ABSTRACT
In the homes of poorer classes the character of the work and workmanship is often of the most inferior kind: cheap, nasty, and absolutely unhealthy. All internal wood-work should be treated in flat tones of color and varnished, the surface thus treated is easily cleaned and wears much better than when left, as is usually the case, unvarnished. If health and comfort are to be considered in furnishing, it must be self-evident that none of the bulkier pieces of furniture should be made that they cannot be readily removed, to permit of floor space under being cleaned and washed; or, failing this, there should be sufficient space left open under them that all dirt and dust may be easily seen and removed. With all the vast improvements that have been made in design and construction in the various trades especially applying to the decoration and furniture of houses, there can be no difficulty in making rooms healthy, comfortable, and artistic.
