Remodeling

Affordable Green Building

With all of the recent attention brought to conservation and the preservation of our natural resources, many of us have a desire to do our part when building or remodeling. Despite our good intentions, sometimes a tight budget can... Read More »

What is Enviro Board?

The Pacific Northwest is known for its abundant forests filled with beautiful tall timber. However, our population is growing by leaps and bounds, and the housing industry must continue; so how can we prevent the depletion of our natural... Read More »

Front Door Hardware

There are a variety of reasons for replacing a front door. One instance could be a well-functioning door that doesn’t make the statement you desire. This upgrade is a sound decision as a quality door, correctly installed, can enhance... Read More »

About Suspended Fireplaces

Suspended fireplaces, now that’s a title that catches your attention! What exactly are they; are they practical, or just a passing fad? A suspended fireplace is just that, a fireplace that ascends gracefully from the ceiling into... Read More »

Feng Shui and Your Home Remodeling Project

Feng Shui, wind and water, is the ancient Chinese practice of placement to achieve a harmonious, relaxing environment. "Feng" means "wind" and "shui" means "water" (pronounced fung-shway). In Chinese culture, gentle wind and clear... Read More »

Family Home Design

Your family is active, living life to the fullest. This includes spending a lot of time in your home. Do you find yourself stretched thin trying to keep your home from feeling like an over-crowded daycare? Maybe it’s time to remodel... Read More »

Light Up your Room with Decorative Bedroom Lighting

The bedroom presents a unique situation for lighting. You want adequate lighting, but nothing overbearing or unattractive. Fortunately, lighting fixtures are one area where there is a very large selection for the consumer to choose... Read More »

Indoor Lighting Types: A Summary

If you step into the lighting section of a home improvement store, you’ll realize just how large of a selection there is of indoor lighting. It helps to break it down a bit before you start shopping, and to have a general idea... Read More »

Interior and Exterior Sconce Lighting

Sconce lighting, lighting mounted on the wall, is historically one of the earliest placements of interior and exterior lighting. Originally, these fixtures were mobile so the homeowner could easily carry a candle or lantern throughout... Read More »

Lighting with Personality: Chandeliers

Lighting is an important element in a home. You need adequate natural lighting to capitalize on whatever daylight is available, and attractive, energy efficient light fixtures for the evening.Chandeliers have long been used as a... Read More »

From Ceiling to Floor, Building a Healthy Nursery or Playroom Environment

All new parents are initially overwhelmed with the tremendous responsibility of having a child; and we all want to be as well prepared as possible. Ensuring your child has a healthy, safe nursery or playroom helps alleviate some... Read More »

Got Birds, Lizards, Dogs or Cats? Home Remodeling With Pets

We Americans love our pets to the degree that we make them part of our families. They persuade our choice of hobbies and share our lives and homes. Our domestic favorites, dogs and cats, share most of our common living space and... Read More »

Hardware in Every Room, Because the Little Things Count

Each home is a testament to its owner’s tastes, preferences and interests, and it’s the details that make it so. Whether you’re building new, adding a room, or pursuing a simple face lift to a kitchen or bath, hardware is... Read More »

Inviting Designs for your Front Entryway

The front of your home is the first impression of your house to the outside world. Your entryway should be attractive, inviting, and an asset to your home.Your door style can be an important element in creating an attractive entryway.... Read More »

Simple Storage Solutions

To keep up with today’s fast-paced world, your life has to run efficiently, and organization is the key to efficiency. If your home is overcrowded, it is impossible to stay organized, and the disarray can subtly affect all aspects... Read More »

Soundproofing Walls, Ceilings, Windows, and Doors

Squeaky floors and heavy footsteps plague sleepers around the world every day and night. Therefore, soundproofing is vital to the lasting enjoyment of any home, especially in shared-wall situations such as apartments, duplexes, and... Read More »

The Elements of a Dream Home

From the time you are a small child you start formulating the dreams of what you hope to accomplish "when I grow up." Those dreams change as you mature and change with the world around you. By the time you enter the workforce and begin... Read More »

Typical Earthquake Damage and How to go about Fixing It

There is nothing quite as unsettling as the feeling of subtle rumbling and rolling caused by an earthquake. For those of us who have experienced it, especially if you live on the West Coast, you know that unnerving sensation I'm referring... Read More »

Breaking Down Universal Design

Bright lights, contrast controls on your TV, volume control, language choices at the ATM, closed captioning, wide-handled spoons, deep dishes, and flat-paneled light switches. These are all aspects of Universal Design that most of... Read More »

Green & Trendy: Creative Ideas for Going Vintage

Before the modern age of artificial products and mass production, homes and furniture were handmade from more natural materials. There were fewer chemical adhesives and stains, and homes were generally healthier. In addition, when... Read More »

The Affordable Remodel: Can it Be?

In freshman English class you learn about juxtaposition. That is, the placing of two antonymous words side by side. The affordable remodel, it so often seems, falls right into that category. So how do you do it? And do it best? ... Read More »

Season by Season, a Guide to Color Coordination

The end of summer is quickly approaching, and fall is in the air. Children are back in school, and the leaves are beginning to fall. Each season brings its own unique beauty and what better way to enjoy the changes than to incorporate... Read More »

Asbestos in the Home – What Now?

There are several dirty words in the English language. In remodeling there are but two: lead and asbestos. Lead is fairly well taken care of, being primarily an extinct ingredient of house paints. Asbestos, however, presents a tougher... Read More »

Art Deco Style

There is a science behind interior design. Each style is characterized by something, and different periods throughout history embrace different styles. One popular design that held a large influence in the early 20th century was the... Read More »

A Guide to Shopping for Remodeling Materials

When you're ready to remodel, or even if you're in the early stages of thinking about remodeling, it's time to start considering materials for the job. The materials you eventually select will define the look and functionality of the... Read More »

The Ascending Possibilities of Staircase Design

One of the most defining architectural characteristics of a home is the staircase. Stairs can be built in many different ways, from many different materials, serving many different functions. In fact, the function of a staircase will... Read More »

Laundry Room Solutions

Laundry is an ongoing chore, like dishes, and organization is the key to getting it done and done fast. If you are looking for a fall remodeling project, let me suggest looking at that crowded catch-all laundry room. Gone are the days... Read More »

Decorating Corner Spaces

Corner spaces are easy to decorate effectively. It's surprising how many great solutions there are for creating visual appeal, utilitarian functionality, or both. Here's an interesting tidbit from an article about corner spaces... Read More »

Getting Cozy in Your Large Space

Some friends of mine recently decided to get out of town. They wanted to go rural and so decided on buying an old barn and make it their new home. They loved the open space it provided, the freedom from that crowded feeling. After... Read More »

The Charms of a Small House

When the Baby Boomer generation started raising families, homes started getting bigger, a sure sign of success in the Boomers' eyes. Houses have continued to get bigger and bigger, with a heftier price tag attached. With the market... Read More »

Nature-Inspired Design

Often, we look around us and are awed by the sheer wonder of nature. We try to mimic these wonders in many of the ways we use light, color, art, and design. In our search to better serve nature, new technologies have come about. At... Read More »

Ideas for Creating Room Dividers

Large, spacious rooms are growing more and more popular, with open floor plans that combine living, dining, and kitchen areas. In many cases, a vaulted ceiling soars high above the "great room," adding to the feeling of overall spaciousness. It... Read More »

The Inviting Appeal of Custom Archways

Arches in architecture have been used in building designs for centuries. In modern home construction, their structural strength has been all but eliminated; for sheer beauty, an archway can be stunning. An arch at your front entryway... Read More »

Mixing and Matching High- and Low-End Materials

Homeowners used to spend a huge amount of money remodeling their kitchens and baths. They forked out thousands of dollars updating their living rooms and family rooms. Of course, there used to be a higher return for those beautiful... Read More »

Enchanting Wall Trellises

Trellises give focus, emphasis, and vertical interest to the overall landscape. They can break up the open space of your yard and make large spaces more intimate. They can accentuate desirable aspects within the yard. They can... Read More »

Home Libraries – Always in Style

In a recent article for The Future of Real Estate's blog about home libraries being back in style, June Fletcher writes, "In the library of her 5,800-square-foot house in Glen Cove, NY, Linda Teitelbaum keeps trophies from dog shows,... Read More »

Guide to Choosing Indoor Plants

Are you looking to add some life to your home decor? Plants can do the trick for you. "But I haven't really grown any indoor plants and we don't have any space" you say. Or maybe you have tried but the effort wasn't successful.... Read More »

Remembering a Forgotten Space: The Hallway

The last frontier, the last space to get decorated, the most forgotten room in the house is usually the hallway. Here's a space where you can really get creative and show off your designer talents. There are many creative ideas... Read More »

Gothic Inspiration

Gothic design was the first true ecclesiastical style, symbolic of the Catholic Church's triumph over pagan Europe. The period was influenced by Roman and Medieval architecture. While its initial design was from 1150 to 1550,... Read More »

Commonly Used Insulation Types

In many regions of our country, winter is already beginning to set in. If you haven't done so already, now is the time to prepare your home to combat the harsh winter elements. One of the greatest ways to increase the energy efficiency... Read More »

Consider Fireclay for your Patio, Kitchen, or Bath Redesign

Fireclay is a specific kind of clay used in the manufacture of ceramics, especially fire brick. The fire attribution is given for its refractory characteristics. According to Wikipedia, there are two types of fire clay: flint clay... Read More »

Reuse and Recycle Remodeling Scrap

Oftentimes, when a remodel is started, one of the big surprises encountered is the amount of debris and scrap accumulated each day. Big or small, a remodel requires different types of building materials including wood, metal, sheetrock,... Read More »

Using Adobe or Clay in Your Remodel

For an earthy, natural look, adobe and clay can be excellent choices – especially if you are doing a green remodel. Adobe and clay building materials are made of natural substances and have been used in construction for centuries,... Read More »

Get Colorful with Decorative Glass Applications

Colored glass has lifted the spirits of people for many centuries, notably in the rich, stained glass windows in churches, temples, and chapels. Stained glass windows also adorned castles of old, and were used in grand urban train... Read More »

Redoing the Bedroom

In many cases, changing the bedroom is an important rite of passage that reflects a significant life change. Some of these changes are:Buying a new homeBecoming singleGetting marriedHaving a babyChildhood transition from early to... Read More »

How and Where to Install a Fire Extinguisher

While safety and evacuation should be the first thoughts in the event of a fire in the home, the first line of defense against small fires is the fire extinguisher. Just remember that fire spreads rapidly, so the first move should... Read More »

Upgrading Your Staircase? Where to Start

Your staircase may not be the sweeping display of Tara's in Gone with the Wind, but I am sure it is the centerpiece of the room in which it stands. Being so, you may have reasons to remodel or upgrade it. Redesigning your staircase... Read More »

Raising the Roof

Here's how the story typically goes: They've bought a house with an attic bedroom, but the ceiling follows the pitch of the trusses and leaves less than two feet of actual walking space down the center of the room. They already... Read More »

Avoid Common Pitfalls of Green Remodeling

If you've made the decision to "go green" on your next remodeling project then chances are you're a devoted fan to conserving our planets resources for generations to come. Going green is not just a product –it's a way of life... Read More »

Textured vs. Rough Tile

Textured tile is a category of tile that includes a wide range of tile styles from simple, barely-there textures to outrageous 3-D tiles that mimic sea coral, shag carpeting, and natural sponges.Rough tile is a category that includes... Read More »

Special Building/Maintenance Considerations for Homes in the Desert

Even though living in the desert may sound a bit unappealing to the majority of us, a large number of people in the southern portion of our country do live in desert-like environments. The desert is a hot, dry environment, where... Read More »

Maintenance Considerations for Cold Climates

I have lived in cold climates my whole life and know that if not properly maintained, your home can take quite a beating. Icy winds, snow drifts, and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on a building, but only if you fail to properly... Read More »

Special Building and Maintenance Considerations for Homes by the Sea

With the refreshing salty air, the cries of the gulls, the distant call of a fog horn, the sea is an awesome body of water that has drawn admirers for ages. Many love to build their dream homes near her soothing waves, but sometimes... Read More »

3 Home Improvement Nightmares

In a perfect world, home improvement projects are wonderful, enjoyable, and go off without a glitch. Even though I'm confident that is exactly how your project will go, it is wise to be aware of some possible nightmares that may... Read More »

Get in on the Secret of Liquidated Lumber

Even though home construction and sales have dropped immensely, kitchen and bath remodeling is still on the homeowner planning board. Are you someone who would like to make improvements to your home, but hesitate because the budget... Read More »

Lights, Appliances, Heating and Cooling: Giving Them a Greener Touch

Say you're making a checklist for how to make your house significantly greener. Upon categorizing your energy usage, you'll probably find that lighting, heating and cooling, and appliances eat up a sizable part of the checklist.... Read More »

Beadboard for Classic and Cottage Looks

Beadboard traces its roots to 18th- and 19th-century Europe, where it was used in less formal homes and spaces, particularly vacation cottages. Another bit of beadboard history tells us that it "began as the Victorian equivalent... Read More »

Display the Story of Family Heirlooms

There is something magical about holding something that belonged to your great-grandmother and that has been passed down to you. You treasure it, imagine her holding it and what point she was at in her life, and feel a twinge of... Read More »

Designer Focus

Choosing an interior designer may be as simple as opting to work with a design professional recommended by your builder or contractor, or utilizing the services of a designer who works in conjunction with your builder or contractor.... Read More »

All-Purpose Hallways: Your Home's Entryways

We've all seen movies or read books about great mansions with enormous front hallways reaching up two or three stories, filled with paintings, and leading – across a great, empty expanse – to curving staircases. And for back... Read More »

Ideas for Sprucing Up Kids' Bedrooms

If you are scratching your head, wondering how to infuse a fresh look into your children's bedrooms, there are as many options available for that as there are for any other room in the house. Depending on the ages of your children,... Read More »

Common Causes of Fire and Preventative Measures

Winter is here, and with it comes cold weather that necessitates heating our homes with some form of fuel. Whether it is electrical, natural gas, propane, or wood, each method brings a fair amount of fire danger. There is not much need... Read More »

Ceiling Medallion Ideas

Often we don't look at the large spaces just above our heads as a space that could add a whole new aesthetic appeal with as simple an accent as a ceiling medallion. What is a ceiling medallion? Used for centuries by the ancient Greeks,... Read More »

Glass Garage Doors: Bringing the Outdoors In

Another somewhat odd trend is rising in the remodeling industry as homeowners continue to blur the lines between outside and in. Clear garage doors are popping up in neighborhoods and on businesses across the nation, furthering... Read More »

Color Combinations for the Bedroom

Your bedroom is your personal space, especially for parents looking to relax after a long day of work and family. It is a refuge for most of us, not to mention the one room in the house where you inevitably get a good and frequent... Read More »

Re-imagining a Small Bedroom Space

One positive side to small spaces is their challenge to our creative impulses. For large spaces you can go buy any old dresser, bed, or armoire without much thought beyond basic themes. Small bedrooms, however, require a little... Read More »

Getting Ready for Your Spring Remodel

If you’re planning a spring remodeling project, you’ve definitely picked the right time. The slow economy is bad news for some but good news for you – the “supply and demand” rule is on your side. Building contractors... Read More »

Power Sander Types for Every Project

Power sanders are very handy tools with a wide range of uses throughout the remodeling process, from woodworking to painting. It seems there are few home repairs that couldn't do with some help from sandpaper, and thanks to power... Read More »

Make Your Existing Space Look like a Brand New Addition

It all starts with a clean slate. If you want your existing space to look like a brand new addition, then start by taking out the old stuff. Four walls, a floor, and a ceiling are good canvasses to start with as you begin the reinventing... Read More »

Addition Woes: Bigger Yard or Bigger House?

Need more space at home? Are the quarters getting a little cramped? The logical step is to create a more livable space by increasing the square footage of your home. But you’ll have to cut into your backyard a wee bit. That’s... Read More »

Living Green in the Desert

The United States is an amazingly diverse piece of land, with cold northern climates, the hot and humid south, mild and breezy coasts, and the arid deserts of the southwest. We may not think as much about living green in the desert.... Read More »

ICFs and Your Addition

When contemplating putting an addition onto your home, it’s common to consider the size and shape of the annex, what purpose it will serve, and how you’ll want to design it. What isn’t so common is putting much thought into... Read More »

Sports Courts, an International Sensation

The old days of playing games on the backyard sandlot have definitely faded into the sunset. Even concrete and asphalt seem a little obsolete by today’s standards. Yes, a good multi-purpose sports court offers a big improvement... Read More »

Restuccoing, not the Same as Applying Your Average Drywall

The process of restuccoing versus applying drywall is very different. Stucco is an ancient building material that became popular in California, the Southwest, and Florida. During a post-war building boom of the 1950s and 60’s,... Read More »

Spotlight on Limestone

Usually formed in the world's oceans, limestone has been a building material almost as long as there have been buildings. This clever and versatile natural stone option has a wide array of uses in the home, from siding to flooring... Read More »

3 Weekend Projects for the Avid Remodeler

Are you a DIYer who's itching for something to do this weekend? These projects will get your productive hands in gear and step up the look of your home a few notches, too. If you want to enjoy your weekend even more, consider hiring... Read More »

Choosing Your Office Decor

There are three key points to designing your office: painting, lighting, and decorating. Bright lighting and vibrant paints are common traits of the home office. While paint allows for a good deal of creativity, there are only so many... Read More »

Greening the Garage

When it comes to reducing our carbon footprint, often the first thing we think of to do is modify our travel accommodations by getting a hybrid vehicle, car pooling, or driving less. Next we tend to think in terms of the energy... Read More »

Spring Remodeling Projects for Desert Dwellers

Wildflowers are blooming and the hills are temporarily green with the rare rush of winter water into the desert. It is springtime, which in the desert means mild 90-degree days and cleaning out the swimming pool. The desert is unique... Read More »

5 Extras that Make Home, Sweet Home

Human basic needs are all the same: food, shelter, clothing, love, companionship, A/C, Internet connection, etc. Even so, there are still other things that, while they may not be absolutely necessary, make our lives aaahhhh so much... Read More »

Building Space-Smart Stairs

IBM says they’re building a smarter planet; some of us would settle for smarter stairs. If you have room in the attic or basement and you want to access it, then you might have to consider building some space-smart stairs.The... Read More »

7 Architectural Elements to Reuse as Furniture

We have a lot of years’ worth of architectural history behind us now, even in America. Of course the next logical statement should mention all that we can learn from a distinguished history of urban planning and architecture.... Read More »

Features of the French-Style Home

During World War II, many young Americans -- and future homeowners -- spent time admiring French architecture. After the war ended, many of these soldiers brought that admiration home with them, and French architectural features... Read More »

Smarter Doors Make Great Rooms Truly Great

A Great Room combines the best of traditional rooms to create one super room. For instance, sometimes the kitchen and living room are drawn together without separation of walls or doors to make a giant intertwined room. Does the... Read More »

Hardwood Ceilings, A Fantastic Way to Update the Ceiling

If you’re looking for a new idea that’s completely different, think about installing hardwood ceilings. You can cover up that old popcorn ceiling with hardwood paneling to give your ceiling a cottage look. If you have a drop... Read More »

Eco-Friendly Bookcases

While trying to reduce our carbon footprint on the planet, homeowners are quick to realize that every choice we make, from the cars we drive to the groceries we buy, has some sort of ramification to the status of Earth. Inside the... Read More »

Popular Home Additions

It has to be a small percentage of American homeowners that couldn't do with a little more space -- a new and better bathroom or master bedroom and even a new and better lifestyle. Home additions provide a chance to customize your... Read More »

Out of the Darkness Must Come the Light

Natural light tends to be a primary focus in new homes these days, in terms of both lighting and solar heating. Yet to concentrate solely on incorporating natural light into new and remodeled homes is to ignore a wealth of folks... Read More »

His and Her Nightstands

Nightstands are sort of light nighttime servants, albeit very stoic ones. They have our books ready to read before bed, they hold our alarm clocks, water glasses, and eye glasses. Nightstands localize all those necessities that... Read More »

Checking In On the Real Estate Market

Let’s just dig right into the meat of the matter. I’ve put together information on the housing market in both existing home sales and new home sales, as well as new home starts. My gut feeling is if you’re a homebuyer, buy... Read More »

Teak: Champion of the Outdoors

Teak wood is incredibly unique among furniture materials. Teak needs no protection from the elements, lasting for several decades unfinished and in any climate. That is quite a resume for a piece of outdoor furniture and one that... Read More »

Fun Double-Duty Remodeling Projects for the Spare Room

Remodeling a spare room is one of the easiest and fastest spaces to renovate because it’s almost always cosmetic. Many homeowners have one spare room and multiple ideas on how to utilize the space. You might need an office and guest... Read More »

Repairing Rust Damage

What happens when water and dust collect on metal surfaces like iron or steel? Over time they form a corrosive residue known as “rust.” It affects cars, outdoor equipment, pipes, and even household appliances. But there are... Read More »

Japan’s Build-It-Small Culture

There are many reasons for building a small house, but in Japan, it’s a matter of necessity. Land is expensive, especially in urban areas which lack spacious low cost housing.During the “bubble economy” of the 1980s it was... Read More »

10 Reasons Home Improvement Is the Right Investment

It would seem that there are little or no good investments these days, especially in the housing market. So instead of investing in a new home or trying to sell their existing home, homeowners are deciding to improve their homes... Read More »

The State of Home Construction Prices

Money is tight for homeowners around the country, as evidenced by a predicted 12% drop in home improvement spending in 2009. Despite a small increase in single-family home construction in the last month, the market as a whole is... Read More »

Cooperative Housing

Not so many decades ago most of America wondered with often negative curiosity about cooperative living. Frequently called communes, compounds, or even cults, cooperative homes were generally misunderstood and looked down upon as... Read More »

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite!

While we often jokingly tell our children to sleep tight and not let the bed bugs bite, bed bugs are no laughing matter. Without attempting to give you all insomnia, suffice it to say the nasty little critters are very real, very... Read More »

Building Considerations for Indoor Swimming

Adding an indoor swimming pool to your home can be a great luxury. Indoor pools provide great exercise, increase the value of your home, and allow you to do laps when there’s a foot of snow on the ground. The indoor pool can be... Read More »

Reviving Stored Furniture

Repurposing old storage furniture is a great idea. It saves money on new furniture and is eco-friendly. These days everything seems to be made of particle board or some sort of engineered wood, so finding vintage furniture made... Read More »

Father’s Day Gift Ideas, Let’s Get Brainstorming

Thinking about getting dear old dad another clip-on tie this year? Nah … nobody ever really buys those things, do they? Pick one up and use it as practical joke, but never as the real thing, right? The serious offerings... Read More »

Upgrade Your Way to Better Sleep

At one point in everyone’s life, getting enough sleep becomes an issue. Tossing and turning while trying to find the comfort zone sometimes leaves us with less than 100% of the sleep we need. Finding solutions to sleep deprivation... Read More »

15-Minute Home Improvement Projects You Can Do in Your Spare Time

Forget about spending an entire weekend on home improvement projects. If you have 15 minutes to a ½ hour, that’s enough time to start and finish many of these easy upgrades. Change up your home décor or go green with some simple... Read More »

5 Weekend Project Ideas

Summer conditions are prevailing in most parts of the country, and it’s a good time to spend your weekend fixing or maintaining things around the house. Here are five weekend projects that will immediately improve your home and... Read More »

Hardware Store Goodies You Never Knew Existed

The hardware division of American Science and Surplus is a virtual goldmine of specialized hardware and accessories. How about some nuts and bolts? No problem. They also have fasteners, locks, latches, handles, mounts, hangers,... Read More »

Building Your Own Chicken Coop: The New Trend?

Raising chickens in the backyard has plenty of benefits. These birds are low maintenance and easy to care for, and they help control the bug population. Of course, the main purpose for raising chickens is for their eggs. You can... Read More »

5 Plate Rack Brands

Adding plate racks to various rooms of the house is an inexpensive way to decorate and a perfect way to display beautifully handcrafted tableware. A plate rack can also save you space and help you organize dishware. Some people... Read More »

Wainscoting Tips

Installation of wainscoting is a tried and true method of protecting your walls and adding an attractive design to the home. Wainscoting is also very useful for walls that are too damaged for painting. The tongue and groove boarding will... Read More »

Ignoring these Vital Home Repairs could Be Costly

Each year homeowners spend thousands of dollars fixing major problems that could have been avoided with a little preventative maintenance. As with our cars and our health, the longer you wait to fix a problem the more expensive it’s... Read More »

"Extreme Downsizing" a Growing Trend in Housing Market

Living green & mortgage freeThe sluggish economy, a very iffy housing market, and an aging population with changing housing needs all add up to a new living trend: extreme downsizing. While empty-nesters and newly single older adults... Read More »

Fun & Social Home Remodeling

I get by with a little help from my friendsFor sports fans hoping catch the big game: listen up. For couples looking to tackle a long overdue remodeling project, I’ve got your back. For coworkers in need of some fun away from... Read More »

Homeowners Have Less Equity Than Ever Before

The American dream that turned into a nightmare started with sub-prime loans and due to the trickle effect, U.S. households have seen $7 trillion of net worth vanish over the last five quarters. That makes the dot.com bubble tech-wreck... Read More »

5 Sultry Interior Lights

Interior lighting sets the mood. Ultimately, the light fixture you choose will make or break the ambience. Each of the five designer lights below creates a different lighting effect, but all are definitely inspiring. #1 - The Penta... Read More »

Wall-Mount Genius Home Storage Solutions

Lack of storage has always been an issue with me. My new house has half the kitchen space than I’m used to and I’m down to a one-car garage. So, when I saw these smart storage units, I got pretty excited.For one, they’re... Read More »

How to Find Hidden Storage Space

Trying to find extra storage space around the house isn’t easy. We can build shelving, add cabinets in the garage, and store Christmas decorations under the bed, but it’s never enough. We always find more things we need to store.... Read More »

True Green Blue Jean: 5 Clever Uses for Old Denim

Most of us pay homage to Levi Strauss on a daily basis. And we probably have a few favorite pairs of jeans that, well, you can tell are favorites by the worn spots, stains and gaping, revealing holes. But when you're finally able... Read More »

Rich & Textured Eco-Friendly Shelving

How do we collect more stuff than any house can hold? I don’t know where it comes from, but I do know I don’t spend that much money. I've often theorized that knick-knack fairies invade our home while we’re sleeping and turn... Read More »

Classic Antique Furniture Finish for that New-Old Look

You’ve heard it from your grandparents and maybe even said it yourself (although not without cringing at the thought that maybe you are getting old) - they just don’t make ‘em like they used to. Making your not-so-old furniture... Read More »

Hilarious Wacky Power Tools

I would say that some people have too much time on their hands, but hell, if it weren't for extra time, we might not have such invaluable gems as the George Foreman Grill or anything that the late, great Billy Mays loved to peddle... Read More »

Latest Design Trend: the Age of Aquarium

Aquariums are so underrated. They are no longer just a little box for fish to swim around in. The new aquarium, thought up by creative designers, is so much more. Decorators have begun to recognize the potential power that aquariums... Read More »

5 Cool Design Tools for Home Remodeling

You may not be a professional interior designer, but you still have a penchant for great design and a desire to do what you want with your home. Now, how do you get those great ideas out of your head and onto the walls? Here are... Read More »

Offensive or Kind of Awesome? Bedding Inspired by the Homeless

Did you know that you can buy a little homelessness for your home to help the homeless? When you've untwisted your brain (and tongue) from that sentence, check out the Home Duvet from Dutch By Design, a UK design firm specializing... Read More »

Concept Photo Furniture by Joseph Heidecker

Joseph Heidecker is one of those “found art” artists that other creatives seem to most enjoy. “I like to use discarded, found materials things that seem useless, from flea markets and thrift shops, to help provide another layer... Read More »

The Power Napper for Sleepy Workers

Yawn…Another long day at the office. If only I could take a break and come back to my computer all refreshed and motivated to do my finest work.Enter the Nappak.I’m sure workplace visitors wouldn’t mind if they walked in and... Read More »

Innovative Vertical Window Gardens

Sometimes, all it takes to live sustainably is a little creative vision. Just take a look at this concept for vertical window farming for the living room, kitchen or even office. Window farms are vertical drip system gardens planted... Read More »

Remodel with Cool Sound-Absorbing Wool Panels

Ever wish your home was soundproof? Hear too much through walls shared with neighbors that keep the stereo on too high and make loud passionate love at all hours of the night? Or maybe you have kids and wonder what peace and quiet... Read More »

Modern Candelabras for the Holidays

No matter what you celebrate during the holiday season, there’s one common thread that connects us: candles. There’s just something about candles that create a warm, cozy environment at home with family and friends. And many are... Read More »

Could Bulldozing 50 US Cities Boost Economy, Green Up Urban Sprawl?

We’re all glaringly aware of the economic status here in the U.S. It hurts, and no one appears to be exempt. Individuals are strapped for cash and losing their homes left and right, banks and big businesses are faltering, and even... Read More »

5 Festive Winter Decorating Ideas

Decorating the house for the holidays is always fun, but I’m more impressed by people who redecorate their homes for the season. There isn’t so much pressure to take it all down once the New Year’s toasts are finished. Winter... Read More »

Impressed… or Underdressed? The Importance of Curb Appeal

You’ve heard the term “curb appeal,” but we might as well just call it the all-important first impression. You check that ad in the local newspaper or follow a realtor around, drive up to the house full of hope… and in one... Read More »

Blend: Bed, Bench & Nightstand Hybrid

We’re going crazy for this new fusion piece by Dutch designer Mieke Miejer. It’s simple, beautiful and functional all at once. I can see this bed in a cool urban loft setting or minimalist home with hardwood floors. Gorgeous!

Pros and Cons of Homeownership

Everyone I talk to (including myself), is batting around the decision of whether to continue renting or to purchase a new home. Our reasons for not actively jumping on the bandwagon consist of worries about future finances, job stability,... Read More »

Cute Nursery Decorations for Cheap!

Having a baby is usually synonymous with having lots of stuff. You wouldn’t believe the amount of stuff that starts showing up at your doorstep once you bring that bundle home from the hospital. If you’re clever, though, you... Read More »

The Original Rainwater Pillow

Rain collection systems are becoming ever more important. There are a few different types, including roof runoff collection, rain barrels, and now, The Original Rain Pillow. The Original Rainwater Pillow is like nature’s air mattress.... Read More »

Get the Most Remodeling Bang for Your Buck

Reusing aluminum foil. Wearing threadbare clothing. Driving the same car for 10 years. These are all things our parents and grandparents did that we scoffed at. Didn’t they know they could easily replace those things?Well, things... Read More »

Moldable "Between Lines" Bookshelf

Hmm. Wait… Hmm.OK, this isn’t for me, but we aim to bring you the most creative finds we come across. This definitely fits the bill, and I have to admit it’s clever.The Between Lines Shelf by WOKMedia is made of rubber-coated... Read More »

The Smart Home Trend

I’m patiently waiting for smart homes to become the norm for regular folks like me. I can use all the help I can get. Remote control monitoring of various systems have been the norm in industrial settings for quite a while, and... Read More »

4 Home Remodeling Myths

There’s a lot of home improvement advice circling the 'net, but you can’t believe everything you hear. We've tracked down 4 remodeling myths that have duped homeowners for decades – do yourself a solid and watch out for these... Read More »

Texas Shack Turned Country Home

Imagine living in a tiny three-room shack. With no kitchen. And a makeshift bathroom added onto the back. Oh, and the refrigerator sits on the back porch. Luckily, this miniscule Texas dwelling sits upon a perch looking out over... Read More »

Classic Meets Contemporary Furniture in New Abril Line

MOBILFRESNO introduces Abril (April), a new line of refined furniture, including this sophisticated bedroom set. Most notable are the unique lines and shapes of the pieces, like the leggy dressers and side tables, whose charming stance... Read More »

Stelton's Awesome Coffee Pots

Introducing a fresh take on legendary Arne Jacobsen’s Danish Modern Cylinda-Line for the popular Danish brand, Stelton. British Designer Paul Smith presents a colorful twist on the collection for the 50th anniversary of the label.Now... Read More »

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Risk

The tax credits that are meant to stimulate first-time home buyers into making that move can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on whether or not you've done your homework. For those who have not assessed their personal situation... Read More »

Ogata Furniture Design

Designers are a special breed. They find inspiration in the ordinary, transforming the mundane into things that most people wouldn't have thought of. Japanese designer Kin Ichi Ogata is one such creative soul. He just... Read More »

HydroFloor Space-Saving Swimming Pool

Most average-sized homes, once packed with people and possessions, have little room to spare, especially massive square footage for an indoor pool. But if you can’t live without your swim time, then the HydroFloor might just... Read More »

Gorgeous Pottery Tableware

If the warmer weather, beach trips, and long days of sunshine have put an extra spring in your step, why not extend that excitement all the way to your kitchen accessories? Heath Ceramics, a company specializing in handcrafted... Read More »

Creative DIY Headboard Ideas

Sometimes home decorating ideas are so brilliant they make ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones, like this creative collection of do-it-yourself headboards. Watch out, they may just make you want to start that home remodeling... Read More »

Tips to Increase Energy Efficiency

The topic of energy efficiency has taken center stage in the public arena for several reasons, but most of the country has their eye on one: saving money on energy bills. If you’re looking to hold on to those few extra bucks... Read More »

Furniture Design with a Universal Appeal

If your space is filled to the brim with busy furniture, maybe it's time to let it breathe with something simple and sleek. Domiphile's line of sustainable modern furniture offers a cool simplicity with wood-based designs... Read More »

New Materials for the Modern Urbanite

While most companies funnel their energy into good product design, Matteria, a European company, believes that aesthetic appeal is sometimes just a by-product of an interesting material. Here are some of my favorite picks from... Read More »

The Homework Desk

Even adults have homework – paying bills, doing paperwork, drafting correspondence and keeping a jam-packed calendar. If our work is artistic in nature, we need a space to design or sketch. Everyone's home office needs are different,... Read More »

Overtaxed Homeowners Take a Stand

In the midst of the economic downturn, homeowners are quickly learning that if they don’t speak up when it comes to paying over-the-top property taxes, no one will do it for them. Some, however, are raising their voices loud... Read More »

Celebrating Earth Day One Recycled Toy at a Time

Who said fabulously creative products had to have an out-of-this-world price tag? Through April 29, Wal-Mart will carry these ingenious TerraCycle in honor of Earth Day. A small step for the mega corporation, but still.Made... Read More »

Genius Flower Fields Vase

For flower enthusiasts and garden gurus that would love nothing more than to bring the beauty of the outdoors in, Seven Laurens has created an incredibly unique vase for that very purpose.With separate spaces for each individual flower,... Read More »

Designing for a Room with a View

If you're lucky enough to decorate a room with a great view to the outdoors, the positioning of your furniture is of the utmost importance. The ideal scenario is to retain as much of the view as possible, as well as the natural... Read More »

Basic Home Maintenance Pays Off

While house-hunting with a friend yesterday, I realized that an updated top-of-the-line bathroom with double sinks, a soak bath, and all-new granite counters meant nothing if the kitchen floors were still originals with scars, the... Read More »

Darling Birdhouse Lamp

Could you imagine a light fixture more darling than this one?The Birdhouse Lamp is crafted from sustainably sourced French Oak, and wallpaper birds are included, so you can create an even more charming scene. You’ll get two birds... Read More »

Freshly Designed Home Showroom Lessons

Take a gander at this fresh-as-can-be show unit by Wallflower Architecture and Design. It’s definitely a place I could live in – not too showy, yet impressive – and loads of fun.The one-bedroom unit at the Emily Residence apartment... Read More »

Plaster Walls are Green, Safe and Beautiful

Green building materials have become like the hip new popular kids in school, except of course, their intentions are pure and they’re more interested in helping out than in keeping up appearances. So who’s the newest green kid... Read More »

Let Kids Help with Remodeling

When tackling remodeling projects, it seems like there are never enough hands to complete a job...until your kids start clamoring to help. Then there's usually too many. But having children help with remodeling jobs can be a positive... Read More »

5 Tips for Refinishing the Attic

It’s always tempting to add more living space to your home, especially as the years go by and you find yourself filling up existing space at an alarming rate. One of the places typically useful for adding new living space is the... Read More »

Dangers in Home Foreclosures

What to watch out for when you buy foreclosedForeclosures seem awesome for first-time buyers. A great house at a fraction of the price. What could go wrong? A lot. There are some major problems with foreclosures that you should investigate... Read More »

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