When you look at house plans, do you ever get stuck on one aspect of the design that isn't quite the right fit for you? Perhaps the most debated over areas of the home are the kitchen/dining/family spaces. And, rightfully so as this is where the family spends most of their time together. Fear not--you [...]
By Douglas Trattner who has covered home improvement for HGTV.com, DIYNetworks, and the Cleveland Plain Dealer. He lives in a 1925 Colonial. Start your lawn care by following our season-by-season lawn maintenance calendar. Get a barefoot-worthy lawn and ensure your home has curb appeal. Early Spring Like so many maintenance jobs, everything goes smoother -- and you’ll [...]
You may think you have enough storage space, but is it convenient? Bedroom closets--check; linen closet--check; kitchen pantry, coat closet, garage--check, check, check. Now think about the areas you use most. Would you like to have more storage there versus running to the garage or downstairs when you need something you 'think' you don't use [...]
Make an outdoor living area comfy long after the sun sets or the leaves turn with outdoor lighting, a patio heater, and a glowing firepit or portable fireplace. Light the deck or patio back yard at twilightThe sun sets sooner on your outdoor living space in the fall, but that shouldn’t limit the hours you use your deck or patio. Adding low-voltage or solar outdoor lighting fixtures lets you party or relax well after dark.
Whether new construction or remodeling, dual primary suites, and independent in-law suites are increasingly in demand. It might amaze you to find out just how many committed, happy couples choose not to share the same bedroom. It could be conflicting schedules, medical conditions, or simply snoring, but the need for getting a good night's sleep [...]
By Deirdre Sullivan: a NYC-based writer who's obsessed with maximizing every inch of her urban dwelling. She's a former fashionista who has worked for Lucky Magazine and InStyle. She recently traded her high heels and Fashion Week pass for a drill and bandsaw. Follow Deirdre on Pinterest. These ideas will transform your outdoor space into [...]
You're in search of a smaller home, but can't seem to find one that suits your needs. One design has large bedrooms, but a smaller kitchen. Another has an attractive open floor plan, but minimal storage options. Finding a nice balance between space for everyday living and space for entertaining--whether that be with guests or [...]
By Dave Toht who has written or edited over 60 books on home repair and remodeling for The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Better Homes & Gardens, Sunset, and Reader’s Digest. He's a former contractor with decades of hands-on experience. By installing solar tubes, you’ll get the natural light that skylights provide — but with less cost and less [...]
By Andrea Nordstrom Caughey who has been writing about home and garden stories for more than 20 years. Her specialty is outdoor living topics. A Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism graduate, Andrea lives in a coastal cottage. With so many patio stones on the market, it can be hard to choose. So we’ve done the research [...]
While room definition matters to many homeowners, open entertaining areas are in demand. In fact, single spaces that accommodate gatherings and dining are gaining in popularity. The Arlington home plan's expansive 15' 3” x 28' 5” family room is a wonderful entertaining space with direct access from the entry and opening to the kitchen, a [...]
