Black is 'in' for up-to-date interiors

Love the way you feel after slipping into your little black dress, or donning a well-tailored black suit? Black is not only a great shade on you - it's also a great shade for your home. The stylish finish is especially perfect in the kitchen - and can be seen in everything from kitchen appliances to hardware, and now even faucets. Make your kitchen feel just as good as you do in your go-to outfit with the magic of black. Here are the latest trends. Read More

The history of kitchen innovations

Technology is in virtually every facet of our lives, yet many of the everyday conveniences we enjoy now have been around for less than 100 years. In the kitchen, for instance, the various appliances, fixtures and gadgets that converted the once single-function space into the home's hub of activity have changed dramatically since their introduction in the early 1900s. A look back through history shows how some of these items originated and evolved over the years. Read More

Five smart steps to maximize bathroom space

As today's housing market has homeowners fighting the itch to move, many turn to renovation projects to improve their existing spaces. Look at a homeowner's wish list, and the bathroom often tops the list. With its frequent use and endless potential, easy changes offer a big payoff. To maximize your bathroom storage and make it work best for you, consider these design and organizational tips. Read More

Easy tips to create a relaxing experience at home

In our fast-paced and chaotic lives, we're always seeking ways to relax and de-stress from the day. For some, that means watching a favorite TV show, having a nice glass of wine, or even a message at the spa, but we often forget about our homes and the impact of its design on relaxation. Read More

Fresh herbs all year make for great entertaining

Turkey salad with fresh tarragon, crostini spread with homemade pesto and a refreshing mint mojito on a hot summer day. What do these things have in common? Fresh herbs. Whether cooking for a family, entertaining friends after work, or having a romantic cocktail with that special someone, fresh herbs can be the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. Read More

Home decor evolution: Trends anyone can try for an instant update

Gone are the days when a stylish home and a busy family have to be mutually exclusive. Home decorating is hotter than ever and everyone is getting in on the trend. With an ever-increasing focus on DIY design projects, resources such as shelter magazines, design blogs, TV shows and online home decor retailers are making high design accessible to any homeowner. If your budget doesn't include hiring an interior decorator to update your decor, a few tips from the experts will go a long way. Read More

Replace or repair? That's the home improvement question

Maintenance and improvement are both essential realities of home ownership. From windows and skylights to gas ranges and front doors, everything in your home will eventually need some work. But how do you know when something simply needs repair, or merits being replaced? Read More

Sign of the design times for kitchens

The number of kitchen styles and design options for homeowners to consider during the building and remodeling process is enough to make a person go crazy. Avoid feeling overwhelmed by simplifying your options. Read More

Tips for making spring cleaning easy for the entire family

As the snow begins to melt and flowers finally start blooming, spring is in the air. After being cooped up in the house for those long winter months, most families are undoubtedly ready for it. And thankfully it's possible to maintain a deep spring cleaning without spending more than a day's time, as long as you stay organized. Read More

Spring into 2012 with the hottest colors for your home

As you anticipate what exciting things this year will bring, you might notice your home decor has been left behind. Fortunately, you can easily beautify and modernize your home using hints from design experts on the hottest color trends. Don't worry that you'll need to break the bank - simply updating the shades of your walls can create the feel of an entire new home without the cost of buying one. And you'll enjoy starting the year in fresh, contemporary surroundings. Read More

Weekend warrior - add style, safety and storage solutions in the bath in less than 48 hours

Many homeowners are looking to redo and update their homes, but with busy schedules, they often only have time on the weekends. While a complete overhaul of the house might be unrealistic for this time frame, a bathroom makeover is completely possible. The following tips and tricks will show you how to be a weekend warrior without having to hire a professional crew for assistance. Read More

Small space solutions for the kitchen

Crowded cabinets, cluttered counters and nonexistent prep space. Sound familiar? For many homeowners, small kitchen spaces make everyday use and entertaining a source of frustration. While a small kitchen can pose many challenges, it doesn't have to stop you from enjoying the space. From a full scale home renovation to some simple and quick fixes, there are many options to help you realize your kitchen's full potential and transform it into a welcoming place where you'll want to spend time. Read More

Bathroom remodeling ideas that add style and space

Now, more than ever, homeowners are adding to the value and comfort of their homes by renovating bathrooms into private retreats with luxurious touches that rival those of an upscale spa or resort. Read More

Homeowners' emphasis on energy efficiency grows.

Even in a volatile economy, homeowners are making home upkeep a priority. While the number of projects annually had been on the decline in recent years, a study from BuildFax, a resource for building, remodeling and repair information, found remodeling activity was up in 2011 over 2010. Additional data shows homeowners are opting to invest in what matters most with projects that benefit their wallets, personal comfort and the environment. Read More

Easy-to-install and easy-to-clean bathroom remodeling tips

Dreaming about a bathroom remodel? With today's easy-to-install products - many of which are also easy-to-clean - your new bathroom can actually exceed your wildest dreams. Read More

'Spring' into a relaxing summer with five easy spring cleaning tips

Spring is here, which means one thing: it's time to get your home in tip-top shape. By completing a few easy tasks, you can spend more time soaking up the sun and less time on interior projects. Here are five ways to spruce up your home this spring to prepare for a relaxing summer - and give your home that "spring cleaning" feel without spending the entire spring, well, cleaning. Read More

Splurge vs. save: Which home improvement projects are worth the expense?

There's no place like home. It's this sense of pride that drives so many of us to embark on home improvement projects each year, some of which can be extensive and expensive. Before investing in any project, there are several things you should ask yourself to help you evaluate how you'll live in the space. Read More

Plumbing pro tells how to install an extra bath with less cost, noise and mess

So, you've finally decided to take the plunge and add that much-needed extra bathroom. Smart idea! According to the 2011-2012 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report, an added bath will return more than 50 percent of your investment at resale. So what should you do to make sure your money is well spent? Read More

Seven simple steps to senior bathroom safety

Unable to complete everyday tasks with the same mobility they once had, many senior homeowners are left with unsafe measures to prevent falling in the bathroom. These may include insufficiently secured towel racks that could fall when gripped for support, shower chairs that are not slip resistant and sliding shower doors that could move unexpectedly when entering and exiting the tub. Here are some tips on what to install in the bathroom to keep it safe for loved ones so they can maintain an independent lifestyle with easier mobility. Read More

A lot on your plate? These quick chores won't make you late

Time is very valuable to busy parents with active lifestyles. Between work, school and family plans, the big rush to get everything accomplished leaves little time to tackle basic household chores. One room that can often be neglected in all the hustle and bustle is the kitchen, yet it's also the area of the house where all the activity happens. And when visitors come over, everyone tends to congregate in the kitchen - so it really needs to be an area that you can keep clean without a lot of hassle. Read More

Low-labor, high-impact ideas for freshening your decor

Open a design magazine or visit a home improvement website and they'll extol the virtues of repainting as a great way to freshen a room's decor. But there are plenty of less labor-intensive ways to give a room a new look. From paint accents to new window treatments, here are some ideas for upgrading your decor with a lot less work. Read More

Daring creativity blooms in this season's floral decor

A little black dress, a great pair of jeans and a leather jacket - some styles never go out of fashion. Some elements of home decor share that same sense of timelessness, and none more so than a simple floral theme. Read More

Helpful spring cleaning hints for beautiful baths

As the warmer weather approaches, so does the time for spring cleaning. While a head-to-toe, thorough cleaning of the entire house can be a major task for you and your family, don't get overwhelmed just yet. Start with a smaller room that can accumulate dirt and clutter - like the bathroom - and work your way to other areas of the home. Read More

Trend watch: Color and customization trends for your kitchen

If you want your home to reflect your personal style, why not start in the kitchen? The kitchen, commonly the most popular room in the house for everyday life and entertaining, doesn't have to be cookie cutter with coordinating color schemes. Current trends give homeowners leeway to add personal flair to the kitchen with bursts of color, unique designs and unexpected patterns. Read More

Upgrade your summer with an outdoor living do-it-yourself project

Nothing says warm weather quite like backyard barbecues and pool parties. But if your outdoor living space doesn't quite make the grade, you might consider building a dream deck with your own two hands. Do-it-yourselfers not only save money in labor costs, but they also reap the pride and satisfaction of improving and adding value to their homes. Read More

Translating a remodeling dream into reality

You've made the decision to remodel your home. The budget range and project scope have been set. You've even preemptively told your sister-in-law she'll need to host Christmas (alright, that was before you knew you were going to remodel). Now what? Read More

Steamy and water smart: New ideas for your bathroom remodel

Creating a feeling of luxury in your bathroom doesn't have to come with a high price tag or a shockingly high water bill. You can create an indulgent spa sanctuary with water-sipping faucets and toilets, as well as other water smart choices, following these simple tips. Read More

Smart time- and energy-saving tips for every room in the house

Keeping your home beautiful, organized and running smoothly is a never-ending task. The chores from the kitchen unfold into the dining room, which spills into the living room, the bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry room and beyond. Once you've added it all up, the amount of time and energy you spend on housework - day to day and year to year - is staggering. Read More

Budget-savvy home: Spruce up on a shoe string

Even with a bare-bones decorating budget, you can still give your home a fresh look. Read More

Think of lighting as art for your home

Lighting is possibly the most powerful tool you have when it comes to interior design. It does not make sense to invest in beautiful furniture, rugs, paintings and accessories if they are in the dark. The perfect light fixture not only illuminates a space - it is also a beautiful, decorative design element. Read More