aHidi / \J \T\ » r. tX ''I Iti 'A- t :l. v;*^ siRSamnRM The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924016493417 ^'^^'tS.e'er'^— .-yL,6.3n ^°°L°<^on,eb, uildin f» 3,si7S7rS'«f LIBRARY ANNEX DATE DUE u» j loafl T E D I M U S / I I I ' )||I||MI|| II iimi iniiinmi^irjtiiinki ri jvi wuivmmvinvivmv i > II I 1 ■ I I nmmnJtu I 111, JV II II I 1 I I 1 I n l)» 1 11 U 1 >» " , < U 1 1 U I U irm< I ' i»i'iii'Biiiiiii;i»iiiiiiiiiiiiiifiiiiiiiiti»iiiri iiiiiiiiiiiiiti»'»ie T^esigns By FR\NKLIN EDWARD BITTNER DOVBLEDATPAGE ^ CO. GARDEN CITY, NEW TO RK % ^ -><- m \ ^'f- r^ .. ,,.i^t!4-,X COVNTRY LIFE PRESS DOVBLEDAY PAGE 8 CO. GARDEN CITY NEW YORK COPYRIGHT 1912 How This Book Came to be Written EARLY in the spring the annual question of impro\ing the house came up. This has always been more or less of a serious matter financially. Ihe task of doing o\-er a room or replacing some worn-out fixings is not with us a mere matter or sending for the decorator. Recourse was had, therefore, to the pages of our favorite periodicals and letters were dispatched to \-arious firms making the articles which we desired to purchase, asking for their literature. In due time catalogues, circulars in endless variety arrived. The amount of valuable information thus received was amazing, and the illustrations were all that could be desired. Right here came a curious experience. It was not always convenient to examine the catalogues the moment they came in, and they were in\'ariably placed aside for perusal at a leisure time. When that blissful moment finally arrived, something always happened to the catalogue we most desired to see. It was either lost, mislaid, or had been bor- rowed by a neighbor. Valuable time was thus consumed and the resultmg annoyance created a state of mind which did not lead us to that consummation so much desired by the manufacturer and ourselves — the prompt selection of the goods we wanted and a quick sale. Progress was so slow that I was on the point of throwing them in the waste basket and giving up the whole scheme in disgust. That, however, did not seem to be quite right to the manufacturer. It was self-e\ident that he had gone to great expense to prepare his material in a way^ that would truthfully describe his wares and make it easy for me to buy intelligently; nor could I dissuade myself from the fact that I was not parting with a great deal of useful information. But to wade through that disordered mass e\'ery night was more than I could or would stand. After some thought, I decided to buy a scrap book, classify the different items, and paste them in under the proper heading. When the book was completed, I was astonished at the ease and rapidity with which I could refer to the different articles and how much more interesting the compilation was, compared with the loose collection. I was able to study each subject carefully, institute comparisons, and otherwise properly inform myself of what I desired to purchase. The only regret I had was that I bought more than I originally intended, but that seemed in- separable from the new arrangement. So many indispensable things were offered, and in such orderly manner that the work became a pleasure rather than a task. The collection \\'as also much in demand by my neighbors, and its popularity suggested that it really had a useful place in this busy world of ours. I spoke of this experience to se^•eral large manufacturers who carefully watch new developments in advertising, and, to my great surprise, was urged to extend the work and make it really comprehensi\'e. From this it was but a natural step to seek a publisher of national reputation. THE AUTHOR Contents Hardware — Autistic and ruACTicAL . The Developmext of the Door .... RooEixc; . Concrete Conhtkuction Fireproof Houses; How to Biild Them . The Decoration and Fihmshinc; of the Modern IIo.me Paint as a Medium f^or Decoration . Oriental Rics EXTEHIOK COLOH SCHE.MES Domestic Floor CovERix(is Curtains and Draperies Furniture The Bathroo?*! of To-dav The Choice of the Heatinc; vSyste.-\i The Neav Combined Coal and (Jas Bancjes Electhktty in the Household .... How T(j Get Full AD^■AXTAGE fho.m Electhic Lk:ht in the Telephone Systp::ms for the Hojie The ]NL\ny- Uses of Gas AcETY'LENE ^i\RTIFKTAL SuNLIGHl IN THE HoME Oil as a Factor in the Household Fireplaces and jNIantels Lighting Fixtures Labor Saving DE^'ICES The Refrigerator and the Refpigerating Plant Greenhouses, Fri'it Houses, Conservatories, Sun Rooms Glassed-in Porches Gates and Fences lOME AND PAGE 1 16A 17 25 ^29 :58 .56 60A ()1 ()5 7.5 101 107 IK) K21 l.'U l.'WA 183 139 14.5 151 1()8 173 185 190 195 Its Ornamental and Practical Value Design.-^ hij Lcdfling Manufuffnrrr^; ORE attention is now })eing paid to the consistent use of artis- tic Jiardware tJian at any previous time in the hist decade. Hardware as appHed to house })uihJino; means fixtures and trimmings such as knockers, knobs of all kinds, windo^^- catches and handles, key plates, locks and latch(\s, newel post balls, escutcheons, etc. The whole scheme of decora- tion and architecture is to Ije taken into accoimt when a selection of hardware is made. A Colonial house is fitted with strictly Colonial fixtures; an Empire room with hard- ware nuide especially to conform to that period. A Louis XV room presents a strange contrast to the eye of the layman, as well as to that of the connoisseur, if it is fitted with hardware designs that are a part of the period of the Empire. A small dwelling is apt to receive less attention in these matters than a more pretentious house; but the manufacturer shows designs in ])eriod hardware suited not only to the palatial home, t)iit to the simple and imj^retentious. It is possible, of coiu'se, to buy neutral designs that will fit any style of fur- nishing; but the general trend nowadays is towarfl s]jecialization, and the whole artistic effect is much enhanced by a consistent adherence to the special period or school followed in the architecture and decoration. The local hardware dealer and the carj)enter are not as a ride very well edu- cated as to the period styles, even if they know the output of the good manufac- turers. Therefore it is much more satisfactory when it comes to the point of providing hardware for the house to have recourse to the catalogues as a guide. In making the selections it is advisal>le to consider the finish of the lighting fixtures as well as the woodwork of the room, in order to secure perfect harmony in the fittings. The small hardware can be secured in any of many metal finishes, to match fixtui-es and to tone in with woodwork. In addition to the great number of stock patterns which the manufacturers show, special designs may be carried out to suit individual taste, and a crest or monogram is often i-eproduccd as a distinctive feature on a plain flat surface. It is hardly necessary to suggest to the prospective purchaser the advantage of providing a sufficient fund to purchase good hardware; for most of us have had experience with doors and windows that do not latch properly, and with keys that do not work. Wear and tear should be considered in buying hardware for any kind of a building, inside or out. Durable locks and trimmings that will stand all kinds of Italian Renaissance (Bramantej Gothic (Burgos) \ GROUP OF PERIOD DK8IGNS IN HARDWARE— MADE BY THE RUSSELL AND ERWIX MFG. CO., NEW BRITAIN, CONN. usage are selected l)y careful people. Usually the more expensive the buildiuii', the better the triinniings; but ot'teu houses of moderate cost are handsomely trimmed: in fact the trimmings are so near (jne's eye in the smaller room that they are of utmost im- portance. A good latch and lock is a good in\'estment, always for the outside doors — and always for tliose wilhin. Attention to this detail in ordering hardware will prevent trouble in the future, as well as locksmith or carpenter bills for tinkering with d(joi-s tliat refuse to latch or lock. To the present popularity- of Colonial architecture is due the return to favor of the glass knob for indoor use. Equally effective on either hardwood or ])ainted doors, it is, when pi'oi)erly constructed, the ideal knob for Colonial work — highly ornamental, and as service- able as it is ornamental. While generally used with the rovmd rose and separate j)late escutcheon, glass knobs can be fur- nished with elongated escutcheon of any desired pattern. Glass knobs are made of both cut and pressed glass and in great variety of shape and pattern. Small sizes are also made for cabinet, sideboard or tal)le. A bargeut Colonial Door Handle A Colonial Group SARGEXT HARDWARE— MADE BY SARGENT & CO., XEW YORK I'^arly Frcncli Uciiaisyinico (Bourbon) Colonial Glass Knobs ^1iJ^ A Group of Colonial Door Handles Louis XIV (Nemours) A TYPICAL ASSORTMENT OF COKBIN DESIGNS— MAUK BY P. & F. CORBIX, NEW BRITAIN, CONN The glass knobs usually come accompanied hy metal rose, ornamented as de- sired. With the glass knob the glass lever handle is much used, and is a hatidsome and uni(|ue addition to the furnishings, with its metal base and tip ccjnl'orming to the other metal work in the room. Another return to the styles of Colonial days is the hand-painted porcelain knob. This is dainty in the extreme, and may be secured in various patteiiis to harmonize with the other furnishings. These are used extensively with white- painted or enameled woodwork. Special designs may be supplied to suit the purchaser, with a slight increase of cost. Attractive French casement windows reciuire unusual fittings, the cremorne bolt ])eing esi)ecially suital)le, whether the window is operated from one or from both sides. A door clieck is usiuilly a necessity on the doors between dinmg-room and pantry, and pantry and kitchen. A check on all outside doors is recommended by people who have tried them. The check may be removed for sunniier, and in winter it will be found a very useful servant, especially in houses where children are continually running in and out. It is also a good plan to provide the bath- room door with a check; but when this is done ])roA'ision should be made for fasten- ing it open when desired. The double swing door for the ])antry and kitchen is desirable. The (juestion as to the amount necessary to sj^end on house hardware is a difhcult one, and one upon which it is hard to ])ut a limit, (ieneral helj) only, can be given at the outset. The interest in the whole house so increases as com- pletion approaches that ones interest in the metal trinunings increases also. It is wise, therefore, to make as generous a selection at first as is possible. It is a common eri'or of house builders to allow too little money for the hard- ware; the result is that while the dooi's and other woodwork may })e handsome, the metal trim does not corres])ond. The house buihk'r is earnestly advised to keep this in mind. The modern substitute for the door latch of ancient days is e(|ually burghu- proof, if one takes care in selecting the proper lock. The lock is the defense of the home, and. the ])ro])er selection of the orna- mental trim is an important factor in the decorative treatment. Few people know one lock from another, exce])t by (jutward form; ^\•hereas the price charged is based i)rincipally uj)on the interior construction. In like manner the security of a home is based not u])()n the outward form of the knobs or escutcheons, but n])on the interior construction of the lock. Few houses are broken into, in the true sense of the word; most of them are entered by i)icking or forcing the lock. It therefore behooves us to select that form of lock whicli is most nearly proof against picking and forcing. To select the most suitable trimmings one must know something of the styles of the different periods, so that Colonial hardware will not unwittingly be used when the furnishings are of the dainty and delicate Adam or Sheraton designs. If you build a house to sell, it is well to ha^'e it finished with ai'listic hardware, for i)oints which may seem small to you are large to other eyes. A very important point to be considered by home-builders is that the order for the hardware should be placed early. This should never he i)osti)(med until the house is ready for the trinunings. It is a commcm practice in providing hai'dware for the new home to defer its selection until a late date, and then to leave the matter, both as to the amount to be ex])ended and as to the selection of the fittings themselves, largely in other hands than those of the architect or owner. This is an error which may easily be rectified by a little forethought, with the aid of the catalogues of the manu- facturers. Gothic (Hampden) Italian Ttenaissance fOrvieto) Greek (Olj-mpus) CORBIN ART HAKDWARK, PERIOD DESIGNS— MADE RY P. & V. CORHIN, NEW URITAIN, CONN. If you are selecting- your own liardware, note the chief characteristic of ,y- The Russell and Erwin ^Ifg. Co., New Britain, T'onn. Italian Renaissance Louis XVI French Gothic Louis XIV A GROI P OF PERIOD DESIGNS MADE HV SARGENT & CO., NEW YORK From 1558 to KiOS England produced ii school of design based upon Flemish and classic art, which we call Elizabethan, marked by strong and virile chaiac-- teristics. Straj)work and curling cartouches with drapery festoons, the Tudor fiat pointed arcli, the guilloche and the frecjuent interlace most emphatically niark this style. There are three periods of English Gothic, the perpendicular being the highest plane to which it rose. The name was api^lied because of the per])endicular lines which persist through both tlie lower plain part of the old traceried windows and the upper decoratecl portion. Gotliic architecture i-eached its greatest development in France, however, and the characteristics of French Gothic in decoration are the use of foliage, beast, bird and human forms, often in grotesque. Tlie German Ciotliic was largely inspired by the French. Some of the ear- lier, simpler forms are most impressive, and the work of the early German metal workers is full of true Gothic vigor and inspiration. The Greek sch'. One of the first steps toward securing good hardware is to have the architect incor])orate in tlie specifications the name of a standard line. Such sentences as "all finishing hardware to be of manufacture,"" or " - — builders" hardware to be used throughout"" will acliieve the desired result. If it is desired to provide for competition, two alternative lines may l)e named. There are at least five manufacturers whose goods eml)race eveiything i-ef]uired to finish a home and whose product will give satisfaction and any good architect is suffi- ciently familiar with them all to make an intelligent designation when writing the s])ecifications. Every properly e(|ui]^ped hardware dealer carries one of these lines as a leader and can provide a better selection and a more uniform quality and finish than one who handles a mixed assortment. The practice of the manufacturers of giving sjx'cial aid and recognition to the dealers who favor their goods is another reason — and an im])orlant one — for giving standard brands the preference. Among the im])ortant things to be considered, the following nniy he men- tioned: Locks- for e.rlcrior doors. The ])rinie re(|uisite here is seciu'ity, and it is as importaiit that the rear and basement doors should be well guarded as the front entrance. All the locks should be of the same type with moving parts of brass or brcmze, impervious to the weather. Locks of the pin tundjler type afford the greatest degree of security, and the ordinary burglar will not attempt to enter a door secured by a lock of this type. The small flat key is an additional ad- \antage, as it takes but little space in a lady's purse or a man"s pocket. There are, however, nnuiy excellent locks of the lever tumbler tyi)e and a choice can lie made therein to satisfy all ordinary rec|uirements. Some attenticm should be paid to the key changes li<>re. It is possible, at a very slight additional cost, to have the key to the front door oi)en all the other exterior doors, while the key to the rear or side entrance -will only ])ass the lock with which it is furnished. This makes it i)0ssible for the master or mistress to enter at any door, while the servant's key unlocks the rear or side door only. In many instances the outside basement door is fitted with a night latch only or is secured by an ordinary latch and a l)()lt. In such cases it is advisable to place a dead lock on the (loor at the head of the basement stairs, with keyhole on the inside only. This absolutely prevents entrance from below when the inner door is locked, the servants entering by the rear or side door only. Locks io inside doors. (ienerall>', these locks are used to ol)tain privacy onlv and there is not the same necessity for security as on outside doors. It is 11 usually an advantage to have the keys all alike, so that if one key is lost —as often occurs — the key to any other inside door may be used. For bath-room doors, where the lock is in constant use, a type with a thumb piece on the inside is very generally used. The do(jr can be unlocked from the outside by a key, whicli is hung on a nail oi- liook con^'cniently placed, for use in an emergency. When a key is used on ihe inside it is usually necessary to burst the door in if the occupant be stricken with sudden illness. A lock of tliis same type is sometimes used on all bedroom doors, with the same key to pass all. There is then no trouble caused by loss of keys to the in- dividual rooms, while the thumb piece is turned easier and with less noise than the usual key. On the bath-room door, the lock should have working parts of brass or Ijnjnze not affected bv steam or moisture. A niffht latrh -n-ith the functions of a dead lock. This f.\'pp of lock is especially- valuable for storeroom and basement doors, or any plac(! where securit\- is desired at low cost. A lock with casj' spring action for in.side doors. Not<' the arraneenient of the parts whicli (iives the spring a dircei jjiill on the knob, giving a firm, ipiick action, while the le^'er at- tached to the latch b()!t reduces the spring pressure and causes Ihe hiteh tii ruo\'e at a touch. The fT-shaped spring in the lower right- hand corner of the lock pre\-ents tin- ke.\ from falling out. \ lot k s( t for ins pn ( on the OHtsid, of tt PKACTKAL HARDWARE MADE I!Y P. & E. CORIUX, NEW BKIT.VIX, CO.XN. l'-2 Lock. s Jar dorerooin.s, Jniit cupboards, etc. A night latch is cniploycd here to advantage. This locks the door from the outside each time it is closed and ett'ectually prevents petty pilfering. It is often desirable t(^ attach an ordinary knob latch as well, to be used when it is not desired to lock the dnt the odors of the kitchen from reaching the rooms above. Mirror doors to closets, to prevent slamming and danger of l)reakage. There are two types — one the familiar kind attached to the top of the door and the other the floor check, which is sunk in the floor and is not visible. The latter may be preferred for the sake of appearance. In both types checks can be bought with the "hold-back" feature, i.e., they can be adjusted so that when the door is opened at a predetermined angle, it is held open until released by pressure of the hand. Where this "hold-back" feature is not present it is desirable to attach a door holder to the door, which is operated by the foot and holds the door at any point desired. Cupboard turns. See that these have latch bolts of ample length so that they 13 A Corbin fastener for casement win- dows, which draws the sash tiKlit against the stop and prevents leakat^i and draut^lits. Clock Spring Steel \ Bronze A Corbin adjustalilc window stop fastener. Loosening the screw permits the stop to be moved in or out, pre- venting sticking or rat- tling of the sash. Blind Adjusters, made by the Boston Pressed Melal Co., Worcester, Mass. Sash Balance, made bv the PiiUman Mfg. Co., Rochester, N. Y. Washers and hinges, made b> the Stanley Works, New Britain Conn. 14 X The grip or catch of ;i transom A Bull-bcuriii rod that engages the rod firnil,\- at hca\-\- cast tra any point. saslr pullcj- with and front. A door checlc. Check to be set in the floor. Combines the functions of a pair of .spring hinges and a door cheek of the ordinar\- type. Will hold the door open when desired. DESICiXED AND ,M.\DK HY P. & F. ( ORlilX, NEW BRI'IWI.X, C(JXX. will be .sure to engage the .slrike.s if the (l()(.>r,s .sliriiik. It will add to the con- venience if the knol) or thiinih ])iece i.s of a good .size, easily graspi'd anfl turned with little effort. For the filter cabinefs tliere can l)e oblained wliat is termed half-nioi'tise locks. These can be attached to thin doors and trinuned with cabinet knob.s and es- cutcheons giving superior service and an effect of elegance. For narrow stiles, where the knob would be placed close to the edge, it is advisable to use a le^'er handle instead of a knob. Drainer frim)niin/x. A little care in selection of hardware for drawers is well worth while. If i)ulls are used they .should afford ample space for the hand, especially if the drawers are large and are liable to be heavy \\'hen filled. For pantry drawers or linen closet and storeroom draA\'ers, plain bronze ])ulls fastened with wood screws give satisfaction. For bm'lt-in sideboards and cabinets, drop handles to match the other hardware will naturally be selected, and care should be taken to have the nuts on tlie posts screwed as tight as possible. Handles which have two such posts (one at each end of the l)ail) should be selected, as the ring or loop \\hich is suspended from one ring will almost im'ariably work loose unless the j^ost be set in a square socket to prevent the ring from l^eing tiu'ned. The key plates should be fastened liy screws when jjossible, for escutcheon pins often work loose or permit the ])late to be torn off if the bit of the key strikes it when being removed. Traii.agniolette bars in order to make a ])roi)er selection. A good liai'dwai'c dealer can fiu'nish any of them. Casement adjus((>rs, which hold tlu' sash o])en at any point desired should also be i)rovided. Fitudli/. Once a year ins])ect your hardware. An hour or two with oil, screw driver and a clean cloth will save many a repair bill. 16 The Development of the Door H,, .1. KARL M()R(;AN Some Artistic Examples of Wood and Steel Construction [llusfr<(feil h/j Lcad/iiij Man itfudurrrs TT'DY classic architecture and you will find this: Tluit the art. of the masters has found fullest expression not so nuicli in the general details of building and construc- tion as in the design and ornamentation of the doors and doorways. AAitli the awakening of man's architectiu'al sense, ^\'e find him jjroviding a distinct shape and design for the entrance to his dwelling. Tlie ca^•e num entered his dugout through a crude hole in the side, the ancient Egyptian pro^'ided his simj)le and substantial dwelling with a door and entrance of beautiful and simi)le design — it marked the Ijeginning of architectural ornamentation. The entrances and doors of the Greek temples were marvels of beautj' but were pcmderous and unwiekly for ordinary use, as were also the entrances to the mediaeval castles and palaces. The modern entrance has become a thing of great importance architecturally. Its lines ha\'e been studied with great care and the door itself has reached its fvdlest develoi)nierrt from the standpoint of beauty, serviceability, and strength in tlie designs and construction of modern door builders. Doors must fit the house: they must be of such form, size, color, and material as will harmonize most closely with the facades of whicli they are a i)art and of the interiors to which they give access. The good doorway is a part of the architectural motif and it should exhibit the chief characteristic of that motif. The good door is a part of the doorway and of the house and it cannot har- monize with l)oth unless it is correctly designed and correctly made. It should combine strength with beauty — good design with serviceability. There is no truer saying than "'Doors make the House." "When the doors are substantially made and show evidence of high grade cabinet work, when they are of artistic and correct design and are adapted to the general style of architecture, they will give character to the building and create an ensemble A\liich reflects harmony and good taste. This ai)plies not only to the exterior but to the interior effect. The proper doors belong to the house. TJiey become a part of it. The door hangs true, so that the opening and shutting of it become a real ])leasure. The door shows no sign of wear or weather. It is honestly made. In fact, it does 16A ^' "■-'" < I '1 "'■"" i- Morgan Craftbman II. Two beautiful examples of doors made by the Morgan Company, Osbkosh Wig From their catalog The Door Beautiful." Hardware suggestions by .Sargent &. Co \^y^ \ ork. / credit to it.s .siiiTouiiding.s and draws at- Iciilion to itself liy its rich finish and re- fined workmanship. Perfect wooden doors are made with a hfi:ht weight core upon which is laid the veneer. These veneei's are rotary cnt and sawed and are of tlie very liighest (jnahty, .showing the most beantiful pat- tern in the grain. For years white pine was the pi'in- cipal wood nsed in the manufactnrc of doors and interior finish. To-day white j>ine has been supplanted by the hard- woods, and we find birch, ash and oaJc ■ M I. t;^ ?w-€^m% i If mt^Ik^HI'''J M Ipfl^M ■KpU lEj^^^^Lil ^^HiH 16B Si Morgan M, 64. Morgan M. 59. Morgan doors showing two de.signs made by the :\iorgan Company, Oshkosh, Wis. From their catalog " The Door Beautiful. Hardware suggestions by Sargent & Co., New York. their different varietie.s mo.stly with used. Of all the hardwoods used, birch is the most versatile. The density of birch is greater than any other wood and, not being- porous, will not absorb nioistui'e to affect its life. Ash and oak have their places in the manufacture of hardwood doors and interior finish, and for beautiful grain Wisconsin ash has no superior. Doors built of hardwoods carefully selected can be made the most attractive part of the interior. 16C Brokaw residence, 5th Ave., N.Y., equipped with U S Metal Products Co 's doora The increa.sing u.se of steel in all forms of build- ing construction where fireproof qualities are essen- tial is one of the noteworthy developments of the times. In a recent magazine interview Mr. Edison predicted that in the future all furniture would be made of steel, stained and grained to represent the costly ^\■oods, and that books would be printed (jn .sheets of nickel, drawn out to such thin- ness that they would occupy much less space than paper. In the construction of steel doors, it is well to remember that no rivets are used in the construc- tion, the joints being process-welded, thus making the completed door practically one piece. The steel is specially treated, being rean- nealed and pickled and then patent-leveled to secure aljsolutely flat surfaces. Such doors com- bine strength with light weight; they are not af- fected by weather conditions and the panels do not AA arp or shrink. Another important feature is the finish, which is not only l)eavitiful but lasting. The beautiful grains of the finest woods are reproduced perfectly. All painting is done Ity the enamel process, each coat beini^ thoroughly baked when applied, insuring dur- ability. This finish will not crack, peel or check; it is virtually ever lasting. Bronze Covered Door with Cast Bionze Ornaments, finished to resemMo natural grain of wood. Made by the U. S. Metal Products Co., New York. Interior Hollow Steel Fireproof Door, with artistic finish, reproducing beauti- ful grain i]f Mahogany. Made by the U. S. Metal Products Co., N'ew York. IGD 4. f'^^^T) m cS^'T'^ ^r^m^^y^^ (^^-^ -#W^ «SI&- Roofing Ilhli:! ruled hi/ Lniiliiiij Man ufarllirrrx T is (Hif inteiiliou in tliis iirticio, to set before the home builder the chiinis of the niaiiufactarers of the l)e.st mate- rials for all kinds of roofing. Such knowledge we feel siu'r will be of service, as the st'lection (^f roofing is a more interesting problem n(nv than it lias ever been before. The increased number of roofings to choose from has made a cl'ioice somewhat ditlicult. ^Fany of the poorer makes liaA't' every surface indication of genuine scr\'ice. so making it hard for the average buyer, who has a limited knowledge of the sn])ject, to choose wisely. First of all. a roof must fulfill its function of ])rotecting the interior of the house from the elements, and its construction should be simple and practical. The roof should bear some relation to the siUTonnding lan(lsca])e, and also 7-e])eat lines that harmonize with the architecture of the house. There ai'e many roof styles in archilecture and ways of adajjting tlieni to existing conditions. It is no small part of the architect's v\'ork to design a proper roof, for more depends U])on this part of the house than on any other single ])art of the exterior design. The ro(jf may be made to give the house a low, rambling, comfortable look, or it may be a very pretentions affair; it may be tall and towering, or it may liave sharp galdes. It is undoubtedly an easier piece of work to design houses of the low rambling kind than any other tyi)e: usually the owner's i^reliminary sketch is a fair exam])le of how a house can i-amble. But in the deligiilful planning of a rambling house one loses sight of the fact that it may l)e found necessary to install many more heaters to take care oi the isolated portions, and to prevent the plumbing pipes, which are sj)read to the four winds, from freezing during the winter. The cost of stringing out these pipes and making the various turns, corners and gables that become necessary on this sort of a Iiouse, adds a large item to the expense. The i"oof having been constructed to the satisfaction of the owner, a choice of material nnist be made for its finished covering. In some sections of the country the roof is boarded in solid and perhaps covered with tarred pai)er, over which shingles ("everyman's roof") are laid. This is not recommended by those who understand roofing, as the condensation of moisture which forms during a rainstorm or from snow resting on the roof, soon causes the shingles to rot; and as the heat of the house rises to tlie roof there is no advantage in making this part tighter with the tar ])aper, for the sake of warmth. Such a roof is boarded in, and shingled very quickly, probably in two or three days; therefore the labor in- volved is not large. A good cedar or cypress shingle vooi, well-laid, should last fifteen years, with careful repairs. The growdng popularity of comparatively fiat roofs on residential buildings is 17 very noticeahl(\ Roofs of this type can l)e surrounded with ornamental parapets and by the aid of awnings made into dehghtfui breezy sunmier gardens. The eleva- tion frequently gives views and air which can not be oljtained from lower porches. For flat roofs where the slope is less than three inches to the foot, the manu- facturers direct our attention to the one built according to the "Barrett Specifi- cations," of alternate layers of coal tar pitch and tarred felt with a top covering of slag, gravel or ])aving tile. The tin roof needs no introduction; only a word of warning. A poor tin roof is almost worse than no roof at all. It is therefore suggested that in purchasing tin plate, gi-eat care be exercised to select that ((uality and manufacture which will bear rigid investigation as to the component material. The thing that most concerns the owner and the roofer is the durability of the material after it is laid on the roof. The tin plate should carry sufficient coating to properly protect the base. It is much better to pay a price which will This residence at Englewood. N. J., shows the neat appearance of tin roofinK laid with standing seams. It is roofed with tin, made by the X. <_t G. Ta\-Ior Co.J^hiladelphia, Pa. A Bruoi^lyn residence roofed "according to the Barrett Specifications," twenty-six j-ears ago. 18 insure a thoroughly coated phite and a first class ])iecc of work than to (rv to econo- mize too much. Poor workmanship will not build a ro(jf that will last. (lood roofing tin — the old-time durable (|uality^-is considered one of Ihe standard roofing malei-ials for high class buildings. It has qualities which pecu- liarly fit it for roofing purj)oses. It is subject to little coirtraction and expansion; it is adapted to many variations of climate; only some local conditions peculiar to the building itself render its use imjn'acticable. Its plial)ility, lightness, dura- bility, chea})ness, and the various climatic and othei" changes to wiiieh it is adaj^ted, render its use a most natural one. A good tin roof is light in weight, requires only a very liglit roof construction, and is neat in ajjpearance. Where laid with standing seams the effect is attractive, particularly where the crest (jf tiie roof is finished off with some simple design. Tin is easily put on and is adaptable to any sur- face from a flat deck to a vertical wall. If a tin roof is damaged it can. be repaired quickly and cheaply, a leak being permanently fixed in a few minutes. The man- ufacturers claim that wind and snow cannot sift through a tin rf)of. Nor can hea\'y rain and moisture get through it, as it covers the u])per 01(1 In.Icpi'ndcnci' Hall, Philadelplihi, rnnf,.,l with X. .t f;.Ta\lorCL \\a.s laiil twitiCy-roLir jcar^ ago k- I in w-ijich JIasouic Temple, Washington, D. C, roofed with tin made by N. & C!. Taylor Co., Philadelphia siu'face (jf the roof witli an unbroken, continuous sheet of metal. In case of a fii'c from within a house, the tin roof acts as a blanket for the flames, and will often hold together uitact when the roof supports burn through and collapse, smothering the flames and pre-s'cnting the dis- astrous u])war(i draught wliich often carries sparks and embers to a distance. This \\e]\- known feature of tin roofs is claimed to l»e a great aid to firemen in fighting the flames. The assertion from some quarters that "we don't get good roofing tin any more" is not a fact. The same good quality 19 plates are still made; l)ut the prevailing tendency to lessen cost by using cheaper grades and labor, therein' sacrificing the old time ciuality, has been responsible for unsatisfactory results, and many erroneous statements. Give the tin roof a fair chance with good tin and good woi'kmanshiiJ at the start, and the result will be eminently satisfactory. Before laying, a tin roof should be painted with one coat on the under side. The upper surface of the roof should be carefully cleaned of all I'osin and dirt, and innnediately i)ainted, all coats of paint to b;' applied with a hand-brush and well rubbed on. Since gutters are the natural receptacle for dirt, leaA'es, etc., they should Ijc swe))t and pahited every two or three years. The roof itself will not need painting more often than at five oi- six-year intervals to repair the natural wear and tear of the wealher. With each i)aintiiig a. roof oi good tin is fully restored to its original condition. A i)oor I'oof is an endless eliain of exjieuse. annoyance, discomfort and danger. It is claimed that a slate roof, slate l)eing the only workable non-absorbent stone, can neither rust nor tlecay. Slate is a roofing niade by na.lurc — ii comes direct from the quarry in large blocks, and is split to jjroper thickness and trinmied to refjuired size. The sub- stance of rock does not cliange no matter what the climate. Slate will not wear away, rust, decay, tear, chip, crack, war]), disintegrate, melt, burn, lose its color absorb moisture, nor conlrrocure an admirable one. If you wish slate, shingles, tin, tile, they are all admirable for the condilions suitet! to their special merits, and to the style of house planned. The modern I'cquirements of fire departments make it necessary to consider the subject of safely frcnn sparks, in using a shingle roof. Therefore, if you build in a congested district, it is well to consider the asbestos shingles rather than the old-timers. In asbestos shingles one has a I'oof, when ))roperly iqjplied, that the manufac- turers claim will outlast the lifetime of the building. The simple exposure to the elements causes the cement, that has been (le|josited upon the asl)estos fibre in the ])rocess of manufacture, to crystallize, and it then becomes better and better; in fact more serviceable as lime rolls on. Cement has been known to crystallize as long as twent.y-eig!it yeai's from the lime it was first mixed. This is oidy proof of the claims, made for asbestos shingles — that they impro\x\ toughen and harden with exposure to ihe elemeirls and almospherie changes. Another good point that is claimed by these shingles, is ihe fact that they do not need to be painted to I)i-eserve them, as the elements take better care of asbestos shingles than the best ])aint or dressing that has ever been- made. These shingles come in a variety of shapes for special roofing. Asbestos roofing is divided into several classes to meet the requirements of 22 I ^ ^ WW Mr r !*▼ A 1 '' J«!»*W ' '' . V wpj H -— *''jgfPit j<«i#?i~y rw»i»3»(;fW«', it is obvious that asl)estos sliino'les and asbestos building luml^er may he employed freely and confidently in a vast variety of places wliere lumber lias failed. 23 Primarily designed to replace the ordinary roof covering only, the merits of asbestos shingles are claimed t(j he such that their employment )jy good archi- tects and engineers has extended to all classes of work wherein the many desirable qualities have supplanted other materials heretofore connnouly in use. For guidance in selecting the best paint for a roof, where necessary, our read- ers are referred to the chapter on that sul)jcct in another part of the book. A (icijuinr baiigur Matf Kouf Concrete Construction JUli^lraliil hij Lcutling Mamifarlurcr.'; jSIONG the hcsi and most economical house-building malerials necessary to secure the essentials of permanency, durahility and comfort, concrete has prol)ably come nearer tlho(l where .sonnd stnrdy luiildiny dominates; eiidiii-iiiij,', lioncst, free-froiii-repairs eoii.sl ruction thai makes a house fireproof, economical and allractivc. 'J'Jie hasic idea of fire])roof conslriiction for houses is ]i()l new. l^'or yeai's tei'ra-cotta Jiollow tile has been nsed foi' fir(^])roofin,:;' ofiice liuildiiii;s and school jiouscs, and in some instances the older jialtcrns of tile v:qvv used for houses, l)ul il has remained for ])i'esenl-day mamd'actiirers of Jiollow tile [o in^'enL and produce a pattern especially adaptable to liousebnildiiii;'. Cement - i)lastered ex- teriors, now used so nuicli from one end of the country to the other, have quickened a demand for something' more pernuuient than fi-ame construction, wood or metal lathing'. Cement plaster is an excellent nuiterial, bul it rcciuires a firm base of non- shrinking masonry to give exterior plaster the nio.st efficient results. When a frame building shrinks the ])laster cracks, for no matter how well done it is, plaster will not stand any movement of the franie underneath without crac'k- ing, and sometimes, when the movement is particu- larly intense, it disintegrates and drops off' in large sheets. It is possible to get a gcjod job of plastering on frame construction, but the best results arc assured when hollow tile is the structural nuiterial. To fill this demand foi- an economical building sul)stance suitable for ce- ment-plastered and brick- ^'cneered houses, the new terra-cotta tile are made with deep grooves on fom- faces. Into these grooves the plaster flows and grij)s, PLASTER 'SOPFIT OALVANIZED STEEL OUTTER 8xli»l2 TERRA COTTA HOLLOW TILR DEEP GROOVED EOR PLASTER L TILE 8EARIM0 IMTERIOR. PLASTErR 8'xl£'xl2" TERRACOTTA HOLLOW TILE IMTfBIOR PLASTfR yVOOD FLOOR. ?" SLEEPERS COnCRETE '4ylZyl2 HOLLOW TILE STEEL ROD ■REirtFORCED COMCRETE BfAM WATER PROOF COATIHO BELOW GROUND CONCRETE FOOTING Tj-pif:il ]'"irpproof Constnu'tiori a.s used Tor Huuaca nith riaster l^xterior. "29 much as it grips wood or metal lathing, l:)ut of course the grip on tile is firmer. Inside the house plaster is also appli(>d directly to the tile, thus doing away with lathing and furring. For this reason it is cheaper to plaster on a tile wall than to plaster on frame or Ijrick, where furring and lathing are re((uired. Plate A shows a very good method of using hollow tile. 12 x l^ x 12 inches vitrified tile are used in the basement, set on edge. In a wet soil it is custonuiry to waterproof tile on the outside below grade, with tar or other waterproofing. A good thick coat of cement nun-tar trowelled firmly on the outside answers the same purpose. When the proper height for the fireproof floor is reached flat tile are laid on the floor-supporting shelf. Then a wooden scaft'old is built to hold the fireproof floor nuiterial temporarily. For a practical and economical fireproof floor lay rows of 4x12x12 inches grooved tile about 4 inches apart, and after placing steel reinforcing rods in the channels between the rows of tile, fill them -with cement concrete. (Plate A.) The result is a succession of reinforced concrete beams with hollow tile fillers between, temporarily supported by the wooden scaft'olding. No expensive forms to mould the ditt'erent parts of the floor construction are required; a great saving of expense over most fireproof floors. The precise thickness of a fireproof floor for houses is easily determined when the span and load are known, by referring to construction tables furnished by all manufacturers of terra-cotta hollow tile. Thickness varies from 4 inches to G or 8 inches, 4 inches being ample in most cases. On top of the tile work composing the fireproof floor, gas and BRICK VENEER coNceere op STONe 6ASE GRADE JNTfRIOR PUSTeeiNO DIRECTLY ON TILE 8x12 xl2 TERRA-COTTA HOLLOW TILE 12x12x12' TERRA-COTTA HOLLOW TILE -CONCRETE FLOOR. COHCRETe F00TIN6 li Practical Construction for Brick-"\'cneer on Terra-Cotta Hollow Tile water pipes and electric wires are laid. Then these pipes are covered in l)y a coating 2 inches thick of concrete, spread over the area of the floor. Imbedded in the con- crete are bevelled strips to which the wooden, finished floor boards are nailed. (Plate A.) The mrderside of a fire- proof floor is plastered di- rectly on the material, no lathing or furring being used. There is no vibration in a fireproof floor of correct thickness. Such a floor is as solid as a wall, as indestruc- tible as the very foundations and equally fireproof. There are no sags to crack the plaster nor spaces for vermin. In addition, hollow-tile floors and partitions are sound proof. When the first floor is laid you may proceed with the exterior walls up to the le^s'el of the second floor, which is laid precisely like the first floor. A scaft'old- :?n A Group of Houses (C and D) showing Natco Hollow Tile Construction by the National Fire Proofing' Co., Pittsburg Pa 31 Missing Page Missing Page ''it* /'>» M.'\ Types of wall papers which are too profiisi- ari'.l ifah-tic iu Ije use"" outline reijre- sent a common type of cUstressins^ pattern. '■^y ■•■»>L ;sr. ■ ^?> Nt;^ ^ /»%. £^ f •■'«'•/_ ^ ■'^ «" rlnrable. -flat oil colors. A I.I15RARY Finished in Lowe Brotliers Flemisli Oat; Stain & Varnish ruhbed, and the walls decorated with Ihcir " Mellotone" flat oil 34a KxMiiiples of linislied eHects nl.hi .11 qii;it hied '>;ik ;iiid o rdinary chestnut by the use ot Wheeler's ^A'ood Filler, Stains and i>ther Bridtjeport Standard I'rdduets. Made liy tile Hi idtceport Wood Finishins Co., New Milford, Conn. 341) accurately described, such a color would be a yellowish grey-greeu, light or dark in shade as the case might require. Nature furnishes the ultimatum on the subject of color, for it is from this source that the color sense of a nation is largely developed. In our own country Nature moves in great shifting masses of greens and browns according to leaf or leafless seasons. For this reason various tones of greens and browns are pleasing to people in general. "Green as grass" is a frequent term of comparison. Yet observe how gTeen grass is not, when compared to a green wall paper. We are not keen enough observers. Nature's color schemes are never color screams. If we attempt to outwit her by using colors which are too bright, she fades them till they are fit to hve with. Greens and blues are especially treacherous, because, broadly speaking, artificial colors tend to fade toward the yellow. To prevent confusion, all soft colors or tones will be referred to merely as colors throughout the rest of this discussion; and pure or bright colors will be called such. Color depends upon the nature of light for its interpretation. A given piece of color will appear differently in sunlight and shade, by daylight and by nightlight. This we must remember in decorating. Indoors we have artificial conditions of light, due to the fact that it enters from the side and usually from only one or two directions. Also, because a room is box-shaped, there is reflected light as well as direct light. Because of this reflection a light color will look lighter and a bright color will look brighter than the actual color applied. No interior need appear dark if all the daylight which enters is worked to its fullest capacity. The ceiling especially acts as a reflector of light. Hence it is kept moderately light in value unless the interior is already too bright when it may be made darker to absorb the glare. Dark color schemes are hard to illuminate at night. This makes the even- ing lights expensive. Strong contrasts between woodwork and wall or wall and ceiling, whether of color or light and shade, tend to break up the color scheme. The color scheme for any particular room is influenced by the kind and amount of light which enters it. Rooms with northerly exposures (north, north- east and northwest) lack red and yellow, and therefore look their best in cream, yellows, buffs, tans, golden browns, reddish-browns or any other warm colors. Beware of blues and greens with this exposure. Rooms with southerly exposure (south, southeast and southwest) have an abundance of yellow, and therefore look their best in light or dark colors which are strongly greyish, bluish and greenish, cool tans, neutral browns, etc. With this exposure avoid colors which are strongly yellow, unless the room is naturally dark. A small room looks its largest with plain light-colored walls. Only a large room can stand a large pattern. Horizontal treatments, as dados, wainscoting, deep friezes and "dropped" ceilings, will make a high room appear lower. The walls of a low room should be left unbroken from baseboard to ceiling. Striped paper is excellent here, as it emphasizes the vertical dimension of the room. Thus it is evident that in any case Interior Decoration aims to overcome natural defi- ciencies in lighting and proportion, where such exist. The selection of wall covering in any case is greatly influenced by the use of the room. In all living rooms of whatever sort we have many tastes and many moods to satisfy. Only unobtrusive walls are appropriate here. Strong colour preferences and a taste for novelty effects should be reserved for one's own bedroom or den, where they cannot offend others. Whatever virtue there may be in figured papers, certain it is that plain walls are most satisfactory for rooms most lived in. They are also the best background for pictures, since patterns compete with pic- tures in interest. Figured papers of the right kind are frequently used in halls which they help to furnish without getting in anybod,y's way. Dining rooms are usually lacking in plain space because of the medley of dishes and small articles used in serving meals. Pictures and plate rails with their attend- 35 ant burdens of dust and china are in most cases superfluous. Let the decoration of the wall suffice. Wooden wainscoting with plain or patterned wall above or some combination of plain and pattern paper or plain wall covering with texture, will be found satisfactory. Paneling is a beautiful, dignified wall treatment in places where furniture does not hide it too much. It is much advised where the structural spacing of windows and doors permits, but is not to be thought of if they are ar- ranged in a haphazard way. As soon as our houses are more carefully designed inside, paneled decoration will be more used. Bedrooms are usually lighter and daintier in color scheme than living rooms. The presence of white bedding, towels, underclothing, etc., would suggest this idea if cleanliness did not. The purity of white and other light colors is in itself soothing. Plain walls may be secured by any means and at any price thought fit: by water or oil paint; by burlap, canvas, muslin or other textile, with or without an oil finish; by ingrain, oatmeal, crepe or other texture wall paper. To any of these may be added a well-designed band, border or frieze, stenciled or otherwise, marking the joint between ceiling color and side wall. This greatly relieves plain walls, and occurs high up in the room, away from the furnishings. The decorator's "upper third" treatment is on this principle. Borders have lately been omitted in decora- tion, not because they were wrong in principle, but because they were badly de- signed and added to an already patterned wall. Interior Decoration like all other art depends upon a balanced relation between plain and decorated space. With oil or water paint (calcimine) any desired color may be mixed; with wall paper and textile we can choose only such colors as there are on the market. Tex- tiles and many wall papers have charming texture; paint has none unless applied over rough plaster. It has, however, other qualities which greatly recommend it. Paper is a material largely used for walls. The great bulk of wall-paper designs is, however, untrustworthy. Many unhappy selections are made because the aver- age person is, in his own mind, confused as to the qualities which a good wall paper should possess. Flourishing, muscular patterns which look well in a piece a yard square are overpowering when a hundred times repeated. Such a selection is at length torn off the walls to make room for another paper difi^ering only in pattern, not in principle. What we need is simpler and more subtle design. Descriptions and illustrations of a few types of wall paper which are good in principle will help to clear the air. All indications of texture by dots, dashes, lines or hairy flecks of color produce plain papers of nice quality. Of such there are literally scores called by various names. Since a wall is a flat surface, designs should be flatly represented so as to lie tight to the wall. The most logical types show only two dimensions, length and breadth, not thickness. All shaded moldings or life-like imitations of rounded forms, are false in principle. Natural roses dropped over the wall or an actual grape vine crawling through an actual trellis is not good decoration. A floral wall paper should suggest to us the idea of a rose or other flower adapted for use on a flat surface; not a confusion of life-like flowers bulging from the wall. Natural forms should be conventionalized, either in size, form, color or all three, before they are good decoration. Conventionalized means simplified, flattened and applied to some definite orderly arrangement. Scenic borders are often good if not too realistic. About seventy-five per cent of figured wall papers are on the wrong principle. Therefore, when in doubt about a pattern choose a plain one. All geometric all-over patterns or conventional flower designs in two or three tones of the same color or harmonious colors are apt to be good. An all-over pat- tern which connects or interlaces is usually more pleasing than one composed of separate spots. Most scroll patterns are frivolous, meaningless and apt to be bad. Large medallion or shield-shaped designs with scrolly outline form a common type of distressing pattern. Figures of a pattern should not be too far apart, else we 36 Miiy bcniadr by hlnidi ]!.].■ Hill linMi I'"!- iiilrri" (Icio.l Tcim-^ fnr Iiitrncirs : primary cnlc.rs uitli whiti-. 'Iliosc sliowii lirre "i-n- made from Uic sLaiidardi , luaiiiilaclured !■)■ 'I'lu' Lc.wr UmlluTs Company, I)a^■l(m, O. ilurs of ■■Mellotiiiie,"a \yasli- are surprised at each repetition and never get used to the idea. Striped pajjers are good if the contrast is not too pronounced nor tlie stripes too wide. There is usually a splendid selection in these. Foliage papers, soft in color and indefinite in design, are excellent used with plain paper, either in panels, or high in the roed, iron work, such as heaters, pipes, registers, etc., should be painted first with red lead mixed with linseed oil, and then finished A\ith white lead and oil tinted to suit the color scheme of the room. For interior decoration, the beautiful soft white i)eculiar to white lead is especially va]ual:)le. Every woman a])preciates it who has noticed the effect of glaring, bluish- white walls and ceilings on go\\'ns and complexions, joarticularly at night under artificial light. And this characteristic softness of ^^'hite lead is carried into the infinite tints and shades nuide with it; for most tints, especially the more delicate ones, require such a tiny l)it of coloring matter that the texture and peculiarities of the white lead remain dominant. Many of the large paint manufacturers now employ experts whose business it is to fm'uish ideas and suggestions for l)oth exterior and interior Avork in wo(k1, l)rick, plaster, concrete and metals. It is a gO(^d idea to open correspondence with them when you have reached this point. 49 Exterior Decoration Coliir Stujiji'sttnii^ III/ iS'dttonal Leail In. HIS article is intended to answer two questions of great importance to every homeiiiaker. First, how to preserve and beautify the houses w^e hve in; second, how to make the most of buikling pkjts hmited in area. We Americans are fast learning that it is just as easy and just as inexpensive to have homes that are tastefully decorated and grounds that are well planned as it is to have them fantastic and unattractive. With all our hurry we are somehow finding time and means to care about what is artistic. ^^ e are learning that good taste is a higher and a safer standard than a mere fad or style or fashion. Good taste outlasts any passing fancy and is never freakish. It rests on the laws of harmony, which do not change. One other thing which we Ivayc foiuid out is that the selection of the right color scheme for one's house adds dollars and cents to the value of the proj^erty as well as gives satisfaction and pleasure both to the owner and his neighbors. The house owner's first need is a clear idea of what goes toward the making of an artistic home, and the first principle in that idea is the rule of simplicity. A scheme of decoration that is simple and appropriate is likely to be pleasing and, therefore, successful . Those two rules of simplicity and fitness are of the highest importance when applied to the painting of the house and to planning the bits of landscape around it. The house nuist appear to fit into the place where it has to stand. The way it does fit dej^ends a great deal uj^on the way it is painted and the way the grounds about it are laid out. There nuist l)e harmony in the color scheme itself, harmony in the plan of the grounds, harmony between the house and its neighbors. The value of this article lies in the fact that the suggestions in it are definite and practical. In order to enlarge its scope and usefulness, we have illustrated it with small colored engravings, showing houses to which the same or similar treatment has been successfidly applied. Each house shown represents an actual example of harn:onious and tasteful painting- So large a variety of suggestions is sure to include some that will meet the needs of any inquirer. The grounds and buildings of a suburban or country home, carefully planned, will be an unfailing source of pleasure to the owner and to his ajjjn-eciative neigh- bors. Fortunately, a good example is more likely to l)e followed than a bad one, and the existence of one beautiful place, however modest, will stimulate the owners of adjoining properties, often transforming a whole neighborhood. In the colored engravings showing ten model schemes for the artistic paint- ing of various styles of houses, it has been the attempt to give the general impres- sion which the actual house would make on the observer, not to show the exact tint of the paint in the pail. Shadows and high-lights are retained in the picture to preserve the natural effects. No attempt has been made to present expensive and pretentious houses only, nor to offer correct models for building new houses. Rather, we have tried to show what can be done with various types of actual and prevalent houses, rang- ing from the simple and modest to the more elaborate and imposing, by tasteful 50 selection of color schemes to suit the ty])e to which one's liouse he- TIIE COLOR PLAN AND THE PAINT A house which is set closely among trees or other V e r (1 u i- e should not be painted green or olive, though there may be no ob- jection to green trimming. Colors contrasting with the surroundings are better for tlie body. If a house is low, with a tend- ency to "sciuattiness, a dark color snouu serve the benefit of what height it possesses. Nothing is better than pure white for certain styles of country and suburlian Suggestion No. 1. Bocl^ , trim auti sash, whit<- whitL Plate A roof, di-ep grcpn. Suggestion No. 2. roof, weathered. Body, 1,'ello^'; trim. dark color should not he used. Paint it light and jjre- Plate B Suggestion No. 1. Body, sash and trim, ineludint^ ]j(.rch rail and columns, white; poreh floor, n:(diuni slate; shingles, weathered; blinds, green. Suggestion No. 2. t;od.\-, ert-anj; trim and saf^h, ^^hiii.-; porcli rtcjor, pearl gray; shn'j:l''-i, u eatlr-n-u ; Idinds, jirfr'pn. houses, especial ly if set snugly against a green background and amidst green sur- roundings. Nat- urally, however, white is a poor scheme for factory towns or other dirty localities. A very light gray, like French or pearl gray, may be more durable than pure white, and yet give near- ly white effects. Houses with shingled upper stories, as a rule, should be painted on the lower story a lighter shade than the shingles. The shingles niav 51 be Indian red, dark Ijrown, dark green or some olive shade. The l)ody should harmonize. as isht or dark Sugt2;estion No. 1. Borj- ge.stion No. 2. Bod>' "I ma French gray ; trim and sash, white; roof, weathered; blinds, green, trim and blinds, dark olive; sash, whiti--; roof, weathered. olive with Indian red, cream witli browns, the grays with dark green or dull red. Not all colors and tints a r e equally dural^le. Cold colors, like the grass greens, blues and certain cold s h a f 1 e s o f yellow, hasten the deterioration of the paint f ilni . This is due to the fact that they do not reflect or turn back the heat rays of the sun, but allow them to penetrate the film. * Tints based on the reds, browns, and l)lacks are, as a rule, the most durable. Thus the grays, the slates, the browns, the richer yellows, etc., are excellent for wear and are at the same time the most pleasing on the house. We therefore recommend them most frequently in our designs. Perhaps a word shoidd be added for the l)enefit of those who may have always thought of white lead as good for white paint only. The fact is, white is and must be used as the base in making all paints of light tint and many paints of dark shades, too. Black and certain intense shades of blue, red. brown and yellow can be produced without using any white base, but by far the greater num- ber of tints, es- pecially those most admired for house paint and the most durable for that purpose, are made by mix- ing a small portion of tinting color with a large por- tion of white lead. With some colors a few ounces are enough to tint 100 Suggestion No. 1. Lower 3tor\-, medium olive. Suggestion No. 2. story, slate green; roof and blinds, band l.ielow eaves, trinj and sa^h, white; shingles, i Lower Mary, band below eaves, trmi and sash, ivory; nieiliiiru nlivi'. ■ cathered; blinds, shingles on upper 52 Platf F, Suggestion No. 1. Stucco, natural; trim, including tlic half timbers and sash, tuscan red; shingles, weathered; blinds, bronze green; porch, chocolate brown; chimneys, red brick. .Suggestion No. 2. Bodj-, light terra C'jtta; shingles, dark br.jwn; trim and half ti-nbering, terra cotta; blinds, dark brown; porch floor, medium slate; chimneys, red brick. pound.s of white lead. MOKE IlIPOHTAXT THAN COLOR As important as the color scheme is, it is iiof the most important consideration in 15 a i n t i n g y o ii r hoii.se. Choose your color scheme carefully, but choose your paint still more careful- ly; otherwise your beautiful color scheme may van- i s h in a f e w months. Aside from a few peris h a b 1 e tints which can- not be secured in any dural)le ma- terial, you practically have an unlimited range of tints and shades to choose from if you use pure white lead and pure linseed oil in all your paint. Pure white lead and jiure linseed oil make a combination which has been known for genera- tions as the best paint for all gen- eral painting. It still stands un- equalled, both for durability and for the wide range of its possibilities in decoration. From w h i t e do ^\- n through the widest possible grada- tions of every im- aginable tint and shade, pure white- lead paint, made to order, meets every whim. The user of stock paints is naturally limited to stock tints. All house paint, except the veiA- Suggestion No. 1. Body, jellow drab; tri white; roof, Venetian red. roof, brown. Suggestion No, Body, white; Suggestion No. 1. Plate G Body, tusran red; trim, f-reain; roof, weathered. SuKcestion No. 2. brown; trim, dark ijrown; roof, weatiiered. Body, chocolate dark eolor.s. i.s made from wliite lead and liii.seed oil or from snb.'uggcstion Xo. 2. I;od\- Oolor schenies in lliis ai'lic by :\-atioii;i| Lead Co. 55 Oriental Rugs JOHN KIMBERLY MUMFORD Illustrated by Leading Manufacturers HTS is a practical book. Its purpose is to help the house- holder to know the best things for the equipment and adorn- ment of his home, and to tell him where he can get them. Therefore, these observations concerning Oriental floor coverings will be of a nature conducive to that end. It is the custom to say "They have reached the Oriental rug stage, " as indicating a milestone on the way of luxury so far along that to return therefrom to simplicity and econ- omy is impossible. Oriental rugs, to the cynical, suggest merely a full purse and an open one. As nearly as I can discern, the next steps succeeding upon the indulgence in Oriental rugs for the home are the acquisitions of a limousine and a buckram British butler. "Oriental rugs" seem to have become a synonym for extravagance. I am very far from admitting that the inference is sound, but there is without doubt some ground for it. The fault is in the premises. Swift as the advance of the Asiatic floor coverings in popular esteem has been, their increase in price, to the ultimate purchaser, has been even more rapid; but definite knowledge of them has by no means kept pace with either. It is safe to say that comparatively few persons, having purchased one or more Oriental rugs, feel at all certain after the bill has been paid that even though the price was substantial they have secured really worthy and meritorious things. The peculiar cliaracter of the business, dealing as it does with individual products which are not and cannot be standardized, the iniquitous deceptions that have often been practiced and the bitter experiences of many innocent purchasers, together with the suspicious elasticity of prices noticeable in some shops — all these have contributed to widespread uncertainty and distrust. From this point, then, the most natural of mental processes leads to the conclusion that to buy these fabrics, of which one knows so little save that they please the eye, and to pay more for them perhaps than machine-made carpets cost, is foolish improvidence. But is it. ^ AYhile I am a firm and unalteral)le partisan of the Oriental forms of floor cover- ing as compared with any and all others, I certainly am not such a bigot as to deny the large virtues of a nuiltitude of European and American carpetings. I admit with inore than willingness that for certain decorative purposes many of them are well-nigh indispensable. I recognize, as the Oriental rug dealer is so loath to do, that there are places where the Persian or Turkish rug or carpet, with its opulence of color and plenitude of patterns, is as offensively out of place as a pink domino at a funeral. 56 To me it is u delightful sign of genuine artistic progress in America, to see a man with unlimited means courageously putting rag carpets and prim, old-fashioned furniture in a farm-housej^ country home, where he is trying, as a respite from town splendor and period decoration, to get back some of tlic joys of a rural boyhood. But tliis I maintain — that the scope of the Oriental weavings, old and new, is so great in point of texture, color and design, that the places where they cannot be used to a decided advantage over all other floor textiles are few and very far between. Believing this, it remains merely to determine whether from a wholly practical standpoint it is good Inisiness to buy Oriental rugs. By "practical, " be it observed, something more is meant than a mere reference to the comparative first cost. A home is something more than a lodgment. It is the empire of the individual. It is what a man works for and what a woman is born for — or at least was vuitil somewhat I'ecently. It is the environment from which children take their earliest and most lasting impressions and their view of life. Whatever of beauty, therefore, whatever of finer suggestion or of real uj)lift can with due regard to the limitations of income be added to it, must be accounted of material value now and indefinitely far in the future. No amount of expenditure will impart to a house that subtle magnetism which is l)orn only of sympathy, but given the Spirit, and tlie utmost that can be done to beautify the home is the most sagacious of investments. That the Eastern rugs, even those of the heavier and more utilitai'ian textures, possess mystical and yet abiding beauty is not seriously disputed. The general plan of design, the meaning patterns wliich have endured through centuries, the seemingly intuitive but nevertheless fascinating combinations of color, exercise an instant charm upon man and woman alike. There is always something new to be discovered in the native Oriental rug, no matter how long yon live with it, and it is certain that, no matter what your allotted span, the really good rug will siu-vive you, to cheer the declining j^ears of your children and even your grand- children if you happen to have any. The reason for this peculiar power of fascination in the Oriental fabric is not far to seek. It is merely that each of these rugs, laboriously made by hand, and representing weeks, months, perhaps years, of patient, unremitting application, necessarily reflects the changing moods and states of mind of the maker. Passing inspirations have found record in its changes of pattern and modulations of color — individual marks, appearing even in the rugs of tribal type, which give a per- sonal touch to each. This is why the Oriental product never palls, but grows in beauty as its years increase and becomes in a way a member of the family. To add this element to the attractions of the home is of value which — according to the individual tendency — may or may not be expressed in dollars. The most approved designs in mechanical carpetings are copied with the utmost exactitude from such Oriental rugs as best lend themselves to reproduction, but the life and personality are lost. It is simply that the machine-made carpet is not the expression of a human soul. There remain to be considered, then, the more material phases of this impor- tant economic problem of rugs. Since in their practical aspect these fabrics are made to be trod upon, it is essential that regardless of their decorative or esthetic merit they should stand wear. It does not lie within any man's province to rail at what he does not understand. Criticism of the materials and methods em- ployed in the manufacture of machine-made rugs and carpets have, therefore, no place in these pages. The mechanisms which create them are ingenious to the point of marvel. The manufacturers are striving, ceaselessly and with increasing measure of success, to bring the Occidental product nearer to the Oriental in ap- pearance, but the processes by which even the huml)lest Asiatic rug is made are the same primitive processes that have been in vogue in Eastern lands since the 57 beginning of history. Who that has watched the Eastern shepherds shearhig their uncountable flocks and washing the wools in the mountain streams, or seen the dark-skinned women spinning their yarn and weaving it into lustrous rugs on hill- side looms in the Persian uplands, firmly tying knot after knot on the warp, can doubt the honesty with which these fabrics are made? Some rugs are finer in texture than others; sometimes — though seldom nowadays in Persia — the dyes are spurious, but as they come from the loom there is not a dishonest thread in the great majority of these rugs. For all that has been told and written on this subject in America in the past dozen years, a great doubt still exists, even among well-informed persbns, whether the innumerable Oriental rugs with which America is now flooded are actually all hand woven. They certainly are. Since the demand for Eastern floor coverings became general, everybody in Asia seems to have gone to weaving. The inevitable resvdt is a large volume of inferior things, but of mechanical aids to production there are none, for the very simple reason that there are too many mouths and far too little food in the East, and any effort to found a rug factory or other mechanical establishment in any Mohammedan country, would precipitate an uprising under the leadership of the ubiquitous and demagogic mollahs. Witness the wiping out of the tobacco monopoly in Persia and the fate of the wool washery which it was attempted to set up at Oushak in Asia Minor. This honestj^ of materials and method is what makes the Oriental rug endure. The repeated washings of wool in pure running water, without the aid even of soap, eventually cleanse it but they do not remove the animal oil, and it is this, as has been demonstrated by recent scientific experiments, that preserves not alone the color but the filament itself. Who has not wondered at the endurance of both.f* The rug that for three, fovu-, five hundred years has withstood, in Asia, Europe and America, the wear and tear of many restless feet, still smiles comfortably on the world, though with a battered and dilapidated countenance, and a few weeks in the menders' hands starts it on another lifetime. Where, five hundred years from now, will the curio hunter seek for the "art squares" of to-day.'* Or, for tliat matter, why.? Of course, there is the inevitable and almost paramount subject of "washed" rugs. "Washing," in a trade sense, means tlie chemical process of treating rugs to reduce or change their color. The inquiry is whether this treatment impairs the wearing quality of the fabric. Nine-tenths of the modern rugs and many of the old ones in American markets are washed to meet decorative requirements, and since the methods and materials employed differ, it of course follows that the effects should differ accordingly. There are soft shades, invaluable in certain decorative schemes, which never existed in any original Oriental color schedule. The processes by which these are produced are constantly being improved and the injurious effects constantly diminished. For the collector, my notion is that the washing or doctoring of an antique rug destroys its value as a document, but for the attainment of color results in decoration some modification of the strong color is in most cases almost necessary and the practice has beyond question come to stay. Considering the Oriental rug from the side of economy, another important point is the possibility of restoration. There are few holes so big in an Oriental rug that a competent weaver, of whom there are many, cann(jt restore it to com- pleteness both in texture and design, so that the new part shall be as strong and durable as the original. In most cases, where the work has been well done, it is difficult to discover the substitution or distinguish the new from the old. The whole method of construction leiids itself to this, and in a way explains the dura- bility of the fabrics. The Oriental hand-woven carpet is virtually a mosaic in wool. All the wear comes on the upstanding ends of the piled knots. Each of these bits of mosaic, so to say, is tied separately, by hand, upon the threads of warp, bound 58 XVIII. Century Baku. XIX. Century Royal Bokhara. ORIENTAL RUGS FROM THE TIFFANY STUDIOS, NEW YORK. \r I\l J{M WsIJ \1I HI ( Willi -J I I I I \D P.t)KDER. lin me block or jusi:;pn Wild iK lo., incw lurk,) In the center is shown a French scene: a gentleman's coach with postilion on one of the leaders, and dogs running at the side; in the central background is represented a Roman galley with swans floating about, and in the rear is easily distinguished another carriage crossing over a bridge. This French picture, carrj^ing with it the genuine French atmosphere, is ran-b' found in Oriental rugs and is very likely the product of some traveler who had returned to the Orient to execute his foreign impressions in warp and weft. Size 7.5 x 4.(3; valued at SI, 000. with the weft, ()^'e^ and iukUm-, and bealeii down wilh a steel or wooden eonih to .yive conijiaetness, strength and I'esistanee. In ina?iy rugs, notably those of Kur- distan, a filHng of yarns is plaeed between the two la\'ei's or ranges of warp, giving an added sohdity and depth to the foundation. Such rugs are well-nigh inde- stnictil)le. When the weaver is ealled upon to repair a liole in a I'ug, lie cuts away the un- even edges so that the gap shall be square or ol)long and either runs new warjj across it from top to bottom and Aveaves anew upoTi this, or else weaves a complete piece on a hand loom and sews it firndy into the fa})ric. The old knots of worn places, too, can be pulled out and new ones su])stituted, restoring the design as well as the fabric to its original integrity. When the threadbare spots appear in a machine-made carpet what the owner usually does is to get a few small Oriental rugs to cover them. That is in most cases the lieginning of the end, for one Oriental rug in a house will in the course of time bring about the banishment of all other forms of floor covering. After beauty and dural)ility the ([uestion of cleanliness is to be considered. New knowledge of hygiene, the relation of every kind of cleanli)\ess to health, has emphasized the need of it. It is a paramount cjuestion in these clays, and a per- plexing one, when household sei'vants are so nuich harder to get and so much dearer to pay. The willingness to work seems to be in inverse ratio to the steadily rising remuneration, and whatever insures the maxinuun of cleanliness in a house, with a mininuuii of heavy lalior, is of vital importance. No argument is refpiired on V)ehalf of the rug on this score. One thorough cleaning a year, by any one of the many admirable mechanical systeius, Avill remove practically all the loose dust and dirt from the foundation. With this, in an ordinarily well-kept house, a thorough sweeping once a week or e\'en once in a fortnight, out of doors, will keep the rugs in condition and the Spring and Fall houseeleaning, which once was the chief bugaboo of domestic existence, is distril)uted normally over the year, and continual cleanliness assured. The small rugs are easily handled, easily cleaned. The lai'ge sizes, when rolled on poles, can be moved in and out with but little more labor and the gradual six months' accumulation of dust, which formerly had to be dispersed semi-annually in a shower of cari)et tacks and a household upheaval, becomes only a dismal meu)ory. One or two incidental suggestions regarding the treatment of Oriental rugs may not be amiss in this connection. Beating is not wholes(jme, but if rugs are to be whipped it should be done gingerly and on the l)y adding special mineral colors, or may be lightened somewhat either by the addition of a little lime or the use of special light, warm-colored sand. In the case of very light color schemes, the finishing coai is made of white sand and a special white Portland cement. The addition of mineral colors (specially prepared for this work), brick- dust, etc., should be avoided except as a last resort, for it is very difficult to get a l)atch of plaster mixed to-day which will match the one mixed yesterday, and a spotted jol) is apt to residt. Where so many factors enter into the color effect it can be wisely decided only by having at hand samples of actual work, done properly by the workmen who are to execute the finished job, the materials being carefully meas- ured and the mix noted for future use. These samples should be looked at out-of- doors and from a distance. If after all the effect is not satisfactory, the desired color may be obtained ]iy the use of special cement paints. This is, however, usually at the expense of the pleasing texture of the untreated surface. Friezes, panels and decorative bands of tile set in plaster walls nuiy be used in endless variety, introducing a sparkling play of color. 60A Some examples of Exterinr House Paint by Tlve Lowe Bros. Co., Dayton. Ohio. COH A group of City and Suburban Homes painted with Lowe Brutllers' " Hi^h .Standard " Paint. no( ' From this survey of the subject we may draw tlie following conclusion: that the color scheme oi all masonry houses is inherent m the materials used and because stone, concrete, cement and brick are products taken from Nature in the first place, they will harmonize with natural settings if i)roperly used. Our attention is therefore chiefly directed to color schemes applied to frame houses. These are shingle, cla])l)oard or both. To j)reserve the wood, shiiigle is stained or oiled, clajjltoard is painted. The recent fad of leaving natural shingles to weather is unwise. A similar effect can be secured from a sjjecial stain manu- factured f(jr the pur])ose. The deterioration of wood unprotected from the weather is slow but sure and will make tlie up-keep of an already non-jjermanent type of house still greater. Considered in the big, a house is a com])osition of wall surfaces and roof surfaces. Logically then, the color or tone selected for the walls should cover all walls and the ccjlor or tone selected foi' roof should cover all roofs; and these two should harmonize so that the house will tie together as a unit in the landscape. Or if a combination of materials is used, as rul^ble and shingle or plaster and shingle, the color foi- eacli material may be the same whercs'er used, and these must har- monize with each other. Many other combinations could be described, but can l)e decided in any case })y remembering that the main thing sought for is harmonious contrast in the large elements. This ccjntrast may either ]je of light and dark tones or a subdued contrast in color. AYindows, doors, blinds, porches and cornices may be considered as trimmings and treated as such. \Mndows especialh' are accents antl should conti-ast with the backgroimd of wall. They are in a sense the eyes which give exjjression to the architectural face of a dwelling. Doorways and entrances should liave marked and dignified recognition in the color scheme. The main thing to avoid with applied color schemes is patchiness. In general, keep all poj-tions of one idea in (me color or tone. P^jr instance, in case of a jjorch post or column, do not paint the base and cap one color and the shaft another. From start to hnish it is a ])ost and shoidd be treated as such. In fact the whole porch is one idea. Cornices, brackets and mouldings shoidd not be picked out by color, as light and shade interj^ret them sufficiently. Xseless })ric-a-brac ami orna- ments \\ Inch cannot be removed shoidtl be suf)dued as nnich as possible in the color scheme. 60D L,„ Domestic Floor Coverings HE main consideration in the pnrchase of fiooi' coverings a \/ '' 1 f .j~L \1 it'w years ago was utility; })ut witli the ])rogress of time, and -'- I I ■J^ J-^ the ethicational development of art and color harmony in the household, a change has come about. The rug or carpet imist needs be dura})le, and this means tlie use of good material and good workmansliip. (iranted these factors, the cjuestion of decoration is the next impcjrtant. Even the rag carpet, the appropriateness and usefulness of which is decidedly limited, may work in with a decorative scheme; while, on the other hand, modern floor co^'erings made of the best materials maybe an abomination from an artistic '\'i(>w-i)oint. The (juestion is one of figure and color effect and of design and it has l)een in recent times, and t(j some extent is still, a vexatious and difficult one. The best manufacturers have sho\\n a sur])rising regard for the artistic needs of the modern household, and a degree of good sense that is highly commendal)le, by tlieir successful working out of the intricate as well as the simple colcjr patterns. Many of these reproductions are a delight to the eye, and coidd not offend the most captious and critical collector. The wool used for car{)et making is different from the wool used in making cloth in that it must have unusual features of firnmess and strength in order to ol>tain the necessary weaving and wearing qualities. The wool used for weaving cloth is so soft that it would not stand the strain of constant walking over for any length of time, a strain for which carpet nuist be prepared. The wool for carpets and rugs must be tough and long; this comes from comj)aratively desert countries, where the native sheep live on exposed and almost barren mountains, thus needing and having a tough and hardy coating of wool to protect them from certain hard- ships and rigors of climate. The rug makers of the Orient have never lost their pre-eminence. Persia has always sujjplied rugs to the rest of the world, from the days when the Western world centred about the ]N[editerranean to the present. The loom is an aboriginal instrument, and in its crude and undeveloped types has found its natural sphere of pernianence in tlie slowly moving East. In the centre of some of the older rug weaving districts the effects of modern mechanical advances are somewhat visible, but this is not at all marked. Collectors are careful to discriminate between the earlier products of the East and the later, wherever the later shows itself inferior. But where the modern Oriental product measures up to the standard of the ancient, there is little discrimination. The weaver of to-day follows such a slow process, that it puts the genuine Oriental product out of the question in manv cases. 61 People of taste cannot help but be highly pleased with the enterprise which the manufacturers of floor coverings show in advancing the interests of the various branches of art connected with their trade. Here is a business in which the rep- resentative firms seem to be alwaj^s alert and anxious to produce something better each succeeding season. There are so many good selling staple fl(wr coverings that the tem])tation to be satisfied with \vhat has been accepted in the past must be great, and the fact that the manufacturers do not rest on what has already been accomplished makes praise of their progress all the more desei-ved. The average rug buyer knows -v^-ery little about the textui-e of the various makes offered, and the difference between the methods of dyeing and weaving. Therefore these few simple points are offered as a help to those who purchase American made rugs for the first time, or have had little experience. Rugs made to order to match a certain color scheme in some particular room are now much more popular than they were a few years ago. It was only in the very finest residences of the wealthy that rugs woven to order appeared, but of late there has been a tremendous development along the lines of "Special" rugs, and the price of many of the various fabrics are within the reach of furnishers with moderate means. Not very long ago rugs were chosen more on account of being the correct size than on account of being the correct color, but practically everyone now understands the advantages of color harmony and simplicity of design, with the result that the demand for rugs woven to match the color and decoration has largely increased. The first rival to the Oi'iental rug was, of course, the magnificent French Savonnerie and the coarser weave of Go})elin tapestry now called AuI)usson, after the village of that name. After the revocation of the Edict of Nantes many expert weavers left their homes in France and settled in the village of Wilton, in England. It Avas in this village that the first Wilton carpets were made, but the factory is now famous for the manufacture of what is called in England "Heal Axminster," and sold in the United States under the name of "Hand Tuft." This English factory was given a Royal Charter in 1701, and is still in a very prosperous condi- tion, under the financial backing of the Herbert family, the head of the house. Lord Pemln'oke, taking a very personal interest in the development of the industry. These rugs are entirely made by hand by exactly the same methods as the Oriental rug in any color, shape or design, and in any size without seams. It is probably possible for European carpet weavers to tie as many knots to the inch as an Oriental; probably the reason it is not more frequently done is the great expense of Euroi)ean labor as compared with the cost of lal)or in the Far East. There have been, though, many rugs woven in the Wilton factory containing as many as 000 knots to the scjuare inch. Some years ago a branch of this original factory was started in the State of New Jersey, but the high prices paid for hand- weaving made it im])ossible to compete with similar fabrics of European manufac- tiu'e and the factory was abandoned. Similar rugs to the "Real Axminster" of Wilton are made in Ireland under the name of "Donegal," and in other towns in England; but the great centre of this industry is now in Austria, where there are a great many factories in a very prosperous condition. The output of these factories is sold in this country under the name of Austrian Hand Tuft. Germany exports a great number, but the qualily is generally considered inferior to the Austrian weave. There is also a verv ancient factorv in the village of Deventer, Holland. In velvet rugs, of which Ihere are several ciualitics on the market, are found all coloring in both Oriental and floral designs, and practically the same designs are fcnmd in tlie taj)esti'y Brussels. In a tapestry rug the wool is woven in a close loop; the velvet carpet is woA'en Aery close, and the surface is then sheared, cutting 62 CHAUMONT SKAMLKSS CHI^NIIJ.K RUGS -•Ari-ERN No. ?53. SEREBEND. urder in Special Lenjjlhj, loom '^ X 12 stock size, :ind colors, S5:i 1(. Reeiilu w idihs. Lip Also iiiide U " idi?, Reguki PATTERN No. 525. CHINESE. 16 Regular Sizes. Also made to order in Special Lengths, loom widths, up to 15 feet wide, and in special colors. Reiiular 9 x 12 size and colors, S50 each. PATTERN No. 508. TWO-TONE BLUE. 16 Reeular Sizes- Also made to order in Special Lengths, loom and odd widths, up to 15 feel wide and in odd shapes. Regular colors : Brown, Dark Green, Red, Light Green, Tan, Blue. Special CLilors made lo order. Regular "^ \ 12 size and colors, 5511 each. PATTERN No. 512. A TWO-BAND BORDER. DARK GREEN 16 Regular Sizes. Also made lo order in Special Lengths, loom and odd widths, up to 15 feet wide and in odd shapes. Regular colors ■ Brown Dark Green, Red, Light Green, Tan. Rose and Blue. Special color^ made to order. Regular '^ \ 12 size and colors, S50 each W . & J . S L ( ) A N E , DISTRIBUTERS, NEW YORK all the loops. The seamless rugs are about teu per eent cheaper than those made in one piece. The Wilton carpet differs from the tapestry in that a better grade of wool i.s used in the Wilton, which is dyed and woven in. Tapestry car[)et is made of l)rinted wool, makes a cheaper rug, and may always be distinguished by the blurred appearance of the figures, while the figures on the Wilton rugs stand out clear eav for years, testify to the worth of the material. The kitchen and bathroom still remain, however, the leading rooms for lino- leum use, for here is found not only the requirement for bright and cheerful sur- roundings, but the absolute necessity for cleanliness and sanitary conditions. To have the floor covered with few or no seams for the lodgement of dirt and disease germs is a thing "devoutly to be wished" — not only from the standpoint of health, but from economy of labor in keeping the floor presentable in appear- ance. No matter how well a floor is laid — liard wood or soft wood, in time the spaces between the boards will open and give a lodgement for dust and dirt. Ability to withstand hard and continuous wear is tlie most important linoleum cjuality. Nothing else, except possibly your shoes, gets as hard, constant, grind- ing wear as the floor under your feet. Linoleum when down is the floor and there- fore you can only afford the best. To secure the l)est results from linoleum, do not tack it to the floor, but use cement which comes especially for this purpose. This makes a very much more useful and attractive floor, keeps water from getting under the covering, and vastly increases the wearing quality of the linoleum itself. The proper way to apply linoleum is first to put on a good layer of cement about twelve inches wide around each edge; then to press the linoleum firmly to the floor and put weights on to hold it in place until the seams are thoroughly tight. With the modern method of laying linoleum with cement there need be really no seams in the largest room, while the pleasant and restful feeling of walking upon material that has elasticity is the most appreciated by those whose steps in the interest of the family are the most — the Housekeepers. As has been proved by actual demonstration, linoleum will outwear wood — thickness for thickness and both subject to the same tests. It is also found that the pliability, softness, or what might be called the "non-resistance" of linoleum is the quality that counts for most, and in two things is this quality found. One is oxidized linseed oil — or oil mixed with air, and the other cork. The purchaser should, therefore, be careful in selecting the goods that are soft and pliable, and at the same time having a firm ba.cking of especially woven canvas to insure proper la^'ing. The subject of patterns is, of course, one of per- sonal taste to harmonize with furnishings and conditions of light. When linoleum is thoroughly seasoned it is almost indestructible; but when first laid it is necessary to put rubber tips on chair legs, and some protection under heavy furniture. One great advantage in linoleinn is that in cleaning all that is necessary is pure soap and water. A moderate amount of water only should be used, for if water gets under the edge it will have a tendency to rot the burlap backing and eventually spoil the flooring. A little care and attention when it is first laid will repay the piu'chaser many times in improved aj)pearance, wearing quality and comfort. It is not intended that linoleum shall take the place of brick or stone; it is intended to provide a comfortable, artistic and sanitary floor covering, at a reasonable cost. In addition to the various carpet-like designs, and the simpler designs which savor of wall-paper effects, there are the motlern inlaid patterns which duplicate of fine designs and color variations of inlaid wood floors. 64 64a ym^fP^!mW!^4'IWW: ! " il I. .11 (if an Anli(|iir K:i^li;in Kiit' iii.ui ii nn'hircil \,y M ,1, Wliittall. WcrrrstLT, M;i 64.b A good cxamplv of a rare Cicircvan Rhk reproduced in Wliittall'^ Antllo-rersiaii. M. J. Wliittall, Worcester, Mas 64c 64 d In keeping festoon drapery Curtains and Draperies How to Arrange Them. What to Use. By IIALBERT WHITE Illii.vfraffd hij lA'ading Maniifuclnri'r.s ACH house is a law unto itself. Tlie furnishins,' of each home presents problems all its own; yet there are general laws — formulated by reason — that helj) to solve the most difficult problems, whether they relate to cui'tains and hang- ings, or to any other subject. The modern American home is a rational home. It is designed to be used, every inch of it. The space formerly occu])ied by the parlor is now added to the living room, and useless nooks and crannies are eliminated in favor of sensil)le proj)ortions. with this spirit of rationalism the cumbersome, dust-catching has been banished, and in the detached house the lace curtain and over-hanging that once swe])t the floor Imve (lisa])j)eared in favor of simj^lcr forms — the sill length hangings of to-day. Of course there are modern houses, adaptations of some recognized ])erioeneh doors iiave none. 70 x: English casenient fiirtains. a third rod for the vahince, still kee])in.ii' inside of the casing. With frame construction the over-curtains of necessity hanging on tlie out- side should cover as little of the casing as pos- sible. But where should the over-curtain stop.^ If as it falls the window sill extends far enough to receive it, let it stop at the sill, that is its natural resting place. If the sill does not pro- ject far enough to receive it, the o^'er-curtain must continue until it reaches the bottom of the apron where it appears to come to rest. Should the material of the over-curtain and the valance differ from that of the por- tiere in the same room; that is, can they differ in texture and yet harmonize.^ That depends. If the room is large and somewhat formal in character, it is well to have all of the hangings exactly alike and of rich and heavy material. If the room is not so large nor so formal the portieres may remain rich and heavy and the over-curtains may lie of some of the light-weight, sun-resisting materials, made to hang withcnit lining. ^Nlany of tliese fabrics light up with a beautiful, soft glow when hung against the window, and admit more light to the room than do heavier materials. For small rooms it is frec|uently advisable to use these light- weight stuffs, both for the windows and the portieres, having them all of the same. There are rooms in which it is advisable to have the portieres and the valances of the same heavy material and the over-curtains of a lighter weight stuff, like soft silk. Wlien prints are used, especially in bedrooms, all of the hangings should be of the same. The lace curtain, using the word in a generic sense to include curtains of net, curtains of scrim, or curtains of nuislin, whether trimmed with lace or not, or whether made as curtains or as panels, should be chosen with the same care as are the materials fcjr the hangings. In the selection of curtains a pro])er sense of proportion should })e obser^'ed. When curtains are hung to the floor on Avindows of good width and proportionate height a border of consideral)le width can l^e used to advantage. But greater dis- crimination is required when curtains hang to the sill. A sample curtain may look well when considered as a curtain alone, with no tlKJUght of its ultimate surround- ings, and not look well when hung in place as part of a pair, if the proi)ortion of the design is not suitable. The test comes when all of the wiiulow curtains and dra- peries are viewed as a whole. There shoidd then be a correct sense of relation and balance of the various parts. If the curtain selected has a border, then the factors to be considered are the "When overhangings connect a group of two or three windows it is usually impossible to hung tlieni other than on the outside of the casing. A group of two bedroom windows, with cretonne overhangings hung un outside of casing showing valance connecting over-curtaina. 71 two borders toiicliing each otlier in the center of the window, the fiekl or body of the curtain, and the over-drapery. It i.s obvious that if the border is so wide that it extends to tlie over-curtain, none of the field of the curtain can be seen; the border claims all of the attention and overbalances the whole picture. Therefore keep down the width of the border. Let the two borders together fill the smaller part of the availal)]e space when the curtains are hung. When the over-curtain is in place let as much of the field of the cur- tain show as of the border, even more, if possible. It is only when you have at- tained a pleasing per- centage of border, of field and of over- curtain that the eye is satisfied. The great danger lies in getting the l)order too wide. The varied archi- tecture of to-day presents many com- plications from the curtain standpoint. Apply the rule of reason, and if you can discover why }'ou do this, why you do not do that, the prolilems are almost solved. The simplest form to reason out is (a) the room contain- ing two, three, or four windows all of the same size with an opening of approj^ri- ate size leading to the adjoining room. A slight compli- cation ensues (1)) wlien two of tlie wind(jws are of the same size and a lliird wider than the olhers. An additional perplexity is added (c) when two of the windows are of the same size and two or three more are grouped together in one frame. Compli- cations increase by gradual steps until we A simple English room illustraiing the uye of printed hnens. 72 reach (d) the occasional well designed and dignified room ha^■ing a conil)inati(jn of good windows, French doors leading to the open, and casement wItkIows ojicning above the bookcases, or at the sides of the mantel. Let us hope that fortune has delivered you fnjm tlie near-architect who creates frivolous, meanhigiess conditions, for he has devised some atrocities which no curtain can correct, no hanging hide. Taking the simpler ])roblem, "a": You need only so many i)airs of curtains. They can be of net or of scrim with a Ijorder, or of an all-ovc-r pattei-n of filet or Colonial net with an edging. Or they can be of nuislin for a bedroom, for summer use, or for a cottage. A pair of over-curtains t(j each window completes the hang- ings. If the window is wide, hang them straight without catching back. A valance across the top fretiuently adds to the charm. When valances are used, if the windows are comparatively narrow catch the ovcr-curlain back with bands of the same material, but if the window is wide enough it is better to let the over-curtain hang straight. The prolilem "d"" will not admit of so easy a solution. Tlie room contains three types of openings in addition to the entrance. Let us assume that there are two pairs of casement windows opening out, two pairs of French doors opening in and two broad windows. The height of the casements is three feet, of the glass in the French tloors six feet six inches, and of the wiuflows fi^si' feet six inches. 73 Owing to tlie many sizes six pairs of bordered curtains will not do. Owing also to the preponderance of casements and French doors it is easier to abandon borders altogether. An effective method of treatment consists of using an all- over pattern of net trimmed with a simple edging. As the casements open out the curtains should not be attached to the casement, but to the casing with rods at the top only. As the French doors open in, the net should be attached with rods top and liottom, to prevent the curtains blowing about when the doors are open. The windows should have a pair of curtains to each. Another treatment for French doors, more formal in appearance and more expensive, consists in making special flat lace panels of various descriptions just to fit each door. Manj^ of these ])anels are made of filet or other lace s(|uares, combined with embroidered linen squares and hemstitched scrims. The window curtains are made to match the door panels and to hang either as panels, one to a window, or as curtains with the borders designed to conform to the door treat- ment. The i)reponderance of any type of opening shcjuld be the deciding factor in arranging the hangings. For instance, in the above room the openings for casements and French doors number four, the windows number two. It is not advisable to use valances over casements, as they are not large enough to carry them. Only with exceptional architecture is it possible to use valances above the French doors. Here then we have four openings without valances, and that fact is good reason for not using them on the other two. The window^s in this room should each have a pair of straight over-curtains, the casements, if size and light permit, should each have a ])air, and the French doors should have a pair to each pair of doors. Those on the French door are usually attached to the top of the door by a rod, hanging loose at the bottom, or confined, as preferred. \Yhere the architecture and furnishings are more imposing, and especially where velvets are used, the over-curtains at the French doors are supported by swinging cranes attached tcj the casing, arranged so as to automatically open and close with the door. They hang to just escape the floor and appear nuich the same as the portieres. Where windows predominate in the room valances can })e used effectively. Suppose a room with four good windows and one pair of French doors: Assume that these windows will look well with valances. Use them unhesitatingly. The fact that the French doors carry none is unimportant. As the number of English houses increases in America, the use of the delightful EngUsh casement curtain must also increase. Hung in a perfectly frank and simple way, made plainly for a purpose and serving that purpose perfectly, they challenge our admiration. This, after all, is the test of good hangings — that they serve a purpose and serve it well; that there be no false note of projjortion, of color, of harmony; and that they make the home a more delightful place than it otherwise would ha^•e been. 74 Furniture lUli.^lratcd 1)1/ LcadiiKj Mdniifarh/rrrf; E come now to a consideration of one of the most interest- ing adjuncts of the successful home — the Furniture. For- tunately, of late there appears a recrudescence of that spirit of our forefathers which invested the selection of the house- hold goods with a due regard for the solemnity of the oc- casion and a full appreciation of the important results to be derived therefrom. We now believe that similar worthy selection will likewise yield not only comfort and utility, but also that other part which is to be desired above great riches — an ample and well-chosen collection of family heirlooms. The highest tribute that can be paid to the sterling worth and consummate skill of the old-time cabinet-maker is to say that every first-class manufacturer in this country and in Europe is to-day busily engaged in reproducing the best- known designs of these old-time masters. And the names of Sheraton, Heppel- white, Chippendale and Adam are more familiar to the people of our own day than they were to the people of the time in which they lived. These men were artists in the truest and best sense of the word. Most of their work was produced in response to special commissions — sometimes by royal warrant, again at the behest of the nobility or other exalted personages, to whom the question of cost mattered nothing. Under such circumstances it was only natural that men of undoubted genius should be entrusted with such commissions, and they worked just as Rubens or Michael Angelo did. The Adam Brothers, Ro})C)-t and James, were, strictly s])eaking, architects and not cabinet-makers and worked with great success in restorations in London. But in their interior work, they combined the designing of sofas, chairs, tables, sideboards, etc., with their more serious work of decorating and remodelling. Many of the historic homes of England — notal)ly Lansdowne House — contain speci- mens of their work. Adam furniture is very rich and costly. It is formal and rather ornate. In the olden days color played no small part in the plans of the designer. A. Heppelwhite & Compam" were a firm of cabinet-makers in Loudon who likewise buildcd better than they knew. Their work claimed attention for its graceful and natural lines, succeeding tlie heavier and more formal Dutch influence wdiich up to that time had pervaded England. Thomas Chippendale and Thomas Sheraton, the remaining names in this famous quartette, were also cabinet-makers and gained some local distinction in their own day for the work which was afterwards 75 A Shoratun chair. Two Chippendale chairs. A Sheraton chair. .n n. Chippendale chairs. A group of Chippendale chairs. The distingui^hinp: characteristic of Chippendale chairs is the "ribbon" back with claw feet. The "ladder" back and straight lep; are also used. Sheraton designs are hghter if anytliing simple, straight hnew in back and legs being the main motif. Heppel- white are easily recognized by the heart shape which invariably appears in the back of the chair. Adam is much heavier and more formal. ".See illustrationy above and on succeeding pages. 76 Chippendale. Chippcnclalo. Chippendale chair; to become famous. Chippendale made a particular style of light and elegant drawing-room furniture characterized by ornate carving and gilding. Almost all mahogany furniture made at that time (17.50) was popularly called Chippendale. as we now apply "Colonial" to all furniture of our forefathers. All four of these designers flourished in the eighteenth century. 1)ut there is no evidence that they tliemselves, or the public who patronized them, had any idea that their work was of such superlative character as to be handed down to future generations as the highest achievement in furniture designing and constructif)n. or to be the standard for all future comparisons. While but little of their handicraft was available to the general pu1)lic of their day, still many of their more elaborate pieces w-ere modified and duplicated for general consumption. Sheraton himself published a series of drawings meant for the instruction of the craft in general, and in it he made several sketches show- ing how his more elaborate designs could be slightly changed, making them "come much cheaper," as he expressed it; yet, at the same time, retaining the essential structural elements of his original work. Chippendale, like Sheraton, in his instructions to designers also frecfuently suggests that his designs can be varied without detriment. A typical suggestion reads — "The ornaments may be omitted if thought superfluous." We Iiave, there- 77 Chippendale chair. A card table by Heppelwhite. A Chippendale chair. A settee owned bv John Hancock. Colonial Period. A Chippendale settee. A Sheraton sofa. A Sheraton chair. 78 Sheraton chairs and l<;tt^r case. fore, this highest authority — the masters themselves — for modifications and changes in their classical designs. In addition to the names of the men we have already mentioned, were a goodly number of other far-famed artisans, whose work lent distinction to the periods and to the countries which were the scene of their lal)ors. France, under the dif- ferent Louis; Holland, in the early sixteenth century; England, under Elizabeth, William and Mary and the Georges and Spain under the ]Moorish influence — all made notable contributions to the then newly awakened decorative period. It is not our purpose to enter upon a lengthy consideration of the various Periods, exceot in so far as it will enlighten the reader as to the origin and raison d'etre of styles in furniture. In his wanderings among the various marts of our country he will continually encounter reference to "Period" styles, and will be puzzled at times by numerous observations on Early English, Jacobean, Tudor, Flemish, Dutch, Elizabethan, Georgian, Louis XVI, Colonial — and by references to Sheraton, Chippendale, Heppelwhite and Adam. In the following pages, therefore, we have grouped together examples of the various schools or Periods of which w^e have just spoken. Not only have we given an example of a Sheraton chair, for instance, as Sheraton himself made it, but we have shown also various reproductions of chairs from the same model made to-day, each one expressing the manufacturer's own conception of what he considered a good reproduction. Some of these reproductions are "pure," that is, absolutely correct in every single detail. Naturally they are very expensive. Others show modifications of the "true" model (after Sheraton's own suggestion) so as to "make them cheaper." None of these modifications depart radically from the original, but be that as it may, our pictures show just how much the departure has been, and the reader is left sole arbitrator as to the merit or demerit of the change. Slavish adherence to an absolute reproduction of these classic designs is not therefore necessary. Many of these changes are in harmony with the dift'erent con- ditions of life existing to-day and are in keeping with them. It is also fair to say that there are many original pieces made to-day that will in years hence rank as classics. These are found in every first-class shop, but their artistic excellence and structural merit naturally do not at present receive that recognition which only time can give. While a due regard for the work of the old masters is commendable, at the same time it is not wise to shut our eves to the actualities of the present. 79 These remarks are applicable particularly where a specific Period Room is con- templated. The Georgian i)eriod, for instance, was co-existent with all the great artisans mentioned above and the arrangement of a Georgian Room does not, there- fore, exclude all l)ut one particular style. A judicious selection of what will har- monize with the aA^erage life of the occupants is as good a rule as any. The seeker after the genuine "antique" must also be constantly on guard. In nine cases out of ten, buyers can rarely be positive of the genuineness of their acquisitions. It is a lameutal)le fact, but nevertheless true, that the manufacture of "antiques" is a flourishing industry both in this country and abroad. With the possible exception of a few recognized and indu})itab]y genuine articles — the per- sonal handiwork of the old masters — there is no antique which can be safely pur- chased except through a dealer of established probity and reputation. Families wherein the furniture has descended from generation to generation are all too rare, and it is with a desire to promote the purchase of furniture of this character that our remarks are intended. Nothing can do so nmch for a family as the possession of well made, correctly designed furniture and its influence, in an ethical sense, is much greater than is at first considered possible. In this connection it is a pleasure to state that in our own country there is made some of the finest Period furniture obtainable in the world, and of such proved excellence as to enable us to enjoy a most excellent outlet among Old World cities famed for their critical judgment, as well as among our own people whose wealth and culture enable them to pick and choose wherever the best can be had, regardless of cost. Some Dutch chairs of the Colonial Period owned by Hiss Van Vechten, Albany. Heppelwhite chair. 80 Furniture of Modern Design and Moderate Cost llbi^il rated hy Leading Maiiiij'acfiircr.'' HE purchase of new furniture is always a pleasant task, Imt to accomplish it satisfactorily it behooves one to make a study not only of prevailing styles, but of the goods of the most reliable manufacturers. Better only one well-made chair than three badly constructed. Better to pay a price for a good nudce of furnitui'c, which means good wear as well as good form, than to economize so closely that flimsy furnish- ing is the result. The reproductions of elaborate furniture of the early Italian and French days, that have been used in our formal houses, are fast disappearing; and the informal styles, used from the time of William and Mary of England to the end of the Seventeenth Century, are now in vogue. The Colonial is here to stay, and the old furnitiu'e of our great-grandfathers' days is carefully duplicated for those of us who have inherited no ancestral pieces. Masterful polishing, which brings out the exciuisite markings, enhances the beauty of the woods used by manufacturers of to-day. Circassian walnut is a most beautiful wood, though perhaps not susceptil)le of as high a polish as is mahogany. Mahogany is in great demand because of the re^'iAal of Period furnitm-e. The light Georgian pieces and the heavy Colonial, which are copied to-day, wei'e of mahogany. Satin-wood was nuich used in English designs at the end of the eighteenth century, also white mahogany. These two woods are more expensive than mahogany, and are now used in copies of old English and French designs, the AAliite mahogany especially being decorated with dainty hand-painting. To-day walnut is used extensively in dining-room and library furniture. Mahogany for the bedroom is still most popular, and much of the oak is colored extremely dark to match the old p]nglish oak of Elizabethan days. Birdseye maple and curly birch come from Canada, and cost about the same as mahogany. Their light color makes them favorites for bedroom sets, and the majority of these are in the styles of Loiiis X^' and XVI. To-day there is little really new in shape; we have gone back to the old Flnglish and Colonial times; the (juaint grace and comfort of the old pieces, and the artistic artisanship, make us glad that workmen of this day so closely carry out the designs which in old furnitm-e are now almost priceless. The decline of the vogue of elaborate Italian and French styles is very easily traceable to the popularity of the old English country house idea. If there is a 81 Hand-made Georgian Living-Room .Suite, in solid St. Jago mahogany-. The Tobey Furniture Company, New York and Chicago. ■^. ' ) Hand-made reproduction of an old Virginian Colonial Sideboard, in solid St. Jago mahogany. The Tobey Furniture Company. Hand-made Georgian Desk, in soUd St. Jago mahogany. The Tobey Furniture Company. formal room there is a place for formal furniture. American living-rooms lend themselves to the comfortable stuffed furniture of the P^lizahethan, (ijueen Anne and Jacobean Periods, relieved by the lighter styles made after the manner of the eighteenth century makers, Chippendale, x\dam, Heppelwhite and Sheraton, the French of Louis XV antl Louis XVI, and the Mission stjde. Old Englisli furniture is beautiful and very varied in design. The copies are legion and often so exact as to puzzle even a collector. It is very difficult nowadays to secure an entire set of antique furniture; and the best decorators are (jften forced to have old pieces made to "piece out" special orders of genuine anticjues. (hily the collector knows the difference — the average lover of old furniture is as nmch entranced with the new piece as with the old. Period furniture, wliich has recently been delighting the manufacturers, has served to confuse some dealers and nuuiy purchasers who are nt^t altogether familiar with the old styles after which the styles of to-day are so closely jjatterned. Ever}'- one knows the heavy Colonial furniture of the days of oui- grandfatJiers, the beautiful mahogany pieces, many originals Iwing (juite beyond the purse of any })ut a collec- tor. These are now reproduced so exactly that many people prefer them in their newness to the nmch used old pieces. The revival of tlie patterns of furniture of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries has given a new impetus to the designing of furniture, and in certain sections of the country. To faithfully follow the furnishings of a certain jjeriod reciuires the study of the old furniture itself, and every manufacturer is supj)lied with accurate informa- tion from historic records of the woods and shapes used by the old furniture makers. Colonial Furniture, made by A. D. Cowan tt Co., Chicago, 111. 83 Ill the living-room everything centres about a settle or couch. If the settle selected be a copy of the Jacolieau Period, it will have an elaborate carved frame with Renaissance tapestry covered cushions. Old English oak panelling, with highly carved mantels and pilasters, is suital)le with this furnishing. Old tapestries are almost altogether replaced by the modern very clever and durable imitations. A Colonial davenport, generously stuffed and leather-coA^ered, forms a good foundation for the living-room or li})rary. A low, luxurious, deep-cushioned arm- chair, with small low-seated arm-chairs form the acme of luxury. The winged chair, that c|uaint old high-l)acked CVjlonial friend with a deep wide seat, is now made with fiAe-inch thick cushions, often with an air cushion in the center. Tudor Chair, 1600 a.d. (settee also), original in Gwydyr Castle, Wales. Formerly said to be in Old Whitehall Palace. Modernization of a Franciscan Mission Chair in Mahogany. Settee and other pieces also made. Adapted from furniture made in lo25 a.d. by Franciscan IMonks in Mexico and Central America. Jacobean Twin Hall Chair, owned by Princess Beatrice of Battenberg, mother of the Queen of Spain. Oribome House, Isle of Wight. Reproduced from the original suite in Longleat Hall. Made in reign of Charles H, 1665 a.d., and said to have been con- structed from the oak of Boscobel, in which Charles I hid after the Battle of Worcester. Arm chair and side chair made also. 84 85 Some excellent examples of reproductions of Sheraton, Chippendale, Early English and Colonial chairs at moderate cost by the Michigan Chair Company, Grand Rapids, Mich. 86 The chaise-lounge is another hixury of the h^'ing-rooni or hljrary, and lias one advantage over a settle or davenport in that the parts can i'oi'ni either a lounge, or two arm-chairs, or a large arm-chair and a stool. Attractive sets of mahogany settle and chairs are made wilh wfjoden rim and cane seats and back. Some of these settles have stuffed cushions and valance or short curtain over the back, while the chairs are supplied \\ith thin cushions which may be removed at will, as they are tied on. The lines follow the old Arlam and Sheraton designs. The round table is still the best style for the dining-room and is usu- ally either of plain mahogany, walnut or oak; or elaborately carved accord- ing to the period coi)ied. Queen Anne tables are cjuite simple, with straight legs. The Adam and Chip- pendale tables show more elaborate work. The ball-foot and the lion's claw are the svn-est mark of the Chippendale period. These are found in most of the Colonial reproduc- tions. Eighteenth century dining- rooms had table, chairs, and side- board table only; in the latter part of the century, the ])edestal sideboard came in, and these sideboards are now reproduced to perfection. Bed- posts, chairs, sideboards, tables, etc., are beautifully inlaid and carved in the Sheraton and Heppelwhite designs. Chinese Chippendale library and dining-room pieces, with exc|uisite Dining-room Ch^ir in Antique Ivory enamel finish from James McCreery & Co. , New York. Sheraton Dining Table in Antique Ivorj- enamel finish. This recent innovation is shown by James ^McCreery & Co., New Yorlc 87 inlay and carvings, are among the most elaborate reproductions. Occasionally we •see the much decorated Dutch marquetry pieces finely inlaid. Dainty bedroom sets are hand-painted or stenciled as well as plain. The de- signs are of the eighteenth century, and the stained wood is in splendid imitation of the more expensive woods. Oak is the foundation of most of the stained fur- niture. Exquisite enameled and hand-painted sets are made of birch, a very smooth wood which takes and holds all colors of enamel, and makes a smootli and desirable surface for hand-painting. Flowers form the motif of most of the designs in artistic garlands and wreaths in delicate coloring and arrangement. There are mahogany four-postei's, and twin beds — most of them very light in construction. The Colonial styles are, of course, heavy and of mahogany. Dressing tal:)les, low and broad, with triple mirrors, allow of seeing the back without moving or using a hand-glass. Mirrors are also made entirely separate, intended for hanging on the wall above the bureau or for standing on a table. Conventional stencil designs in color or in subdued wood tones are also found on the stained furniture. It is also possible to buy the plain enameled pieces and to have the decorating done to order, to match the general scheme of wall covering. Beds during the early part of the eighteenth century were always four-posters, and a fine variety is now manufactured carrying out the old ideas. The twin four- posters, both plain and with elaborate carvings, are much in demand, with bow canopy and valance. Rush chair seats in the enameled sets and in the mahogany are very desirable. Large and roomy rockers, hand-painted or stenciled, are in demand for bedrooms. The Eighteenth Century was so full of furniture suggestions, which have been brought to our Twentieth Century eyes, that the purchase of new furniture is quite Macey Chippendale Bookcases, made by The Macey Co., Grand Rapids, Mich. 88 JL. 4"'»»' 1 Four-poster Beds, by \Mlliam Leavens & Co., Boston, Mass. 89 a task, one desires so often })eing led astray by the beauty of other designs when a decision is practically already made. In the Bent Wood furniture there is shown a remarkable variety in design and construct it)n. One is apt to think of this furniture merely as a curving framework with cane seat and l)ack, plain and useful. It is useful, but there is as nuich variety in the designs of the Bent Wood furniture as in any other kind — more, perhaps, because the bending of the wood makes it possible to secm-e many unusual curves. Separate chairs of this furniture fit in well with other furnishings, and brighten the effect of the room. Anyone who knows Mission and Craftsman furniture has no difficulty in perceiving that the principles upon which it is based are honesty and simplicity. The mission of this work is durability and comfort with extreme simplicity. This furniture is built for all manner of uses and its construction is so thorough that it will last for the lifetime of the white oak of which it is made, which means the lifetime of several generations of men. Being designed upon the most natural lines and made in the most natural way, there is little room for change in the style, and that the style itself has made good its appeal to the American people is best proven by the fact that, during the twelve years it has l)een upon the market, it has remained unchanged, except for such modifications and improvements as evidence a healthy growth along normal lines of development. It is impossible to get far away from the structural lines which declare the purpose and use of the piece, and the proportions that best serve that purpose and use are the proportions which it should have. By the use of a special finish the oak is given three different tones, all of which belong essentially to the wood. One is a light soft brown that is not unlike the hue of tlie frost-bitten oak leaf; another is the rich nut-brown tone which time gives to very old oak; and the third is a delicate gray that gives to the brow^n of the woods a silvery sheen such as might l)e produced by the action of the sun and wind. Hard leather is used for table tops and for chairs and settle seats where the leather is stretched over the seat rails and nailed on. Soft leather is used for slip seats in chairs and for loose seat cushions in settles, where the size of the cushion requires a large hide. Sheepskin is the softest and most flexil)le of all our leathers. Macey Colunial BuokcaHC, itjadc by The Rlacey Co., Grand llapida, Mich. Macey Artcraft Bookcase, marie by The Macey Co., Grand Rapids, Mich. 90 and best adapted to covering i)il- lows and loose seat and hack cusli- ions for chairs, where tlu' skins can be used withont piecing. The sectional bookcase has come to stay in the household as well as in the ofhce, and can be secnred in all woods. No method of storing and protecting bocjks from dust and dampness, as satis- factory as the sectional bookcase, has yet been found. The well-furnished liln-ary, where one may enjoy to the fullest extent companionship with the world's greatest thought, is desiral)le in every home, no matter how modest it may be. The dignity (jf \ V "S ^ jMace;- Sheraton Bookcase, made b>- The Ma Grand Rapids, Mich. Macey Chippendale Bookcase, made b\' The Maeey Co., Grand Hapids, j\Iich. a libraj'V is something which can be secnred l)y ]io other portion of a house. But whether in a library, or just in a nook where one's favor- ite books are stored, the sectional bookcase lends itself to every style of decoration and every kind of wood. ]5eing furnished in units, or single slielves which may Ije added one to another until a large 1)ook- ca.se is .secured, of any length or height required, it is ])ossible to .start it in as modest a way as is desired, and add to the library as time goes on. The sectional bookcases are made in various styles to suit the most captious ci'itic, from the sim- ple mission and craftsman finish in dull oak and mahogany to the best grade of mahogany, fitted with dust- tight door of French bevel plate glass. An inuovation in the .straight styles of sectional bookcases is the 91 sections with mitred ends to fit in a corner; and also what is termed the desk unit, which provides an attractive writing desk, eitlier with two legs or four, which fits between the other units. The "Cottage furniture," familiar to our mothers and grandmothers, has made great strides toward the artistic, and instead of painted pieces for the bedroom, on which outrageous garlands of flowers are imprinted in gorgeous colorings, there is the simple form of oak furniture, of a modified crafts style, which is dignified, as reasonable in price as the hideous old furniture, and very easy to keep clean, due to the simplicity of its lines. For a small house to be furnished by moderate ex- penditure, good value and satisfaction can be secured through cottage furniture. Another innovation in furniture of the last ten years is the "knock-down" pieces, which are shipped to the piu'chaser in sinsple finished sections, to be easily put together, and stained as desired. Willow furnitin-e is a great favorite. For solid comfort, artistic effect and great durability, one should be cai'eful in selecting ready-made pieces to observe the workmanship as well as the material. Every ])iece of ^\•illow furnitiu-e is hand- made from the raw material, with no glue and only occasionally a nail. Besides the bright and attractive appearance of willow, one of its good points is that its color may be changed as ofteii as desired; it may be used in the natural state at the start and may be subjected to heat and cold without damage. It may be even left out in the rain without damage to the wood other than a yellowing of the strands if left continually as a i)rey to the elements. E^-en then, after much hard use, when a willow chair in its natural color has come to look sun-burned, it is still as good a foundation for dye, paint or enamel, as when it was new. Distinctly in a class of its own is the furniture made of prairie grass. The weave is close, forming a protection against draughts, or is in open style, which is considered by some purchasers as more desiraljle. Attractive easy-chairs in all styles, to be used either with or without cushions, are shoA\n, as well as the smaller chairs, luxiu-ious long settees, cosy tete-a-tetes, spacious rockers, tables and stools in great varietv. The prairie grass furniture is carefully made and the fibres well woven together to withstand considerable hard treatment. A Willow Chair, from the Willowcraft Shop, Cambridge, Mass. Wicker Chair, by the Ho>-wood Bros. Oi; Wakefield Co New York. 92 '■f^CX^ ^T'-C- .. Some Color Suggestions for Interior Paint Work "ENERALLY speaking, it is safe to say that color tones that make their appeal from their softness, are more to be desired than tones that are more pronounced. At the same time, it is hard to lay down any rule that covers every case. Thefurniture, for instance, to a very great extent, should form the keynote. Handcraft furniture with its mellow shades is fortunate in that it will harmonize with practically any combination that may be selected. The character of a room also will suggest the most appropriate blendings. Libraries have a morescholarly atmosphere when finished in dark tones and in the bedroom, lightness and cheerfulness, as indicated by the tonal values of pink, light blue, light green, etc., are more appropriate and particu- larly so in the case of children's rooms. In the living rooms, where the furniture is mahogany, greens may be used in much profusion with good results, particu- larly so if the furniture is of colonial design or any of the standard period styles. Our illustrations show such a wide variety of choice that they cannot help but be of great assistance in selecting the proper combinations and, as they are all taken from actual living houses whose occupants have had time to test the eft'ect of their selections, it is quite certain that, if any or all of them should be adopted, they will produce the same satisfactory results elsewhere. The use of paint as a decorative medium is rapidly increasing and has much to commend its use. From a sanitary point of view, it would be hard to find anything to equal it; and now that a proper appreciation of its possibilities is more generally understood, its use will continue to increase. There is such an infinite variety of combinations that no room in the house exists that cannot be greatly benefited by some simple scheme that is inexpensive. Where the house is still under construction, less difficidty will be encountered in the decorative arrangements as, naturally, one has the advantage of close contact with architects and other professional assistants. In the finished home, however, or in an old home, which one desires to re- furbish, perhaps the same fortiuiate condition does not prevail, but this is just the place where our suggestions are most needed. Paint itself is not expensive and yet its use is so conducive to comfort and pleas- ure that no housekeeper should any longer be content to endure a single room in the house that is not inviting and attractive. For the benefit of our readers, there is given explicitly under each design the exact combination parts of the paint required for the decoration and, as the material can be obtained almost everywhere, a few rooms done over will amplv repav the slight cost involved. 93 A VRRY RESTFUI. BEDROOM Ceiling and Drop, S-W Fl,it-tone Cream. Wall, S-W Flat-tone Bright Saffe. Stencil, No. 113. Woodwork, S W Handcraft Stain Fumed Oak. Floor, Natural— S-W Marnot. T f3: i A MISSION LIVING ROOM IN GREEN Ceilini;, S-W Flat-tone Cream. Wall, S-W Flat-tone Bright Sage. Woodwork. S-W Enamel Pure White. Floor, Oak, Natural Transparent Filler and Marnot. THE SHEUV\'lN-\VILr.IA3IS CU.^IPAXV, DECDR.ATl \E DEr.\RT:MEXT, CI.EVEL.\XD, 0. 94 A MODERN' FLEMISH DIXIXG ROOM eilin^, S-W FI:it tone Tvnrj-. Upper \v;ill, S-W Flat-tone System EJIect No. 3. Lower wall. S-W Flat-tone Sjsteni F.Heot No. 1.}. No. i'U. Woodwork Oak. S-W Handcraft Stain Catliedral Oak. Floor, Oak, S-W Antique Oak Paste Filler and S-W Marnot. THE SMALL SUBURB.W COTT.VGE Body, S W.P. 358.Trimminff, S.W.P. Gloss White. Sasli. S.W.F. Gloss White. Shatters, S.W.P. 461. Roof, S-W Preservative Shingle Stain B42. Porch Floor, S-W Porclr & Deck Paint 48. Porch Ceiling, S W Kopal Varnish. Exterior Doors, S-W Enamelastic White Exterior. THE SilEKWJX-WII.LIA.AIS COMPAXV, DECORATIVE UEPART3IEXT, CLEVELAND, O, 95 TWO PRACTICAL KITCHENS PART I — Ceiling: and Wall. S-W Flat-tone Pearl Gray. Wainscoting, Keene Cement— tile like— finished with S-W Enameloid White. Stencil, No. .iori. Wood\vork. S-W Enameloid Wliite. Floor, Linoelum in blue and white finished with S-W Durable Linoleum Finishin^^ PART I 1— Ceiling:, S-W Flat-tone Cream. Walls, S-W Flat-tone Old Gold. Woodwork, S-W Handcraft Stain Silver Gray. Floor, S-W Inside Floor Paint Gray. A SIMPLE COLONIAL DIXINC; ROO^I Ceiling: and Cove, S-W Flat-tone Ivory. Wall, S-W Flat-tone Cream. Stencil, No. 96. Woodwork, S-W Enamel White. Floor, Natural— S-W Marnot. Tin: SIIEKWIN-WII.LIAMS COJIPANV, IJhCOU ATIVK DKl'AUTMENT, CI.EVELAXD, O. 96 l.IVIXG ROOM IX MAHOGANY AXD GREEX Ceiling and Cove, S-\V Flat-tonu Cream. Wall, S-W Flat-tone System EtTect No. U. Stencil No. 205y. \V.).).hv(.rk. S \V H.-uiil.Taft Stain Mahogany. Floor, Natural— S-W Marnot. A JITSSIOX BEDROOM AND BATH Ceiling, S-W Flat-tone Ivory. Wall, S-W Flat-tone Pale Olive. Stencil, No. 19. Woodwork, S-W Handcrafl Stain Tavern Oak. Floor Natural — S-W Marnot. HATH— Ceiling, S-W Flat tone Ivory. Wall. S-W Flat-tone Ivory. Stencil, No. 10.1. Wainscoling. Keens Cement — tile like— linislied with S-\\' Knamcl White. Woodwork. .S-W Enamel White. THE SIlEKUlX-WlLLiAMS COMfA^i V, DfCOKATIVE Dtl'AUI.'UE^. T, CLEVELASUj 0. 97 A FRENCH GRAY BEDROOM Ceiling and Drop, S-W Flat-tone White, Wall, S-W Flat-tone French Gray. Stencil, No. 18y. Woodwork, S-W Enamel White. Floor. S-W Inside Floor Paint Gray. THE DIGNIFIED COLONIAL HOirSE Body. S.W.P. S75. Trimming, .S.W.P. (ilos.s White. Sash. S.W.P. Gloss White. Shutters, S.W.P. 4M. Roof. S-W Preservative Shingle Stain B41. Porch Floor, S-W Porch ,V Deck Paint 48. Porch Coiling. S-W Kopal Varnish. Exterior Doors, S-W Handcraft Stain Mahogany. Till; SlU:It\VlN-\VlI.l.lA.^IS CtL-MPANV, DECORATIVE UEPAHTHIENT, CLEVELAND, o. 98 A LIVING ROOM DesJEiu-d by Works of L. & J. G. Sticklcy. Inc.. FayettL-ville, N. V. [ m^^mw ■•MHj &^^-tim ^9 -I. ^ 1^-^^^B^^^ -^ '^ ""<. \-jl Designed byWor A DINING ROOM ks of L. & J. G. Stickley, Inc. Fayetteville. \. Y. IMP 99 COMBINATION BKNCH AND TOOL CABINET Made by H;imm;iclier, Sclilemmer & Company, New York. The illustration sliows the Combination Bench and Tool Cabinet. A set of practical tools is now a necessity in the home. It serves both for pleasure and profit and, as an educational factor, is unquestioned. In a coml)ination of this character, with bench and tools so handily combined, everj- thing is convenient and ready for use. The manual training movement that has gained such headway throughout the entire country is responsible for the demiand for practical outfits of this kind; nor is the use of tools by the novice confined to educational institutions — we find that the tinkering spirit has gained disciples amongst professional and otiier men, in keeping with the general increase in popularity of carpentry, and particularly so by the great army of (leople who live within commuting distance of the cities and who go to the suburban districts principally because they want a little more than the conventional city apartment — room for a real house with a basement and a place suitable for a regular work shojj wherein the long evenings may be shortened into thorough enjoyment and not a little education. 100 r — jMi 'iMMin The Bathroom of To-day lUiiglnitt'd by I.aidlnij Miinufodun'rs HE liathroom of to-day is a feature of primary importance in the well appointed house. It is the tendency of the times to put more than one bath- room into even the smallest houses. One bath to a house, which used to be considered quite sufficient even in elaborate dwell- ings, is now only an aggravaticjn. EA'erybody bathes in the tub each day; and with only one tub in the house and several people anxious to l)e ready for breakfast on time, bathers and non-bathers engage each morning in a game of "who will get there first." In the older houses, where one bathroom has been in use for many years, there is a tendency nowadays to turn another available small room or large closet into one of those inmiaculate and attractive bathrooms which lure the eye of every one who is interested in houses. If you are installing a new bathroom in an old house, or ])lanning to nuike the new house comfcjrtable with plenty of baths for all, make things not only as de- lightful to the eye as is possible, but as convenient as possible for the one who has the work to do. If practicable to have a bath on every floor, do so by all means: you will not have a single regret. Time and temper saved often "save the day." And a very important consideration is the bath for the maids. If not possible to have it near their rooms, have it adjoin the laundry, and make it as attractive to them as your bathroom is to you. It is said that the average home-maker still classes plumbing among the things he can't and doesn't want to understand. However that may be — the plumber is probably the man who can tell you the real truth of it — the average home- maker is educated up to that point A\here he wants the outward and visible sign of the plumbing to bear witness to the fact that he knows what constitutes a sanitary, bright, immaculately clean and comfortable bathrcjom. One should have the maxinuim of comfort and cleanliness with the mininunn of care. The plumbing, of course, requires expert advice, and it were well to be sure when you are building that the man who has your pipes and traps in charge, thoroughly understands his business. Simplicity in the form of the piping is a safe- guard against plumbing ills and plumbers' bills; a good and simple method is apt to be a secure one; while the complicated method forms a system of piping with op- portunities for evaporation and leakag(\ It is said by an authority on plumbing investigations, that if we only knew it, we could have safer systems than are now generally used, for half the money. 101 With the piping question settled by the help <^f exjierts, the rest is a matter of judicious personal selection of wall covering, floor covering, type of tub, lavatory, closet, shower and needle baths, sitz bath, and the various fixtures which add to comfort and convenience. The cost of the bathroom of course depends entirely upon selection of the fixtures; it is said to be possible to fit up a comfortable bathroom for $75.00. But it is undoubtedly the part of wisdom to spend as much more as may be neces- sary to make the batliroom absolutely sanitary in every respect. A sanitary wall, which will stand splashing and may be washed and scrubbed. is desirable. Pure white by a little color deco- ration it gives such an air of coldness that one is almost chilled. It is therefore sug- gested that there })e a simple trimming of color (if not a whole wall of d e 1 i c a t e 1 y tinted tile) , no matter what style of wall cov- ering is used; whether it be an enameled pa- per, linoleum, glazed, semi-glazed or opal- escent glass tile, en- ameled brick or merely paint. The glazed tiles are usu- ally set in cement, or over cement plaster- ing on steel metal lath. Sometimes the entire walls are covered with the same material, but more often a five- foot wainscot of tile suffices. Never use ordinary wall paper, as the steam and moisture soak the paper and cause it to fall off or to discolor. It is best not to paint directly on the plas- tered walls, as cracks may develop and spoil all the decora- tion. Glazed tile pa- per is effective, l)ut there is verj^ little saving between the cost of tliis and the cost of tiling. for the bathroom seems most suitable; but unless relieved l'i,r<- While Bom. China Hufh Fixl urL-,i. 'J'lio Trenton Pottcrica Compiiny, Trenton, New Jersey. KK2 flooring The " Stuj-vesant" bath tub, made by the Monument Potters- Company. Trenton, N. .J, If it is pos.sil)le to "round"" your corners, in planning' (lie halliroom, \'ou will find it a help in cleaning. If the corners are rounded, as well as the joining of the wall and floor, there will be no place for the dust and dirt to accumulate. A floor of unglazed ceramic tile is eminently satisfactory, and much warmer tjian the marble floor which used to be considered the handsome and most satisfactorj^ A new floor material, which can be u.sed to advairtage in the bathroom, is cork tiling. TJic best tubs made to-day are those whicli show an en- ameled or j)orcelaiii finish. The old tin tub has disappeared, and well may we re- joice. ^Mien it comes to the selection oi the tubs for the house, it is merely a question of deciding whether one wants solid por- celain or enameled ironware. AVhen at- tempt was first made to ap])ly an enamel or porcelain c(jating to an iron l)ody, it was fouiid to Ije -■-■Z-^. ' vei-y difficult as well as costly. But the manufacturers of the ]) resent day have solved the i)roblem of succes.sfully apply- ing enamel to metal in such a way as to bring the enameled bath within the reach of ah. There is as great a variety in the shape and construction of bath tubs as in any other article of fur- niture. The matter of whether your l)ath shall stand on four legs, how far they shall raise it from the floor, or whether it shall rest on its own base, is one which will not occur to the a^'erage home builder; and yet thev are im- The "Gotham" bathroom combination, by the ^Monument Potters- Company, Trenton, N. . i V 103 porcant points. x\lso the question as to what shape tub is best suited to your re- (juirements; whetlier the extension end is desired, to allow of a reelining position, or whether the additional full length of the bath is desirable One has to live so intimately with one's bath fixtures that it is well to be sure of satisfaction from the beginning. Another question which needs consideration is the arrangement of the faucets and waste. Sometimes if they are placed in the center of the side of the tub, they are in the way; and at other times they will be inconvenient at the end. All of these little (juestions need attention in order to secure perfect satisfaction. In most cases, the fittings are included in the price of the tubs; but occasionally one will find a tub which is sold without fixtures; in buying in this way be sure to consult the concern from which you purchase the tub for the correct style of fixture to suit the tub. Some of the dealers show a novelty in a bath which is to occupy room space instead of wall space and which has, above the rim of the tub and three cjuarters of the way about it, a guard rail mounted on stanchions. This is a splendid idea, for the soapy slipperiness of the bath has been responsible for many serious accidents. An enameled guard rail to attach to the wall l)ack of the tub is a safety appliance not to be overlooked; it is convenient, too, as a hanging place. Many of the tubs are decorated with borders which are executed l)y hand. These borders, as well as gold bands and lines, are durable and artistic. The deco- rations can be had in plain (ire€'k bands, fleur-de-lis, garland, fl(jwer and empire borders, as well as plain bands. The sitz bath and foot bath are made especially to fit in with the design of the larger tub, and come either with feet or to rest ui)on their own solid base. It ■ Blafkstoiic \itreou3 Lav;itory with Pedestal, manufactured by the Mouunieut Potterj- Compani', Trenton, N. J. I \ 104 Corner of a model bathroom, showing convenient arrangement of accessi»rie8, made by the Sanitarj' Furniture Co., Grand Rapids, Alieh. the large bath is decorated , o f course the other fixtures win beckx'- orated to corre- spond. The foot and sitz l)aths are not only luxurious to-day, but posi- tive necessities in a well eciuijjped bathroom. The "baby" bath is perhaps a luxury, but is neverthe- less a great con- venience. It stands on an enameled pedestal, and be- ing high, saves the leaning over whieli the lower tubs a 1 w a y s entail when bathing the babies. The shower bath is another luxury that has become a necessity and the various changes which the manufacturers have slunvn in their form within a few years make it a positi^'e delight to own a well constructed shower. The tendency seems to be toward a sep- arate shower fixtiu-e which is provided with all sorts of comfort-making devices; Init the separate fixture adds just another expense to the total cost, so that there is also a great demand for the shower which may l)e used directly over the tub. The best fixtiu'cs are, for ordinary requirements, made of nickel-plated brass: (^n some of the more expensive faucets the handles are of porcelain. Another delightfid appliance is the needle bath, and this comes either as a separate bath or in combination with a regular shower and shampoo. There are also i)rovide(l witli these baths various other small sjjrays for different purposes. The separate shower is provided with a porcelain standard oi- receptor, which has waste fittings the same as the bath tubs. The protective cm-tains are made of rul)l)er or water-proofed white duck, and pull readily on large easy-running rings. The delight of ownership of a good shower bath is well worth economy in some other part of the home, for the bath is a remedy for many ills. Solid porcelain or enameled iron lavatories give the best service and are the most desiral)le. The designs are legion, and include, among many forms, those on an enameled column base through which the waste pipes rini; these are very dignified and artistic. Those supported by nickel-plated legs and frames are more delicate in appearance, but show the waste pipes underneath. Some consist merely of the basin and fixtures, while others are supplied with ornamental brackets to su])port the weight; still others have a back which protects the wall for a few inches and a deep apron in front where others merely have a roll rim. Still another style stands on one leg, not as large as the pedestal at first described, and has the waste i)ipe cunningly stowed away behind it. The earthenware closet is the most satisfactory in the fine bathroom, as it will not stain. In the immaculately white room the woodwork of the closet should 105 be eellu-enainel which cleans easily and when clean is readily kept clean, although an oak or dark wood is cjuite as sanitary. This refers as well to the tank as to the seat itself, when the lank has a wooden exterior. Most (jf those in use to-day, however, have the all-over enameled tank, but solid j)orcelain or vitreous ware tanks will supersede all others in a few years. The low tank seems to be a favorite to-day, although the high tank is still in use. The low tank reduces the noise of rushing water. The flush and drain are the most imj)ortant j)oints of con- sideration in selecting the closet, although the position of the fixtures and the noise of the rushing water are also a considei-ation; a careful examination of all the best makes is recommended. For good work flush Aalve closets are perhaps more desirable. The hundred and one little accessories of the model bathroom are what make it attractive to the feminine eye, rather than the large furnishings, which invite masculine attention. The bright nickel-plated and crystal-glass towel-rods delight the eye; the plate-glass sheh'cs are ca])able of assuming much brilliance under the careful polishing hand of the housewife. Then there are china and enamel soap dishes and sponge dishes, nickeled brass and enameled paper holders and hanging baskets for soiled towels, china tooth-brush glass and holder, i)late-glass mirrors, medicine chest, cut-glass tumblers and china shaving nnigs, comb and brush holders, shaving mirrors, the bathroom scale for j^our daily weight and the plate- glass shaving mirror with jointed rod which permits of a turn in any direction. A Ijathroom cannot be adequately equipped a\ ithout a small chair or at least a round-topped stool with rather short legs. These may l)e of any dark wood desired, but are particularly serviceable as well as attractive in plain white enamel or cellu- loid finish. The adjustal)le bath seat is also a necessity, especially where the various uses of the tubs are re])resented only by one large bath. Stoi.I ;iiifii :_2!ii_i M mm'iAMM iJ^ wIS^. tr-Tii for L;irf;p Rr-^id(^n e3. <^ X X I Sectional View of the Kelsey Warm Air Generator showing construction with the Zig-Zag Heat Tubes. One of the Kelsey H(.-at Tubes. 109 iiied with a niinimuni amount of ven- tilation, as ventilation is generally un- derstood, reciuires on that account a less amount (jf fuel than a warm-air heating system. With a hot-water healing system, the condition of the fire may be closely maintained in relation to the severity of the weather. This means that to a remarkable degree the tem- perature of the water flowing through the system can be controlled. The control then means that tlie amount of heat supplied to the radiator is about what is needed for the demands and there is minimum waste heat. The warm-air furnace is a devel- opment of individual room heating by means of stoves. The stove itself, remodeled to suit the conditions, was taken to the cellar, and it was sur- rounded by a sheet metal casing; a duct was connected to the casing to admit air to the enclosed .space and air Patent Anti-Clinker Grate as used on Tubular Furnace, by the Thatcher Furnace Company, New York. Made Firepot of Tubular Warm Air Furnace. Thatcher Furnace Company, New York. Progress Steam Boiler. Thatcher Furnace Company, New \'ork. Section of Progress Boiler showing perfect circulation. Thatcher Furnace Company, New York. 110 pipes were fitted to the top of the eiielosure to eondiiet the wariDed air to the different rooms. The seeming simjjhcity of the system led to its heint^' regarded as unworthy of much study and its installation was entrusted to indifferent c(jn- tractors with the result that all loo many furnace-heating systems have failed to arouse enthusiasm among their users. Proj^erl}- installed, they afford a continuous supply of i)iu-e air, for, statements to the contrary ncjtwithstanding, warm-air furnaces of gas-tight consti-uction are obtainable. Indeeil, late years have wit- nessed considerable improvemeiiL in forms of construcliou of \varn)-air furnaces. They aim largely at increasing the efficiency. The complaints from these systems to the effect that gases are often delivered to the rooms, are often the result, as with other forms of heating apparatus, of stoking a vigorous fire with green fuel and immediately cliecking the draught so that the gases distilled must perforce leak to the cellar, and thence to the rooms above through the fire door, provided it is shut, which is unfortunately none too often the case. It is rarely, if ever, advisable to attempt to check a fire by leaving open the fire door. The warm-air furnace system is usually nuich the cheapest form of heating apparatus. Theoretically, it is the most expensive to oi)erate, for it presupposes a very generous amount of air supply, which, after giving up its surphis heat to the rooms and the room walls and windows, escapes to the outdoor atmosphere where it performs no useful work. Practically i( is not, largely because of the overheating experienced with other methods of heating. If, as a means of venti- lation, it is acknowledged to be efficacious, it is reasonable to assume that the ex- cessive A'entilation and the high operating cost is offset by the reduction in sick- ness for which it ought to stand. (General looseness of l)uilding construction and the porositj' of building walls are usually entirely sufficient for allowing for the escape of the spent air, but special means for the escape of the air from the rooms by means of open fireplaces and exhaust flues may become increasingly important with tighter building construction and more desirable where maximum resistance to outside winds is needed to warm properly the most exposed locations of the house. It is but fair to state, however, that great improvements in furnace ecmstruction and in methods of installation have been made, so that large residences are being evenly heated, and it is claimed just as econoniically as by any other sys- Underfeed Furnace niade by the Pffk-WilliaruHun C<> Cincinnati, <_). Underfeed Boiler made by tlie Peck-Williamson Co Cincinnati, O. Ill Sectional vi'*w of 8tc:un and Hot-Water Boiler, made by the American Radiator Co., Chicaf^o, III. Furti ICO ni id( 1 \ 1 ni ii Stove \A urks. New \urk. 11^2 lem, while the constuiiL change of air and good veiitihition insure most liealthful concHtions. To recapituhite, the warm-air system is the cheapest system to install but not necessarily the cheapest to operate. The steam-heating system comes in cost intermediate between the furnace system and the hot-water system, and similarly its fuel cost, at least theoretically, comes between that of the systems mentioned. The hot-water system's first cost is greater than that of the steam for the reason that larger radiators are needed, because of the fact that the water is usually never allowed to approach too closely to the boiling point, and the piping to supply the radiator must usually be larger than steam piping, and the piping to carry the water from the radiator must be e(iual in size to the sujjply. In high-class residences, it is usual to find the use of indirect radiators, that is, the radiators enclosed in an air-supply system, and this is partly arranged to avoid the obtrusiveness of the radiator in the leading rooms, particularly the hot-water radiator, which usually is 50 or 60 per cent, greater in size than the steam radiator. In considering a hot-water system, it must l)e remembered that if the building is likely to be vacated for periods during the cold weather, it is necessary to draw off the water to prevent freezing. The steam-heating system has an advantage over the hot-water in allowing for cjuicker heating in the event of sudden changes in outdoor temperature conditions, but by the same argument it more quickly ceases to continue warming. In the event of careless attention, cjuick heating is one of the attractive features of the warm-air system, andtliis fact is often recognized in the generous provision made for warming the dining-room, which is the one room demanding warmth on a cold morning. To meet the objections of the steam system, in respect to its failure to su})mit readily to heat regulation, special or modified systems have developed. These, in part, comprehend the desiral)ility of preventing a return of air to the system when there is a rapid condensation of the steam and therefore a tendency for a vacuum to occur within the radiators. When air is excluded, the condition of pressure within the system can l)e at times consideraldy below the pressure of the outside atmosphere and then the water in the boiler will boil at a temperature considerably below Sl'-i degrees. Then vaj^or will fill the system at a low temperature and in this way the temijeratiu'c of the radiator may be nuide to approach the tempera- ture of hot-water radiators. Other modified apparatus aim at the use of a valve on the supply end by a radiator, so that only the amount of steam may be delivered into the radiator as may be needed by the conditions. A detailed description of any of these s.ystems is impracticable in a book of this scope, and it is wise to ask the heating engineer or contractor for his advice and to take advantage of the ex- periences of the makers of such apparatus. Modifications of the orthodox hot-water heating system are not so numerous. There is apparatus, however, for allowing one to bring the temperature of water to a point above 21'-2 degrees in the radiator without causing boiling. In effect, such apparatus is an automatic relief set so that, should the boiler supply too nmch heat, the pressure attained by the water can l)e relie^-ed -tt ithout causing damage. It is obvious that with hot-water systems of tliis kind, the sizes of the radiators may be selected on the basis of the high temperature sometimes available and consequently the radiators may generally be smaller than would otherwise be the case. It is also claimed for these systems that owing to the higher temperature possible more rapid circulation is available, and smaller pipe sizes suffice. The sim- ple apphance accomplishing this modification has })een found especially valuable in rectifying existing systems '\\luch have been more <)r less failures. One manu- facturer conspicuous for the attention given to hot-water heating has also made a noteworthy radiator valve for use with hot-water radiators. It requires onlv 113 one end connection to the radiator, and a i)artial turn of the valve wheel handle suffices to open and close the valve. Nothing of the foregoing has had much to do Avith the sanitary side of the sub- ject, nor has it been stated what one system is j^re-eminently best. In practi- cally any case one of the three systems witli the modifications mentioned could be provided and give satisfactory performance. The one system which would per- haps be ill-advised in the extended house is the warm-air system, as it is not ad- visable to convey the air horizontally far from the furnace itself. There are cases, however, of the rambling type of houses so warmed, but here more than one furnace has been employed sometimes in tlitferent spots in the cellar. One interesting modification to warm-air heating, lending itself particularly to tlie large area house, is the use iii the main air supply pij)e of a small electric fan. This can be made to increase the heating capacity of the system in cold weather; to secure cjuick heating, say in the morning, and to assist such parts of the house as may be temporarily chilled by the action of high winds. No matter what system one provides, utmost care should be taken to prevent collection of dust. In an indirect system, like the furnace system or the steam or hot-water with indirect radiators in metal or other ducts, changes in direction should be accomijlished with curved surfaces and in general no place be left for pockets, unless these are ])rovided with openings to allow for cleaning. The floor register is bad as a dust receptacle, as well as for some otlier reasons. Besides harboring bacteria, dust is so largely made up of animal excreta that it is subject to decompo- sition with temperatiu-es obtaining in modern heating systems. It has come to be a firm belief of numerous investigators that it is the distillation, not necessarily the combustion or burning of dust, that forces us to seek methods of ventilation, and which gives to rooms the stuffiness complained of. The decomposition results in ammonia gases and traces of carbon monoxide, })ot]i highl}' poisonous to the human being, and sometimes in a complex organic compound known as acrolein. All of these are irritating to the mucous membranes of nose and throat and on that account tend to expose the body to one of the so-called inijnu-e-air diseases, — tuber- culosis, pneumonia, influenza and the like. This fact indicates the importance of excluding dust as much as possible from the house. It denumds care on our entry to the house, in carefully using the door mat; it renders wise the use of a filter for the air supply, and it puts a premium on an efficient dust-removing system, such as the popular vacuum cleaner. For filtering the air supi)ly in the average home, an arrangement which interposes minimum re- sistance to the ail- flow is necessary, and it is advisable to provide some large intake chamber i?! the cellar at the cold-air inlet to keej) the aii- as quiescent as possible and give the dust an opportunity to settle. Cheesecloth or similar material has also been used with success, but to avoid forcing the air to pass through the clieese- cloth the material has been stretched on frames, set so that the air must take a zigzag path and by rubbing over the surfaces allow the extending fibers to catch the dust. Tlie same cliarge against the existence of dust applies to the direct radiating system. It certainly ach'ises the use of the smoothest possible radiating surface. Then dust may collect with difficulty only. It demands where space is available the use of radiators set with the sections or loops of the radiators at sufficient dis- tances apart to leave each loop visible so that it can )>e readily cleanetl. Incident- ally, space permitting, tlie extended radiator is good, as it allows the cool air to get to the heated surfaces of the radiator in larger volume and thus carry ott' the heat rapidly. Finally, witii respect to the sanitary side of heating, it is probably wise to pro- vide for humidifying apparatus. Cold outside air contains, as a rule, none too much vapor or moisture. When it is warmed none is added to it unless arrange- 114 ments are made for the purpose. Tlie expansion of the air and the f^n-eater amount of water vapor which may exist as a gas in the atmosphere at the higher tempera- ture makes the indoor air extremely dry without provision for Juimi(Hfying. Phys- iologists are unanimous on the desirability of having the relative humidity oi the indoor atmosphere approach that of the outdoor air. With the indirect sys- tem water pans or arrangements for accelerating an evaporation of water in the air supply is an easj^ accomphshment. In direct systems, one promising arrange- ment is to provide a special air supply for the hall of the dwelling with an evap- orating pan supported in the air duct. Another detail which should be mentioned is the desii-al)ility of providing tem- perature-controlling apparatus. The American home is, as a rule, kej)t at too high a temperature. Without doul>t it is merely a matter of usage to accustom the body to a lower temperatiu'e tlian is now common in this country. There are numer- ous relatively inexpensive equipments arranged to open up and shut off the draughts in accordance with tlie temperature of some one of the important apartments of the house. Besides preventing overheating, which is apt to be overlooked by the inmates who are not aware until too late of the increasing temperature, they tend to bring about economy in preventing the waste due to excessive heating. During the past few years a new principle of coal burning, in which fuel is fed from below instead of thrown on the fire, has been ad^"anced as the greatest econ- omy in heating cost. Tliis method insures the burning of smoke and gases whicli so often escape up chinuieys and represent wasted money. It is illustrated on page 111. Types of Boiler made b.\- the Wm. H- Page Boiler Co., New York. 115 The New Combined Coal and Gas Ranges llhi^fniicfl hi/ Lcadinij Mcnnifactiirers greater step in recent years has been made to simplify and lighten the work in the kitchen than the invention of the C<)nil)ined Coal and Gas Cooking Range. A range of this description has many advantages and conveniences that are not found in the range using only one fuel. The origin of the Combined Coal and Gas Range came from the coal range manufacturers, who, appreciating the many advantages of cooking by gas and at the same time realizing the advantages that a coal range has, beset them- selves to make a range that would use both fuels. These ranges are made in a variety of styles according to the ideas of the different manufacturers. In some cases a separate gas range, consisting of a cook- ing surface or top, broiler, and oven, is attached to the end of the coal range. An- other style is what is termed the elevated attachment, in which the broiler and baking oven are mounted above the range, while the cooking surface is on a bracket at the end. Still another type is made with the elevated broiler and oven, while the cooking surface is so arranged that it can be swung down over the top of the coal range, and, when not in use, is swung back underneath the elevated broiler and oven. This latter style is desirable in kitchens where every bit of space is at a premium. Other combined coal and gas ranges have been manufactured with the gas burners in the coal range. These have never proved very satisfactory, as the soot and ashes from the coal fire interfere materially in the operation of the gas burners. The Combined Coal and Gas Ranges which are made by the coal range manu- facturers are, as a rule, very serviceal)le. They are really two ranges in one. and not a coal range with an auxiliary gas oven nor a gas range with coal attachment, but two comj)lete high grade ranges occupying the space of one. The advantages of a range in which coal and gas can l)e used as desired are many, among which may be mentioned: (1) The coal range will keep the kitchen and that portion of the house warm during the winter without additional cost. On cool days during the fall and spring, when the heater is not in operation, the coal range will take the chill off the entire house. The coal range will also heat the water in the kitchen boiler without additional exi)ense. The gas attachment is always ready for use. The gas attacliment insures a cool kitchen in the summer. Tlie gas attachment is economical, as fuel is only used as recjuired. With the gas range, there is no coal nor ashes to carry. There are, however, certain disadvantages which nuist be taken into con- sideration for those who use ouW a gas range. (1) There is no way of heating the kitchen with a gas range in the winter time. (3) The gas I'ange will not heat the kilclicn l)oiler. The second objection can be readily overcome by the instaUation of a gas tank heater for the kitchen boiler. These cost from $10 up, and will furnish large cjuan- (2) (3) (4) (5) 116 tities of hot water at a .small cost. In the winter time the coal range will heat the water in the kitchen l>oiler without additional cost. The all-gas ranges nuist be used in flats and apartment houses where the rooms are small and nc^ })ro\'ision is made for carrying coal and ashes up and down stairs. On the other hand, those who use l)oth coal and gas, i)ut have to make a choice be- tween them, invariably choose the coal range. This is good evidence that the coal range is in the long run more convenient and better adapted to general housework than the gas range. Those who have used a C\»m- bined Coal and Gas Range find them most satisfactory. Cooking, even under the most favorable conditions, is trying work; and, for the housewife who cannot afford the luxury of a maid, cooking over a hot stove is drudgery. The Ideal Stewart Kange with End Gas Attachment and High Warm- ing Closet. Manufactured by Fuller & Warren Co., Troy, N. Y. ^X^^i^ ■■■& *'""""' " Stewart Range with Elevated Gas Oven and Broiler and three-hole cook- ing surface. Manufactured by Fuller & Warren Co., Troy, N.Y. The Princes.^ Novelty Combination Range, made by the Abram Cox Stove Co., Philadelphia, Pa. This range requires no blacking. \r cv,' N^\ rm " \A uj • riixi' 117 The Combination Range of the Michigan Stove Worka, Detroit, Mich. The Buckwalter Co.'s Stove, manufactured at Kojersford, Pa. woman who has to cook three meals every day, winter and summer, de- serve.s more consideration than she usually receives. In the planning of a kitchen, it is, therefore, advisable to consider carefidly this important part which is so often neglected. The in- stallation of the most approved cook- ing apparatus will pay the extra cost many times over in satisfaction, com- fort, better cooking, and reduced ex- pense. In the selection of a range, the purchaser would do well to carefully consider the following points: (1) Do not buy a cheap range un- der any circumstances. It does not pay. (2) Do not be misled to believe that the smooth appearance of outside castings indicates a well-made range. Some manufacturers use a paint on outside castings that hides imperfec- tions and poor workmanship until there is a fire in the range. Examine the inside castings carefully. »See that the^' are smooth, well fitted, and all joints Thp"Astor" Combination Coal and Gas Range, made by the Union Stove Works, New York. The ovens for brnihng and baking are of the ordinary' pattern; but the attachment for broiling, when not in use, is placed out of the wa^" under- ncatti the ovens. When in use, it is lowered to the top of the coal range, thereby economizing much .space. The connections are all of solid iron pipe and no rubber tubing is used. 118 carefully cemented. See that the grate and castings that ccnne in contact with the fire are extra heavy. Also that the fire-brick fit well, there being no chance for leakage of air, which would impair the draft and seriously interfere with the opera- tion of the range. (3) Select a range with ample size firebox. Better results both in operati) In the selection of the gas attachment, be sui-e that you fully understand the location and operation of the oven and broiler. In some makes it is necessar\- A gas range with a coal-burning firebox to heat wtiter and kitchen and do top cooking in winter months. Gas water heater when df'sircd. 5Jade b\' the Roberts & Mander .Stove Co,. Pliil;id--lphia. Pa. Two stylea of the conibirjatii.n ranyc manufactured 1>_\- Sinitli A: Anilii 119 The Barstow Stove Company's Ranges, made at their works in Pro\ddence, R. I. Alariufactured by the Buckrs 8tove-Range Co.. St. Louis, Mo. to get down on oiie'.s hands and knees to see if the l)urners are hghted. Don't select a range where you have to stoop over constantly in baking and broiling. (7) See that there is some provision made for connecting the gas oven and broiler to smoke flue for ventilation. This is very important. (8) See that the biu'ners can be quickly and easily removed for cleaning. Many ovens and broilers are made so they can be dismoimted without removing any bolts. (9) Adjustable gas cocks are more of an advantage than the non-adjustable, as they can be adjusted exactly to suit the pressure, and thus attain the greatest economy. (10) Carefully note how the oven Ijurners are lighted. Sometimes, either through ignorance or carelessness, the oven becomes filled with gas, which is apt to cause a serious explosion. The better makes of ranges have some safety device for lighting ovens which removes any ol)jection of this kind. The manufacturers say that they believe this to be an answer to the demand that has been making itself felt for several years on the part of housewives who could not afford to run both a coal range and a gas range in the sunnner time and who yet did not want to dispense with either. The same is true of the use of both kinds of range in the winter, for it often happens that one wants to use either gas or coal for some particular purpose. It is not always possible to have a kitchen large enough to accommodate two individual ranges even if the housewife were able to afford })oth and this combination, there- foi-e, is not only a great convenience but also an economy. The \'arious numufacturers of these new ranges have been working faithfully for many years to perfect this arrangement and it is only recently that they could ])ut the result of their labors before the ])ublic. It may be imagined that in order to perfect a combination where})y these two fuels might l>e used in one range with- out danger, was somewhat of a problem. It is for this reason that the above instruc- tions or warnings have been tabidated, and the purchaser of these ranges should carefully follow them, for it is as with a refrigerator — the dont's count quite as much as anything else. The directions for keeping them in good condition are supplied by the manu- facturers in small booklels wliicli they will very gladly give to anyone who writes for them. The illustrations shown throughout this article represent the leading manu- facturers of this new labor-sa^'ing and space-saving invention. 120 Electricity in the Household Illuslni/nl hjj Lruiiinij Afiin ufac/i/rer.^ ITII the development uf electrical apparatus lor household use, especially such devices as are now a\'ailaljle for electric cooking and heating, the advantages of electricity are realized to-day in the well-equipped home — entirely a}>art hoin illu- mination, heretofore dominant in the popular mind. The many devices which we illustrate have entirely passed out of the experimental stage and are practical not only in efficiency but with regard to the element of current cost, which has heretofore been a stumbling-block to the use of electricity in domestic eccMiomy. While it is almost impossible to accurately define the cost of operating electric heating apj)aratus, since there are so many variables, it is nevertheless true that — if the standard devices shown are used with judgment — electric heat may usually be a]Ji)lied so that nearly if not (piite all of the heat generated is utilized in the work being done, and consequently the cost will be about the same as in other methods of cooking. While the cost for current varies with the locality, the majority of lighting companies are alive to the fact that many of I he electric cooking and heating devices are practical necessities in every well-appointed household and usually fix a moderate charge, and where all cooking is done by electricity a reasonalile special rate. After the wiring is installed — or rather while it is in process of installaticm — is the time to be sure one has sufficient outlets for the various uses to which elec- tricity is to be put for the comfort, convenience and decoration of the household. Plenty of outlets, even if they arc not to be made use of at the time of tiu-ning on the electricity, will ])rovide for the possible use of many devices which one will find absolutely necessary to happiness before many more months have passed, so substantial is the progress electrical devices are making each day. It is no longer necessary to tear walls and ceilings down, to take up carpets and hardwood floors, and to turn the household upside down with hul)bub and litter in order to introduce the wires. A clever process is emi:)loyed in i)lace of the old method, that of " fishing." The clever electrician " fishes " the wires up and down through the walls and in and out under floors, with no cutting of walls except where covered l)y fixtures, and with no taking up of floors except in attic and closet. Like all good servants, electricity can "turn its hand to anything." In the kitchen for all cooking or supplying hot water by the circulation water heater; in the butler's pantry for keeping meats and plates warm with the portable warmer or the built-in hot closet; in the dining or breakfast room for the individual chafiu"- 121 dish, coffee urn, tea ket- tle or dining-room set, toaster and waffle iron; in tlie bathroom, bed or dressing room, the water cup for the morning shave, the curHng-iron heater and of course the electric fan in all of these rooms; again in the bed- rooms the heating pad (which ne^'er cools off and cannot leak) foi- warmth and comfort, or in case of illness as a remedial agent, and the electric iron for ])ressing out the many little things that require attention. In the nursery the Elec- tric ]\Iilk Warmer evenly Cnfft r? perrolat'T. an d if^ unnornil\' warms baby's milk to the desired tem- ])erature — the same for all feedings at the turn of the switch — ^not heated un- evenly, coolest at top and hottest at the bottom, as is the case where heat is applied to the bottom of the container. In the laundry for ironing, washing, drying, and in fact every operation that belongs to this department of the household electricity does the work swiftly, silently and sanitarily. Of course the whole house may be heated by electricity through a system of radiators, but tliis is hardly connnercially practical now. Where the operating cost is too high for continuous service — under most conditions, for occasional de- mand the electric radiator is eccmomical and sn])plies heat in an ideal manner, especially in the chilly days of late Fall or the first cool days of S])rhig, when it is not cold enough for the stalioujiry winter heat su])2)ly, but still chilly and damp enough to make the bath, dressing and living rooms uncomfortal)le. Dming the early morning or late evening hours the electric radiator is just the thing to meet these conditions and in the ojx^u fire])lace makes quite an acceptable substitute for the old-time log fire — when fitted with luminous tubes. During the Spring and 122 The electric chafing dish for a quicli, liglit repast. Afternoon tea — just turn the switcli. 1 f ' I ( ! K In illness the heating pad kept hot b^' electricity The electric range. 128 Electric toaster. Milk bottle warmer. A srroup f>f electric utensils. Double boiler. i^ ENTERS WITHOUT .ROTATION CAP ONTAINS CDBD GRIP Attachmeat plug made by the Benja- min Electric Co., Chicago. Fall periods the electric radi- ator in the bathroom gives a '-''-' luxury at a not expen.sive ^ co.st for operatiiig, con.sidei'ing the time of .service. In fact, the ""^ room may be warmed for the morning bath at a co.st which .should not exceed 10 or 15 cent.s. Extending its field of usefulness, a .small electric radiator in the garage ])laced on the floor beneath the engine will prevent freezing in the coldest weather. Then again, the electric radiator is made in so many convenient forms that practically every wiiidow seat, nook or corner in the hall may be provided with a suitable radiator. In the dining-room the hostess may make her cotfee in a percolator or pot l)y simply attaching the coi-d and ])lug proA'ided to the lamj) socket. For afternoon tea there is the electric tea kettle and for the light luncheon or aftei- tlieatre "snack" the invaluable chafing dish, wliich when ojjerated by electricity adds new interest and zest to the party. The ease anti ra])idity with whic-h a light repast or even a fairly complete breakfast or huicheon juay be })repared on the dining table is one r, saute potatoes, etc., ;dl cooked without the accompanying annoyance of smoke and odor, and the line seems to be exj)anding. 124 In addition to the development of elec- tric appliances for preparation of food and the comfort of the home, the nse (jf electricity in decora- ting provides for the elaborate luncheon or formal dinner, cun- ningly devised centei- pieces representing baskets of flowers or fruit or wreaths and trailing ^'incs, flowci' laden, each rej)ro- duced in natural col- ors and glowing with tinj' concealed lights, which produce very altractive effects, esi)ecially at Chrislnias for lighting the tree. In considering the advantages of electricity from Mie standpoint of practical necessity, the laundry and kitchen are the departments of the household in wdiich it plays the most imj^ortant part, reducing the work in these vital departments to a minimum, while increasing the efficienc>' of the service staff in proportion to the absence of unhygienic and unconifoi'table working conditions. In the laundry the electric washing machine, whicli washes, wrings and does e\'erything but hang out the clothes — the electric di-ier, which tin-ns out the clothes ready for the iron, are all operated by simply attaching the plug and cord to the switch — the sih^nt servant of the household does the rest. The refinements of the electric iron, such as the cord suspension arm and the automatic stand, reduce the operating cost to a mininuuii so that the ordinary family laundry may be ironed for as little as 125 25 cents a week. Again, the possibilities of comfort such as ironing on the back porch in hot weather or in the kitchen on the hottest day without increase in the at- mospheric temperature re- duce the problem of domestic service by an appreciable degree. Clothes may also Ije dried on the electrical drier, which is a great boon in large families all the year round, and in small families in rainy and in winter weather when the drying out of doors is a difficult piece of work. Electric smoothing irons arc now such a fixture in most households where electricity is in use that they need very little introduction. There is no comparison between the speed and the safety of their use, with the old-fash- ioned irons. An even heat Curling iron. Portable radiat' The electric toaater at iht- breakfast table. Plate warmer. "American" Electric Upright Toaster, made by the American Electrical Heater Company, Detroit, Michigan. "American Beauty" Electric Iron, made by the .American Electrical Heater Company, Detroit, Michigan. Electric radiator. 12fi is maintained, with no changing of irons unless a different size, shape or weight is desired. There are so nianj' good makes on the market, each with its own chiim to special sei'vice, that it is merely a matter of personal selection. The only necessary fixture is a long flexit)le cord. For the use of tlie traveler, or of the dweller in an apartment or rooms where tliei'e is no place to heat an ordinary iron, the electric iron is a great con^'enience. Again, in the kitchen, electricity gives the mistress aiid servants alike domestic comfort which goes fai- to lighten the drudgery of household A\ork. The electric range does the work without changing the tem- perature of the room ; is always under control and in every one of its applications is efficient, convenient f 1^ ^ l| Electric oxrm aiii.l dish wurrrier. Ite) A broiler. Kgn; boiler. Electric toaster. An electric range. 127 Electric- Tea .SaiiiovEir. Brews deliEhtful tea right on the diniiig-rooiu table. No smoi- Milk Warmer. Heats the baby's food to the proper temperature in four minutes. Elertrie Fr>-ing Pan. The most convenient cooking utenwil any woman can own. Electrir Toaster-Stove. A perfect and practical tal)le stovf Broils, fries, boils, and toasts. Electric Coffee Percolator. Makes the most deUcious coffee. Electric Chafing Dish. Electrical operation adds th one necessary feature to the chafing dis)i — freedom from danger. Electric Fan. Household size. Runs for one cent a da\'. Small Power Motor. Will run any machine in the house. Sewing Macliine Motor. Tlie motor does all tlu-' work and makes sewing a pleasure. WESTINGHOUSE General Utility Motor. Has a dozen different uses in the home. ELECTRIC HOUSEHOLD DEVICES 128 and safe. While it is necessary to liave a low rate where all cooking' is done by electricity, say 5 cents per kilowatt hour fand this can be done undei- favorable conditions at even less), summer cooking and most of the meals can be ctjoked at a much higher rate withcnit excessive cost. The electric range brings together in convenient form all the necessary appli- ances for cooking by electricity. It has an oven, a jjroiler, a toaster, three or four separate heaters with the proper cooking utensils for them, including double boilers, blazers, A'cgetable or meat boilers and tea kettles. Any of the utensils can be used separately and are always ready at the turn of switch. Should all the appliances be in operation at one time, the electric heat is so closely confined that it will not ai)i)reeiably affect the temperature of a very small room. Switclies mounted on the front of the range control each ])iece of a])j)aratus so that each can be run separate or all together. One of the most important featui-es of the electric range is the clamping de- vice which locks the utensils firmly to the heater by a slight turn so that none of the heat is lost through poor contact. Another feature of the electric range is the adaptability of the heaters for many uses, such as making toast, keeping plates warm, etc. The three-heat control, giving current at full, medium or low heat, is an esijeeially desirable and economical featm-e. In fact, in the hands of a competent cook the saving by the proper use of this control will very materially decrease the cost of operation, since in many cases a very little current will perform the same amount of work while careless or incompetent use miglit waste twice or three times as much to achieve the same results. With the modern trend of living in the d(>i)artment house on the increase, one of the hardest prol)lems of housekeeping is solved with the electric range. When used as an auxiliary to any other method of supplying heat for cooking ])urposes, the number and variety of electric apj^liances is almost unlimited and cover practically every need in the kitchen. Small ovens, griddles, broilers, food warmers, waffle irons, tea kettles, and where a larger supply of toast is required than can be conveniently made on the table with the breakfast-room toaster, the hotel toaster (which combines the work of a toaster and griddle) — are all satisfac- tory. The combination saute pans, blazers and cereal cookers may be used either in the kitchen or on the serving table. Tlie illustrations sho\\' the range complete, while the smaller cuts show a number of articles that may be used separately. A dishwashing machine for use in the home where there is no maid is an espe- cial boon; for what woman likes to have unsightly hands which follow from the con- tinual use of water, and what man likes to be forced to look at hands in sucli a con- dition, when he knows they are re;dly soft and white.^ This interesting machine prcxluces its own boiling hot water, and washes and rinses with such assiduous care that the most particular housekeeper is charmed with the result. The hot water also dries the dishes, and there is no rulibing to be done, sa^-e perhaps an extra I)olish for the glasses. Of all the devices for l)oudoir or dressing-room which can be operated by elec- tricity, the electric curling-iron heater, attachal^le to the nearest lamp socket, is one of the most important adjuncts to feminine comfort. To the woman traveler the electric curling-iron heater is most important, and in any electric lighted home it is a necessity. There are fixtures in the rooms of the greatest hotels in this country as well as the more important steamship lines and all Pullman cars. The electric curling iron may be portable for the dressing table, or as are frequently installed in private residences as a wall fixture in the bed or dressing room operated auto- matically without waste and w'itli the use of very little current. Electric hair driers and massage brushes are i)art of the e(|uipment de toilette for the comfort of the modern woman. With the electric smoothing iron in dif- ferent sizes from the three pound traveler's iron upward, small things, such as 129 laces, jabots, shirt waists, as well as skirts and jackets, may be pressed without invading the precincts of the kitchen or laundry. These same irons may be slipped into the suit case or trunk and are of great convenience in removing the wrinkles and creases incident to travel. As almost every hotel is now equipped with electricity, it takes only a few moments to freshen shirt waists and dresses after being taken from trunks. ISO How to Get the Full Advantage from Electric Light in the Home liY (;. E. PALMER Jllllxiralcil lilj IIh- llnri MniniJiU-liir'tlKj Co. HE candle, oil laiiii), gas jet and electric li.ght all have cer- X/ '- T f v-L- NI ^^"^ advantages and clisaclvantages for use in the home, and ■/TT-i^ each may serve a ])articular purpose better than the others. A candle or oil lamp is easily carried about, and adds cozi- ness to the home, especially A\hen fitted with a pretty shade; tlie gas jet is serviceable in niany ways; but when it comes to tlie general illumination of the house, the electric lamp has one distinguishing advantage: you do not have to get at the lamp itself in order to light or extinguish it. You can turn on a light in the attic by a mere press of a button while sitting in your parlor, or you may light up all the passage-ways throughout the entire house by a similar touch of the button at the front entrance. It is this great convenience that has given the electric light the preference over all other illuminauts in this country, even where its use is more expensive. This convenience of distance control, however, is seldom utilized to anything like its full extent. Unfortunately, the laying out of the lighting of a residence or other building is very conmionly left to the last thing, and then taken up hurriedly as an unimportant detail. Gas or electric outlets are located here and there, more or less at random, and a few wall switches ])ut in, often in places that are inaccessible when the room is furnished. In the first ])lace, the placing of the outlets for electric lamps slioidd be vei'y carefully considered. An outlet costs Init little when the building is being put uj), but is an expensive thing to put in after the work has been finished. It costs noth- ing to have a lamp in ])lace, and the convenience of using it perhaps only a few times a year will amply re])ay the slight additional cost. Besides outlets for lamps there should also be a liberal sup])ly of receptacles for attaching flexible cords for portable lamps and other electric devices. Nothing is more awkward than to see a cord dangling from a chandelier or side bracket. There should be at least one, and preferably two or three such outlets in every bedroom, so that an electric fan or heating device can be attached at any time. These things are not only inexpensive luxuries in the way of comfort, but in case of sickness may be of almost vital consec(uence. When all the necessary outlets for the regular lighting and the plug receptacles have been provided, the next thing is to carefully study out a plan of switch control. A very convenient scheme is to arrange all of the halls and stairways on one ciix-uit with switches for its control at convenient i)oints on all floors, i.e., so that by operat- ing the switch on any floor the lights in all of the hallways can be turned on or oft'. It may be well to locate a controlling switch of this kind near the ))ed of the master of the house, so that in case of any suspicions that the house has been entered by burglars the halls can be at once lighted up without ex]:)osing its inhabitants to danger. All of the principal rooms shoiddbe provided witii wall switches, which areprefer- 131 aljly placed at the side of the entrance door. Reaching up to the cliandeher to turn a lamp on or off is wholly needless, and an e^'idence of out-of- date methods of electric wiring. All closets should be provided with electric lami)s on the ceiling controlled by a switch which tiuiis tlie lamp on when the door is opened and shuts it off when the door is closed. This avoids fumbling about in the dark, or the dangerous prac- tice of striking a nurtch or using a lighted candle. Like other apparatus, electric switches diff'er in (juality; they are not exempt from the temptatioTi to cheapen their construction in order to increase the profit of the maker or seller. x\lthough seemingly a small matter, a poorly nnrde switch may become a decided annoyance by faulty operation, or an exj)ense by re- SWITCHES, PLATES AND RECEFIVVCLES, MADE BY THE HART MANUEACTUR- ING CO., HARTFORD, CONN. FIuhIi switch with plate removed. Receptacles may be operated with one hand. The shutters automatical^" open when plug is inserted. This shows the completed connection. quiring replacement, or a possiljle source of fire by partially failing to operate. A switch should be of standard make of known reliability that can reasonably be expected to last as long as the building in which it is to be located. It is unsafe to leave the location and arrangement of the switches to the architect or electrician without going over the matter before con- struction is begun. There are so many details in the planning of a house that this one may be slighted unintentionally. The architect, of course, will l)e glad to specify any arrangement you desire, and will tell you how to secure the ar- rangements you want. The point is, not to let this item slip l\v without giving it due attention, as an electric switch properly placed will save many steps. 132 Of Telephone Systems for the Home NE would no sooner think of doing with- out a teleplione in these days of mod- ern expedients than withcjut a heating system. There is probal)ly no single form of modern con- venienee that has become as much of a necessity as has tel- ephone communication between the home and the outer world. In city, town, suburb, -spillage and the open country, connnunication by telephone once estab- lished in a neighborhood quickly attests its claims to convenience and necessity and even the most skeptical are ready converts, after a short introduction to its wonders — for wonders they are even to those who are constantly in touch with the telephone. The most recent extension of the telephone to household use is the Inter-phone system which provides i\)r comnumication between the different floors and the dif- ferent rooms, on a simple and feasible plan which brings every room in the house, if desired, in touch with a central j)oint or with every other room at a moment's notice. Every progressive housekeeper fortunate enough to be able to afford a telephone, by which she may communicate with the tradespeople at any minute, realizes what a blessing this servant of electricity has become to mankind. In cases of illness, in troubles of any kind, aid and friends are so easily summoned that fear seems almost a thing of the past. What telephone connnunication with the outside world is to the house, so is the Inter-phone system to the members of the household and to the proper, economical and comfortable running of a home. Business men sec readily the advantage of the intercommunicating system for the office or factory, and every householder and housekeeper can appreciate the comforts and advantages of the same system in the home. Every modern up- to-date residence will soon be provided with a system of Inter-phones, which will not only do awaj^ with the necessity of the unsanitary speaking tubes and the inadequate call l)uttons, but will also save valual)le time in the conduct of the household. The old-fashioned speaking tube is a breeding place for germs, is inconvenient, and provides only comnumication with one place, while the Inter- phone may be arranged to connect one room with any other. The call button, which has heretofore served to summon a servant, wastes time and strength, for with the aid of an Inter-phone the mistress may speak with the cook without sunnnon- ing her away from important work in the kitchen. Often the maid will be in her room when you wish her services, or to give an order. If an Inter-phone system is installed the communication may be had at once. x\n interconnnunicating tele- phone system is an excellent fire alarm too, which may be quickly rung in each room without traversing halls and stairs and wasting valuable time. In a household where no servant is kept, or where there is only one, it would be well to have a sta- ISSA This is a practical demonstntioii i impurtant uses of the Inter-phone s; nf one of the stem in the houic. It means that no matter where the house- wife is she can immediately communicate her wishes and orders to any other part of the house or to the stable or garage. Much time and annoyance are saved by this simple device which means the control of the house from boudoir or drawing-room. A full description of the many advantages of this Inter-phone system will be found in the accom- panying article and the page of illustrations showing tli phones will j^e found useful to those wishing to install .^U(■h a sj different tyyjos of Inter- WESTERN-ELECTRIC INTER-PHONES. imB No. 1325.^ — Type Inter-phone Semi-flush Metal Wall 8et. Selective ringing and talking. Capacity G to 12 .stations. No. 1.324, — ^Type Inter-phone Xon-Flush Metal Wall Set. Selective ringing and talking. Capacit\' G to 12 stations. ^ ^ No. GUIO. — Type Inter-phone Metal Desk Set. Se]ecti\"c ringing and talking. Capacity 6 to 24 stations. ^ ^'.^C '^^ .. No. 1327-A. — Tj'pe Inter-phone Code Ringing, Coninjon Talking. Capacity 2 to G stations. No. 1327-M. — Type Inter-phone Selective l-iinging, Common Talking. Capacity 3 to 9 stations. SOME REPRESENTATIVE TYPES OF AVESTERX-ELECTRIC IXTER-PHOXES. 132C tion installed in every hallway and also at the back door, so that tradesmen may be interviewed without the wasted time and energy of going down the stairs in the mid- dle of important upstairs work. An Inter-phone at the back door will also prove a great convenience on that ban of all housekeeping — "Thursdays out." An intercomnumicating system may be small or large, as desired. There may be only two rooms connected or there may be twentj'-four. A simple system arranged to accommotlate as many as six stations located in different rooms of the house or in outbuildings nearby may be put in, it is claimed, at an average cost of approximately $7.0(1 per slation. Inter-ph(jnes are purchased and owned outright, just the same as the lighting fixtures and plumbing fixtures. There is no monthly bill to be paid, no annual l)ill, no further expense save for the renewal of batteries which, it is said, amounts to little more than keeping a door bell in order. The "furniture" of the telephone may be secured to match any desired wood and therefore be in harmony with the other furnishings or the finishings of the room. It is customary to have the Later-phones finished to correspond with the finish of the hardware. They are no longer the inartistic clumsy boxes of the earlier days of the telephone, but are now a distinct addition to the niost perfectlj' arranged interior. It is possible to have them made in all kinds of wood and with silver mountings if desired. The intercommunicating telephones may be either conven- ient desk or table phones, or wall boxes, as desired. To install the system is a simple matter, but if the householder desires the best results it is advisable to have a regular electrician do the wiring. An Inter-phone system is always on duty — no operator required, as every station is a complete switchboard — just push the button of the station desired — and talk. 13€D The Many Uses of Gas By F P. KELSEY JH/i.^frafi/it })}j Liading MnnnjiicUirfrs ET us iiiiderstancl at the start tliat tlie use of all the ijas appli- auces illustrated in this article is absolutely practical. They are not toys or luxuries. As tlie key to comfort and happiness in the home, we start with the kitchen. The large number of kitchens with which a gas company has to do gives it a great deal of ex])erience as t<^ the best arrangement to effect economy and conA-enience. The recent tendency of architects in designing first- class homes has been tow-ard the buffet kitchen of compact de- sign, the idea being to save steps in \\ ork. Now, this is all very well if the desired appliances can be acconmiodated. Gas companies have found, however, that, pei- haps due to their own neglect, not enough room has l)een sjjecified for the newer labor-saving gas ranges that the public is now demanding. I ha^'e reference to what is known as the cabinet gas range, with ovens on the side. The j)osition of the ovens makes it possil)le for the housewife, or the cook, to carry on e\-ery cook- ing operation while standing erect, naturally and comfortaljly, instead of stcjoping. Now, it is not necessary for a kitchen to ])e large to aecommodale this and other labor-saving appliances, but it is reasonable for people to demand from their architects an arrangement -which will permit them to receive the best service for the money they expend. The tendency is more and more toward the "All Gas Kitchen." The demand, therefore, is not for space to accommodate Ijoth the gas range and the coal range, but for suitable room for the most desirable appliances. The cost of gas, the constant trend of which is downward, has reached the point where it is most economical for one to do all her cooking with this fuel, not to mention its convenience, cleanliness, exact adjustment of heat values, and so on. The average size cabinet gas range requires not less than 58 inches clearance for an installation. A space shoidd be left of at least this \\idth convenient to the flue, and a proper light should l)e provided in all cases. One of the illustrations accompanying this article gives a view of a kitchen which we believe to be ideal in proportion and arrangement. The very latest model of a gas range is illustrated. Tt is placed at the east end of the kitchen, whose greatest length is east and west. On the north side of the room is a glass- topped working table. Beneath the table top to one side is a tier of drawers. There is a good-sized window to the north, and a window to the west, as sliown in the' illustration. To the left of the table is a China cabinet, with leaded glass doors and a wealth of drawers in the lower section. In the southwest coi^rner 133 A kitchen in gas. The range is the "Stewart" made by the Fuller- Warren Co., Milwaukee, Wis is the sink, the whole top, including the drain board, being a single piece of mar- ble. To the left of this is a light work table, covered with spotless white oilcloth. The side walls are covered with Sanitas oilcloth, in Delft blue and white, and the ceiling is in plain white of the same material. Blue and white linoleum covers the floor. Cabinet and work tables are also in white enamel, as is the woodwork of the entire kitchen. I might mention also that the door panels in the gas range are white enamel. Perfect illumination is afforded by a Reflex inverted Welsbach lamp hung from a pendant in the middle of the kitchen, and equipped with a Holophane shade. A similar lamp hu)ig from a simple bracket over the sink, and a like one by the stove give perfect light for localized operations. A chain pull on these lamps makes matches unnecessary. Just as important as her kitchen furnisJiings, in the mind of the modern house- wife, is the equipment of her laundry. Numbers 3 and 4 illustrate the equipment in a very complete domestic laundry, in IMilwaukee. On the right of Number 1 is shown a gas-fired steam generator, which furnishes steam for the rotary tub illustrated in the same cut, as well as for other laundry purposes. Cut No. 3 shows the mangle and hand ironing board, where the irons are 134 he;it('(l by gas; and the .sta- tionary wash tub to which hot water is supplied through an automatic in- s l ;i u t a n e o u s gas w ater heater. Cut No. 2 shows an- other domestic laundry, in- cluding a laundry dryer, gas boiling stove and a gas mangle. An appliance not shown in this well-regulated laun- dry, although having a close relation to it, (being placed in the l:)asement) is the au- tomatic instantaneous gas (1) Washing by Gas water heater, Avhich fur- nishes hot water in any })art of the house, at the turn of the faucet — see next i)age. A person who is famil- iar with the working of this appliance, making use of tlie simple statement given above, does not realize how wonderful seems its operu- tion to one witnessing it for the first time. Imagine the astonish- ment of the novice to see a gas flame suddenly light when a faucet is tiu'iied, and when the flow of water is cut off by the faucet, to see the flame as suddenly vanish. He opens his eyes in astonishment, and then says: "Do you mean to say that that gas flame is con- trolled by the flow of wd- ter.f'" "Exactly that and more," is the reply. "The minute you turn on the faucet, you begin to get hot water; hot, mind you, not lukewarm — and when you tm-n off the faucet you cut off the supply and also cut off j'our consumption of gas." (2) Drying by Gas (3) Ironing by Gas 135 Nearly every home lias experienced sudden sickness at night, or other hap- penings which necessitated hot water. With the ap])liances ordinarily available, one finds it necessary to resort to the teakettle for water of the required tempera- ture. The automatic instantaneous water heater solves this problem simply and effectively. Where the housewife does not wish to stand the initial expense of a water heater of the autoniatic instantaneous tyjK', the circulating water heater, which may be installed for $1.'> and $'-20 com])lete, with vent i)ipe and connections to boiler, may be placed in tlie kitchen with most satisfactory results. The beauty of using gas for household purj)oses. is that the housewife not only gains the maxi- mum of convenience, but the minimum of expenditure for the resulting comfoT'ts. For instance, the gas iron, suited to the normal, domestic need consumes less than one cent's worth of gas an hom\ The iron is always hot, and al- ways there, without being lifted. The treatment tliat dainty lingerie gets from tlu- gas iron is eminently satisfactory. Then there arc any numl)er of small appliances made es- pecially for econom- ical use on the gas range. There is the gas waffle iron, made to fit over tlie gas range burner, which turns out the most de- licious waffles. Then there are tlie griddle cake })aker, bread toaster and sad iron heater. There is the nursery Iturner, wliicli can be slip])ed on any gas fixture in a balli- room or bedroom U>y hcathig milk for tlic baby at night. And nowhere is the convenience^ of gas more strikingly illustrated than in the little refinements in watiT hcator means hot water inntantlj' and oontinxiously throughout tin one is made by the Humphrey Co., Kalamazoo, Mioli. VM the home. Its immediate availa- l)iUty, cleanliness and steadiness of snpply, make il partienlarly attrac- tive to "my lady"" in eA'cniiif^' gown, for her percolator (jr chafing dish, after the theatre. The little urn burner illustrated solves a prol:)lem which has long been a puzzle to her, and that, too, at a cost which causes no worry when the bills come in. Gas mantle lamps, at a mini- nmm cost, give an excellent fjuality of light at a reasonable rate. The ]jroblem in the gas lighted home heretofore, has been to get artistic effects with convenience of opera- tion. The inverted gas lamp, com- bined with instantaneous lighting has solved this problem. Manufacturers of fixtm-es and artistic glassware have come to realize the i)ossibilities of the single Ironing by ga^ is ijiufh easiiT and cooler than the old way. ,..#;?'*•;■- ■1 A coffee percolator operated by gas. mantle inverted gas lamp and have striven to out-do each other in the attainment of artistic effects. The result has been highly gratifying. A great variety of effects have been ]>roduced, and three methods of in- stantaneous lighting ])erfected. The three methods mentioned are as follows: 1. By the new pneumatic sys- tem, artistically eqiupped lamps on the latest type of gas fixture may be lighted and extinguished from several different places by the simple touch of a button. An air- tight line of flexible tubing about a sixteenth of an inch in diameter con- nects the pump, which is operated by this button, to the lighter or to a group of lighters attached to the gas lamps. The pressure is transmit- ted pneumatically to the lighter and operates a gas cock, in the shape 1,S7 of a piston valve. When the flow of gas is released a tiny pilot light inside the mantle ignites it. 2. Electric ignition to take the place of the pilot light, is accomplished from a small dry battery in the centre of the fixture, and bids fair to be in general use shortly. 3. The Chain-Pull — By pulling a chain suspended from a fixture, the flow of gas is released in one or more lamps on a fixture, and ignition takes place from a small pilot light biu'ning in each. Perhaps in no other room in the house has efficient and artistic gas lighting been more highly developed than in the dining-room. One of the most recent combinations has been the inverted dome which consists of a single inverted Reflex gas lamp surrounded !\v an art glass bowl or dome, which softens and dift'uses the light and casts a general glow over the dining- room, of sufficient intensity, however, to ali'ord perfect illumination. Then there are the upright domes in \\'ide]y varying effects and in a wide range of prices. The inverted gas lamp lends itself Iti a particularly happy manner to the dressing of brackets. We have illustrated the latest appliances for gas in this article. One can see them in actual operation at the office of the local gas company in the large cities. 138 Acetylene— Artificial Sunlight— in the Home By HENRY I{. liERXARD OR ages the Imnuui race struggled against darkness, and its efforts to prolong the day by means of artificial light en- dured, unrewarded by any decisive victory, until modern times. History gives no record of the transition from the torch of resinous wood, which lessened for primitive man the gloom of cave or forest, to the l^eautiful bronze lamp fed by grease or oil. It does, however, furnish us with ample evidence of the later efforts toward production of better light — from the tallow candle to the Tungsten electric lamp — ^Init a recent achievement was the production artificially of actual siuilight — for such Acety- lene light seems. Not only is Acetylene thought to give the finest quality of light known to science, but it is a mcjst sanitary light, because the consumption of Oxygen, taken from the air of the room lighted by it, is less than that of any other exposed illuminant. Acetylene is also proven by insurance statistics to be as safe as any other illuminant. It is not poisonous, and therefore cannot asjjhyxiate. It burns with a clear, white, steady flame — without the slightest odor, and needs neither mantles nor chimneys. On account of the small amount passing through a Standard Burner it would take about a week for enough to escape from an open l:)urner into an ordinary sized room to form an explosive mixture of the air. Cleanliness is another important feature of Acetylene, and it is said that mural decorations, draperies, etc., do not suffer in rooms where it is used. A very important finishing touch in all home building and one which is often overlooked, is the selection of a proper illuminant. Whatever skill and care are exercised in the selection of color tones in decoration and furnishing by daylight counts for little if the eft'ect is destroyed by a poor quality of light in the evening. It is interesting to note the eft'ect of acetylene light upon color values. It seems to bring them out intensely and sharply and its effect would scarcely be credited by anyone who had not actuall}' observed it. The foregoing remarks on the benefit and virtues of Acetylene as an illuminant must not be taken as an o^er-emphatic recommendation. The ])oints we have made have been emphasized particularly because it is something so new as com- pared with the well-known properties of electricity, gas, oil, etc., that it must be very clearly explained in order to give it a fair place among the modern illu- minants for the home. To those, therefore, appreciating, and desiring to secure, the many and important advantages of up-to-date illumination, the brilliant acetylene light will appeal strongly. First — on account of its Quality, which is conceded to l)e superior to that of any other artificial illuminant; Second — because of its comparative Chea])ness; Third — because of its demonstrated Safety; and Fourth — because of the ease with which it can l)e automatically produced in any home, no matter where located. x\cetylene is a gas made by bringing together calcium carliide (commonly called "Carl)ide'") and water. Carbitle is simply lime and coke melted together 139 Interior View of Davis Acetylene Generator, njade by the Davis Acetylene Co., Elkhart, Ind. Kxterior View of Davis Acetylene Generator. at about 0,000° F. It I'e.scnihles little pebbles, and i.s quite a.s liannles.s to handle. It will keep in any eliniate. In order to luring the carbide in contact with water, .safely and automatically, .small machines have been invented called Acetylene Generators. These machines are about the size of a kitchen range, and those that have been examined, by the consulting engineers of the National Board of Fire Underwriters, are permitted to be installed in the basement of the house without increase in rate of insurance. Thi.s rule applies generally throughout the United States. The cost of Acetylene de])ends on the j)rice of carbide, which can be obtained at established depots at ccmvenient points all over the T'nited States. At mo.st depots the ]n-ice is i^3.75 per hundred-pound can. An idea of the cost of Acetylene can best be obtained by com])arison with the cost of other illuminants, in the following table: — KLKCTRK ITV (I'siiif;- I(!-<-anille-po\\rr I.miii]).s) At 10 rcnt.s per kw. •$! 0(1 f^ivr.s approxini;itel,\' 2,857 c.p. At 12 crnts per kw. .$1 00 Kiv<'s apjirdxiiiialely 2,286 c.p. At 1.5 eenls per kw. $] ()0 n'lvva a])i)ruximalely 1.905 c.p. CO.VL GAS OR WATER GA.S M a dollar per I Iioiis.-iiicl riil.ic f.-et *1 00 gives approximalely 4.O00 c.p. ACTT^iXKNE GAS A\ 4 cent.s per p,. 1111(1 I'nr Carl.i.le $1.00 gi\-es a.p]ir(ixiiuately (i.OOO e.p 140 From the above, it will readily he observed that the cost of Acetylene compares favoral)ly with that of other ilhiminants, and if the labor, cost of wicks, chimneys, etc., in the kerosene lamp are taken into consideration. Acetylene will also be fonnd to compare favorably with the cost of kerosene for liohtin^'. As the i)rincipal part of an Acetylene instaUation is the generator, it would be well to ()i)serve certain points in the selection of a ])r(jper j^enei'.itor, as there are, mifortunately, many inferior venerators offered for sale whose only atti'action is apparent low price. It is very easy, however, to distinguish a generator that is absolutely safe and economical; First — the Indirect system of "feeding" or dropping the carbide should be demanded for safety's sake, because, by this sys- tem only is prevented an accidental over-discharge (jf carbide. The said system is distinguished from the Direct system in that it does nf)t allow the carbide to drop directly from the "hopper" (carlnde-container) into the water below. The accompanying illustration shows the Indirect system of feeding. It will be ob- served that the carbide is allowed to come down onto a plate or disc — the snrface of which is parallel to that of the water below. The c-arbide is bound to remain (m this plate, except as the little pickers, or "displacers" (shown), are made to revolve slowly, when only one lump of carbide at a time is dropped into the water below. The moment the carbide strikes the water it decomposes, leaving lime ("whitewash") in the water, while the liberated acetylene gas rises into the "BelT' or gas reservoir, which floats in the water of the njjper tank. Xow, the rise and fall of the Hell, as the gas enters, or is taken out (by being consnmed by the bnrners), operates the "feeding" or dropping device shown. It will, therefore, be seen that there is jn'actically no gas in storage, and that it is automatically made only as it is consnmed and in the exact proi)ortion necessary to supply the number of lights Jictually l)urning. This is one of several good systems of Indirect "feeding. " The Direct system of "feeding" or dropping the carbide allows the carbide to drop directly from the hop])er (carbide-holder), into the water below, by the opening and closing of valves, doors, or gates, located in the bottom of the hopper, and o])erated by the rise and fall of the Bell or Gas Reservoir. It can be readily seen that should any of these devices become accidentally stuck and held o])en. the whole charge of carbide might run down into the water at one time — thus generating more gas than c-ould escape from the blow-otf pipe and ])robal)ly damag- ing the generator. E. Leavenworth Flliott. author of the chapter on " Lighting Fixtures" in this book, and a recogni/ed authority on Acetylene lighting, has already given his advice on the subject in " Country Life in America," ()ctol)er, 1907. ' He says:— "It is generally ccjnceded that those generators which drop the carbide into the water, instead of the water upon the carbide, and that have what is known as the Indirect-Feed, are to he jjreferred." Particular mention is made of the "feeding" or dropping de^'ice because that is the "heart" of a generator — the most important part and yet the part that is more or less defective in most generators. Second — the type of the generator which uses the lumj) carbide (large lumps a})out ^2 iiifh by 1^4 inch) should be selected in preference to the kind that uses the ^4 inch or smaller carbide, because the lumj) carbide costs no more than the smaller size and yet gives a greater yield of gas per pound, so that the lump-feed machine really makes the gas cheaper, and is therefore bound to be the cheapest generator in the long run. All standard makes of licensed generators are nownuuh- in the same sizes and sold at the same prices. The generator using the lump carbide gives 100 hours more lighting from each 100-pound can of carbide, without 141 one-cent additional cost. The National Board of Fire Underwriters have expressed themselves on this subject in their book of Rules and Regulations as follows: — "Rule 5: — In determining charges, lump carbide must be esti- mated as capable of producing 43^2 cubic feet of gas to the pound', commercial i^-inch carbide 4 cubic feet of gas to the pound." The principal carbide manufacturing company has expressed itself, before the International Acetylene Association, to the effect that there is a much larger yield of gas per pound from the lump size than from the l.f-inch size carbide. These are the principal requirements of a good generator, although there are a number of minor devices that appertain to convenience of installing, operating, etc. Beware, however, of the agent who exaggerates the importance of some minor parts, claiming advantages which either do not exist, or which, if they do exist, are comparatively unimportant. Acetylene is not only used for lighting purposes, but it can also be used successfully and economically for cooking and for heating small rooms. Acetylene ranges and stoves of any size are to be had at a comparatively loM- cost. Owing to misapprehension, relative to the efficiency of Acetylene for cooking, the following Acetylene R.ange. p: Smm..— .....II..... Ww.-j « ^ ^p, ^.^igH Acetylene Plate Warmer. Acet>-lene Heater. ACET\XENE APPLIANCES. 142 Sectional %'iew of a residenre showing simple method of concei^hng piping beneath the floors \\ithout disfiguring ceilings or wails. Piping m3.y be put in with ease after building is completed, although it can be more readily placed while in course of construction. In this illustration the generator is shown in the cellar, where it is usually placed. However, it may be placed in any other convenient location. results may be interesting, as they have l^een prepared by a leading Acetylene stove nranufacturer from many tests: Six eggs soft boiled, 1 pint eold water 4 minutes. Tea Biscuits 7 One and one-lialf quarts of eoffee from ". progress of the baking without in- terrupting her other work to open the door and allow heat to escape. The cabinet top of certain stoves is also a great convenience. There is a commodious top shelf on which plates and food can be kept warm, antl towel racks at either end. A little lower there are two drop shelves for pots or pans. These can be folded back when not in use. Sad- iron heaters are furnished with these stoves, consisting of iron plates fit- ting over the grates. While designed esjx'cially for sadiron heating, they are very valuable for all kinds of cooking where a well - distributed heat is desired — ^jiarticularly when using ^'essels with a small base. There are also specially designed broilers and toasters particidarly adapted for oil stoves, and these give excellent results in ct)oking. 148 There still remains inucli to be said as to their detailed advantages. One of the chief of these is the convenience and economy in actnal operation, an advantage which it shares with oil heaters. Where oil is used as fuel, practically ex'cry unit of heat generated is put to direct use. There is no waste of fuel. An oil-consuming device is giving full heat within a nu'nule of the time it is lighted. The individual l)urners of the oil stove allow you to get the limit of heat just in one corner of the stove, over one hole, without consuming an ounce of iuel in the rest of the range. With oil you can regulate the heat to a nicety — full strength of a mere streak of flame, exactly as desired — and any cook knows Ikjw greatly this al)s(jlute control over the heat helps her in her baking or broiling. You can stop the consumpticni of your oil, in an instant, by a turn of the fingers. The convenience and economy are equally noticeable when you get uj) in the morning. You have your oil stove ready for use in a minute. It has not been banked and burning all night, and it takes no time at all to l)e in its best working order. The problems involved in lighting a liouse are discussed elsewhere in this book, and of the value of oil as an illuminant it is enough to say here that no light is more i)leasing, mo]'e softly ditt'used, more easy to the eye, than that given by a well-constructed oil lamp. Opticians strongly reconunoid oil lamps where weak eyes are strained by the glare of sharper and stronger artificial lights, for the light from an oil lanij) conies nearest to i-esembling the natural light of day than any other. At the dinner table nothing gi^'es a prettier light — becoming to those who sit arouird it and enhancing the effect of dainty appointments — than tastefully shaded candles. Something should l)e said here, however, as to the cleanliness of oil, not merely as saving trouble and work, but in adding to the appearance alike of kitchen or parlor by keeiung fittings and furniture fresh-looking and unsoiled. Every house- keeper knows what a bane soot and ashes are. Try as she will, it is impossible to j)revent the dirt from flying in every direction, l^eyond the actnal labor involved in cleaning uj) and cleaning out ashes and in the extra dusting they necessitate, she is troubled to note how fast the ashes and soot are causing her rugs, her furni- ture, even her wall ])aj)er and ])ieture frames, to grow dingy and old. Oil is as clean as electricity when projx'rly handled, and it is altogether free from a tendency to tarnish silver. All the advantages of economy and convenience that have been noted in the case of an oil cook stove ai)])ly with eciual force to an oil water-heater. It is easy to light, gets up heat immediately, saves labor and is always ready for use. One good oil heater in the kitchen can supi)ly hot Axater throughout a house as effect- i-\'ely as any regular water-heater connected with a coal range. The oil heater for warming rooms i)roves a special convenience in the bath- room. There is one notable pcjint in which it diti'ers in o])eration from the oil cook stove. The heater is so constructed as to radiate the heat as strongly aiul as jvidehj as possible, instead of concentrating the heat at ]><>ints within itself, as the best oil cook stoves do. An unheatcnl bathroom is a chilly ])lace in {lie nights and mornings of fall and winter; the shock of exjiosurt on ste])ping out of a warm bath into cold air is jiositively dangerous, especially to children. An oil heater, set going a few minutes before the bathi'oom is to be used, soon brings the rocjin to a comfortable temjierature; and as soon as it is no longer needed in the bathroom it can easily be moved to any other part of the room. The same is true of every room in the house. Xotliing is easier than to have your bedroom comfortalily warmed before you get up. If you are addicted to the healthy habit of slee])ing with your windows open, you can get all the fresh air you want through the night and still get a warm room to dress in in the morning. The ease with which the heat can be regulated also makes it invaluable in the sick room. 149 where it is of prime importance to maintain an even, equable temperature. As with oil stoves or lamps, there is no excuse for an oil heater smoking. The best oil heaters are equipped with an automatic smokeless device, which makes it impossible to turn the wick up high enough to cause it to smoke, and extinguishes the flame when turned too low. The portability of the oil heater is a prime factor in its economical operation. It is so easy to take it from room to room, wherever heat is desired, and there is no waste of fuel in heating unoccupied rooms. In the "between- seasons" it is just what is wanted to take off a chill that is not sufficiently pro- nounced to call for the operation of a large furnace or similar house-heating appara- tus; and on the coldest tlay it gives that extra degree of warmth that may be needed to make everything absolutely snug and coz3^ To sum up, oil is invaluable as a fuel to those living in the country, either regularly or for a summer holiday or any longer part of the year, and it possesses advantages that must recommend it strongly to those living in the city to whom economy as well as a convenience is a consideration. Oil is undeniably cheap. Burned in a properly constructed heater it gives an abundant and diffused warmth; while in a well-made oil cook stove all the heat is so concentrated at the burners that the kitchen remains delightfully cool in sunnner. Types of Oil Lamps 150 Fireplaces and Mantels lUiislralcd hij Leading MaiutJadLircr.'i HE acme of comfort in building a house, is to many people eml^odied in the expression — "(rive me a fireplace anrl plenty of closet room." Ikit when one comes to j)lan a fireplace, immtxliately there flashes through the mind a generously wide and deep recess, like those of old colonial times, \\\\\\ perhaps an oven or two, and plenty of room in the chinmey corner for at least (jne rocking chair. It takes a genius to build a good open fire, and there is hardly one person in a thousand who will acknoA\ledge that another may l)e as cle^'er at it as he is. While this is ideal from an artistic standpoint, and large houses can perhaps accommodate large fireplaces, the practical value of a fire])lace does not by any means depend uj)on its artistic (jualities. An artistic fireplace, however, can be constructed on highly useful lines, just as many a useful fire])lace may be constructed on highly artistic lines. The main difficulty to be met in 1)uilding a fireplace is to make it "draw."' The old-fashioned chimney ])ossessed this ability, and the smoke went up the chimney instead of out into the room: it drew well, but in so doing gi-eat breezes swej)t through the rooms. This is i)erhaps an age of fresh air — but we like it in comfortable doses, not in draughts. It is certainly an age of heat in all forms; but with it all, nothing takes the place of the o])en fire — it is the magnet '\^•hich closes the family circle anfl keeps it intact. The skill of the modern manufactiu-er and the modern workman nuikes it possible for house builders to-day \o ])lan and to build as many fire])laces in a house as desired, with safe chinnieys which neither "draw" too well ncjr too poorly, but suit the size of the room and its location. A great colonial fireplace is far more suited to a summer home than to a winter one: for the all-year-roundhouse a moderate choice will be found to be by far the best investment in the end. A great roaring wood fire in a great colonial fireplace sounds the epitome of comfort; but to make the smoke go uj) the chinniey it is necessary to build a large flue, which will not cmly ventilate the room but the whole house as well. A big fire- place needs a great quantity of air, and the fii'e will feed its flames l)y drawing air into the room through every crack and crevice of the runclie.s of liou.se buildin;^, there have been many im2irovement.s in recent years in the Ijuilding of fireplaces th.at really heat as well as give an artistic tone to the room. There is no good reason why a fireplace shoidd smoke — a little knowledge of certain rules for the proportioning of the flue to the fireplace opening, and of the proper fashioning of the throat and smoke chamber, and a little care and honest work on the part of the builder, will produce a satisfactory fireplace that Avill be 152 Mantel of simple, dignified design by the Voss Mant.fJ Co., Louisville, Ky. ■""TTI- Frenf'h mantel made bv thf (irand Rapids Clock & Manti^l Co., Grand Kapids, Mich. m _■ !.-_ ^jJi'c'JiijaL.y\^:;-j the The _\iidirona made by tile Rathbone Fireplace Ml'g. Co., Grand Kapida, Mich. "joy f()l•e^'e^. a r c h i t e c t u r a 1 treatment of the fire- ])lace and mantel may he in various styles and is a matter for the taste and skill of the designer. In building a smokeless fireplace, the manufacturers ad- vise the use of a per- ])endicular flue, or one with a gradual slant; never a flue with short bends or cur^'cs, and an independent flue is recommended for ^.».„ .~.^^^-.^,„. .„ . _-.. — .^ -^-^-. ..„ _.^:^.„...,„:_,^__^. . ^.,^.^^1 each open fire. If a chinmey is designed to serve several fires, the flues should l)e so divided that each fire will have its separate draught. AVifh care no one ^wed have a smoky fireplace. The fireplaces built to-day vary from one foot nine inches in the width of the opening, to four feet eight inches; the most ])opular size, however, being from two to three feet. The width of the nuuitel depends upon tlie style, shape and height of the opening. It is a common fallacy shared by many architects as well as by laymen, that a great wide throat insures a good draught, whereas the reverse is triie. The narrowing of the throat tends to concentrate the heat of escaping smoke and gas, there})y accelerating their upward movements. Once they have passed this point, the form of the throat prevents their return, no nuxtfer how unfavora})le the weather conditions. The pocket formed just back of the top of the throat assists in preventing down-draughts from entering the throat. i 153 "^ — . — . J" 1 1 1 1 ll 1 1 1 1 T 1 1 __ L___ fetS^l-i ^^;:i f ^ 1 , , 1,1' T^=V=i, II 1 1 II 1 II 1 II ill ! 1 Ml \ ! pA\\\\\l 1 mmU'^'- 1 1 , J 1 1 HL 1 1 1 1 IT _-_^^ 1 1 1 1 1 1 -^ -T 1 1 1 1 1 i 111 r^ ^^^^ IV 1 1 \ 1 1 1 ^Sl- 11 i y P^Mt^^t^ L Z^A-^ ^ -^-^ "^^\ \^^- /%^ / / // \ \ \ \ ^ S^K '/ / / \ \ \ \ \ . \ \ -s y y / / f \ \ \ \ \ \ \ Splaj^ed jambs and a sloping back tend to throw the heat out hito the room, and are less stiff in appearance than square jambs and plumb backs. No fireplace should be less than fifteen inches deep; twenty inches is better, and for very large fireplaces twenty-four inches is not too deep; but more than that is un- necessary. In the construction of the back, which is the key to the whole fireplace, it Brick Fireplace designed and made by the Kreisler Brick Mfg. Co., New York, is inipoi'tant that it should not be drawn forward at all sharply, until well up toward the top of the fire- place opening, otherwise, even with an excellent draught, snaoke will strike the top of the opening. The throat, that part of the fireplace where it contracts just above the arch, is vitally important, for if this is not properly shaped there will be trouble in the form of smoke working its way out into the room, no mat- ter how good the draught may be. As before stated, it is advisable that the throat should l)e provided with a valve or damper to shut off down-draught, and control ventilation. When the outside at- mosphere is warmer tlian tlie inside, es])ecially in the warm months wlien the fireplace will not be in use, the air in the flue will drop, producing the down-di-aught and carry- ing with it particles of soot wiiich may damage Fireplace designed and made by the H. W. Covert Co., New York, Note construction for draught. A grate of attractive design made by the Rathbone Fireplace Mfg, Co., Grand Rapids, Mich. 154 carpets, rugs and furniture. Another cause of the down-drauglit is the rebound- ing currents of air from a sloping roof when the wind is from a certain direction. When the windows are kept open during the warm weather, fireplace venti- lation is not recjuired and the damper can be kept closed, effectually shutting off the down-draughts. In the cool months the down-draughts are not so likely to occur and the fireplace wiU j^rovide the best of ventilation, even if there is no fire. The throat in the old-fashioned fireplace was of masonry, but to-day we have also the cast-iron throat built into the chimney construction, which is said to secure the following advantages, while its cost is a saving on the time of the bricklayer. The iron is designed to form a strcjug lintel to supj)ort the masonry of the chimney above, presenting smooth surfaces at an easy angle, to lead the gases into the smoke chamber, protecting the woodwork of the mantel. An expert ad^'ises that the smoke chamber should not be larger than necessary and should be dr;iwn in at first toward the center of the chinmey, otherwise tlie fire will burn in a one-sided manner; then it can be drawn over to whichever side the flue must i:)ass up. The sides of the chamber should be reasonably smooth and all scjuare angles or shoulders avoided, reducing gradually in ai'ea until it connects with the flue. A large smoke chaml)er is to he avoided, as it will simply hold a large volume of comparatively cool air to retard the fltnv of the smoke and gases to the flue. A first-class flue is made not less than eight inches thick of brickwork, laid in cement mortar, surrounding the flue at all points; or set in a tile lining, sur- rounded with four inches of brickwork. If four inches of brickwork only can be obtained, because of lack of space or for any other reason, the tile lining is an al)solute necessity. In constructing your chinmey, lie sure that the top of it extentls about t^^o feet above the highest point of the house-top. The open wood fire on andirons, while most attractive in any room, is not always practicable: it is often wiser to provide a grate in which a warmer fire may be made of hard coal, peat, coke, soft coal, or gas. Dift'erent conditions in your house or locality will govern the selection of ty])e. Perhaps it will be desirable to install a fireplace that will heat other rooms than the one that contains it. In that case a special flue must be installed, and the grate that is selected l)e one of a type that is best calculated to serve the pur- pose for which it is designed. A flreplace which operates on the return-draught principle, the same as a stove or a furnace, is said to give good satisfaction, and to be a perfect ventilator. This type may be ])iped to any chinmey, and claims to preserve an even temperature at all times, both at the flooi' and elsewhere. Any flue is suited to this firei)lace, and the only attention rec[uired is occasional coaling, where coal is used, and the removal of ashes once a day. ]\Iachine-made wood mantels to-day represent great care in design and work- manship, and are found in the most elaborate houses. The more expensive hand- made mantels are beyond the average modern pocketbook, attractive as is their style. The proper finish of the wood in a mantel adds nuich to its efl'ectiveness. Often the wood is rubbed and polished only, sometimes a gloss or velvet finish is preferred, or a waxed surface. The finishing of the wood is usually done at the factory. With the brick mantel, a brick hearth and fire back are generally used, either one solid piece or laid with small bricks; and in addition to the smooth, plain bricks there are rough-surface bricks and various ornamental faces. The modern ornamental bricks are patterned after the most artistic Greek and Renaissance designs, often giving the appearance, when set in the mantel, of hand-carved woodwork. 155 Fireplace made of Tapestry Brick by Fisko & Co., New York. j: » Kovaquc Tile ia used in the construction of this Fireplace. It is manufactured by the Rochester Sewer Pipe Co., Rochester, N. Y. 156 Brick for fireplaces can be liad in pink, red, cream, ffray, brown and l)uff, in many sizes and with many artistic moulded designs which work in well as ornamentation for the i)lain-face brick when desired. The sight of a set of fire tools and a pair of andinjns always give a comtoi-l- able feelijig of warmth and delight. It is desirable to have harmony Ix^tween the tools and the andirons, if andirons are used, or with the tcjols and the fender and grate. Modern andirons are made in almost every conceivaljle shaj)e and in many sizes, with brass, cast and wi-ought iron faces. The main difference in the make of andirons is in the height and design of the face uprights. The bars which support the logs are usually of a size, unless re(|uired for a s])ecially hirge fireplace. Fire sets, consisting of tongs, shovel and poker, and oftentimes a hearth brush, are made in snch artistic designs that they are distinctly an ornament as well as a necessary group of tools. Heartli fenders, made of the same materials as andii'oiis and ilie fire tools, are made to-day in low and high designs, on strictly sim])]e lines as well as those entirely ornate. The high, closely built fender for protection of floor and carpet, is a very ditt'erent consti'uction from the piu'ely ornamental fender, which is low and nrerely used to outline the liearth. Portable fireplace fronts may be bought at any time to fit your fireplace if you desire to close it during the sunmier. .VTuHron l)askct grates are very useful in a fireplace which is designed for wood bm-jiing in the moderate weather, but where coal is desired diu-ing the winter. When through burning coal, the grate may be removed and the andirons snlistituted. The fireplace provides the best of ventilation for any room, as it takes the air from near the floor, producing a downward current of the sui)erheated air near the ceiling, thus tending to ec(ualize the temperature of the room. In these days of hygiene, this point is one which is well to remember in the construction of the sleeping room, as well as the living rooms. In siumner the windows aie open, and the lack of natural ventilation is not noticed. But in the cooler weather we are a})t to forget that freshness in the aii' is necessary to the making and the keeping of a strong constitution. With a grate fire the instructions regarding the remo^•al of coal ashes are opposite to those for the care of the o])en wood fire. In the open fireplace the wood ashes are left to accunudate from day to day, and the fire burns better for a good l)ed of ashes. In a coal grate, liowever, a thorough cleaning once a day is requi)-ed to preserve good burning finalities. A modern grate, in which satisfaction is })romised, has a cur^'ed and corrugated top, which reflects the heat into tlie room. The fire-pot being lined with fire tile to a height that will protect the back from live coals, gives one a sense of security. The tile may be renewed at any time. This grate may be set by any mason, antl it is claimed that where the chinmey itself is imperfect the donble-dranght-system grate tends to correct the })ad points of the chinmey. The gas grate of to-day is a very ditt'erent article from that installed when gas burning was first introduced — as a fire])lace ornament. The j^ei'fection of manufacture has resulted in a grate with which no one can find fault. Gas grates are of two varieties — those which reciuire a chimney or flue and those that require neither. The grate re(|uiring a flue is termed a multiple biu'nei': it has a per- forated face plate with cast-iron Itack to the burner; this gives a flame over the entire face. The back of the grate is lined with heavy asbestos board. The flueless and odorless gas grate has tlie same burner as the other, but is constructed differently on three ditt'erent plans: One has an asl)estos back and hot-air chamber around the fire, with asbestos board lining, which passes the heated air into the room through the register under the board. The second is the cast-iron imitation log; and the third the odorless terra-cotta log, both without 157 Wood and Tile Mantel, by \Vm. II. Jackson Co., 29 East 17th St., New York City an air cliamber. Odorless gas logs are constructed on the same principle as tlie gas grate. Tlie choice of a fireplace mantel requires more thought than it did a dozen years ago, because the materials and combination of materials have, in the hands of clever specialists, been perfected to such an extent that there is little to he desired in the way of artistic appearance, utility or convenience. To some people the fireplace built entirely of ornamental pressed brick or unglazed tile, with or without a wooden shelf, appeals strongly. Others prefer the mantel made entirely of wood, with only a. facing about the fire opening of lirick, tile or stone, and with or without the beveled mirror aliove the shelf. Others, especially where there ai'c stately rooms decorated in French style, prefer the im- ported marble mantel. The choice is merely a matter of taste, but it is well to 158 Mantel of Flemish design by Steul & Thuman, Buffalo, N. Y. 159 bear in inincl the general style of the room itself, in making a decision. The mantel is often the "making" of tlie entire room — it is nndoubtedly the most important of the stationary furnishings. As to the wooden mantels, the styles and finishes are so varied that a careful investigation is desirable l)efore a definite choice is made. Of course the jnantel wood should correspond willi the other wood trim of tlie room and tlie style of the mantel with its architecture. The rest is a matter of combination of the proper facing material and tlie proper metal trimmings. The average house builder will do Avell to consult carefully with the mamifacturer and with the archi- tect, and so be sin-e of thorough satisfaction. To use a tall mantel supported by Colonial pilasters, in a small new-style room, would be almost as certain to result in dissatisfaction as to use a mahogany mantel when the rcjom is finished in oak. Mantels and the ojjen firei)lace more surely and accurately reflect the artistic taste and personality of the occupant of a house, than almost any other single feature of its constiaiction or interi(jr embellishment. They constitute the key- note of the entire scheme of the decoration of a room, and u]5on the judgment shown in their selection and placement depends in a large measure the success of efforts to beautify the home, and give to it the charm of repose and culture. It is needless to consider here the hygienic value of the open fireplace, for it is ([uite well understood that there are no easier means by which proper ventilation can be secured. Experiments along this line show that the air can be withdrawn from a room and replaced with fresh oxygen two or three times an hour, pro])or- tionately to the size of the room to the size of the fireplace. This obtains when there is no fire, but the change of atmosi)here is vastly accelerated when there is a blaze on the andirons, or a bed of coals in the grate. Modern architects have come to recognize the value of the mantel and fireplace, and they almost never plan a dwelling of modest, or greater proportions, without including these architectural featmes. Architects of the Colonial period, obliged to depend on the open fireplaces to heat their sj)lendid mansions, soon awakened to a high appreciation of their great decorative value as well, and as a consequence, elaborated these features, with the result that the houses of the pre-Revolutionary i)eriod present an interior charin and splendor that is at once recognized, and to which the present generation owes much. So in these days, builders and designers have returned to an elaboration of the mantel, or to making it the central and most noteworthy feature of interior archi- tecture. Other methods of heating may have r(>l)bed the open fireplace of a jjart of its utility, but modern designers have not given us any substitute for it as a decorative feature, nor have sanitary experts provided means of ventilation com- ])aral)!e with it and its freedom from the fatal faults of creating draughts. How- ever, its mission in furnishing warmth has been but little curtailed in these days when we live warmer than in the })ast. In the northern half of this country there are, on an avei'age, not more than four months when fire indoors is not rec(uired. During four of the remaining uKuiths, the heat su])plied by the open fire is ade- ((uate to keep the temperature of the house at the comfort point, and during ]Kjrtions of the winter luonths, it is often a necessary, and always a cheery accessory to the regular winter heating plaut. In southern sections of the country it has an ecpially long term of ett'ective ser\'ice, by reason of its emi)loyment extending further into the winter. Coiiseciuently the need or use of an o])en fireplace is almost as great in oue section as another, and its use is general throughout the country. Combining all these good points, its practicability and adaptability with its undoubted poi)ularity, the open fire])lace is likely to endure for all time. In every house where there is an oi)en fire, it is the daily focal point of the family. However cheery may be the other portions of the home, the house- 160 fe^—.^^S* FIREPLACE AVOOD BASKETS AND BELLUAAS, BY E. BRADLEY ( L RRI1-:U CO., XE\A' YORK 161 hold and guests will group about the curling flame in unconscious compliment to its cheer, its charm, its cozincss. In the hall, library, dining-room or bedroom, it is equally grateful and small is the wonder that it is so popular, that in the larger American homes one is to be found in e^•ery room. To be sure, care and appreciation of fitness must be exercised in the selection of a mantel and fireplace, for the furniture and finishing and shape of the room must ))e considered, so that liarmonious results may be secured. Too much emphasis cannot be laid on this point, ])ut the matter of proper and fitting selec- tion is no longer difficult, for there are mnnberless designs to select from, and help- ful advice to guide in the cho(Jsing, when desired. ^Manufacturers, realizing the many problems of harmony that they would Ite called upon to solve, have busied themselves along that line and their ofi'erings seem equal to any exaction in de- sign, material, color, finish; in fact from every point of view. INIantels made of wood or metal, or designed in stone or brick or concrete, are obtainable immediately upon demand, at a moderate cost; the last word in mantels and fireplaces seems to have been spoken, for the designs are innumerable and their artistic qualities unquestionable. The grates for the burning of coal are almost endless in variety of design, and the same may be said of devices for using gas or electricity as the fuel. For the wood fire there are andirons or dogs arti. t'cally wrought; with such necessary fittings as tongs, shovel, poker, brush, fender, screen and willow basket or massive chests for fuel. If a grate is used, ornate scuttles are prominent as furnishing for the hearth. The work of the artist is shown in the design, and that of the skilled craftsman in the manufacture. Much talent and ingenuity have ])een expended in making the mantel and the open fireplace the most attractive feature of the modern house, as they were in the days of our ancestors; the hearthstone center of the fannly circle, the most charming, restful spot in the home. Our illustrations are taken from a numl)er of the most successful manufacturers and give a good idea of the wide range in which they may be had. Tile fireplilc'e, made liy the Rookwood Potterj' Co., Cincinnati, O. im Lighting Fixtures By E. LEAVENWORTH ELLIOTT Ilhidrati:d by Li'ading Manufacturers HERE is some difference of opinion as to whether lighting fixtnres are a part of the structure of a building, or a part of the furnishings. If the former view is sustained, then the design of the fixtures must harmonize with the architecture; if the latter view prevails, then the designs will harmonize with the furnishings. Perhaps the most satisfactory answer to this question is to accept l)oth views, but differentiate between classes of buildings. In public buildings, in which the arcliitectural features are of a distinct type which is sustained throughout the building, even to the interior dec- orations, the fixtures may be treated architecturally; but in residences, in which the architecture is naturally of a much more eclectic type, and where the decorations determine the character of the interior, the lighting fixtures may more properly be considered as furnishings. As to the cost of lighting fixtures, only general observations are possible. Tlie first and most obvious of such observations is, that in tlie vast majority of cases the money expended on this item is ridiculously inadequate, and out of all proportion to the other furnishings, and to the importance of the lighting fixtures in the decora- tive scheme of the home. It is l)y no means an uncommon occurrence to find a $10,000 or $1^2,000 house fitted up with a total expenditure of $75 for lighting fixtures. Of course, the incongruity is perfectly evident, but for some strange reason does not seem to impress itself upon the owners or occupants. At least 5 per cent of the total cost of a residence should be set apart for the lighting fixtures and 10 per cent or more could often lie expended to good advantage. Perhaps this neglect may be due to the fact that the lighting fixtures are the very last thing to be bought in the building of a house; and as the building expenses notoriously out- run the first estimates, it follows that l)y the time the lighting fixtures are reached the original apjiropriation has been used up, and a very considerable amount for "extras" added into the liargain. The way out of this dilemma is to consider the lighting of the house at the outset, for siu-ely there is nothing more important than that the home he well and cheerfully lighted. A matter to which special attention should be given where electric light is to be used is the location of the switches. The ability to turn a light on or oft' at any distant point is one of the great conveniences of modern illumination, and should be fully utilized. The slight additional cost of the wiring is a small matter compared with the convenience secured in having all the switches necessarv for the most 163 LIGHTING FIXTL'KES BY 11IK WKLSBACH CO . GLOUCESTER, N. J. 164 convenient aiTan,( the hest ((iialily ohtainahle. Outlets in the })asel)oard should be provided for su])plyin,y ])ortable ]anii)s wherever there is any p<)ssil)ility of their bein.i^- needed. These outlets should be of such a design tliat children cannot get to the electrical contacts. Switches are obtainable Avhich opei-ate by the opening and shntting (jf a docjr, and these sJKjuld l)e used in connection with all liglits in closets. In general, any light may be operated from any point in the house. It is only a (|uestion of deciding what arrangement is most convenient and liaving it specified by the ai'chitect. Lighting fixtures may pro])erly ))e considered as either art metal or art glass, or a comliimition of lx)th. In most cases they have a, distinctly utilitarian purjKXse to which tlie artistic or decorative features are subsidiary and incidental, practi- cally the only exee])tion to tliis statement being the small number of table lamps and candelabra that may more properly be classed with luminous decorations. It is a generally accepted princii)le of decorative ai't that the decoration nurst not interfere with the use of the article to which it is a])plied. There is pro})ably no article of house furnishing which so frequently trans- gresses the principles of decorative, or api)lied art, as the lighting fixture. For this unfortunate condition of things the householder himself is principally to blame. The fixture manufacturer is an artisan in metal, in connection with which a certain amount of art glass is used. His own conunercial interests dic- tate the use of as large an amount of metal as possible. The results of this com- mercial motive are eveiy where apparent in the excessive metal work of lighting fixtures, and the too fre(|uent neglect to provide adequate means of illumination. The professional decorator has aided and abetted this miscarriage of art by con- sidering the lighting fixtures oidy as ])ieces of furniture. The fact must never be lost sight of that a lighting fixture is first of all a piece of meclianism, and nothing may be added which will either interfere with its proper use or which is not really or ostensibly an integral part (jf the mechanical construction. It will perhajjs be most convenient to consider all furnisliing as "jjeriod," in which case we maj' classify the "periods" into historic and modern. The ])ro- fessional decorator distinguishes some tliirty or forty historic "i)eriods," Init this is drawing the line much finer than the average householder will ordinarily care to go. Neither Athens, nor Rome, nor !Media?val Euroi)e, nor France a century ago had anything beyond the candle for j)m'poses of artificial lighting. The ({uestion is, how is the modern electric or gas lamp to be harmonized with a scheme of decorative art copied more or less completely from the days before its existence? Truth is generally suj^posed to be a prime element in art of any kind, and hence any imitations that are physical or mechanical lies nuist be "bad art." Simulation is adnussible, and in fact is fundamental in decorative art: but this is as different from imitation as compliment is from flattery. How can modern light -sources be used witli liistoric furnishings without com- mitting an anachronism? A method of illumination which takes the dilemma by both horns is the so-called "indirect lighting." In tliis system the lamps them- selves are entirely hidden by oj^aque reflectors which direct the light to the ceiling, from which it is reflected ditt'irsively throughout the room. Tlie reflectors them- selves are generally concealed in a decorative casing. This method of illumi- nation has come into nuich favorable notice recently, and i^ossesses many virtues. It is exceedingly soft and agreeable to the eyes, does not cast hard shadows and entirely conceals the lamps while not concealing the source of illumination, for a fixture of this kind suggests a large vase overflowing with liglit. The decorative casing may be made of metal fashioned accortling to the motives of any particular period, like the other furnishings, or it may be made of stucco harmonizing with the architectin-e, with which it will form a ^'isible 2)art. Fixtures of this type are 165 Examples of Witll Brackets and Ceiling Lights executed bv The Tiffany' Studios, Madison Avenue and Fortv-fiflh Street, New York City. arranged with several lamps connected with a self-contained switch operated with a chain, so that any nnniber of lamps may be tnrned on or off. The room may thus l)e left in a soft, dim light, in case no particidar eye work is reciuired, or illuminated with any desired degree of brilliancy. I'lain, tinted opalescent glass is sometimes usefid where it is desired to give a warm tone to the illumination, or to harmonize with a particular color scheme in furnishing. Of course, such globes absorb a considerable ])ortion of the light, which must })e allowed for in ])roA'iding the light-sources. Richly colored trans- lucent glass, similar to that used in stained glass windows and assembled in the same manner, is a favorite method of pi-oducing large domes or shades. Such pieces are necessarily expensive, but are works of art in themselves. Colored shades are to be had in a great variety of effects, and if used with a proper consideration of color combinations are capal)le of jn'oducing tieautiful residts. They are often a practical means of introducing the touch of lirilliant coloring which relieves and sets off an entire decorati^'e scheme. The excinisite creations of Titfany, known as Favrile glass, are in themselves olijects of art and while the general im])ression is that they aiv too expensive for ordinary use, this is, in fact, not true. There is also anolher glass which lias manj' of the same characteristics and which is known to the trade by the name of Iris, shown on the opposite page. This glass has a beautiftd iridescent lining which gives a pleasing effect when lighted. It is also said to be very moderately priced. The translucent glass known as "Alba" has somewhat the appearance of the 166 gem known as moonstone, bnt is slightly more opacjne and rcsemliles very closc'ly pnre white onyx or ahihaster. We shall probably be within the limits of ordinary knowleilge of the subjt-ct if we divide the hislorie periods in hxtures aecording t(^ eounlries, as folhjws: Classic, English, DnLch, French, and Colonial, and the modern into Art Xonveau, Mission, and Arts and Crafts. In lighting hxtnres intended to represent the Classic period the more conspicu- ons elements of classic ai'chiteetm'e, such as the capitals and colunnis of the \ai'ious orders, the egg-and-dart moulding, and the laurel or oak wreath ai'c utilized, while the torch and the ancient oil lamp are sinudated or imilated. The English period includes a ^'ariety of motiA^es in'S'olving the charactei'istics of early English architecture and furnishings. The imitaticju of hammered and hand-wrought metal, either copper (jr iron, sel•^'es as a basis for a class of fixture designs wdiicli are effective in rooms in which there is a large use of wood paneling. Such fixtures are Mediar'val in sj)irit, and are necessarily strong ajid rugged, even to the extent of massiveness, and are therefore unsuited to smaller rooms. The anachronism of the electric lamp is often hidden by enclosing it in a lantern-like globe having ])anes of stained glass or roughened mica. All such globes are very highly absorptive of light, and hence such fixtures nvv inefficient from tlie illumi- nating point. Where they are used, therefore, this fact nuist be taken into consid- eration, and a sufficient numl)er of lamps used to produce the desired brilliancy. The old baronial halls of England furnished motives for a quite diffeient type of decorative treatment. In these generally there was a lavish use of oak carving which was worked out in a masterly manner, with deep under-cuttings ;ind bold relief. The architecture of these halls was of the English (iothic in which the characteristic pointed arch was so flattened as to ado])t it to domestic use. The use of heraldic designs in the form of shields and armor was also a distinct char- acteristic of this period. Lighting fixtures carrying out these motives are to be found, and are especially effective in dining-rooms and libraries finished in a more or less close rei)roduction of the baronial furnishings. Another fruitful source of motive for fixture design is found in the celel)rated wares produced by the Sheffield silversmiths. This is particularly available since there is a closer analogy between such metal work and the metal work of lighting fixtures. Designs of this character, particularly in the glassware used with fixtures, have come into such ])0])ularity that the term has come to be used a})out as loosely as Queen Ann in architecture; anything exhibiting an alternation of large and small ribs being classed as Sheffield. This, however, does not i)re\-enl the production of highly artistic pieces from these motives, as the illusti-ations given will amply prove. Thjce pieces of " Iria " Glass made by the Fcstoria Glass Specialty Company, Fosturia, Ohio. ' Iris " is a remarkable combination of artistic distinction and illuminating ofEciency. There is an interior linin" of iridescent glaze that reflects the light. 167 The division classed as Dutch is generally distinguished by the use of forms produced on the turner's lathe, little superficial decoration being used. Brass candlesticks and andirons of Dutch origin furnished the general motives for this stjde of decorati^'e treatment. The finish given the metal in this case is also one of the most characteristic features, being what is known to jnetal workers as brushed brass, and in decorative art as Flemish. The surface is not brought to a ])erfect ])olish, l)ut is left A\ith the fine marks of emery paper, or the scratch brush, and lacc(uered to a slight greenish color. The Dutch dining-room has become a very popular feature, especially in that architectural class of dwellings known as fiats, and fixtures of this type are of coarse the preferred type in such cases. Colonial architecture has enjoyed special favor in this country for the past decade, which shows little signs of waning. As Colonial America was settled by three different nations, the English, Dutch, and French, it woidd naturally follow that the architecture and furnishings of these three countries at that time should have a large influence upon tlie architecture and furnishings of the colonists. The English Puritan influence ])revailed in New England, the Dutch in New' York and surrounding territory, and the English Cavalier in the South. New England colonial architectm-e was more purely classical and severe, as reflecting the sterner P)u-itan character, while the English Colonial reflected more of the gaiety and light- ness resulting from the French influence on the Jiighcr caste English; tlie Dutch introduced the habits and furnishings of their native land. Where any of these three types are followed closely in the general architecture, the furnishings and fixtures will naturally be differentiated. Thus, in the New Paigland Colonial, the elements of classic Creek architecture are frequently found as motives. Candles and lamps })eing the two illumiuants used in Colonial days, they are largely simulated in electric and gas fixtures. Where this is done with the electric light care nuist be taken to prevent too obvious anachronisms. The ordinary electric lamj) bulb, or what is more frequently used, the round bulb electric lamp, has no similarity whatever to the candle flame, and is therefore wholly out of place on imitation candles. Small electric lamps with special bulbs are made for this very purpose, and can be had from the dealers. These should always be used where the candle effect is desired. Perhajjs the better way is to provide the candle with a small shade which covers the electric lamp. The oil lamp, fitted with an ornamental glass shade and decorated with glass prisms, is a i)articularly pleasing piece of art, and has heen largely used in fixture design. Where it is desired to give a distinct Dutch effect, the motives previously mentioned can l)e utilized. In the Southern Colonial the more florid decorations characteristic of the French are found. The classic wreath, livened up with French taste, the flower basket, and other devices having a decidedly French flavor are to be found in lighting fixtures of Colonial times, and in the present day reproductions. In a vague way all of the motives enumerated are utilized in what are termed "Colonial" fixtures; and so long as it is not the intention to adhere strictly to any of these types, such fixtures are entirely permissible. A type of architecture and furnishing, which is the very antithesis of the French schools in its austere simplicity, has been derived from the old Spanish missions of the Pacific Coast. The design of the furniture is the result of the enforced freedom from all ornamentation due to ])i()ueer life. With the exception of the imitation candle using an ordinary gas jet, all kinds of lamps should be surrounded with some sort of glass shade or globe to diffuse the rays and remove the glare. Illuminating glassware is no longer a mere decorative accessory but an essential part of the lighting fixture. All modern light-sources are entirely too brilliant to be directly viewefl l)y the eye. Serious consequences may result from a neglect to recognize this fact. 168 \is^ — ii^-''. ^:'WyW The function of Hnlophane Rofloctors, niadi- by the Holophane Co., of Ni-wark. (Ihio, i.s priuiaril\- to redirect in a useful plane the light wliich ordinarily is wasted on -walls and ceiling. Tiiis means aftual eeonomj- in light. There are reflectors to harmonize \Aith practically any style of fixture. (ilohe.s and sliade.s may be orcelaiii." Third: prismatic glass. Fonrth: colored, or art glass. The first of these classes includes an almost infinite nund)er of shapes and de- signs, varying in price from neai'lj" the cheapest to fairly exj^ensive. The frosting is of two kinds, that of a coarser grain done by sand blasting, and a fine grain wliicli is the result of acid etching. The latter absorlis somewhat more light than the fornrer. This second class includes the plain white globes and shades so commonly used for softening and diffusing light, for which ]iurpose they excel all others. Glass of this kind also forms the basis of many of the large hand-painted globes. A less dense glass generally known as "opalescent" is aliout equally common. Plain opal or opalescent glass has little decorative value but is decicledly useful as a method of preventing glare. Under third class are included glol)es and reflectors made of clear glass with prisms scientifically designed for distributing and diffusing the light. Globes and reflectors of this kind are very efficient, and possess the brilliancy and sparkle of cut glass, which gives them an artistic value. Prismatic glass nuist be carefullv distinguished from the connnon pressed globes with indiscriminate ribbings. So nuich effort has been expended since the introduction of the electric li"ht 169 on tlie develcjpment of eleclric fixtures that the gas fixture has been negleeted. Gas ligiit, liowevei-, lias fairly kei)t pjice in improvement with electric lighting, and in the great majorit}'' of cases quite as artistic fixtures are obtainable for gas as for the electric light. The latest and most improved form of gas lam]3 is kncjwn as the inverted })urner, which is the familiar Welsbach burner arranged for use in an in- verted position, /. ('., with the mantle below the flame. This ])erniits of certain forms of artistic treatment that were imjxjssible with the original form of burner. In addition lo the more artistic design of fixture, the modern gas lamp does away with the one annoyance of this form of light, namely, the use of matches. By a simple device known as a "by-])ass," or "pilot light" the light is turned on by a slight pull of a chain, and extinguished in the same manner. The pilot flame is a tiny gas jet which is left burning continuously, and serves as a lighter for the regular gas biu'ner when the gas is turned on. The amount of gas consumed by a pilot light is so snudl as to make no api)reciable dift'erence in the tc^tal cost. Of designs of i)ortable lamps there is simply no end, and one may gratify any fancy within the limits of his purse. Where the j^ortable lamp is used as a practical lighting unit, and not merely as a decoration, care must be taken to select a shade that will give a sufficiently large illuminated space beneath. Many of the decora- tive shades sliown have l)een designed solely as objects of art in themselves, and are so contracted at the bottom as to give oidy a very limited area of light. A s])ecial lamp has recently been designed for use with the new tungsten himp which has a simple device for "turning down" the light, /. e., of reducing its ])rilliancy. This is a desirable imjnovement, as it fref|uently hap})ens that such a lamp is used for reading for a portion of the evening, and for the general illumination of the room afterward; and in the latter case a less brilliant light is often ])leasanter. Table lamps offer greater possibilities for purely decorative treatment than the regular fixtures, for the reason that they are always seen at close range, and a greater variety of materials is availal)le for their construction. The lamp must plainly declare its purpose, i.e., the ])ase must show that it is designed to support a lamp. To attach a lamp bo\\l to the head of ^Minerva, or the effigy of any lesser personage, is taking unwarranted li})erties with the sculptor's art. Very artistic and ])i'actical lamp l>ases are now made of art pottery, a type of artisanship in which the American is rapidly coming to the front; in fact, some of the very recent lamps shown, in which the shade as well as the l)owl is of pottery, are fin- ished with glazes that have hei'etofore been only seen on Chinese antic|ues of almost priceless value, since the art of making them has been lost even in the land of their origin. Some " FuiprT " Putterj- Lamps in the exquisite Vuse-Kr;ift liich fire Glazes and showing beautiful colors, shadings, tones and le.xtures 170 A nuinl^er of years a^o a new school of decorative art spruiif^- up which called itself simply the "New Art," or 'Mr/ NouvcaiiS^ the P'reuch equivalent, which has become the internationally acceptetl term. This school is a reaction against the copies of historic art that have so long prevailed. AMiile they claim to be altso- lutely untranimeled and eclectic in their motives, the designs thus far developed have all shown a certain similarity in s])irit. The key-note of this spirit is lack of conventionality, the graceful curves and forms found iii nature being reproduced in their natural ccmdition without being mutilated or stiffened up in order t(j con- ventionalize them. This school of design has gained a very large degree of ])ojni- larity in Europe, ))ut has made comparatively little headway in this country as yet, excejit, i)erhaps, in jewelry designs, which are imported. To what extent it will be adopted in America is yet to l)e determined, and will doubtless depend upon the (jriginality and ability of the decorative artists that take up this new school. ^Vry few American manufacturers show designs in Art Nouveau fixtures, although there are a few examples which show that they have not been entirely oblivious of the movement. Such fixtures may be used in rooms of neutral architecture, such as those in the majority of flats and apartments, where the arrangement is simple. A new form of fixture, in which all the lamps can be turned on by the pull of a single chain, is sold under the trade name of "lieflexolier.'" This fixture is made in a large variety of designs at reasonable j^rices. It is also to be had with an electric attachment, using a single dry battery enclosed within the fixture itself, by which the light can be turned on and oft" by pressing a button, as in the case of an electric light. The Imtton can be either located at the fixtiu'c, or at any pf)int on the wall. The combination fixture, using both gas and electric liglit, is still nnich in use, and rightly so; and when designed for use with the inverted gas l;nnp ]>articularly harmonious designs are obtainable. ^lantles giving a warm, amber-colored light are now to be had. Two s])ecial classes of lighting fixture which deserve mention are the "dome" aiul the portable lamp. The dome is a single shade with one or more lamps imder- neath, and has come into 'S'erj' wide use as a dining-room fixture. The chief decora- tive feature is conunonly the shade, which is most frequently of leaded or art glass. [Many of the dome fixtures are very wasteful of fight, being often provided with a cluster of from three to six electric lamps. In selecting a fixture of this type at the present time care should be taken to see that it is so arranged as to take a single lamp, and that it has a separate reflector of either opal or ])rismatic glass over this lamp within the dome. A single tungsten lamp is then the proper illuminant, or where gas is used, a single inverted burner. Prismatic reflectors are also serviceable for use in coimection with the more purely decorative shades. They reflect a large portion of the light, increasing the illumination below where it is generally most useful, and still allow enougli to pass through to show the color or character of translucent media, such as stained or colored glass, of silk. The designs specially intended for residence use are also decorative in themselves, as well as efficient. Electric lamps have been greatl.y improved within the past few years in point of efficiency. The new lanii:)s have metal filaments instead of the carbon filament of the older type, and give from two to three times as nuicli light for a given amount of electric ciu'rent. AVhile the lanii)s themselves are somewhat more expensive the ditt'erence in cost is much more than made up in the saving of cur- rent. These lamps are generally spoken of as "tungsten" lamps. The lamps are furnished in larger sizes, i.e., in higher candle-powers, than the carljon lamp, the smallest size made for ordinary use being that rated at '■2.5 watts, which gives about '•20 candle-power. The lighting companies furnish these lamps instead of the 171 ordinary carbon lamp when requested, with some additional charge to cover the difference in cost. There is a style of fixture which was developed to a high state of perfection in the time of the Louis' that has held its popularity more continuously than any other single tyi)e. This is the fixture depending almost entirely ui)on cut-glass prisms and jewels for its decoration — the ''lustre'' of old times. The large measure of popularity accorded this type of fixture is undoubtedly due to both its inherent beauty and its adaptabiliLy to all styles of ai'chitecture and furnishing. There is much to l)e said in favor of glass as a material for lighting fixtures. The chief of its advantages is its transparency. While the metal fixtui'e may show all of its decora- tive features properly by daylight, it vei-y l're(|uently happens that, when lighted by its own ilhunination, the effect of the ornamentation is entirely lost in shadows and distorted high lights. Polished crystal glass is a thing of beauty under any illumination, and this beauty is enormously heightened when the glass scintillates with the })rilliancy of reflections and the ]:»lay of prismatic colors. Fine old lustres can occasionally be picked up from the house wreckers and junk dealers. The art of glass making has made great progress, especially in America, during the past twenty-five years, and beautiful glass candelal>ra of domestic manufacture can now he had very reascmably. The lustre, or glass fixture, however, is still imported, and is to l)e had in exceedini>lv beautiful forms. A (T^-.stal chandelier, decorative and liriHiant, made b\' Siegman & Weil, New York, 172 Labor-Saving Devices HELKX LOUISK .JOHNSON Illil.-:lralr,l //// fA'diliinj Man iifarl lire ()T long a.yo a statement was made by a man connected with the Lil)rai'\' of Congress, one closely conversant with the pror with a machine until he has proved that the device will produce a greater (juantity or better quality in a given time. Thus it follows that there are many points to consider l)efore the housewife or home economics teacher can determine the value of a so-called labor-saving de- vice. The advantages and disadvantages of each piece of aj)])aratus should be thoroughly considered and, more than all, understood before a decision can be reached and choice or selection made. The needs of homes differ widely just as do the needs of individuals, but withal there are certain general lines of work to be accomplished with a growing necessity for fewer hands needed to perform the labor involved. For the fact is that the home is years behind the shop in its ;uljustment to modern conditions and consistent demand is only now feeing made for mechanical appliances to reduce and simplify and ease the work in the home, because up to this time the need for these has not been felt. Thei'e is no longer any use in discussing the domestic service problem, for, speaking in general terms, the domestic has gone. The question is what may fill her jjlace, to which the reply is ])l;iin — the modei'u, the perfected and adjusted mechanical device. For the housewife, to \^'hom the selection of these things is left, there lias been far too little definite help. She lias been left to the mercy of the specious seller of good, bad or indifferent goods and, having been misled again and again, has be- come suspicious and ciuestions everything. This book is designed as a partial guide to the woman who is desirous of e((uipping her house in the best possilde way. There are two general classes of work carried on in the house todav: iiamelv the 173 cooking and the cleaning. The former i.s the more definite process but in- volves the use of some device which will produce heat as well as one which holds the cold by which the food cooked or uncooked is kej)t for a jjeriod of time. That is, a refrigera- tor and stove and cooking utensils are required for the ccjokiug. The clean- ing, however, means the washing and cleaning of many things; dishes, fab- rics, woodwork and the appliances used for tlie cooking itself. And be- cause of the growing body of science as applied to the home, this cleaning process has seemingly ceased to be a sim])le affair ;ind resolved itself into intricate processes. Let us take up first the cleaning of the house itself with the ciucstion in mind of the actual labor-saving device known as the vacuum cleaner. If there is any (juestion as to the Coffee Percolator made by Ijanders, Frary & Clark, New Britain, Conu. C^ done Vacuum Cleaner made by the Cyclone Vacuum Cleaner fo Bradford, Pa. Charles W. Emrry, Philadelphia, represen- tative.- Corona Roaster made by the Enterprise Enamel C'l Bcllaire, (i. Tea-Ball Teapot made h,i- L[indcrs, Frary & Clark, New Britain, Conn. \'acuum C'leancr and Attachments, made 1),\' the B. F. SLurtcvaiit Co., Hyde Park, Ma.ss. 174 No. 35tj/9l> Alr->li< I ( -I ^ ( liihii^ Diah, ■' Alcoiit I nrij r -"'''— riiiiiiliiTTiiTiriiMl Nu. 9093- (Aluimnum) Pertulator, C(jHef Pot rity A A, ^ No. b072 - T> a B ill T> d Pot Transparent view jl lua ball raisc'iJ. No. 345/,S4. - Alcohol Gas Stove Chafin;^ Di.^ "AlcolitL-" Bvirner. a No. Sl.-Alfoho! Gas Stove, ■■Aloolitc" Wick-Feed Burner, No. 439:3. — Urn Ht.\le, Coffee Percolator. ^^ «^ i- '.fl:.. ^J^ ^...-^T"*^ No. 9091 -Cffcr Pi ](,, later, trtnjptrt nt Mcu MADE BY :\IAXXL\G, BOW.MAX & CO., MEUIDEX. CT. " Best by e^'ery Test." For Durability, Quiet Running, Efficiency and Varied Usefulness, it has no equal. This ma- chine, in competitive tests, has won Gold Medals (highest awards) at two great International Expositions and several lesser Exhibitions. The DL'NTLEY PNEUMATIC CLEANER— the original household vacuum cleaner — is now in daily use in over 2.50,000 of America's best, most niodeni liomes. ' It cleans e\erytliini,'! The New DUNTLEY AIR WASHER, Wonderful in its effeel on llic air indoors. Tills is an electrical device con- taining a suction fan which draws Ihc iiiiptirc air through water, tliercby washing out all dust, smoke, organic matter and bad odors. If you so de- sire, delicate perfume may Im> u.sed. Indispensable for your home in winter. DUNTLEY MANUFACTURING COMPANY 494 ILVRVESTEK BUILDING CHICAGO, ILLINOIS. Air Washer — A new device for purifying and cooling tlif air — made bv the Duntlev Mfn. Co., ChicajiO, III. V \'acunm Clcanr-r made Ijy the Roirina f'r New York. , Ir A'acuum Cleaner made by the Hoo^'e^ Suctio Sweeper Co., New Berlin, O. I'Jcftrir Renovator — a type of vacuum cle made bv the Eleetric Renovatintr Co., Pittsburg, Pa. value of a macliine of thi.s character, it mii.st come from those wlio do not fully understand it.s use. The first con.siderati()n of .sanitation is that there must he a (juick removal from our houses of the material we have done with. Xow dust and dirt is useless matter which lias accumulated in the house and should he removed as entirely and safely as can be. No dust is positively harm- less, for while it may contain no ])athogenic germs, dust itself is irritating to the delicate membranes of the nose, throat and lungs. Before the advent of the vacuum cleaner, the most ethcient cle;ming method distributed the dust in clouds to settle back upon rugs and carpets or furniture and hangings from which a ])art only could be removed by dusting. To be sure the carpet swee])er cleaned the sur- face of the rug without this dust disti'ibution, but the best carpet sweeper ever made cannot take the dust and dirt from the meshes of the fabric. A good vacuum cleaner by its suction power takes up the tiny graiirs of sand and dirt from the rug and cari)et, cleansing il through and llirough. A)id for thel)enefit of the skeptical housewife, let me say that in all the trials and investiga- tions we ha^'e made, we have yet to find Avith the use of the microscope any evidence that their use injures the fabric even when old oriental rugs arc under consideration. Tliere are hand, electric antl water-power vacumn cleaners and several in- stalled sy.stems; the choice of which one must depend upon the needs of the in- dividuals. Whenever electricity is available, the electric vacuum cleaner is a liousehold appliance to be recommended and there are many good, efficient ones. The improvement of all forms of vacuum cleaners has been rapid and because of the large and varied market to be supplied a new kind api)ears nearly every week. 175 Wall inlets, upper showing flusli type, lower showing screw tA'p^-ii"^ they appear on the base-board "where the hose connection is made for cleaning by vacuum inachin<' located in the cellar. The "Santo" Portable attach- ment can be made with any Electric light socket. The "Santo Duplex" for Cellar Installation and with Pi|jing and Electric connection to each floor. THE ■SANTO" VACUUxM CLEANERS The points for tlie liouscAvifc to consider iu selectiii,^" a cleanei" are, first, its sim- plicity of construction; all parts of tlie cleaner should he easily availahle for inspec- tion, cleaning' and i)Ossi})le repair; next, the dust receptacle, which should be capal)le of sterilization as well as thoroui^h cleansing. Tliis tlust hag or box or can, \Ahat- ever it may he, sliould not be so placed or constructed as to ])ermit a sifting of dust back into the room and it shcjuld be easily emptied and cleaned. The cleaner should be efficient, durable, well made and the motors should be as noiseless as ])ossil)le. The selection, after these ])()ints are established, then de])ends n])on the likings of tfie ])urchaser or the possession by any one cleaner of some certain characteristic for whicli the purchaser is looking. As to the cost of running t he elect I'ic vacuum cleaner, that necessarily varies witJi the cost of current, type of maciiine, etc., but, generally speaking, a cleaner costs less to run than an electric flat-iron, ])owcr being less costly than lieat to produce. The installed systems are making great headway. They Inn'c greater power because of larger engines and there is usually some good way of carrying otf the dust without having to handle and remove it from a collecting receptacle. Re- cently there has been put on tlu' market a most sim])le type of water-power in- stallation, the entire machine* consisting of tlu'ee horizontal and two vertical pipes. From one vertical pij)e leads a small galvanized iron pipe which is carried to the roof. This has water comiection below and the action of the wind produces a powerful suction. Tlie dust is removed from carpets, curtains, furniture, etc., with the ordinary tools, hose, etc., liaving base-board connection, then is carried 176 The "Easi,' I'^inptvinf:" grass cutf'hcr. Fit:^ an\- l:t\vn mower. Made hv The Splcx" Iruiicr uiadf b\' thi.^ Aiueriean Ironing Miichine Co., Chicago, III. Another »tylc of "Simplex" ironer. Ch.thr-s (Irvor nuidc li\' the lown i\:i\c ('<•., Cedar Vidh, Iowa. \J^.. ■^^^ Asbe-^^tos Sad-irons made l:>v The Dover Mfg. Co., Canal Dover, Ohio. "The iron sta^-y hot — the handle keeps cool." ""SiTftira.apjj^.a^^^.^^ij^ 178 T\-pes of Df-n;ilurr(i Alrohul Stoves iiiailo bj" Maiiiiiiiir, Hn\vni;in A: C'o., >reri'len, Conn, be lieating o^'el• the alcolio stove while the other is beiui;- used, and the stove can be as easily carried and used on the porch, in the laundry or under the trees as the self-heating irons could l)e. It uses no more, indeed probably not as nuicli alcohol, and the ironing can l)e better and more easily done, as the sad-irons are heavier, better and safer to use. The same is true of the nickeled flats having iron cores which may l)e heated in the same manner. The heating is more (juickly done when either a sad-iron heater or an adjustable oven designed for use on such stoves is used, this holding aiid prevent- ing radiation of heat. The denatured alcohol sto^'es and aj^paratus have many i)ractical and de- lightful uses. Denatured alcohol is a safer fuel than gasoline, a cleaner one than kerosene and much less odorous, and its cost is l)ut little more. We are apt to reckon cost by the amount i)aid for a gallcm of gasoline as against a gallon of alcohol, or a ton of soft as against a ton of hard coal. The fact is that this is not the actual measure of the cost. To begin with, a ton of good hard coal ])r<)duces more heat units than one of soft, and there is less loss. Then the second cost should be reckoned in, the expense of caring for the appai-atus and the cleaning resulting from the use of a dirty fuel. Denatured alcohol is clean. It does not smoke nor smell, and with the good apparatus now made, is safe. There are single burner and several burner stoves on which portable ovens can be used as well as any kind of cooking utensil. On the stove any kind of coffee and tea pots may be used, but with the growing cus- tom of making coffee on the dining table and in the drawing-room and of serving 179 breakfast, luncheon, suppers and Sunday night teas in various rooms and porches, the alcohol and electric coffee-pots, the alcohol tea-ball teapots and samovars, chafing dishes, etc., are nuich in demand. The tea-ball teapots are a great improvement over the old strainer, for the tea, being suspended in the water in the perforated ball, can l>e drawn up and held against the cover as soon as the extraction has proceeded to the desired point. This means better tea, no long steeping nor boiling, no l)itterness, and yet demands no removing of the strainer. The l)all merely hangs close under the cover out of the way, until its use is demanded aga'in. Both coffee and tea pots come in nickel, copper, and ahuniniun and in different designs. One can have a coft'ee-pot with a vapor lamp so it can be used alone, and also a teajiot the same, or if preferred, a one burner alcohol stove ottom which makes it easy to manage when transferring from the house to the sidewalk. Space will not permit a long list of lalsor-saving devices, and only some of the most important lun-e been mentioned here. The Stephenson Underground Ciarbage Receiver, a sanitary aod convenient device for storing garbage. Made by C. H. Stephenson, Lynn, Mass., and sold direct. An Asli Barrel given extra strength and service, without excessive weight, l")>' spiral tru.ss ribs. Made b:s- C. H. Stephenson, Lynn, Mass., and sold direct. ^ Wjt^ 1S4 The Refrigerator and the Refrigerating Plant Illiixtratrd hi/ I.iiuliiiii Maniifiidiirprs VEKY necessary adjuiict to the modern house is the refriger- ator and the development of this article in recent years has kept pace with the increasing knowledge of the principles of hygiene and sanitation. The old-style \\<)oden box with its poor circulation and leaky l)ottom has hjng ago been discarded. In its place there is a scientifically constructed apparatus that does much for the health and comfort of the family. The first thing to consider is the location — for an ice-box is like a coal bin — it can't be i)laced just anywliere if you want the best results. The size of the family will, to a large extent, determine the size of the refrigerator. In a new house it costs but little more to have one built in. Most manufacturers nowadays have a special department for this class of work, which is at the service of their patrons, and it is well to consult them about it, as their experience has taught them much that is of ^'alue, and they can arrive at the proper solution nuich cjuicker and cheaper than a less ex])erienced person. Having settled that ])oint, the next thing to consider is the type you will select — whether natural ice or artificial refrigeration. Both types are good and locality and convenience will govern which to buy. If you can obtain natural ice, as desired, it is cheaper. In this case it is very essential to locate the refrigeratoi- so that its supply door is on the outside readily accessil)le to the iceman at all times. He can then make his visits regularly, keei)ing the supply uniform, at no incon- venience to the housemaid, as would be the case with an inside location, requiring admittance to the house for this purpose. Even if away for a few days and the house locked up, the ice supply can be kept going just the same. In winter, the ice door can be left open and refrigeration obtained witliout the use of ice at all. In the case of refrigerators mechanically cooled, where the refrigerator is cooled by means of a refrigerating plant, almost any well-insulated box may be used, provided the size of the coil chamljer is so arranged as to allow of the installation of cooling coils therein. The refrigerating plant may be installed in the basement or at any convenient point, even in the garage or some outbuilding. In private residences, electricity is usually the motive power used to drive the refrigerating plants, but if there is no electricity available the plant may be operated by means of a gas, gasoline or steam engine, the latter, liowever, being the most economical and convenient installation for private yachts, large hotels, etc. Each refrigerator in the mechanically cooled type is fitted witli a coil of pipe 185 through which ammonia is expanded, pro- ducing^- a very low temperature in the }>ox and insuring the operator als(j of a chy and sanitary storage compartment. In case a very small quantity of ice is re- ciuired for talile purposes, by means of a specialljr designed refrigerator 10-20 pounds of ice may be made by means of cans let down in the top of the ])ox. Wliere the ice re(|uire- ments are larger, howe^'er, a special ice- making set is installed in the machine room with the plant. The cost of installation of the ice-making and refrigerating plant is of course considerable. On the other hand, there is a great saving of power against ice bills, and when the consumption of the latter is on a large scale the manufacturers claim that mechanical refrigeration, considering the in- vestment and all operating expenses, is ulti- mately cheaper — to say nothing of conven- Refrigerator iiiadt; by the Baldwin Rr^frigerator Co., Burlington, \i. Provision Chamber. Refrigerator, phowing seamless provision ch.ambcrs with enamel on steel or.opalite glass lining. Made by the McKec Refrigerator Co., Brooklyn, N. Y. ience and sanitation. This nnist, however, be decided by individual cases, but it is well wortli investigaling b>' any one building or rebuilding. After the lyi)e has been selected, the next imi)ortant thing is to consider the lining of both fotxl and ice chambers. They should be non-corrosive, non-ab- sorbent, and free from joints and sharp corners, making it ea.sy to keep the inside sweet and clean, ^^'hite is the ])referable color for the footl chamber, as it ciuickly reveals the presence of dirt, and non-corrosive metal for the ice or machine com- partment. The manufacturers of the higher grade refrigei'alors make food compartments with a perfectly smooth non-corroding surface such as solid porcelain ware, opalite glass and porcelain enamel on steel. The Solid Porcelain compartments arc snow-white, molded in one piece, 1/i^", 186 thick with all coi'iiers rouiwlcfl. There are nc» .sections, joints oi' uncleariable cracks, corners oi' crevices. They are provided with large ojicn- ings for the circulation of cold air. The opalite glass which is about -/,/' thick is a niilk-wlhte o])aque glass, beautiful in ap- pearance and has the same smooth non-absorbent surface as plate glass and is placed on the walls and bottom of the provision chaml)ei-s in large sheets and the joints jiiade water-tight with jMu-e cement. Porcelain Enamel on Steel is ef|ually non- absorbing and sanitary and is practically in- destructible, as the porcelain is fused to the steel at a very high temperature. This lining can be put into the refrigeratoi- either in sheets or in the form of a seandess chamber, the latter being the most recent development in refrigera- tor construction and obviously both sanitary and i^ractical. Insulation and proper circulation are the next important points, for it is the insulation in a refrigerator that determines whether it The Brunswick Refrigerating Co., New Brunswick, N. ,T., show here tw^o metliods of in.sta!- lation recommended for the small refrigerating plant. The upper shows one of the smallest plants with a 20-lb. ice-making set built on end of box, the machine and motor being located in the basement. The floor plan of residence shows a medium-sized ice-making and refrigerating plant. The ice-making tank is located in a separate room in the basement with machine and motor, while pipes are run to the main and pantrj^ refrigerators on the first floor. will be an "ice-eater" or an "ice-keeper." Insulating materials are quite nunaer- ous and of practically the same ^'alue, if applied correctly. There is, however, a difference of opinion on this point. The best materials are cork, ground or com- pressed into l)oards, mineral wool, as))estos, and felt. These ai'e used separately and in combinations. All of the best known manufactiu'ers have their own methods of construction and, so long as you confine your dealings to a house with a good reputation, you are quite sure of getting a satisfactory piece of work, no matter which material you finally decide to use. 187 The matter of air circulation is eciually important. The spoihng of food is caused hy bacteria — small organisms tliat may ])e boiled to death but cannot be frozen to death even if the air in a i-efrigerator were cold enough to reach the freezing point. It is dampness that greatly increases bacterial growth; therefore a refrigerator shoidd be dry and this dryness is seciu'ed by a good system of air circulation. Another featui'e of refrigerator construction — most ini])ortant for the sanitary condition of the refrigerator itself and the food it cojitains, as well as the health of the family — is the drain-pipe. The best manufacturers — here represented — have paid i)articular attention to this detail, with the result that the up-to-date refrigerator is very fai- remo^'ed from the old, leaky, ill-smelling ice-box of a few years ago. Drain-pi])es are provided with a trap or device (jf some kind, differing in different makes — which prevents all warm air, sewer gases, insects, etc., from entering the refrigerator through the drain-pipe. The ice-pan dr;un-pipe and trap should be thoroughly cleaned once a week and some refrigerators are so con- structed that the pipe can be easily removed for this piu'pose. Several makes of refrigerators have removable flues which can be easily cleaned by simply taking out the irons which make one side of the air ])assage and washing the flues. Others make their drain-pipes in one piece and large enough so that they caimot clog or overflow and are easily cleaned. The shelf is another detail that recjuires attention, for a j^oorly constructed shelf means that the ice is not held in pro])er place or that the food particles can cling to it, causing dirt and germs to accuuuilate. Some shelves are made of steel bars — some of heavy corrugated galvanized iron for the ice, with substantial open- work wire shelves for food. The housekee])er should l)eware of shelves that ol)- struct circulation. A necessary and economical adjunct of the modern refrigerator is the water cooler, by means of which ice water can be drawn from it l)y a faucet without expos- ing the water to the impurities in ice and air. Tlie cooler is generally located at the })ack of the refi'igerator, whence a water pipe leads down t(j the bottom of the ice chamber and then forward under the eflge of the ice rail and through the side wall, where it ends in a faucet. This device insures one of being able to drink a whole- Kefrigeratur luade by tiiu Muiiru(_' Hclrigerator Co., Lockitind, Uluu. feNeverSoIdatStoii 188 some, iced draught ol* water witliout wasting ice by chopping it into small bits to cool the water and thereby exposing it to possible contamination. The one-piece real porcelain enamel linings and patent connecting flanges and rings used in the Leonard Cieanable Refrigerators. Thi^ refrigerator — the Leonard Cieanable — is manufactured hy the Grand Rapids Refrigerator Co., Grand Rapid.-^, Alich. DONT S. Don't ])ut in hot. steamint^', or o^'er-^i])e food or fruits. Don't cover the shelves with ])a])er or cloUi and ohsti'uet circulation. \\'hich has equally as much to do with i)reser\-ative results as a low temperature. Don't leave the doors open or ajar while carrying articles to or from the refrig- erator, or while chipping off ice for domestic purposes. Better keep a small box for that i)urpose, and not rob the refrigerator, charging it all to ice consumption, and letting in the warm air. Don't starve the refrigerator. If its ice ca])acity is 7.5 or 100 lbs., don"t expect it to run perfectly with 10 or 1.5 lbs., supplied irregularly. Don't put it in a cellar, laundry or other damp place, or on a porch exposed to sleet and atmospheric changes. It is made of kiln-dried lumber, and not guar- anteed unless properly used. Don't cover the ice with cloth, newspaper or other material to save ice, the function of which is to cool the refrigerator and create a circulation. Such a course may "save ice beautifully." but if you l)ottle up the cold air it cannot do its work, and your food will spoil. If you use newspaper you must expect the "sickly odor of printers' irdv," and decaying i:»ai)er, and the waste-water outlet to become blocked. Don't ignore these common-sense rules, and complain because the refrigerator smells niusty, the drip pipe or trap becomes choked up, and water overflows into provision room, or dooi-s swell and joints open because the dry (not green) stock has absorl)ed moisture. The user can avoid the cause of these troubles, but the manufacturer cannot. 189 Greenhouses, Fruit Houses, Conservatories, Sun Rooms and Glassed-in Porches L. AV. C. TUTHILL lU iislnttiii hij L('(nllii ji, ma* » J9I^'i'|*i|S'l^' .x:^3- '^"'^'' (10) Erected by Lord & Burnham Co., Irvington, X. Y. A liighly practical group of palm house and wing houses. The workroom is l^ack of tlie pahn house, being connected Im [t liy a small propagating hou^e. open directly from the liviiig-rijoni and are used in part as such. Easy chairs, a tahle, soft hi>his, the tinkling of running water over a little rockery and all around you Howers - -bloom- ing, growing flowers, giving of their fra- grance and comfort. This is the ideal con- servatory. As with the greenhouse, the leanto is the simplest and least expensive and therefore desirable. Build it at the same time you do your house, if ])ossil)le, as it will save money for you. But e\'en if it is added afterward, the greenhouse i)eople can design it so no one would surmise it to be a so-ealled "addition."" srx KOo:\is Some there ai'e, ])erhai)s, who do not particulai'ly care for il()\\ers, but thor- oughly enjoy a room where the sun can pour in unhindered. Tlie.se rooms are fitted up like out and out living-rooms with every comfort i)ossihle. The room shown in cut 1.5 is built over a porch and o])ens directly from an upper hallway. In addition to the cheer of the sun, the open fire adds interest. Of course, such rooms can be heated directly from the residence' boiler. There is a health side to the sun room that is decidedly worth considering. Tliere are several in New York, built on to]5 of the houses. On one a doctor built a regular glass play room for his children. Think of the lia])])y hours you and your children could si)end in one of these sun rooms. GLASSED-IN PORCHES If you do not want to build an out and out conservatory, why not glass in your porch or a part of it.-* A small hot-water boiler costing, say, ^'^.^.OO, will heat a good-sized enclosure and burn but little coal. 193 (11) Erorted by Lord & Bumham Co., Irving-ton, N. Y. Glassed-in porch of Mr. Leroy Frost, Nyack, N. Y. The sides are constructed in panellcil sections that can Vie conviTiiently removed in the spring. (12) Erected b^, I-i> i.s(.,-i U liar Company, New York. Separate greenhouse and workroom. The part of roof bars expo.^ed to the inside of the house are enclosed in U- shaped steel, making a complete steel frame-work. The greenhouse is 18 x 2-5 feet. AVurkroom, 10 x 12 feet. (b-t) Erected by Lord & BnrTiliarn ( ■. linear roof conservator.\', fitting into a and opening off the library-. < »rn;iiiii-ntal cnrv\- jog" in the house (14) Erected Viv Pierson U-Bar (.'o. Tliis is a snug little creenhouse attached directly to the residence. Quite the most economical way to have it. By construcliug' I lie sides in panels or sections, it can be easily and ciuickly put up in the fall and removed in tlie summei*. The greenhouse concerns are doing so nuich of this kind of work it only stands to reason they will insure to you the most satisfactoiy nvsults. B}' all means, have some kind of a plant-grov\'ing place. It will give you and those around you endless i)leasure. (15) Erected b,\- Lord & Burnham Co. Leanto conserva- tory liuU is a veritable li\'ing-room joy 3put. 104 yiiiiSiistigiEiiGiaiiiHHiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii^^i nil iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiieiiiHiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii: nil iiiiiiiip'!. ^ :':: Jirdigiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii: nil llllllllili^...fiii^g^lliUlllllllllllllllilJIII Fr^^;;^^^iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiaiiHiiiiHHiiii ^ EiiiiiiiHiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!!!!!!!! IIIIIIIIIIIIIHIIIIIIIi lllllllllllll Gates and Fences Illilslrafioitx hij [jiitliiig iliiiiufdiliircm cheap, wooden Iron enclosures X the (lays wlien lumber was })lentii'ul and fences were practically the only kind used, were considered a luxury, seen only around very pretentious grounds or ]Hi!)lic parks, and wire fencing was as yet an un- known quantity, so that the paling fence in town and either the ])lank or the rail fence in the country were the most familiar types. With the ra])idly gro\\ing scarcity of lumber, however, the wooden fence became prohibitive (m account of its cost, and the wo^-en wire fence, graduallj' evolved from the barbed wire ^'ariety, came into connnon use. Livery house, unless it is in a closely built town, must have its fence, and the fence must be an enduring one and in k(H-piug with the general appearance of the place. As much care and thought should be given to the selection of such a fence as to the appearance of the house itself. Many an otherwise attractive place has bt^en spoiled in the making by an ill-chosen, and more often than not, an expensive fence. Bi'iefly speaking, the fencings you can ])urchase in the market all ready for iunnediate erection can be divided into two classes — the wire fence and the iron fence, or iron railings, as the manufacturers call them. The wire fence is of course the least expensive, but with its iron posts and ^'arious designs of wire treatment, is decidedly ornamental. In buying such a fence insist that the posts be gal- ^'auized, otherwise in a surprisingly shoi't time they will rust off at the groimd line in spite of all the painting you may do. Then there is a post that is l)raccd V)y blade anchoi-s much like the roots of a tree. Such posts are very easy to put up, as no digging of post holes is necessary. Simply make a hole for the post with a crowbar, drive it in place, and then drive down the anchors. Such a post, being set as it is in solid groimd, is solid at the start and will always keep in perfect alignment. The doing away with the exjjense and torn up condition of the grounds in digging ])ost holes is a strong point in favor of such a fence, as is also the speed with which it can be erected. For the uni)retentious cottage, where protection is desired without conceal- ment, there is nothing better than the fence of wire in a plain rectangular or oval pattern, the wire forming a series of half circles by way of ornament along the top. A fence of this sort is rust proof and is said to last from twenty to thirty years. The posts and top rails are strong but of small size, giving a light and graceful aj^pearance and, if desired, the posts may have ornamental tops or balls. This style of fence is made in a variety of heights, from the six foot enclosure for country ]95 A wire fence that is unobtrusive, yet elTective. Posts are galvanized. Photo was taken ele\'en \-ears after ( Made by Anchor Post Iron Works, New York. Tennis back-stops and fencings with galvanized iron posts and light iron top rails are certainly preferable to the ones with hea\T,- wooden and rails that soon get out of hne and require yearly repairs. jNIade by Anchor Post Iron Works, New York.' A nnn-ciunbable Iciicc ihur, will clet>' both animals and niau. It is a thorough protection. Made by Anchor Post Ircjn Works, New York. 196 estates, where height is a necessity, down to a two and one half foot size, suitahh; for hiwn borders. Trellises f(jr porches and boj-dei's f(jr flower beds can be had in the same designs. "Where a wire fence is not desirable, but an enclosure of some sort must be harl, the three or four rail fence made of one-inch pipe with galvanized pipe posts is satisfactory and easy h> put up. A still less exjjensive lawn fence has top rail and j)osts made of one-inch pipe with hea\'y wires in jjlace of the Icnver rails. Should you want a wire fence that will be an alfsolute protection from any animals crawling through it or persons climbing OAer it, there is one made with a wire chain link mesh which is topped by two rows of barbed wire strung on over- hanging supports, and extending to the inside of the grounds. For the protection of your garden and orchards such a fence is admirable. Gates for all of these fences have iron frames and hinges and are made of tlic same pattern wire netting as the various styles of fencing with which they ai-e used, but equally suitable are gates made entii'cly of iron, with posts rather more ornamental than those of the fence itself. Iron fencing is of course more expensive and of nmch greater variety in de- sign as well as in price. Unless a special design made by a competent architect is to be followed, the best rule to remember in selecting an iron fence is that tlic plainer it is the l)etter. Probably the finest example of an iron fence in this country is the memorial fence around the Harvard campus at Cambridge, with its tall panels of severely plain bars between square pillars of brick, the whole in splendid propor- tion. The simplest form of iron fence is the railing made of straight bars slightly ])ointed at the toj), with posts that are quite plain or finislied with a small ornament. The fence is held in place by an anchorage consisting of two large stakes vvhich are bolted to the bottom of each post and securely tami)ed with earth. Cast-iron bases imbedded in the ground to a depth of several feet are also used to secure the posts, and for fences of tliis sort that have no visible foundation the gates are usually rather light in construction and follow out the simple design of the railing, with square gate posts in an open-work effect topped with balls or wrought-iron orna- ments. For large gates, however, massive pillars of Ijrick or stone are suitable even if these materials have not been used in the construction of the fence. An iron railing set in a concrete base is generally considered nuich handsomer than the plain iron fence and gives greater opportunity for elaborate gateways and I)osts. The concrete may l)e merely a base, or it may be high enough to form a wall topped l;)y an iron railing. In any event the base, whether high or low, shoidd be continuous. If blocks of concrete or of stone set in the ground are used as supjiorts for the posts alone, they are apt to settle on account of their weight or to l)e shifted out of plumb by the action of the frost. Nothing is more fitting for large grounds, extensive lawns or comitry places than the fence made of brick or brick and stone, and a heavy iron r:iiling. There is an appearance of dignity and solidity about it that is not to be found in an all- iron fence, no matter how imposing the latter may be. A low })rick wall with a stone coping that acts as a base for the iron railing is always satisfactory and appropriate, and for beautifully kept grounds such a fence with square stone- capped pillars of brick between the panels is particularly suitable. Enclosures of this sort require gates of massive appearance and elaborate de- sign, all of them as a niatter of course being the large double gates for the drivewav, with sometimes the smaller gate for pedestrians at one side. For the ornate fence made entirely of iron the gate ]K)sts are generally stone monoliths or are built of sf|uare stone blocks, or there are ])osts of elaborate design that distinctly add to the handsome appearance of the gate. ^Nlany of the taller gates are surmounted by an arch of fancifuUv wrought 197 id 1 T5— \ >.::'■' ■ Wy. A group of fences made by the F. E. Carpenter Co., New York. ..\n attrartive fence, made b\- the F. E. Carpenter Co., New York. A light, transparent wire fence, made by the F. E. Carpenter Co., New York. An attractive entrance gate, made by the F. E. Carpenter Co., New York. iron in whicli the name of the place i.s sometimes worked out, or a monogram in rai.sed k'tters appears on an escntcheon in the center of tlie arch, and a single initial surronnded by a heavily carved wreath is used as an ornament for the stone pillars. These heavy pillars lend themselves quite effectively to various kinds of ornamenta- tion, preferahlj^ lanterns of wrought iron and glass. Some of the more massive posts, it is true, are tojjped Ijy nothing more fanciful than a stone ball, while the heavy brick pillars are often seen with only a sul)stantial coping or a stone vase that harmonizes well with the design of its pedestal. The lanterns are of all .shapes and styles, corresponding in general effect to the iron work of the gates. They are usually ])laced on top of the posts but occasion- ally are f;istened as l)rackcts to the front, leaA'ing room on the top for a stone orna- ment, ^lany of the more elidiorate gates do not swing directly from the stone pil- lars but are attached to smaller wrought-inm posts set just inside the heavy stone ones. Fences for gardens give rather more latitude in choice of style than those for yard or lawn, as the garden is not so con,s])icuous and there can be less regard for its surroundings and more indivin]i tinuous foundations. Made by An>.hor Post Iron \Aork.s, Xcw York. Made by Anchor Pust Iron ■\Vorks, New Yurk. How conaistcnt are the gracctul lines of thi.s iron fence and brick pUlared g^tewaj- as an enclosure for an cxtensn'e lormal gLirden. ]\Iade by Anchor Post Iron Works, New York. 199 palings of the simplest sort, or it may be a more ambitious attempt designed after some of the well proporti(jned Colonial fences, but in either case it will be an appro- priate setting for the tangle of lovely old-fashioned vines and flowers. In point of pictiues(|ueness the stone fence is by all odds the most suitable for a garden. The dry-laid fence built of stones carefully fitted into place, like the old stone fences seen all through New England, is jjreferablc, although the wall made of stones put togethei' with moi'tar is quite effective if care is taken to keep the design from being too regular. A red brick wall is always an attractive enclosure for a garden of any sort, while a h^w wall of brick with a row of palings on it. and a little wooden gate swung between s(|uare brick ])osts, is one of the most satisfactorv ways of fencing oft" the bit of groimd given over to flower beds and gravelled walks. fgP- - .,v. ..w.-.&'Sfl* . >■'"■ An entrance gate designed and made by the Detroit Architectural Iron ^^'or]is, Detroit, Mich. 200 Suggestions for Classification of Rugs to be used in various rooms, when colors, etc., are adapted to furnishings: Parlors, Reception Rooms, JNIusic Rooms Louis XV *Persian *Soumak Louis XVI Prayer Tabriz I'Art X^oiiveau *Saraband Mission Marie Antoinette Saruk French Cretonne Aubusson *Herati Byzantine *Iran *Gorevan Kashan Gothic Kermanshah *Grecian Khorassan Hamidieh Kirman Moire in a M osque *When made in iiglit or medium colors *Sel: Shiraz Dresden *Tapestry Living Rooms, Dining Rooms, Dens, Halls, Offices, Libraries Bokhara Gotln'c Kazak Oushak Soumak Arabian Grecian *Kermaiishah *Persian *Shiraz Beluchistan Hamadan *Kliorassan Saraband Turkish Daghestan Herati MedicA'al Sehna Mission Djushghan Iran Moire Shah Abbas Mosaic Ferraghan Kabistan Mosul Shirban *Tapestry Gorevan Kaslian Nomad *When made in dark colors Chambers, Boudoirs Aubusson Kermanshah Marie Antoinette Mosque Dresden Byzantine Louis XV Pra^-er Moire *Persian *Gothic Louis XVI Tabriz French Cretonne *Saruk Hamidieh I'Art Nouveau *Mission *When colors are of delicate tones V v^ KERMANSHAH DESIGN When choosing your nigs ana carpets see that the name WHIT T ALU 8 is woven in the back. It is your guarantee of quality and satisfaction. The label reproduced here is attached to all WHITTALL rugs to assist you in identifying the type of design. Refer to the above classification. See that your rug bears the proper label and, above all, the WHITTALL trademark ivoven in the back, and you cannot go wrong in the selection of floor coveriiigs. This sketch was drawn from a superb Gothic Dining-room, designed, executed and furnished by Gimbel Brothers" Bureau of Interior Decoration. THE GIMBEL ORGANIZATION FOR INTERIOR DECORATING IS AYELL PREPARED tci submit sketches and materials for artistic Draperies, to be made to order in our own workrooms, or to carry out your own ideas in excellent fashion. An interesting series of sections of rooms, with suggestions for draperies, wall papers and cur- tains, will be found of great help- fulness in making a choice. Our direct importations of Wall Co\'erings, Draperies and Furni- ture Materials ofifer many exclu- sive and beautiful new designs. An expert on decorations will gladly be sent to consult with you on j-our request. The Gimbel stocks of Furniture, Carpets and Rugs are distin- guished by the care with which they are selected, the breadth of variety and the general excellence in every grade. This same liberality of choice and elegance of pattern is characteristic of Gimbel stocks of China, Crystal, Housewares and everything that goes to the furnishing of the home. GIMBEL BROTHERS NEW YORK TIURTT-THIED ST. Few persons, comparatively, ap- preciate the wide difference in the qualities of mohogany in the market today; or realize the super- iority of the finest hand-workman- ship over the best factory grades; or know the possibiKties in finish ing fine woods in such a way as to bring out the full beauty of their grains and colorings. It is for these reasons that we submit this moderate-priced specimen of TOBEY HAND- MADE FURNITURE in the hope that it may go into many American homes, and that by it we may have the opportunity of demonstrating what we believe to be the highest standard of furniture making the world has yet known. We are willing and anxious that your opinion of TOBEY HAND- MADE FURNITURE shall rest upon the comparison which this piece sustains with any other article of furniture in your home^ Attention is directed to other designs of TOBE Y Handmade Fur7iiticre illustrated on page 82 THE TOBEY FURNITURE COMPANY Eleven West Thirty-Second Street — NE W YORK CITY Wabash Avenue and Washington Street — CHICAGO Solid Si. J ago Mahogany Reading Stand as illiislrated — in Wood, Cabinet-Work and Finish a representative example of TOBEY HANDMADE FURNITURE. $25. }Vesferff^£kctm TRADE HARK HOUSEHOLD HELPS COST LITTLE TO BUY — LESS TO OPERATE There is a Western Electric answer for almost every household need. Electrically operated washing machines, vacuum cleaners, electric stoves, curling irons, cofiEee percolators, chafing dishes, toasters, etc. l/tTer'phmes An interesting chapter on these time and trouble saving interior telephone systems will be found on pages 134-A to 132-D of this book. Western Electric products are distributed everywhere through its distributing branches and thousands of retail supply dealers. If your dealer cannot supply you with Western Electric quality, write our nearest house and secure complete information, together with the name of our agent in your community. WESTERN ELECTRIC COMPANY EVERY BEU TEJiPnONE 15 Manufacturers of the 6.000.000 "Bell" Telephones New York Atlanta St. Paul Dallas Los Angeles "SAVE TIME AINO FREIGHT" Milwaukee Omaha Saint Louis Oklahoma City Kansas City San Francisco Denver Oakland Winnipeg Vancouver Seattle Sail Lake City Portland Buffalo Chicago Philadelphia Indianapolis Boston Cincinnati Pittsburg Minneapolis Montreal Toronto Antwerp London Berlin Pans Johannesburg Sydney Tokyo Address the house nearest you. AwtsiumiliiiiemiPM EQUIPMENT FOR EVERY ELECTRICAL NEED "TUtPHONE OUR Nl/VREST HOUX" Right Painting Both Adorns and Protects THE painting of the house makes or mars the beauty of the home. It must harmonize in color with its sur- roundings — like a gem in a setting. And the paint must have character, spread evenly and hold iirmly to the surface without crack, blotch or blister. U Dutch Boy Painter'' Pure White Lead The one exactly right way to paint is to have an experienced painter mix the paint " on the premises," us^ing pure white lead, pure linseed oil and turpen- tine, each in the jiroper proportion for each par- ticular surface. Tinting colors are added to the white lead, under your own super- vision, and tried on the actual surface till you get the color effect you desire. We can demonstrate to you that there is a great difference between ordinary painting and " Dutch Boy " wliite leading, if you will let us — a difference which means greater satisfaction at no greater cost. Don't risk spoiling an attractive place by improper painting. Be sure you get fure white lead — for the sake of dura- riie Dutch Boy Painter i^ tlie tr.iile- irk on our pine white lend. Look I" liim on the side of each lieg. bility as well as appearance. "Dutch Boy Pa i/i^e;-" White Leadis standard. When mixed with pure linseed oil it forms the most durable paint in the world. Let Us Help You Solve Your Painting Problem. To find out how to use the color schemes shown in this encyclopedia, write us for "Helps No. 1000." These "Helps" include painting specifi- cations, booklets and names of "Blue List" Painters in your com- munity, men who use "Dutch Boy Painter" White Lead. If none of these color combinations fits j'our needs, send us a photograph of your house with its surroundings and let us suggest a special color scheme. National Lead Company New York Boston Buffalo Cincinnati Chicago Cleveland St. Louis San Francisco (John T. Lewis & Bros. Co., Philadelphia) (National Lead & Oil Co., Pittsburgh) A house white-leaded is a house painted right WILD'S Oriental Rugs ANTIQUE ANATOLIAN UGS are the decora- tive foundation of your home. Cheap or dear, they must be good. They must endure and be endurable. Proper selection will be greatly facilitated by our enormous stock and by the assistance, if desired, of salesmen who know rugs. These aids add nothing to the cost. Our prices will be found just as low as elsewhere — often lower — for equal quality. Ownership of Wild's Orientals carries the satisfying assurance of vegetable dyes, authentic weaves, dependable quality and true valuations. $7.00 to $25,000.00 Prices range from $7 00 for Anatolian Mats size 3 ft. x 1 ft. 6 in. to $25,000.00 for an exquisite Persian Silk carpet size 40 ft. x 20 ft. We also carry the better grades of American weaves — Saxony, Wilton, Brussels, Kilmarnock, Bungalow rugs, Porch rugs, etc. Inexpensive artistic American Rugs made to order in special colors and sizes. JOSEPH'WiLD S 0). THE LARGEST SPECIALTY RUG HOUSE IN AMERICA 366-370 FIFTH AVE., Cor. 35th St. NEW YORK James McCreery & Go. 23rd Street 34th Street INTERIOR DECORATION Extensive Departments have been arranged in Both Stores for the Exhibition and Sale of Materials suitable for Draperies, Wall Cover- ings, Hangings, and Curtains, also Wall Paper and Furniture in French and English reproductions. Representative sent to study requirements. Sketches with estimate submitted for Plain or Ornamental Plaster Work, Painting and Interior Furnishing. 23Td Street New York 34th Street ■Jll ■■■■■■■■ ■■■■■■■I ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■I ■ ■■■■■■■■■■■< blola ■■■■■ill ■■■■■■■■■I ■■■■■■■■■■■Thvbbii THE DECORATIVE s SERVICE OF THE SHERWIN-WILLIAMS CO i HE color plates shown on pages 93 to 98 of this book |J illustrate the many decorative effects which can be ob- ■■ tained in your home by the use of paints and varnishes. Sfl Very few of us realize the important part which these SI materials play in the decorating of any building until we ■! see the many surfaces in and about the home actually S| decorated and attractively finished with Sherwin-Williams £| Paints and Varnishes. There is not a single surface in j your home which you might desire to decorate that can- not be finished attractively by means of these materials. The great advantage of using paints, varnishes, stains and enamels, etc., for interior decoration is, first, because of their durability; secondly, because of their sanitary value. Painted or enameled walls can be cleaned repeatedly with soap and water without any harm to the finish. This cannot be done where wallpaper or water paints are used. These color plates have been pre- pared by the Sherwin-Williams Decorative Department with the idea of show- ing you how paints and varnishes can be used in the home and at the same time of giving you many valuable suggestions as to the decorating. Under each one of the illustrations you will find complete specifications telling you the particular kind of Sherwin-Williams material to use in producing the eft'ect shown. A VALUABLE PORTFOLIO ENTITLED STYLE BOOK OF HOME DECORATIONS Many of these color plates are taken from our Style Book of Home Deco- ration, a portfolio containing twenty beautiful color plates prepared by our Decorative Department. Among r - ■ Sfc these color plates there are sev- ^W! eral suggestions for each rSft room in the house as well BM^ as many ideas for exterior UV decoration. Very c o m- m£BS piete specifications are ^M£ given for producing all < ^M5 the effects shown and in ^,^1^ the book itself will be ^^S found many valualjle hints ^S3 for home decorating and J*-™; home up-keep. This Style Book, together with the twenty beautiful color ■"^•j plates will be sent to you upon receipt of five cents to cover the mailing. ^T^S ^^^ SPECIAL DECORATIVE SERVICE S^MS In connection witli the building or decorating of a new home or even the UMS remodeling and finishing of a single room there are many little cjuestions which fciiiiiiiisiiiiiiiiiiiiis^^^^ develoi) regarding the treatment of the ceihng, walls, woodwork, and floor sur- faces. Often times expert advice and assistance is recjuired and it is foi' tliis purpose that we maintain a very complete Decorative Department. If ytju find after looking over the color i^lates shown in this book or the color plates in our Style Book of Home Decoration that it is not possible to select suitable color schemes for any part of your decorating we want you to ask for this special decorative service which will be rendered to you absolutely free of cost. We have prepared a special information blank which we will be glad to send you, together with B .: further information regarding our decorative ^ --, Avork, or you can explain the conditions ^x surrounding j'our work by letter and send , ^^, . us at the same time a set of blue prints or / /^^ I >s I'ough pencil drawings. Upon receipt of this information om- decorators will make a special study of your work, and prepare definite suggestions in the way of color elevations made in the actual material for every room in yom- house. In addition to this we will prepare diagrams showing several suggestions for treatment of the exterior. If any little difhculties should develop in connec- tion with the sijecifications or the finishing of any sur- faces aljout the home we hope you will write us specially regarding them. Our decorators are fully equipped to give you very explicit information regarding the proper treatment for any kind of surface whether it be ceiling, walls, woodwork, floors or furniture. You may have an old chair which you wish to restain or varnish, you may have a floor which needs attention, or possibly you may wish to remove the wallpaper in certain rooms and apply a rich flat painted finish such as S-W Flat-tone. It is all such questions as these that our decorators are prepared to handle. You will find this service a most valuable help and we hope that you will take advantage of it. YOUR HOME AND ITS DECORATION Our decorators have prepared a two hundred page book entitled "Your Home and Its Decoration" in which the best of their valuable experience has Ijeen incorporated. This book contains twelve handsome color plates and over one hundred and thirty duotone illustrations. In the first part of the book, the most important principles covering both exterior and interior decoration have been brought out and illustrated. It is at this point that the other books on the subject of home decoration end but "Your Home and Its Decoration" is more practical and goes further. It contains several chapters in \A-hich you are told just exactly how and what materials to use in order to obtain the effects and decorative schemes described. This is helpful to you, no matter whether you are building a small cottage or a very elaborate mansion. Exact specifica- tions for walls, woodwork, floors and for every other surface treatment are given. The price of this book is two dollars — postage fifteen cents extra, and if you cannot secure it from your local bookstore you can get it promptly by sending your remittance to the Sherwin-Williams Co., Decorative Department, GOl Canal Road, Cleveland, Ohio. THE KELSE Y OF FRESH AIR SYSTEM HEATING KELSEY HEATED MT. KISCO, N. Y. DELANO & ALDRICII, NEW YORK, ARCHITECTS KELSEY HEATED — HAMILTON, MASS. JAMES PURDON, BOSION, ARCHITECT By the Kelsey System large vol- umes of FRESH AIR are moderately and properly warmed and evenly dis- tributed throughout the house. A change of air is effected in every roomfrom three to five timesper hour. High authorities state that the sys- tems of heating, like steam and hot A\ater with radiators intheroom,^vliich. heat and reheat the same air, and have no fresh air supply are most unhealthful. The KELSEY "arm GENERATOR is the standard, high grade warm air heater of the world. The Kelsey is illustrated on page 109 of this book, and it is most powerful, efficient and economical, because it warms and distrilmtes air by the best method and because it has much greater \\eight and heating surfaces than other heaters. KELSEY HEATED RESIDENCE, ROCHESTER, N. Y. FOOTE & HEADLEY, ARCHITECTS "^lODERN ACHIEVEMENTS in HEATING AND VENTILATING" is the title of our latest Kelsej^ book- let which we should like to send to you. It points out briefly some of the advantages of Kelsej^ Heating and shows fine residences in twelve states in which the Kelsey system was in- stalled in preference to other methods by people who INVESTIGATED. The KELSEY ^f^^^SlUlY. SYSTE:\I for residences with 50 to 75 rooms are the ideal, healthful methods of heating and ventilating. By the Me- chanical (Fan) system all the air that may be desired is supplied and the temperature is most easily con- trolled. SEND FOR THE KELSEY BOOKLETS 40,000 LIOME OWNERS RECOMMEND KELSEY HEATING KELSEY HEATING CO. (Dept. B) SYRACUSE, N. Y. New York Office, 156 Fifth Ave. (Dept. B) Turn ^"^ Searchlight ON THE Roof Problem DURABILITY Durability outweighs all other roofing virtues. There is no reason why your roof shouldn't last as long or longer than your building. It is as unnecessary to renew the roof as it is to renew the foundation, jjro\-ided of course, that you get the right roof in the first place. GENUINE BANGOR SLATE COMPANY'S SLATE OUTLIVES THE BUILDING WITHOUT PAINT OR REPAIR because it is non-porous and therefore non-absorbent; because it is non-mineral and therefore non-rusting. The best test is really the test of time. Our slate v,-as first mar- keted 60 years ago. Roofs covered with it then, are, and look, today as good as new. FREEDOM FROM REPAIRS Real durability doesn't mean a roof that must be kept alive with a coating of paint; otherwise the paint and repair bills will soon cost more than a new roof. Our slate need no such preservatives. APPEARANCE The rich, silky texture of our slate, its smooth blue black color make a very dignified roof that adds cb.aracter to the building. Its smooth surface responds readily and harmoniously to natural or artificial light effects and harmonizes with natural and artificial surroundings. The foregoing is one of the reasons why our slate is a favorite roofing for churches. FIRE PREYENTION Statistics ( proof gladly on recjuest ) show that the largest percentage of all fires occurs on or threatens roofs. Statistics also prove that slate roofs are an excellent fire protection. ( Proof gladly on recjuest. ) COST The price of our slate is reasonable and with its freedom from repairs and lower insur- ance rates, a Genuine Bangor Slate roof is the most economical in the long run. SEND FOR OUR FREE ROOF GUIDE It gives in a few minutes' reading all the vital facts about any roofing on the market" weighs the makers' own words in claims against each other, written in plain, concise lan- guage that gives you all the authentic facts so you can do your own thinking. All it costs you to have the book is a post card addressed to GENUINE BANGOR SLATE COMPANY ENGLE BUILDING, EASTON, PA. "DIAMOND H" SWITCHES There are no reasons why Switches and Re- ceptacles will not last a life time. "DIAMOND H" Switches will give this service and the knowledge that they will wear as long as the building in which they are placed is of lasting satisfaction to the purchaser. Convenient arrangements for the control of electricity also permit of the greatest economy in its use and we will upon request mail a booklet graphically illustrating the best practice for the control of electricity in the home. HART MFG. COMPANY, HARTFORD, CONN. Exclusive manufacturers of "Diamond H" Switches BULL*^ W&rtn Roomj to Live Li Cool Rooms to Sleep In Be comfortable ic a uniformly heated and healthy home , relieved from the worry and trouble of con- stantly adjustinR drafts and dampers. keeps your home at any temperature desired, and never allows a variance of more than a decree. Too warm — the JEWELL immediately closes the drafts. Too cold —automatically it throws the drafts on. always preserving an even heat. Never wa.'ifes an ounce oj coat. Applicable to all systems of heating. If you want a cold house lo sleep in — adjust the regulator. Then set the Time Cioclc Attachment for a half hour before rising. You will have a warm house when you rise the next morning, without touching the heater or coDlroller, This automatic heat controller is guaranteed free of mfchairtcal dffects for 20 years, it can't get out of order. Let the JEWELL prove what it will do before you pay for it — put it in on i^J days free /rial. Some dealer in your town carries the JEWELL. If you have not seen it displayed — write us for Iiis name, and free illustrated booklet, " The House Comfortable," containing full and valuable information. THE JEWELL MANUFACTURING CO. 1 18 N. Green Street - • • Auburn. N. Y. McKEE REFRIGERATOR CO. (ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS) Manufacturers of HIGH GRADE REFRIGERATORS OAK OR PORCELAIN EXTERIOR Lined with Seamless Porcelain on Steel, Porcelain Enamel in Sheets or Opalite Glass Factory and Office: 119 LORIMER ST., BROOKLYN, N. Y. ONE-PIECE PORCELAIN PROVISION CHAMBERS WITHOUT SEAMS TA^^E make a specialty of building refrigerators to order according to spe- cial measurements and specifications. CThe pernicious activity of germs and bacilli has been so thoroughly explained by modern scientists that well informed people should insist on having a refrigerator which affords no breed ing place for disease. CA jjrovision chamber which has no joints, seams or crevices, is f)bviously the most perfect from a sanitai-y standpoint. CMcKee Seamless rorcelain Enamel on Steel Refrigerators are built on this principle, the Porcelain Enamel lining being indestructible, absolutely non-absorbent and beautiful in appearance. C^They are heavily insulated, insuring a low temperature with economical ice consumption. C Workmanship and finish are of the finest. "THE HOUSEHOLD' ASK THE HOUSEWIFE WHO USES ONE MAXFIELD PARRISII S RESIDENCE, CORNISH, N. II., STAINED WITH CABOT's SHINGLE STAINS CABOT'S CREOSOTE STAINS FOH SHINGLES, SIDING AND OTHEK EXTERIOR WOOD WORK CABOT'S STAINS are " standard." Architects, dealers and builders give them this rating after more than twenty -five j'ears" use. Every gallon is guaranteed, and every user is sure of good results. Their colors are soft and rich, and have a velvety depth that harmonizes perfectly with nature's tints. They wear as long as the best paint, but have no "painty" effect, and they are made of specially refined Creosote, which penetrates the wood and thoroughly preserves it against decay. They cost half as much as paint, and can be applied at half the expense for labor, so that they are the cheapest as well as the most beautiful and harmonious exterior colorings for camps, cottages, bungalows or mansions. CABOT'S WATERPROOF CEMENT STAINS A combination of staining and waterproofing compounds for artistically coloring cement exteriors and protecting the interior from dampness and the surface from disintegration by moisture and frost. CABOT'S QUILT A COLD-PROOF HEAT-PROOF AND SOUND-PROOF LINING FOR HOUSES Not a mere felt or paper, but a scientifically constructed insulator that is more than forty times warmer than the cheap building papers. Costs very little and will pay for itself in two winters in saving fuel, besides making your house comfortable for all time. SEND FOR SAMPLES AND FULL INFOHMATION SAMUEL CABOT, Inc., MANUFACTURING CHEIMISTS, BOSTON, MASS. RESIDENCE OF RALPH PETERS. PRESIDENT L. I. RAILROAD, STAINED WITH CABOT's CREOSOTE STAINS, WATER-PROOF CEMENT STAINS AND LINED WITH CABOt's QUILT FOR WARMTH. AYMAR EMBURY, II, ARCHITECT, ENGLEWOOD, NEW JERSEY. Have Hitchings Build Your Greenhouse That is, if y