It’s no longer just tool time at the National Hardware Show. The show that took place last month at McCormick Place has grown to such mammoth proportions that there is not only one great hall devoted to hardware alone–knobs and drills and faucets and such–but also three good-sized halls showcasing all kinds of products relating to the home and garden, pets and leisure living. Many of these new products will come out on the market this fall and early next year.
Sound of summer year-round
The “Sounds of Summer” Bamboo Door Curtain was introduced last January by Asli Arts Inc. of Langley, Wash., as a new twist on the traditional plastic and beaded curtains of the past. Hung from an open doorway, the strands of bamboo emit a tranquilizing sound reminiscent of rainfall or a mountain stream. Handmade in Vietnam, the approximately 34-by-79-inch door curtain is especially fabulous framing passageways leading to the outdoors. It comes in two colors: natural and mahogany. It will sell for about $50; call 800-950-2754 for a retailer near you.
Antidote to cabin fever
While the thought of cool-weather camping may send chills down your spine, many of the 64.7 million camping enthusiasts in the U.S. favor trips in the fall, winter and early spring. This fall, Uniflame Corp., a subsidiary of Blue Rhino Corp., with headquarters in Zion, launches two new tabletop patio heaters that will allow families to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities in colder weather. The Uniflame portable outdoor patio heater will be available this fall in a coppertone finish, $99, or a stainless-steel finish, around $129, at The Home Depot and Wal-Mart stores. Approximately 3 three feet tall, the heaters create a 10-foot circle of warmth, elevating temperatures by as much as 20 degrees. Made with a weighted base, the heaters automatically switch off if tilted 30 degrees. For more information, call Uniflame at 800-762-1142.
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Computers sans clutter
Nova Solutions, Inc., of Effingham, Ill., offers the Retrofit Kit, an especially efficient solution for incorporating computers into the busiest room in the house, the kitchen, without sacrificing precious countertop space. The design places the computer and monitor beneath the work surface to be viewed through a tinted, tempered glass “view port” that doubles as a writing surface. A trim ring reduces the risk of spills reaching the computer. A local cabinetmaker can be employed for installation, but a good do-it-yourselfer could install it by herself, says a firm spokesman. Dream Kitchens in Skokie (847-933-9100) sells the kit for $495; for other dealers, call 800-730-6682.