Surveying the progress in the front yard highlights the use of broken concrete for the walkways. Also: edging-material options for the planting beds; the restoration of the old hardware and light fixtures. Also: a visit to a classic Spanish-style house, the Adamson House, in Malibu, Cal. In the second half: removing a vinyl kitchen floor; eliminating a gurgling sound from bathroom plumbing; touring a salvage yard for vintage house parts.