Consumer Corner

Pocket Doors Pave the Way for Accessible Homes

Published

1 year ago

January 3, 2025

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) As aging in place and multi-generational households continue trending, integrating universal design principles into home design is essential. Home improvements, such as wider doorways for accessibility, can enrich life quality for people of all ages and abilities.

Those desiring to live at home during their later years can benefit from easy-to-navigate doorways with sliding doors that accommodate mobility aids, including wheelchairs and walkers. Extended families can also enjoy wider doorways for smooth sailing of kids’ strollers, wheelchairs for elderly or disabled family members and more.

A study by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies found almost 50% of individuals age 55 and older planning home remodels in the next three years focus on age-proofing their homes. To address this growing demand, Johnson Hardware’s 1500SC Series Pocket Door Frame Kit was designed specifically to improve accessibility and functionality throughout the home.

Compared to traditional swinging doors, which present obstacles, pocket doors conveniently slide into the wall, freeing up to 14 square feet of floor space. This gives a clear and spacious pathway to maneuver, allowing for easier travel of mobility aids through doorways, more turnaround space and extra room for household items.

Crafted with an emphasis on quality, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant pocket door kit boasts durability and long-term performance. Supporting extra-wide doors up to 4 feet, nearly any type of solid-core door weighing up to 165 pounds can be installed with the frame. Made in the USA, Johnson’s pocket door hardware exceeds the ADA-required minimum clearance width of 32 inches from door face to opposite stop, accommodating up to 60 inches for greater accessibility.

Making it simple to create handicapped accessible openings throughout home interiors, the universal design-inspired soft-close feature requires only 5 pounds of force to slide doors open and shut. The kit’s preinstalled soft-close door hangers automatically slow the door speed gradually and quietly, helping prevent pinched fingers and door slamming.

To facilitate easier access for individuals with mobility challenges and put your own spin on the pocket door design, choose a decorative raised handle. Following the handicap pocket door installation instructions ensures the raised door handle remains accessible in the doorway when the door is fully open.

The kit can be paired with the 1515 Ply Clip Set, which adds rigidity and strength to the pocket wall. It allows tile, shelving, decor, towel racks and cabinetry to be securely fastened to a solid pocket wall surface. A converging door kit is also available, which connects two pocket door frame headers together, providing an even wider doorway with two converging pocket doors.

For more ideas on how to create accessible spaces using pocket and sliding door hardware, visit johnsonhardware.com or call 574-293-5664.

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SOURCE:
Johnson Hardware

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laundry and cleaning

Room-by-Room Tips for Clutter-Free Spaces

Clutter-Free Spaces: A well-organized home isn’t about perfection. Experts often recommend tackling organization one room at a time, sorting items into categories like keep, donate or discard before finding the right storage solutions. If your home could use a refresh, start small and work your way through each space with these organization tips.

Published

19 hours ago

April 28, 2026

Daily News Staff

Room-by-Room Tips for Clutter-Free Spaces

(Feature Impact) A well-organized home isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating systems that make everyday life easier. When everything has a place, it’s simpler to maintain and keep clutter from creeping back in.

Experts often recommend tackling organization one room at a time, sorting items into categories like keep, donate or discard before finding the right storage solutions. If your home could use a refresh, start small and work your way through each space with these organization tips.

Entryway

A dedicated “drop zone” ensures items used daily don’t end up scattered throughout the house. However, the entryway is also one of the easiest places for clutter to pile up. To keep it tidy:

Install wall hooks for coats, bags and backpacks
Use a small bench or basket for shoes
Add a tray or bowl for keys, sunglasses and everyday essentials

Kitchen

One of the most-used rooms in nearly every home, kitchen organization is key to making daily routines smoother. To stay organized:

Clear unnecessary items off countertops
Group pantry items by category, such as snacks, baking supplies and canned goods
Store rarely used appliances in cabinets or a pantry

Living Room

Living rooms often serve many purposes, from relaxing and entertaining to working or studying. The key is creating storage that blends seamlessly with your decor:

Use decorative baskets for blankets, magazines and toys
Choose furniture with hidden storage like ottomans or coffee tables
Keep remotes and small electronics in a designated tray or organizer

Bedroom

Your bedroom should feel like a sanctuary. Too much clutter can make it harder to relax and unwind. To maintain order:

Keep only essential items on nightstands
Rotate seasonal clothing to free up closet space
Use under-bed storage bins for extra linens or off-season clothes

Bathroom

Bathrooms often have limited space, so smart storage solutions are essential:

Keep countertops clear except for frequently used products
Separate backup supplies from daily-use items, which should be stored for quick access
Use over-the-door organizers for towels or extra storage

Home Office

Whether you work remotely or simply manage household tasks, an organized office helps you stay focused. To improve productivity and reduce distractions:

Digitize or recycle unnecessary paperwork
Use desk trays and organizers for supplies
Create labeled folders or a filing system for important documents

Storage Areas

Garages, basements and storage rooms can quickly become catch-all spaces. A little planning can make them much easier to manage:

Label bins for seasonal decorations, tools or sports equipment
Use shelving and wall storage to maximize vertical space
Keep an inventory list for larger storage areas

With a little planning and the right habits, a well-organized home becomes easier to maintain. Find more ideas at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

eLivingtoday.com

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Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

home improvement

5 Tips for Gardening with Kids

Published

2 days ago

April 27, 2026

Daily News Staff

5 Tips for Gardening with Kids

(Feature Impact) Gardening is a simple way to bring families together while simultaneously teaching kids hands-on lessons about nature, responsibility and healthy living. Whether you have a backyard garden, a few containers on the patio or are looking for a starting point, getting your children involved in planting and caring for plants can spark curiosity and create lasting memories.

To get started, consider these family-friendly tips:

Start Small

Begin with a manageable project, such as a few containers, a small garden bed or a single planter box. This helps keep the experience fun rather than overwhelming and allows children to see progress quickly.

Let Kids Choose the Plants

Giving your children a say in what goes into the garden can help build excitement and a sense of ownership. Ask them to pick a few colorful fruits, vegetables or flowers that grow quickly, such as sunflowers, cherry tomatoes, mint, sugar snap peas or marigolds.

Give Them Their Own Space

Kids feel proud when they have something that’s their own. Consider assigning each child a small plot, container or row in the garden. Let them be responsible for watering, planting and checking on their plants.

Use Kid-Sized Tools

Little hands typically work best with tools designed just for them. Small watering cans, lightweight trowels and child-sized gloves help kids participate safely and comfortably.

Encourage Creativity

Gardens don’t have to be all work. Add some fun to the process by adding artistic touches. Projects such as decorating pots, painting plant markers or creating a fairy or butterfly garden can keep imaginations engaged as well.

From the first tiny sprout to the final harvest, find more family-friendly gardening advice at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:

eLivingtoday.com

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner

Automotive

Nissan’s New Strategy: Innovation Meets Consolidation in a Changing Auto Market

Nissan’s New Strategy: Nissan is reshaping its lineup with fewer models, more hybrid technology, and smarter vehicles. Here’s what’s staying, what’s changing, and what it means for drivers.

Published

3 days ago

April 26, 2026

Rod Washington

Nissan’s New Strategy

As the global auto industry pivots toward electrification and smarter technology, Nissan is taking a more measured approach—introducing new innovations while trimming its lineup to focus on core models that drive sales and long-term value.

🚗 A Leaner, More Focused Nissan

In recent years, Nissan has begun reshaping its global strategy, reducing the total number of models while strengthening key vehicles across major segments. The goal is clear: prioritize profitability, streamline production, and invest in technology where it matters most.

Rather than flooding the market with new nameplates, Nissan is concentrating on a smaller, more competitive lineup—particularly in high-demand categories like SUVs and crossovers.

Nissan’s New Strategy Explained: Fewer Cars, More Hybrids, Smarter SUVs

🔋 Innovation Where It Counts

Hybrid Technology Takes Center Stage

One of Nissan’s most important developments is its e-POWER hybrid system, which is set to debut more broadly in the U.S., particularly in the next-generation Nissan Rogue.

Unlike traditional hybrids, e-POWER uses a gasoline engine solely to generate electricity, while the wheels are driven by an electric motor. The result is a driving experience that feels closer to an EV—without requiring a charging station.

This technology reflects a growing industry reality: while electric vehicles are expanding, hybrids are emerging as a practical bridge for many consumers.

EV Evolution, Not Explosion

Nissan isn’t abandoning electric vehicles—it’s refining its approach.

The iconic Nissan LEAF is expected to return in a redesigned, crossover-style format, aimed at improving range, comfort, and mainstream appeal. However, Nissan is avoiding an aggressive all-electric push in favor of a balanced portfolio that includes gas, hybrid, and EV options.

Smarter Vehicles Through AI

Another key pillar of Nissan’s future is AI-assisted driving technology. The company plans to integrate advanced driver assistance and semi-autonomous features into a majority of its vehicles over the next several years.

These systems are designed to enhance:

Safety
Driver awareness
In-car connectivity

While less visible than a new engine or redesign, this shift could become one of Nissan’s most impactful long-term innovations.

🚙 The Core Lineup: What’s Staying

Nissan’s future lineup is built around a group of proven, high-demand models that continue to evolve with new technology and features.

SUVs and Crossovers (The Backbone)

Nissan Kicks – Entry-level, affordable, and recently redesigned
Nissan Rogue – The brand’s best-seller and innovation leader
Nissan Pathfinder – Family-focused with growing tech upgrades
Nissan Armada – Large SUV with premium and performance appeal

These vehicles form a complete SUV ladder, covering nearly every price point and lifestyle.

Sedans (Reduced but Relevant)

Nissan Sentra – Recently updated and positioned as the primary sedan
Nissan Altima – Still available, though its long-term future is less certain

As consumer demand shifts toward SUVs, Nissan is scaling back—but not eliminating—its sedan offerings.

Trucks and Performance Models

Nissan Frontier – A key player in the midsize truck segment
Nissan Titan – Still present, but facing stiff competition
Nissan Z – A modern revival of Nissan’s performance heritage
Nissan GT-R – Nearing the end of its lifecycle, with a successor anticipated

These models help maintain Nissan’s identity beyond everyday transportation.

⚠️ Models Being Phased Out or Reevaluated

Not every vehicle is making the cut.

The Nissan Versa is being discontinued after 2025
The Nissan Ariya is seeing strategy adjustments depending on market demand
Some low-volume global models are being eliminated as part of a broader consolidation effort

This reflects a broader industry shift: automakers are prioritizing efficiency and profitability over sheer volume.

🔍 The Role of the Nissan Kicks

One standout in this transition is the Nissan Kicks, which represents Nissan’s practical, value-driven approach.

Recently redesigned, the Kicks offers:

Modern infotainment and safety features
Improved comfort and available all-wheel drive
Strong fuel efficiency at an affordable price point

While it doesn’t showcase cutting-edge hybrid or EV technology, it plays a crucial role as an entry-level gateway into the Nissan brand.

🧭 Industry Context: Why This Shift Matters

Nissan’s strategy mirrors broader trends shaping the automotive industry:

EV adoption is growing—but unevenly
Hybrids are gaining traction as a transitional solution
SUV demand continues to dominate global markets
Cost control and profitability are now top priorities

By focusing on fewer, stronger models, Nissan aims to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

🧾 Bottom Line

Nissan is not simply cutting models—it’s redefining its identity.

✔️ Investing in hybrid technology, AI, and core SUVs
✔️ Maintaining key sedans, trucks, and performance vehicles
❌ Eliminating underperforming and low-demand models

The result is a lineup that is leaner, more technologically advanced, and better aligned with today’s market demands.

Daily News

Pocket Doors Pave the Way for Accessible Homes

Consumer Corner

Pocket Doors Pave the Way for Accessible Homes