgeous religious structures in the city, Passero said.

Engaging Heaven Church said one woman was inside when the church collapsed and she was able to get out safely. No one else was inside.

This image shows what the church looked like before and after the steeple collapsed.

The church is right next to New London City Hall and the Manwaring Building, where Connecticut College students live, and the students have been evacuated.

"Yeah. So, I'm, I'm just sitting on my couch and I hear what sounds like the loudest thunder I've ever heard. And I opened my blinds and see a bunch of dust and rocks rolling down that hill, right there in front of the church. And I kind of got up and ran away from the window thinking that the church was collapsing," Nick Musi, a Connecticut College student, said.

Fifty students were evacuated and have been relocated to the New London Holiday Inn and the New London Red Cross will be helping the students. They will not be able to return to the dorm before demolition is fully complete.

Engaging Heaven Church services will be held at the Garde Arts Theatre this Sunday. After that, the church will utilize the Salvation Army to conduct business.

Human Resources Director Jeanne Milstein said the church serves breakfast and lunch to about 70 people each day. The police department delivered breakfast sandwiches to those in need this morning.

"Our community is so resilient and I cannot even begin to describe the outpouring of support we've received," Milstein said.

People who witnessed the collapse described what they saw.

I was sitting in my car and I heard a huge, thunderous sound. And I looked to my left and when I first looked at the church it was whole and in that split second, the whole middle part of the church just collapsed, Lester Harris, of New London, said.

During a news conference on Friday, Fire Marshal Vernon Saau said the last inspection done at the church was in January 2019. At that time, there were three minor violations that were immediately fixed.

Inspections are supposed to be conducted every two years, but the pandemic "threw a wrinkle in the inspection process," according to the mayor.

Here is the original post:
Historic New London church to be completely demolished after steeple collapse - NBC Connecticut

Warren Scott DEMOLITION PLANNED Toronto officials have announced plans to demolish the Cooper building at 300 Market St. and hope to secure funding for a small amphitheater on the remaining lot.

TORONTO With a large building on Market Street slated for demolition, city officials hope to secure funds to create a small amphitheater at the site.

On Monday, Bill Lucas, chairman of the citys planning and zoning commission, advised council the Jefferson County Land Bank has made plans to demolish the former Cooper Hardware building at 300 Market St. and is in the process of surveying the property, which it acquired through a sheriffs tax auction, and having the three-story structure inspected for asbestos.

Mayor John Parker said its structure is in poor condition, with a collapsing roof and other issues.

He said one concern that was raised was whether a large mural on its east wall can be preserved.

Commissioned by the Toronto Coalition for Revitalization, the mural pays tribute to military veterans, bearing the words, All Gave Some. Some Gave All.

Parker said officials with the land bank enlisted an architect to determine whether that section of wall could be maintained. But he said it was determined The cost of trying to save that would be astronomical and theres no guarantee it would remain intact.

The mayor said instead, ways to photograph the mural and reproduce it, in some form, elsewhere are being considered.

Parker and Councilman Michael Glenn, who chairs the citys buildings and grounds committee, said a long-term goal is to establish a small amphitheater on the remaining lot in honor of former mayor Bob Wilson.

I think it will tie together our downtown area, said Parker, who noted removing the Cooper building will improve visibility for the Veterans Victory Pavilion across from it on North Third Street.

The park is the site of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, which was the first American monument to World War I veterans when it was commissioned in 1919.

Coalition President George Komar, who was called for comment, was asked whether the amphitheater might be used for the weekly community concerts held by the group in the summer.

The concerts have been held in the Gazebo Commons, which are just southeast of the Cooper building.

Komar said its difficult to say until details are available, but he had an idea for preserving the veterans mural.

He said a photo of it could be reproduced on a large vinyl banner by a local billboard company and possibly displayed on a building near North Third Street.

Also on Monday:

Council approved a resolution expressing sympathy to the family of former councilman Jay S. Smith, who died on Dec. 3 at the age of 94.

Council President Frank McEwen noted he worked with Smith while serving as the citys fire chief.

Mr. Smith was always a great guy to work with. He was always willing to work with all of the city employees, McEwen said, adding Smith listened to their concerns and kept a level head at all times.

William Scalley, the citys safety director, said, He was probably one of the nicest guys you could meet. He was just an all-around great guy.

It was noted Smith also was a long-time employee of the Toronto School Districts custodial and maintenance department and active in the Sunrise Seniors group and St. Francis Catholic Church.

Councilman Michael Burkey, who chairs the finance committee, noted the citys police department has been awarded a grant for new body cameras to be worn by its officers.

The office of Gov. Mike DeWine, has announced $19,347 was awarded to the Toronto department, one of 108 law enforcement agencies for which nearly $4.8 million in grants were awarded through the states Law Enforcement Body-Worn Camera program.

City Police Chief Charley Daniels said he had hoped to receive about $42,000 to replace 11 cameras that are showing wear from 10 years of use, but the grant is expected to cover seven of them, for which hes thankful.

Parker applauded Daniels and Sgt. Peter Morris for securing the grant.

Councilman Ron Holmes said he contacted American Electric Power about several streetlights that werent functioning and they have been addressed, adding hes since observed a few others that he will report.

Holmes also reported Toronto school officials found water leaking into the pre-school office of the Karaffa Recreation Center, have attributed it to wind damage to the buildings roof and are looking into the roofs warranty.

Parker said the roof was replaced before the school district transferred the building to the city.

Since then, the former school has been used as a recreation center while the school district retained some space for its pre-school program.

(Scott can be contacted at wscott@heraldstaronline.com.)

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

Read more:
Demolition in the works for Toronto building, amphitheater eyed for site - The Steubenville Herald-Star

January 27, 2024 5:03 pm Last Updated: January 28, 2024 10:21 am

New London The demolition of the historic First Congregational Church in New London began late Saturday morning, as a growing crowd of people watched.

A grapple excavator removed parts of one of the churchs towers and then lowered and dropped the building materials onto the existing pile of rubble from Thursdays steeple collapse. The pile was then sprayed with water from a fire hose.

No one was injured in the steeple collapse on Thursday afternoon. A secretary was inside the building at the time, but got out safely.

On Saturday morning, people took photos and videos and talked about the church, as the remaining parts of the structure started to be demolished.

New London resident Christine Derham, who was among the people watching the demolition Saturday morning from Union and State streets, said it was sad to see the demolition of the church that served as a community hub where people could get meals, if they needed them, and to see a piece of history gone.

The church was a sight she has seen every day since moving to New London about a decade ago.

This is so much a part of the city, Derham said of the church. This is something I see every day walking the dog.

Derham said there are no words to describe how something that looked so solid could just fall over as it did on Thursday, but thank goodness no one was injured.

New London residents Goose Wallace and Jake Fitzpatrick were relieved that no one was injured in Thursdays collapse, which was their top concern.

The friends were talking earlier Saturday morning about how many memories the church held for people, who celebrated weddings or got meals there, and hoped some of the materials could be salvaged to preserve those memories.

I think that seeing all the old architecture is really intriguing but its also very sad to see all the hard work that so many people put into it just be turned to dust a little bit, said Wallace, who noted that a cross-section of the church was visible due to the demolition.

Wallace, who recently moved to New England, added that the collapse raises the question of how many other buildings are a day away from a potential collapse.

New London Mayor Michael Passero was on scene watching the demolition.

The reality is really starting to sink in that we've lost an incredible historic asset in the city, Passero said. But also just looking at the way this building is crumbling, falling apart, its just a revelation that probably in the city and all over the state there are buildings in this condition that are going to have to be addressed.

Weve already begun talking about how were going to be able to obtain inspections on other substantial structures like this that could possibly pose a risk to the publics safety, he added.

By a little before 4:30 p.m. Saturday, the right tower was knocked about three quarters of the way down, and work was being done on the left tower, closer to the Manwaring Building, according to Fire Marshal Vernon Skau.

By early evening, a significant part of both towers had been demolished.

Skau said demolition is expected to continue Sunday and through the week.

The cause of the collapse of the church steeple remains under investigation, he said.

k.drelich@theday.com

See original here:
Demolition of First Congregational Church in New London begins - theday.com

Construction crews in South Carolina have 'unearthed' a piece of history while preparing for the future in one city.(Above video is the Friday morning headlines for 1/26/24.)The city of Spartanburg posted a photo on social media showing an ornate piece of what city officials called "an iconic column capital from the 1914 City Hall."The discovery that officials said was a "bit of a surprise" came as crews were preparing to demolish the current city hall at 145 W. Broad St. to make way for a new one.More news: SUV crashes into Cracker Barrel. See the video of the damage."The piece was buried by work crews after demolition of the former City Hall building in the late 1950s," Christopher George, the city's communications manager, said. "That building was located next to the current City Hall building, which is slated to be demolished itself in the coming months."Crews began this week testing the land, starting mitigation on the old building that will lead to demolition, officials said Monday during the last city council meeting in the building.Here's more from that last meeting.The 1914 city hall building is depicted on the city's seal. See photo below.As for what will be done with this historic find?"Currently, the piece is in storage, and we will work with the library and local history organizations to figure out a suitable future for the piece, which we would love to see displayed for the public in some capacity," George said.Officials said demolition of city hall should start sometime this summer.More news: Greenville restaurant announces it will close Saturday

Construction crews in South Carolina have 'unearthed' a piece of history while preparing for the future in one city.

(Above video is the Friday morning headlines for 1/26/24.)

The city of Spartanburg posted a photo on social media showing an ornate piece of what city officials called "an iconic column capital from the 1914 City Hall."

The discovery that officials said was a "bit of a surprise" came as crews were preparing to demolish the current city hall at 145 W. Broad St. to make way for a new one.

Instagram/City of Spartanburg

More news: SUV crashes into Cracker Barrel. See the video of the damage.

"The piece was buried by work crews after demolition of the former City Hall building in the late 1950s," Christopher George, the city's communications manager, said. "That building was located next to the current City Hall building, which is slated to be demolished itself in the coming months."

Crews began this week testing the land, starting mitigation on the old building that will lead to demolition, officials said Monday during the last city council meeting in the building.

Here's more from that last meeting.

The 1914 city hall building is depicted on the city's seal. See photo below.

As for what will be done with this historic find?

"Currently, the piece is in storage, and we will work with the library and local history organizations to figure out a suitable future for the piece, which we would love to see displayed for the public in some capacity," George said.

Officials said demolition of city hall should start sometime this summer.

More news: Greenville restaurant announces it will close Saturday

Here is the original post:
South Carolina: Historic find 'unearthed' in city hall demolition - WYFF4 Greenville

Demolition of a commercial building in Los Altos that was badly damaged in a three-alarm Christmas Day fire began Wednesday.

A contractor's crew started tearing down the roof and second story of the building in order to make it safe for investigators with the Santa Clara County Fire Department to get inside and determine what caused the fire.

"The roof has collapsed, so that collapse might cause more collapse," Santa Clara County Fire Department Capt. Matt Mokhtarian said. "We are going to dismantle this building from the top down. That will allowa safe environment with hopefully no overhead obstructions for the firefighters and the investigators to complete that investigation."

El Camino Real between San Antonio Road and Sherwood Avenue was closed as a result of the fire and will remain off limits to traffic until the demolition is complete.

The fire was reported at 4:48 a.m. Dec. 25 at the two-story, roughly 20,000 square foot building at 4600 El Camino Real.

No injuries were reported.

NBC Bay Area's Marianne Favro contributed to this report.

The rest is here:
Demolition starts on burned commercial building in Los Altos - NBC Bay Area

EDGEWATER Upcoming renovations to Edgewaters Steep Theatre will create a full bar and hangout space, and there will be stage production upgrades and other improvements.

Neighbors can support Steep Theatres efforts at its Demolition Party 6:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the theater, 1044 W. Berwyn Ave. Tickets are $60 and are available online.

Attendees will learn more about the construction while enjoying snacks and refreshments. They can also get involved by helping to dismantle one of the walls in the building.

Were not asking anyone to do serious work, but youll get to physically put your mark on the building, said Marisa Macella, executive director of Steep Theatre. We found the hammer that struck the first blow on our previous building, so the hammer itself is also symbolic of where Steep has come from and where were going next.

Construction is expected to be complete by the end of the year, and the theater will likely reopen in early 2025, Macella said.

The majority of the renovations are funded by a $2.98 million grant from the city, Macella said. The grant was part of a $40 million community development initiative designed to spur economic activity after the pandemic.

Steep Theatre is still raising money to fund the project and to help maintain the space once renovations are complete. There are also opportunities for people to make donations to name parts of the new building, Marcella said.

Most noticeably, the renovations will expand the theaters lobby to create a warm and welcoming space for post-show hangouts, Macella said.

Part of the culture of Steep Theatre is the moments before and after the show where people have conversations about the performance and get to spend time chatting with the performers, Macella said. It was really important to use to create an area where people can gather.

There also will be a full bar, and the construction will connect to new public bathrooms in the lobby and a small outdoor garden space.

This gathering area will be shaped like a black box theater so it can also be used for smaller, more intimate performances, Macella said.

Fans of the previous Steep location will remember that our old gathering space and black box theater, The Box Car, had large pillars that blocked peoples view, Macella said. Those wont be there anymore, but we were joking that we should put some up just for fun for the first show.

The theater also will have more flexible seating, including moveable risers to ensure everyone has a good view of the stage no matter how the chairs are configured, Macella said.

Performers will see upgrades, with a new dressing room and green room near private bathrooms, Macella said. There will also be a new production office and a stage manager station with a direct view into the theater.

Steep Theatre was forced to leave its previous home at 1115 W. Berwyn Ave. after a developer bought the building to turn it into a 77-unit apartment complex. Steep had been based there since 2008.

After two years off stage, Steep reopened at 1044 W. Berwyn Ave. in July 2022, within a building that used to operate as a Christian Science Reading Room.

The building already has a large open space that performers have used as a makeshift theater, but its missing lighting equipment and other materials that are needed to put on a full production, Macella said.

The upcoming renovations will also improve the overall space, so its more conducive for a full production, with all the bells and whistles, Macella said.

Its great to have parts of the renovations that benefit our audience and parts that benefit our artists, Macella said. The building itself is going to be improved for every single person thats going to be in it.

Listen to the Block Club Chicago podcast:

See the rest here:
Steep Theatre Hosting Demolition Party, Where Neighbors Can Knock Down A Wall Ahead Of Renovations - Block Club Chicago

PENROSE, Colo. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Thursday a tentative demolition schedule of the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose, Colorado.

The agency says it expects to begin the demolition process during the last week of February. Once the work begins it should take a total of 10 days to complete.

The cleanup process involves demolition crews spraying the interior of the buildings with disinfectant, and odor suppressant. The building will carefully be torn down to prevent the spread of contaminants, and finally, crews will do a shallow surface scraping of the soil under the building footprint before being taken away to a landfill.

This comes after the demolition was supposed to take place on January 17 but was postponed following scheduling issues.

The Return to Nature Funeral home was the site where 190 bodies were found improperly stored along the side of Highway 115 in Penrose.

Owners Jon and Carie Hallford are currently being held in the El Paso County Jail. Carie Hallford appeared before a judge on January 17 where the court ruled there was enough probable cause to send the case against Carie to trial. Co-owner and Carie's husband Jon Hallford has his preliminary hearing set for February 8.

The Hallfords have had their bonds reduced by the courts to $100,000 cash bond, from the initial $2 million set at the time of their arrests. The Hallfords are facing hundreds of criminal charges for abuse of a corpse, fraud, and money laundering.

BACKGROUND

Return to Nature Funeral Home came under a multi-agency investigation in October following reports of a complaint about a foul odor in the area. Investigators said they found more than 150 bodies in various states of decomposition inside the building that were not properly stored. The two were arrested in Oklahoma in November of 2023.

In what was a multi-agency clean-up effort, coroner offices and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation worked tirelessly for a couple of weeks to remove the bodies from the building before the identification process could begin.

It was not until early November that the owners of the Return to Nature Funeral Home were arrested in Oklahoma. Jon and Carie Hallford were moved to El Paso County by late November where both appeared in court and had cash bonds set at $2 million.

Following their arrests, News5's Eleanor Sheahan spoke with families who were victims of the funeral home.

WATCH: VICTIMS OF RETURN TO NATURE SHARE WHAT OWNER'S ARRESTS MEAN TO THEM

Victims of Return to Nature share what owner's arrests mean to them

____

Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.

Follow this link:
New demolition timeline announced of Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose - KOAA News 5