PORTSMOUTH -- The lights that once illuminated artwork hanging inside The Metro were still lit Saturday afternoon, but shined only on a blank wall.

Like the rest of the house, the bathroom reflects the individuals changing lifestyles. More spacious and multifunctional , these once utilitarian water closets have become glamour havens - private retreats designed for relaxation, escape and self indulgence.

Jan. 18 (Bloomberg) -- Alice in Wonderland would feel at home in Ikra restaurant in Tokyo's chic Ebisu district. Trees with pine-cones the size of cantaloupes and a Meiji-era fireplace you could walk into made me feel as though I'd shrunk.

Wood takes pride of place in the tropical-themed home of a self-made entrepreneur. RUSLINA YUSOFF writes.

To reach their new home, Naoko and Philip Jones walk from the garage to their front door through a courtyard lined with artificial stone. To enrich this experience, the developer has installed simple fountains that emit the sound of trickling water.

Commonwheel Artists: 102 Caon Ave., Manitou Springs, 685-1008. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Nicaraguan Pottery, through Feb. 19. Opening reception 5-8 p.m. today.

On Jan. 9, an opening art reception was held at the Manatee Community College Library gallery to introduce these two artists: North Port watercolorist Nancy Colby and Josephina Espinosa, Port Charlotte resident and fusion and stained glass artist.