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Home Decorating News Articles

355 articles
Home Decorating

Tips and Tricks for Adding Curb Appeal to Your Landscape

You only get one chance for your home to make a first impression. With a little help from Mother Nature, you can demand a second look from passersby with a show-stopping front yard.

Published: 2009-04-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Colorful Palettes Enhance Warm Weather Trends

As you stretch out your arms and embrace the warmer weather, the colors of summer make themselves obvious. So why not bring that same optimism into your home, giving rooms an easy, colorful facelift with a fresh coat of paint? New warm-weather paint palettes can create a decorating scheme that perfectly captures the essence of a fresh, sunny day.

Published: 2009-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A Great Garage Door: the Lipstick on Your Home's Facade

Simple is better, as more homeowners are focusing on simpler exterior elements with an emphasis on durability and sustainability, according to the American Institute of Architects' recent quarterly Home Design Trends Survey.

Published: 2009-04-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

New Decor Trend: Exotic Elements Provide a Tropical Retreat at Home

Dreaming of traveling to your favorite tropical destination? Creative homeowners are bringing the idea of travel into their home by incorporating exotic decor that provides the feeling of a travel retreat.

Published: 2009-04-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Techorating Tips for the New Technology in Your Home

In the current economic environment, many people are refocusing their priorities on family and home. Experts say more Americans are creating a home theater experience in their home instead of going out. Perhaps you're thinking about using your tax refund for a new HDTV. Or maybe you're getting a new home theater system in time to invite friends over for the summer baseball season or to enjoy this fall's football games in big-screen style.

Published: 2009-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Simple Steps to Soothe the Necessary Evil of Sanding

Simply stated, sanding can be hard work, even if you use a power tool to do it. Yet it's a necessary evil for many do-it-yourself projects and foregoing it can mean you end up with less-than-perfect results. Nearly every decorating or home improvement project that calls for sanding will look better if you actually do it … and do it properly.

Published: 2009-03-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Cutting Costs? How to Get the Best Deal on Furniture

Sometimes buying furniture is not a luxury, it's a necessity. There certainly are good deals available in a recession, and you shouldn't put off buying something you really need. Here is some expert advice on how to make sure you get the best possible deal on furniture.

Published: 2009-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Take Your Bath from Bland to Grand with 30-Minute Makeovers

Many of us dream of updating the most-used room in our homes, the bath, to create a beautiful and inviting space. But in today's tough economy, you might worry about not getting a return on your investment. Luckily, you don't have to sink a hefty sum of time and money into your bath to achieve dramatic results that you can enjoy every day. Try these few simple upgrades that can change the entire look of your bath within minutes.

Published: 2009-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Five Kitchen Fix-ups for $500 or Less

After years of telling yourself you can live with the outdated hardware, the ugly orange laminate countertops and the daffodil-yellow wall paint, you've finally admitted to yourself that your love affair with your kitchen decor is over. Here are some common kitchen complaints and hints for how you can resolve them -- and learn to love your kitchen again -- for less than $500 per fix.

Published: 2009-03-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Create a Smarter Home in a Down Economy

Homeowners are still forging ahead with improvements, but they're allocating hard-earned dollars to smaller projects -- ones that not only boost their home's overall appeal, but also provide other added benefits in the long run. Being budget-conscious doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality and performance.

Published: 2009-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make Any Room Look Bigger

In this economy, few people can afford to knock down walls or put an addition on their homes. However, for considerably less money, any room can appear larger and look better with one or two strategically placed sconces.

Published: 2009-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Enrich a Home's Value With the Beauty of Stone

Whether used indoors or outdoors, stone adds warmth and character that no other building material can deliver. Once, only the very wealthy could afford homes graced by the sophistication of stone. But with today's manufactured stone veneer products, stone's exquisite looks are within the reach of a wide range of homeowners.

Published: 2009-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Budget-friendly Bathroom Updates

Does your bathroom resemble the bathroom of your childhood? Does it have the same unappealing colors, cold tile floors and dated decor as the day you bought the house? If your bathroom is stuck in the '60s, '70s and even '80s, then it's time to upgrade. But don't worry, you can transform it into a modern day showplace on a budget.

Published: 2009-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Master Your Messy Bath

With the amount of time spent in this often space-challenged room, it's easy to understand how the bath can quickly become the messiest room in the house. Luckily, a few simple steps will help turn your bath into a sane living space and help clean up your act in the bath for good.

Published: 2009-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Go Green with Feng Shui

Your home is your oasis; the place you go to relax, regroup and reenergize. If you desire some balance in not only your life but in the world at large, maybe it's time to incorporate the principles of both Feng Shui and green living into your design.

Published: 2009-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

2009 Design Trends Help Homeowners Relax, Connect and Reboot

The need for escape is now greater than ever. No place is this need more evident than in the home. What are the latest trends in the modern escape home? More importantly, how can you transform your home into a safe haven with both style and smarts?

Published: 2009-03-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Are You Drowning Your Houseplants with Love?

Whether you have rooms filled with houseplants or a choice few displayed throughout your home, growing houseplants is a great way to decorate and is good for both body and soul. But did you know that the No. 1 reason indoor plants die is people drown them with love? That's right. They overwater them. Here's a solution to the problem.

Published: 2009-02-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Spring's Top Home Decor Trends Draw Inspiration from Nature

This spring, the hottest trends in home decor reflect the breathtaking beauty as Mother Nature awakes from her slumber. Here are the top home decor trends for spring 2009.

Published: 2009-02-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Budget Home Remodeling: It's All Done with Mirrors

With the housing crunch keeping more homeowners in homes they've outgrown, and the economy keeping renovation budgets tight, more homeowners are looking for smaller home improvement projects that offer big return on investment. While many homeowners may think of remodeling as heavy construction, it's possible to make a significant change in your home with projects that don't require any big structural changes.

Published: 2009-02-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Flooring 101: Selecting the Best Product for Your Home Style

Your home's flooring does more than provide you and your family with a comfortable surface. It's an extension of your personal style and taste. It says something about you and your home to everyone who walks in the door. So how do you choose when everything looks so good?

Published: 2009-02-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Designer Secrets to Making a Statement with Wallpaper Murals

How do you dress up walls in a way that will make a statement without blowing your decorating budget? Borrow a page -- or a wall -- from the handbook of top designers and add impact with a wallpaper mural.

Published: 2009-02-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bringing Green Living to Your China Cabinet

In the current tough economic climate, most people are finding it's not practical to buy new china, nor is it environmentally friendly to throw out what you already have at home. With today's push for greener living, you can recycle more than cans and bottles. Experts say you can also recycle your tableware.

Published: 2009-02-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Affordable Spring Home Decorating Trends

When the economy takes a downturn, people tend to stay in. For home environments stuck in the doldrums, easy and affordable updates can create a cozy spring haven.

Published: 2009-02-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Clean Up Your Act

Springtime means flowers, rain showers and … spring cleaning. It's easy to procrastinate, but spring cleaning is an excellent way to simplify your life simply by reducing clutter. Here are some tips from a pro on how to make your house look great.

Published: 2009-01-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Turn Your Bedroom into a Blissful Oasis

If your bedroom is more like a catastrophe than an oasis, it may be time to wake up and take on the chaos. Designers and sleep experts agree that your bedroom should be a peaceful refuge, a restful retreat that creates an atmosphere conducive to sleep and relaxation.

Published: 2009-01-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Rustic Modern - Transitional Design That's Cool and Warm

Designers and homeowners are pairing rustic finishes and furnishings with crisp aluminum and glass details. The look is a sort of rustic transitional. The beauty of transitional design is that it affords the ability to create an eclectic look, pulling from both traditional and modern stylings.

Published: 2009-01-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Economy Bringing Kids or Grandparents Home? Cope by Finishing the Basement

From 1990 to 2001, multi-generational households increased about 60 percent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Many of the pressures that drove that increase - lack of affordable housing and a high cost of living - are even more relevant today. Many families are finding the extra space they need by finishing basements.

Published: 2009-01-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Revitalize Your Home for Spring

Winter can be dark and cold, but spring is a time for warmth and light. Few things will brighten your mood as much as transforming your home to greet the season. Even inexpensive touches can have a big impact. Some simple spring redecorating will lift your spirits as much as spotting the first returning robin.

Published: 2009-01-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Decorating Trends for 2009: Economy, Nature and Fashion Influences

What's in store for home decorating in 2009? No matter what your taste, you'll find a hue in the 2009 forecast of popular paint colors to suit your style. Since the average consumer spends two to three months planning a painting project, now is the ideal time to review your options, see what's predicted to be popular and choose that perfect color.

Published: 2009-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Achieve Bathroom Elegance without Major Renovation

When your goal is to turn your bathroom into an elegant and luxurious space, you may think you need to gut everything and start from scratch. But you can save the time, money and energy spent on a major renovation. With a few simple upgrades, you'll have a room that's fresh and spa-like.

Published: 2008-12-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Home Decorations May Pose Hidden Dangers to Families

Whether your interior decorating skills qualify you as an expert or novice, beautifying a home with twinkling lights, gently glowing candles and other decor is a favorite pastime of many. Unfortunately, home decorations are also the source for thousands of injuries and home fires each year.

Published: 2008-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Warm Weather Decorating in Cool Hues

When the weather turns warm, we open our windows to let in the light and fresh air. But there are other ways to update living spaces to reflect the best of the summer season.

Published: 2008-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Mini-makeover Ideas for Your Kitchen

Kitchens sell houses and are the heart of the home. Improving this important living space is a sound financial investment and an investment in your family's happiness. You don't need to spend a lot to create a dramatic difference in your kitchen. A mini-makeover may be all that you need to turn that blah kitchen into the showpiece of your home.

Published: 2008-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fabulous Fabrics for Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor living has always held a romantic appeal, but its rustic nature often lacked a sense of sophistication. Furniture has evolved way beyond Adirondack chairs and lumpy cushions. With today's high-performance fabrics, you can decorate and live fashionably and comfortably, both indoors and out, without worrying about spills and messes.

Published: 2008-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Handcrafted Wood Furniture Leads Green Decor Trend

Interest in the benefits and use of environmentally friendly products continues to grow, making the green movement stronger than ever. This is especially prevalent for homeowners who are looking to build and decorate their homes in ways that support the environment.

Published: 2008-04-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Decorating Tips for Tough Economic Times

Your décor leaves you uninspired, yet the current economy makes you hesitate to spend a bundle on a total redesign. You don't need the skill - or budget - of a TV decorating diva to give your home a fresh new look. Here are some ideas to transform your room for less than $100.

Published: 2008-03-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Clean and Care for Your Mirrors

A lot of people have decorative mirrors in their home. Here's how to care for them correctly.

Published: 2008-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Island Innovations: Make the Most of Your Kitchen Space

Following are the newest kitchen finds and options to consider when building or turning your fantasy island into a functional - and stylish - workspace.

Published: 2008-03-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Green Building Options from the Ground Up

More and more homes are being built and remodeled with the environment in mind. This green building movement is gaining momentum and options for homeowners continue to increase, making creating a green home easier than ever. Here are some tips to make your home greener, from the ground up.

Published: 2008-03-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Put the 'Eco' in Decorating

Just because you're going green doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. There are many ways to easily incorporate eco-friendly ideas into your home decor without living the stereotypical "granola-and-Birkenstocks" lifestyle.

Published: 2008-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Four Secrets to Give Your House Model Home Appeal

In many ways, model homes are the perfect portrait of the American Dream, with their manicured lawns, gourmet kitchens and designer window treatments. The model home is what we all aspire to have our homes look like.

Published: 2008-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

This Spring's Hot Home Decorating Trend

Want to get a feel for what's hot in the world of home decor these days? All you have to do is visit a couple of model homes in your community and take a good look around. You're sure to recognize a recurring theme.

Published: 2008-02-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A Good Excuse to Upgrade Your Home Entertainment System

To get ready for the switch over to digital television, a lot of people are purchasing new flat screen televisions. Here are some ideas on how best to put them on display.

Published: 2008-02-29 00:00:00 read more...

Faucet Trend: Touch Free Comes Home

On average, a bathroom remodel costs $15,789 and a kitchen remodel costs $55,503 according to Remodeling Magazine's 2007 Cost vs. Value report. But you don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get a fresh look in your home. Focus on the items that get used the most, like the faucet.

Published: 2008-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Freshen Up Your Home and Brighten Your Mood

Could your home be putting you in a bad mood? You don't have to undertake a major cleaning overhaul; just a little polishing here and there can boost your mood as much as a sunny day.

Published: 2008-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Solid Hardware Furniture Still the Classic Choice

For centuries, cherry, oak, maple, ash and other American hardwoods have been the preferred selection in fine furniture. Design trends have come and gone, but solid hardwood furniture continues to be the classic choice because it enhances every decor and lifestyle.

Published: 2008-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Monograms Find a New Home on Walls

Symbols representing families are as old as carvings in caves. Here's how to turn your family's monogram into a work of art.

Published: 2008-02-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Draw From Spring's Spectacular Color Palette

As the brilliant sights and sounds of spring once again emerge, those of us who have endured another winter can hardly contain our anticipation for warmer months ahead. In our enthusiasm, many of us instinctively turn our attention to sprucing up the inside of our homes.

Published: 2008-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Draw from Nature's Spectacular Color Palette

As the brilliant sights and sounds of spring once again emerge, those of us who have endured another winter can hardly contain our anticipation for warmer months ahead. In our enthusiasm, many of us instinctively turn our attention to sprucing up the inside of our homes.

Published: 2008-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Care for a Bouquet of Flowers

Whether it is roses for a special birthday, daisies for Mother's Day or carnations just because, people receive special bouquets of flowers for many reasons. But how do you care for your beautiful flower arrangement to keep it fresh and enjoy it longer?

Published: 2008-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Spring Decor Trends Brighten the Home

As the weather continues to warm and nature starts to awake from its winter slumber, the world around us embraces spring. This time of renewal is also the perfect time to update home decor with the fresh feeling associated with the change in season. Here's the hottest trends.

Published: 2008-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Summer Decorating Inspiration: How to Find Fresh Ideas

Tender blossoms aren't the only harbinger of warmer weather, so is the rush to decorate for summer entertaining. But design experts warn that many people fall into the trap of spending a lot of money for a new look, when you can actually redecorate on a budget simply by giving new life to things you already have around the house.

Published: 2008-02-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Spring Decorating Inspiration: How to Find Fresh Ideas

Tender blossoms aren't the only harbinger of warmer weather, so is the rush to decorate for spring entertaining. But design experts warn that many people fall into the trap of spending a lot of money for a new look, when you can actually scratch that spring fever itch on a budget simply by giving new life to things you already have around the house.

Published: 2008-02-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Home Decorating Tips: Copy an Inspiration Room on a Budget

Raise your hand if you know what an inspiration room is. Anyone? While it sounds like a place to meditate or quietly think, it's actually an attractively decorated room from a magazine, showroom, or even a friend's home that you admire but don't have the budget to afford yourself. Here's how to get one in your home at a price you can afford.

Published: 2008-02-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Colors for 2008 Culled from the Circle of Life

When selecting colors for inside the home and for your favorite outdoor spaces, where do you find inspiration? Color experts suggest looking to all walks of life across the globe.

Published: 2008-02-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Color is Key to Brightening a Winter Home

The cold months of winter can feel very long, as most people are forced to spend more time indoors. When animals hibernate and the colors of plant life fade, our moods and energy often fade as well. This is the perfect time to spruce up the interior of your home. There are simple, economical ways to add color to your interior spaces to improve your outlook during the winter and year round.

Published: 2008-02-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

From Trash to Treasure

Don't throw away old furniture without first checking to see if it's an heirloom. Here's some advice on howto clean it up to find out for sure.

Published: 2008-02-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Color is Key to Brightening a Home

Even with winter gone and spring on the way, it can be hard to maintain an upbeat mood and high energy if the colors in your home are drab. Short of taking a monthly vacation to a bright, tropical paradise, one way we can keep energy in our lives is with the creative use of color.

Published: 2008-02-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Kitchen Color Trends and Tips for 2008

When remodeling the kitchen, the hub of your home, choosing the right colors is an important part of the decision making process. But how do you choose colors that are compatible with your space and your taste?

Published: 2008-01-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Best Kept Secret in Shopping for Your Kitchen and Bath

Is it time to buy a new bathroom or kitchen faucet? Do you have a certain brand in mind, but still aren't completely sure what style to choose? Don't know where to turn? Many consumers aren't aware that wholesale showroom shopping may be a good starting point to get ideas "flowing."

Published: 2008-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

One of the Easiest Ways to Save Energy in Your Home

What will the lighting in your home look like in the future? Here are some predictions from the experts.

Published: 2008-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Buying Furniture Online? Here's How to Get the Best Deal

When it comes to items you would normally test drive before buying - like cars or furniture - many people are still wary of purchasing online. The good news is, you can buy furniture online by educating yourself and following a few simple guidelines.

Published: 2008-01-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Hot Home Decorating and Color Trends for 2008

Are you ready to get a jump start on discovering 2008's hottest decorating and paint color trends? Winter is an ideal time to start planning your interior decorating spruce ups. And one of the easiest, least expensive ways to give a room a new look and feel is with paint. Here's the color trends that will make your house stand out.

Published: 2008-01-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bathroom Renovation on a Budget

When giving someone a tour of your home, do you conveniently skip over the bathroom? Does it look better with the lights off and door closed? If your bathroom is outdated, it might be time for a makeover. Small changes can make a big improvement, and even if you have a small budget, there are many ways to make your bathroom shine.

Published: 2008-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make a Dramatic Home Improvement with a Small Budget

Do some of your light fixtures look like they are fugitives from another era, and are certain rooms in your home better looking with the lights off? If so, it's time to do update your lighting. Here are some ideas on how to get the job done.

Published: 2008-01-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Power of Paint Goes Far Beyond the Walls

Paint is powerful when it comes to giving a room a new look, and its impact can be seen on far more than just the walls. Other design elements in a room - from kitchen cabinets to tired furniture - can benefit from a fresh coat. Paint is a fast way to give a room a makeover.

Published: 2008-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

DIY Choices Add Elegance to a Home

New furniture and a fresh coat of paint are great places to start when updating your home, but what can you do to go above and beyond to really make your house stand out? Often what makes a home interesting and noteworthy are the little details. The latest trend in decorating rooms today is to add architectural details that give a new dimension to a room.

Published: 2007-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Industry Experts Elect the Top 10 Home Decor Trends for 2008

Much like we can expect from the American people in next year's election, the votes among the nation's top interior designers and manufacturers are split when it comes to forecasting what will be "hot" in home decor in 2008. Here's the top 10 trends of 2008.

Published: 2007-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Quick Bathroom Fixes Add Style and Luxury

Want to increase the value of your property? Update your bathroom. This strategic remodel invariably turns out to be money well spent.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy New Year's Resolutions for Home Improvement

A fresh year, a fresh start … a fresh look for your home? As we all try to eat better, watch less TV, and break all our bad habits, why not also resolve to do something you've been putting off? Home improvement projects don't need to be difficult, and with the right tools and attitude, they can be exciting as you watch your house transform. Here's some ideas you can try this new year.

Published: 2007-11-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy Improvements Give Homes a Dramatic Facelift

Home improvement projects don't need to be difficult, and with the right tools and attitude, they can be exciting as you watch your house transform. The colder months are the perfect time to look at your home to-do list and get going. Here are some easy ideas you can get started on today.

Published: 2007-11-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Memories Make the Perfect Gift

When it comes to finding that perfect Valentine's gift for someone special in your life, it goes without saying that the best gift is a gift from the heart.

Published: 2007-11-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Reclaimed Wood Floors Go Extreme

The reclaimed wood movement has been building momentum for years, and now it's gone "extreme." Once, old barns and dilapidated factories served as primary sources for reclaimed woods. Now, flooring manufacturers are ranging farther afield - in distance and time - to find exotic and exciting sources of wood.

Published: 2007-11-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easily Add Coziness into Any Room with Electric Fireplaces

Thanks to modern technology, electric fireplaces have made great strides in styling, convenience and heat-output. Gone are the days of a "fake" fire within a cheap-looking mantle surround - now replaced with electric fireplaces featuring dancing flames and glowing embers, the ability to be installed anywhere in minutes, and a selection of appearance options for an upscale look matching every décor.

Published: 2007-11-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Rethinking the Contemporary Kitchen

When you think of a "contemporary" kitchen, what enters your mind? A sleek and contrasty Euro-style loft kitchen? A soothingly balanced Asian-inspired kitchen? What about a '50s throwback kitchen with colorful appliances, pastel walls and a starburst clock? According to kitchen industry experts, all these kitchens could be called "contemporary" because of a 21st century desire to blend clean modern lines with a whole new world of influences.

Published: 2007-11-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Seven Deadly Sins of Kitchen Design

Getting a new kitchen may seem like heaven, but if you commit some common kitchen-planning sins, you may spend your remodeling project in you-know-where. Kitchen designers may be trained to help customers avoid mistakes, but they all have war stories of being brought into projects only after big problems arise. What are the kitchen-planning gaffes they see most often?

Published: 2007-11-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Art of Accent Colors

If your home is laced with walls that are too white or overbearingly dark, details in your décor can change everything. By recognizing this, it is easy to brighten up or give any room a little extra personality with accent colors.

Published: 2007-11-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Entertain Outdoors Even In Cooler Weather

Don't give up on getting together outdoors just because the weather is cool. Home improvements that keep you and your guests warm can make outdoor spaces comfortable even when the temperature dips.

Published: 2007-11-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Color Conundrum: Eight Paint Tips to Beautify Your Home

A fresh coat of paint is a great way to change the look and feel of a home, and it's important that the thought process include more than just color schemes. Here are some expert tips for repainting your home interior.

Published: 2007-10-30 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Powder Room -- Creating a Jewel of a Space

Neoclassical style -- the style that is influencing much of interior design today -- is a melding of romantic history, orderly classics and a dash of grandeur from Renaissance Italy. Found in homes where the traditional elegance of the past is highly valued, the look creates balance and refinement. Design elements like egg and dart moldings, stone mantels and columns, and elegant burnished gold leaf finishes create interiors with a legacy.

Published: 2007-10-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

From Stodgy to Stunning: Makeovers for Inherited Furniture

Inherited furniture can be a blessing or a burden. How do you decide if inherited furnishings have "good bones" and are worth revitalizing with fresh fabrics and custom details? Here is some advice on how to make the most of inherited furniture.

Published: 2007-10-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Chase Away Those Winter Blues and Morning Blahs with Flowers

The reduced amount of light during the winter months is cited as a contributing factor for depressed moods. But rather than hide under a blanket until spring, there's an easy way to boost spirits.

Published: 2007-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tips to Transform your Home into an Eco-Friendly Haven

With almost universal agreement by the world's scientific community that human activity is accelerating global warming, it's not just the environmentalists that are advocating change. The concept of "going green" is an increasingly popular lifestyle trend among today's concerned consumers.

Published: 2007-10-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wrought Iron: A Great Way to Add Curb Appeal

The handcrafted look of wrought iron has been gaining popularity in a wide range of home décor for some time now. In fact, it was named the number one decorating trend for 2007 by noted designer Melodi Oswald.

Published: 2007-10-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

DIY Flower Designs Get Rid of the Morning Blues

Got a case of the morning blues? Maybe you didn't get enough sleep or you just got up on the wrong side of the bed. Whether you're a morning person or not, recent research shows that flowers might be the perfect way to start your day. Here's how to integrate them into your home to make your day brighter.

Published: 2007-10-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Get More Out of Your Entertainment Room with the Proper Lighting

If you were to sit down and tally up all the waking hours you spend in your home, you'd likely find the majority of them are spent in the entertainment room. Here's how to light it properly.

Published: 2007-10-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Molding and Trim: The Crowning Glory of Any Room

If you're like most homeowners you probably don't think much about trim and crown molding. But walk into a room with crown molding and you will immediately feel you are somewhere special. Trim and crown molding really complete a room that may otherwise seem dull and lackluster. Here's what you need to know to dress up your home.

Published: 2007-10-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Luxury Made Easy: Quick Ways to Update Your Bathroom with Style

More bathrooms today are being transformed into personal retreats where homeowners can unwind and surround themselves with luxurious amenities and spa-like treatments. But, with limited spaces and limited budgets, not everyone can create the bathroom of their dreams. The good news is that homeowners can take simple steps to give their existing bathrooms a sophisticated makeover without paying the price of luxury. Quick changes can make a big difference when it comes to updating your bathroom with style.

Published: 2007-10-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Joy to the Bath

'Tis the season for turkey, eggnog, mistletoe … and holiday guests. While many homeowners will deck the halls with festive decorations or make minor home repairs, most will concentrate on traditional areas such as dining rooms, family rooms and living rooms. However, they often overlook the one room where holiday guests frequent most -- the powder room.

Published: 2007-10-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make Your Home Smarter

Why rack your brain thinking of ways to make your home more comfortable and efficient when you can get your home to think for you? Smart homes are the emerging trend in home design.

Published: 2007-10-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Home Décor Trends Help You Create the Perfect Style

There is a growing discontent among homeowners that has spurred a new trend in home remodeling. Homeowners are realizing that as they have matured their lifestyles and tastes have dramatically changed, leaving them feeling less comfortable in their houses. By using décor elements that better reflect their personalities they are transforming their houses into homes once again.

Published: 2007-09-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Scent Brings Guests Home for the Holidays

For many of us, scent is an integral part of the holiday season. Aromas awaken our senses, remind us of a favorite place or time, and reflect our personal style. Here's how you can bring your favorite scents into your home for the holidays.

Published: 2007-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Christmas is in the Air

Traditions are how we relive and share special childhood memories of Christmas, like the aroma of your mom's Christmas cookies in the oven, for instance. Fortunately, you can recreate that memory even if you don't have time to bake yourself. Here's how to do it.

Published: 2007-09-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Touch-free Faucets Go Green, Get Beautiful

The green movement has turned on the tap of creativity for many manufacturers of bathroom fixtures and accessories. With homeowners increasingly demanding products that are good for the environment, promote healthier lifestyles and complement their interior décor, innovations are flowing into the market place.

Published: 2007-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A Helpful How-to for Picking The Perfect Paint Color

Thinking about painting a room? With endless color possibilities available, it's easy for any DIYer to feel overwhelmed. But it doesn't have to be that way. Here's a helpful guide for choosing the color that's right for you.

Published: 2007-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Old World Charm Thrives in Modern Home Décor

Old World design is all the rage in the New World these days. Home owners and their builders are reworking neglected old properties and constructing brand new villas that celebrate many of the architectural details and finishing touches brought from England, France, Italy and Spain during the 17th and 18th centuries. Here's how to get this classic look in your home.

Published: 2007-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Old World Charm Thrives in Modern Home Décor

Old World design is all the rage in the New World these days. Home owners and their builders are reworking neglected old properties and constructing brand new villas that celebrate many of the architectural details and finishing touches brought from England, France, Italy and Spain during the 17th and 18th centuries. Here's how to get this classic look in your home.

Published: 2007-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Ultimate Chair: Match Your Body Size and Your Décor

When it's time to redecorate, parting ways with that comfy old chair can be difficult. Accommodating your taste for modern urban style often becomes the struggle between what's comfortable and what's vogue.

Published: 2007-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Six Simple Steps to a Dream Contemporary Kitchen

So you think you want a contemporary kitchen. But what kind? Asian? Retro? Euro? While there are more modern looks available today, kitchen design experts say the basic principles behind "modern" design are really quite simple, if you follow these six simple rules.

Published: 2007-09-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

When It's Time to Update the Guest Room

Expecting out-of-town guests? If so, don't wait until the last minute to start getting ready for their arrival. There are some simple things you can do right now to make sure your close friends and family will feel welcome when they arrive.

Published: 2007-09-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Ceramic Tile Trend: Big and Beautiful

The history of ceramic tiles can be traced back to the 11th Century from Spanish and Arabic cultural influences. Many historic homes, palaces and mosques are filled with beautiful tile work known for style and functionality. Today, ceramic tiles are used in homes for these same reasons and one of the top trends is large, eye-catching tiles.

Published: 2007-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Remodeling Trend Continues to Grow

The remodeling trend continues to grow nationwide as more and more people are choosing to upgrade their current homes instead of moving to a new one. Remodeling can happen all at once or step by step. Smaller changes are a great place to start and get your feet wet especially if you plan to do it yourself. A great upgrade that drastically changes the look in your home is the surface you walk on each day: the flooring.

Published: 2007-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

One Small Decorating Trick, One Huge Room Improvement

Here are some simple ways to make big home improvements from some of the nation's top designers and manufacturers.

Published: 2007-08-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Get Your Home Ready for Holiday Guests

Before you know it, your home will be filled with out-of-town guests who are visiting for the holidays. You may think you have plenty of time to prepare, but don't wait till the last minute to start cleaning the house and decorating. Otherwise, you're sure to be overwhelmed by all the tasks you'll need to do. Here are some tips on how to get started.

Published: 2007-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Today's Serveware Serves up Decorating Inspiration

Sure you love your decorative serving platter or casserole dish. But if it just sits in the cabinet collecting dust between the holidays, you may not be making the most of the piece's decorative potential. When it comes to interior decorating, serveware can be inspirational.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Today’s Serveware Serves up Decorating Inspiration

Sure you love your decorative serving platter or casserole dish. But if it just sits in the cabinet collecting dust between the holidays, you may not be making the most of the piece’s decorative potential. When it comes to interior decorating, serveware can be inspirational.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Design Inspiration: Your Favorite Serving Piece Does Double Duty

Sure you love your decorative serving platter or casserole dish. But if it just sits in the cabinet collecting dust between the holidays, you may not be making the most of the piece's decorative potential. When it comes to interior decorating, serveware can be inspirational.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give Your Old Kitchen a New Look

Think you need a TV crew to transform the look of your home? Think again. Leslie Segrete, star of "While You Were Out" and "Trading Spaces," says it's possible for anyone to make major home improvements, especially in the kitchen, with a small budget and some elbow grease.

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Illuminate the Possibilities of Home Décor

Residential lighting is often considered a basic necessity, so home owners do not think of it as a stylish home décor element. Yet lighting can be so much more than a simple ceiling fixture.

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Create Your Dream Bathroom with Beautiful Skylights

In today's homes, many of which are on small lots with close-by neighbors, privacy is sometimes hard to find without closing the doors and covering the windows. And privacy in bedrooms and bathrooms is not just a convenience, it's a necessity. What's the answer? Simply look up.

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Illuminate the Possibilities of Home Décor

Residential lighting is often considered a basic necessity, so home owners do not think of it as a stylish home décor element. Yet lighting can be so much more than a simple ceiling fixture.

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Luxurious Decorating Trends Your Neighbors Will Envy

With the housing market in flux, more and more people are looking at the potential beauty of their current home. Changes can be as simple as redecorating and updating your home's style. Some of the season's most popular trends are producing surprisingly luxurious results that are much easier to implement than you might think. Here's some tips on today's trends.

Published: 2007-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Pebble Power Punches Up Home Decor

Pebbles are the latest hot trend in stone-themed home décor, and they're showing up in everything from wall murals to pebble-textured fabrics.

Published: 2007-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Interior Typography Is Hot New Home Décor Trend

The written form of language has always had a primal power to move us. From carvings in caves to alphabets on hand-stitched samplers to the word "welcome" on a doormat, we've historically surrounded ourselves with a certain amount of typography in our homes. Now leaders in the home decorating industry say that interest in "interior typography" is soaring to new heights.

Published: 2007-08-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Interior Typography Is Hot New Home Décor Trend

The written form of language has always had a primal power to move us. From carvings in caves to alphabets on hand-stitched samplers to the word “welcome� on a doormat, we’ve historically surrounded ourselves with a certain amount of typography in our homes. Now leaders in the home decorating industry say that interest in “interior typography� is soaring to new heights.

Published: 2007-08-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Frightfully Fun Halloween Décor Ideas

Any kid who's ever jumped out from behind a bush to surprise a friend can tell you giving -- and getting -- a good scare can be great fun. Modern Halloween has become a uniquely American homage to our love for a good, clean fright. Decorations have gone far beyond cardboard skeletons and hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns. Now there's something for every boy and ghoul -- from the serious collector to the casually creepy.

Published: 2007-08-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Frightfully Fun Halloween Décor Ideas

Any kid who’s ever jumped out from behind a bush to surprise a friend can tell you giving -- and getting -- a good scare can be great fun. Modern Halloween has become a uniquely American homage to our love for a good, clean fright. Decorations have gone far beyond cardboard skeletons and hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns. Now there’s something for every boy and ghoul -- from the serious collector to the casually creepy.

Published: 2007-08-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy Ideas for Bringing the Beauty of Fall Into Your Home

Bringing the look, feel and fragrances of fall into your home doesn't have to mean hiring a decorator or going on an accessory buying frenzy at your local home design store. Just a few simple and easy-to-do ideas can usher a beautiful and colorful autumn right into your home.

Published: 2007-08-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Decorating Tips for Small Rooms

Whether you live in an apartment, sold your house for a condo in the city or simply have smaller rooms in your home, decorating areas with limited space can be a challenge. But by following some simple rules, you can easily utilize the space you have while still projecting your personal style. Here's how.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bring Fall Indoors with Colors That Reflect the Season

The scent of cinnamon-infused cider fills the air, crisp leaves crackle underfoot and you're able to enjoy long walks in the cooler evening as summer eases into fall. As you settle into the season -- perhaps by supplementing your fall-weather wardrobe with a toasty sweater or two in rich shades -- consider giving your home a little seasonal lift as well. Updating your rooms with color is a quick and easy way to embrace this time of year, and will put you in the mood to enjoy all the bounties these autumn months offer!

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Everyday DIYer Guide to Glue

Time to pull out the "honey-do" list. Chances are you're one of the many who plan to take advantage of summer weekends to complete household repairs before the days grow shorter and cooler. According to a June 2007 "Better Homes & Gardens" Online Reader Panel Survey, nearly one-third of respondents reported they will delay or not carry out a home repair project due to lack of product knowledge. Here is a guide to one of the most used products in the home: Glue.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tips To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

As much as half of the energy used in a home goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. To minimize the energy and dollars spent to heat a home this winter, it's essential that windows and doors are energy efficient. Here are some tips for maximizing a home's energy efficiency.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Out With the Cold, in with the Hue

As autumn approaches and the cool weather sets in, it's easy to be overwhelmed by home maintenance projects on your fall to-do list. All those summer days spent barbequing and lying by the pool may have put your home renovation projects on hiatus. With the holidays around the corner, it's the perfect time to do something about it.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The 'Unisex' Decor: How to Meet Your Partner in the Middle When It Comes to Home Fashion

Furniture and fabric designer Joe Ruggiero often finds it difficult to bring partners together when it comes to furnishing their homes. One wants a look that borders Barbie-town and the other - a bachelor pad. According to Ruggiero, meeting somewhere in the middle can be a daunting, even divorce-defying task. Here's some tips to help.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Holiday Door Decor Made Easy

Front doors greet guests and carolers during the holiday season, and natural elements found in one's own backyard can be made into elegant holiday door decor that complements a home's individual style. Here are some decorating tips.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Customize Your Decor With Custom Framing

When juggling the demands of work and family, busy homeowners often reach for the ease and convenience of mass-produced décor to create an atmosphere that reflects their own personal style. However, this "one-size-fits-all" approach to home decorating can often lead to lifeless rooms that weren't created so much to be lived in as they were to be looked at. Experts agree that avoiding a cookie cutter motif is easier than you may think.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The ‘Unisex’ Decor: How to Meet Your Partner in the Middle When It Comes to Home Fashion

Furniture and fabric designer Joe Ruggiero often finds it difficult to bring partners together when it comes to furnishing their homes. One wants a look that borders Barbie-town and the other - a bachelor pad. According to Ruggiero, meeting somewhere in the middle can be a daunting, even divorce-defying task. Here's some tips to help.

Published: 2007-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Prep Like a Painting Pro

Painting is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to update your home. A fresh coat of paint can give new life to a dull room, or a completely different color can add personality and pizzazz throughout your living space. To ensure a professional-quality job, take the appropriate preparation steps. Here's how.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fall into Fragrant Décor This Season

The warm, crisp and rustic scents of the autumn harvest are a refreshing close to summer and a perfect lead-in to the dramatic winter months. Fall is the best time of year to celebrate the scents of nature and bring annual traditions of festivals and apple picking to life by enhancing your home décor with seasonal fragrance.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Lighting Plays a Huge Role in Your Home's Curb Appeal

Adding outdoor lighting is a smart investment not only from a security standpoint, but because of the dramatic affect it has on curb appeal. When you're ready to begin the dramatic and instant beautification of your property, here are some tips to get started.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Add 'Wow' with Window Treatments

A new husband, a new house and 47 bare windows would be enough to cause decorating stress in just about any woman. Here are some ideas from an interior design expert on how to bring out the best in windows throughout your home.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Making the Most of Small Spaces: When Less Really is More

Homeowners are looking to do more with less as the average size of homes begins to stabilize. Industry experts are finding that dining rooms and other defined living areas are disappearing in favor of more open space or a series of smaller areas. As rooms shrink in size, homeowners are challenged with making an impression that doesn't overwhelm their tightened space.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fall into Fragrant Décor This Season

The warm, crisp and rustic scents of the autumn harvest are a refreshing close to summer and a perfect lead-in to the dramatic winter months. Fall is the best time of year to celebrate the scents of nature and bring annual traditions of festivals and apple picking to life by enhancing your home décor with seasonal fragrance.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Lighting Plays a Huge Role in Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Adding outdoor lighting is a smart investment not only from a security standpoint, but because of the dramatic affect it has on curb appeal. When you’re ready to begin the dramatic and instant beautification of your property, here are some tips to get started.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Painting Preparation Generates Quality Results

Painting is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to update your home. A fresh coat of paint can give new life to a dull room, or a completely different color can add personality and pizzazz throughout your living space. To ensure a professional-quality job, take the appropriate preparation steps. Here's how.

Published: 2007-08-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Dining Room Trends: Creating an Intimate Setting

Redecorating any room can be a daunting task, and the dining room is no exception. This is the special area of the home where memories are made, and as the holiday season approaches, many people look to update their furniture and décor.

Published: 2007-08-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy Wallpaper Removal Tips the Pros Use

When most people undertake a painting project, it's not the actual painting that they dread, it is the preparation. And when preparation means removing wallpaper, it's particularly difficult. If your dated wallpaper bothers you, but you keep finding excuses to avoid the project, it's time to take charge. Removing wallpaper doesn't have to be difficult. Here are the steps to make it easy.

Published: 2007-08-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

What Says 'Luxury' in Your Kitchen and Bath? Authentic Old World Style

Many homeowners want all the modern conveniences of a brand new home, but they don't want it to look new. They may strive for a home that looks as if it has been passed down through generations. Here's how to achieve that coveted look.

Published: 2007-08-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Authentic Luxury with Old World Inspiration

Many homeowners want all the modern conveniences of a brand new home, but they don't want it to look new. They may strive for a home that looks as if it has been passed down through generations. Here's how to achieve that coveted look.

Published: 2007-08-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fall Into Your Home Spruce Up

After the pool toys and picnic baskets have been put away, it's time to head inside. With the promise of cool weather, calm earth tones and the aroma of warm soups and baked goods, it's time to fall into your home spruce up.

Published: 2007-08-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bring the Outdoors in to Create a Nature-Inspired Home

From the soothing flow of a mountain stream to the majestic beauty of thousand-year-old rock formations, few things have the power to relax or inspire like Mother Nature. Now, as more homeowners seek to turn their homes into havens, those enchanting colors and rich textures of Earthy materials are moving indoors to become the inspiration for one of the hottest trends in home design.

Published: 2007-07-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Handy Homeowners Can Add Natural Light Quickly

If you're a homeowner with an area in your home that needs more natural light -- say a hallway, laundry room, closet, or a windowless bathroom -- an easy-to-install tubular skylight could be the answer.

Published: 2007-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Natural Light From Above Plus Fresh Air Brightens Kitchens

Many families spend more time in the kitchen than in any other room in their home. For maximum enjoyment, this all-important space should be as comfortable and appealing as possible with natural light and fresh air being key elements.

Published: 2007-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Shop Like an ‘Exterior Designer’

Today, there is an endless array of options for putting the finishing touch on your lawn, garden, patio, deck or dock. Here are some tips for do-it-yourself "exterior designers."

Published: 2007-07-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Shop Like an 'Exterior Designer'

Today, there is an endless array of options for putting the finishing touch on your lawn, garden, patio, deck or dock. Here are some tips for do-it-yourself "exterior designers."

Published: 2007-07-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wood Floors Flourish in Contemporary Décor

Wood floors aren't just for classic and colonial homes anymore. Design options are changing, and achieving a contemporary look with a classical element such as wood flooring is a growing trend. Here are some trends that are seen in homes today.

Published: 2007-07-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make a Small Room Appear Larger

Savvy homeowners are becoming master illusionists these days working with their smaller rooms to make them appear bigger and more spacious. Even a house with a maze of irregularly shaped rooms can be designed to enhance the flow from room-to-room giving the impression of more space. So instead of dismissing your smaller rooms, embrace them with these tips.

Published: 2007-07-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wood Floors Flourish in Contemporary Décor

Wood floors aren’t just for classic and colonial homes anymore. Design options are changing, and achieving a contemporary look with a classical element such as wood flooring is a growing trend. Here are some trends that are seen in homes today.

Published: 2007-07-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Love of Western Red Cedar Is a Many-Splendored Thing

No wonder so many people have loved Western Red Cedar in so many-splendored ways for so long. From Pacific Northwest native longhouses to luxury contemporary homes, Western Red Cedar has been loved for hundreds of years.

Published: 2007-07-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Select Hardwood Flooring for Your Home

As hardwood has become more available and versatile, and homeowners have become more creative about home improvements, hardwood floors are popping up in rooms all over the house where you'd usually find carpet.

Published: 2007-06-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Hardwood Flooring For Every Room in Your Home

Hardwood floors are a timeless treasure. They can add beauty, character and value to any room of the house, and with so many options out there, what kind of material will work best in your home?

Published: 2007-06-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fashion Meets Function in High-End Bath Appliances

As homeowners continue to look for luxury products to turn their baths into spas, they are also demanding that those same products deliver function. They want products that add style and fashion in ever-more upscale designs. From toilets, to showers and towel warmers, fashion and function are in.

Published: 2007-06-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

So, You Want to Be an Interior Designer

Want to be an interior designer? ASID President Suzan Globus, FASID, is an award-winning interior designer, who consults on public, educational and museum libraries. Here are her tips to make it happen.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Set the Stage for a Quick Home Resale

In this buyer's market, how do you make your home stand out in a sea of "For Sale" signs? Experts say that it's the little touches -- like a fresh coat of paint, updated window coverings or a new floor -- that make all the difference.

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Expressing Personal Style is the Latest Trend in Kitchen Design

Can't buy a home with the kitchen of your dreams…then remodel your current home and express your personal style in every design element!

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Flooring: The Foundation of Your Design

Creativity is one of the most important elements in interior design. But when it comes to the process of designing a room, over the past 40 years the industry has been anything but creative. Until recently the steadfast rule was to choose furniture, accessories and paint first. Then almost as an afterthought, choose flooring, but that's changing.

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Latest Trend in Kitchen Design: Expressing Personal Style

Can't buy a home with the kitchen of your dreams…then remodel your current home and express your personal style in every design element!

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Shutters’ Popularity Continues to Rise in Homes Across the Country

Today’s homeowners have more opportunities for personalizing their homes than ever before. While it is good to have options in home furnishings, when it comes to stylish long-lasting window coverings homeowners across America are choosing interior shutters over blinds and drapes.

Published: 2007-06-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Shutters' Popularity Continues to Rise in Homes Across the Country

Today's homeowners have more opportunities for personalizing their homes than ever before. While it is good to have options in home furnishings, when it comes to stylish long-lasting window coverings homeowners across America are choosing interior shutters over blinds and drapes.

Published: 2007-06-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Five Simple Summer Spruce Ups for Outdoors

Summer is finally here and you plan to spend every spare minute wearing a permanent indentation in the cushion of the patio chaise. But before you kick back and enjoy the lazy days of summer, you know you need to do something to spruce up the outside of your home.

Published: 2007-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Five Simple Spruce Ups for Outdoors

Summer has flown by and now is the time to do all those projects that you put off. Before the season gets colder, here are some ideas to spruce up the outside of your home.

Published: 2007-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

What’s New in Kitchen Design?

As the kitchen continues to reign as the gathering place for many families, design trends have centered around creating a space that is comfortable and inviting. The arts and crafts movement has recently seen a resurgence in modern kitchen design, as homeowners opt for a more open layout and subtle design decorations.

Published: 2007-06-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

What's New in Kitchen Design?

As the kitchen continues to reign as the gathering place for many families, design trends have centered around creating a space that is comfortable and inviting. The arts and crafts movement has recently seen a resurgence in modern kitchen design, as homeowners opt for a more open layout and subtle design decorations.

Published: 2007-06-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

"That's not Clutter, It's a Collection!"

For some people, collecting is not just a hobby, it's a lifestyle. But how do you tame collectibles so they don't look like clutter, or worse, junk? Here are some ideas from the experts at The Art Institutes.

Published: 2007-06-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Real Simple Secrets for Selecting Outdoor Statuary

You're not alone if you find that the piece of garden statuary that looked so elegant at the garden center just doesn't seem to fit your garden back home. Here are some simple guidelines that will help you choose the perfect piece of statuary for your garden.

Published: 2007-06-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Simple Secrets for Selecting Outdoor Statuary

You're not alone if you find that the piece of garden statuary that looked so elegant at the garden center just doesn't seem to fit your garden back home. Here are some simple guidelines that will help you choose the perfect piece of statuary for your garden.

Published: 2007-06-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

“That’s not Clutter, It’s a Collection!�

For some people, collecting is not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. But how do you tame collectibles so they don’t look like clutter, or worse, junk? Here are some ideas from the experts at The Art Institutes.

Published: 2007-06-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Lighting and Decorating Tips that will Make a Room Sparkle

The fabrics you pick for your upholstery pieces and the lighting fixtures you place overhead and at tabletop height can make a room sparkle or fall flat. Here are some tips to get your room to sparkle from Candice Olson, celebrated interior designer and TV host.

Published: 2007-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Add Value to Your Home with a Garage Make-Over

If your garage houses everything but your car, perhaps it's time to consider cleaning out and reorganizing. Making space for projects, hobbies and storage extends your living space. For some, the garage is the biggest room in the house; why not make it more livable?

Published: 2007-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Turn Your Garage Space into a Living Space

No matter how big your house is, there never seems to be enough room for everything. Whether it's space for hobbies, recreation or just more storage, most of us could use more of it.

Published: 2007-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A DIYer's Guide to Painting Supplies

So you've decided to tackle a painting project. A new coat of paint will freshen it up without breaking the budget, but do you have the right supplies? Getting the correct tools before you start can save you time, and, in the end, produce a higher-quality result. Here's a guide for picking out the right brush, extension poles and more.

Published: 2007-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A DIYer’s Guide to Painting Supplies

So you’ve decided to tackle a painting project. A new coat of paint will freshen it up without breaking the budget, but do you have the right supplies? Getting the correct tools before you start can save you time, and, in the end, produce a higher-quality result. Here's a guide for picking out the right brush, extension poles and more.

Published: 2007-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Why You Should Upgrade Instead of Move

If you've been thinking about selling your home in the near future, you may want to reconsider. Sales of existing homes are down significantly. They plunged more than eight percent in March 2007, the nation's worst one-month decline in 18 years. According to Remodeling Magazine, people are responding by staying put and sinking big bucks into upgrades.

Published: 2007-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Building Green is Building Momentum

Green home building is moving into the mainstream, with 20 percent more builders engaged in environmentally conscious building practices this year. Homeowners are moving to the brink of a new, environmentally conscious era.

Published: 2007-05-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Get Professional Results without the Professional

In the do-it-yourself television shows, the pros make it look so easy and for them, it is. They have a lot of big tools to do the work; they know which tools are right for the job and how to use them. This information is not privileged and you don't have to watch years of do-it-yourself shows to learn how.

Published: 2007-05-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Want to Update the Look and Feel of Your Home the Easy Way?

Whether you've moved into your home recently or been there a while, there's an "itch" every homeowner feels at one time or another -- the need to redecorate.

Published: 2007-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Decorative Accent that Will Set Your Home Apart

Look around your house and you will likely notice a lot of coordination. The brushed nickel knobs on your cabinets match the kitchen sink; all of the lighting fixtures on your upper level contain alabaster glass; and every window in your home has those same wooden blinds.

Published: 2007-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Your College Grad Might Boomerang Back Home. Will You Be Ready?

One day it happened: your youngest child flew off to college and, finally, the house was all yours. If you're like many couples, one of the first things you did was embark on a major remodel of your now-empty nest.

Published: 2007-05-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Be Creative to Customize a Wedding

A wedding is such a special time in a couple's life. They share a unique bond and deserve to celebrate it in an exceptional way. Many details of a wedding can be customized easily and affordably so that when the big day comes, it is sure to be one of a kind.

Published: 2007-05-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Hot Tips for Landscaping Around Hot Tubs

For many families, adding a hot tub in the back yard makes the American dream complete. But what really elevates the hot tub from home improvement to home oasis status is the decking and landscaping created around it.

Published: 2007-05-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Enjoy Your Landscaping, Even After the Sun Goes Down

Landscape lighting used to be simple. A few recessed cans lining the front path, a couple downlights tucked in the trees, and you were done. Not anymore. When it comes to the great outdoors, homeowners have seen the light.

Published: 2007-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wood Floors and Wine Country: A Natural Pair

When visiting wineries or traveling in wine country, there is definitely an organic feeling that is evident in all aspects of the region. From the vines in the fields, to the barns where the wine is made, to the tasting house where it is sold, the historical presence is unmistakable and magnified through organic materials such as wood.

Published: 2007-04-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Install Wide Plank Wood Floors over Concrete

Wood over concrete? Yes, it can be done! For the longest time, homeowners were warned that wide plank wood floors installed over concrete would result in moisture problems. But that's not so anymore.

Published: 2007-04-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Create a Room your Kids Will Love

We all need a space of our own, no matter our age. Children can thrive when there is a place in their home that nurtures their imaginations and their sense of belonging.

Published: 2007-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

What Recessed Lighting Can Do for You

When it comes to lighting, people often focus on the fixture style -- contemporary, traditional and retro are among the most popular -- but experts from the American Lighting Association say to truly decorate with light, you should be paying more attention to what the light source is doing.

Published: 2007-03-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Update and Organize Your Entertainment Center

It's time to clear the clutter and clean house now that spring has made its very welcome reappearance. Think beyond the closets and kitchen and take a look at your entertainment center, already in dire need of a facelift, to determine what can be discarded and what needs a serious upgrade.

Published: 2007-03-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Bring Your Favorite Fashions from the Runway to Your Hallway

Designing for fashion and designing for the home have many similarities and are easily translatable. It's all the same elements: color, texture, pattern and silhouette. Bringing fashion trends into the home -- from the runway to your hallway -- is simple and can provide do-it-yourselfers with the inspiration for a new project.

Published: 2007-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Kitchen Updates Worth Every Penny

In today's buyer's market many homeowners are hesitant to put the "for sale" sign in the front yard -- even if they are not happy with their current home. Instead, wise homeowners are sinking their dollars into remodeling -- to increase their homes' values and their own enjoyment.

Published: 2007-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Unleash Your Inner Handywoman

You've come a long way, baby! Besides bringing home the bacon, you're buying the home and fixing it up, too. According to Fannie Mae, the number of single female homeowners will rise from 17 million to 30 million, (a 76 percent increase), from 2004 to 2010. What's even more astounding is that now, many of these women are tackling home repairs.

Published: 2007-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Hassle-free Home Improvement

Revitalizing the exterior of your home this spring can be stress-free, simple and low maintenance with the right products. As you prepare to tackle your outdoor home improvement chores and fix ups, you should consider easy care and hassle-free products that take the aggravation out of enhancing the curb appeal of your home.

Published: 2007-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Laundry Room Trends: Out of the Basement, into the Home

The average person spends six hours a week in their laundry room washing clothes, according to a survey of homeowners conducted on behalf of Sears, Roebuck and Co. With so much time spent doing laundry, it's no wonder Americans crave a more attractive and better organized laundry space.

Published: 2007-02-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Top Tile Trends

From exotic animal prints to textures that demand to be touched, the hottest trend in tile is to look like something it's not.

Published: 2007-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make the Most of Your Redecorating Budget

With the slump in housing sales, more Americans are opting to spruce up their current homes rather than go in search of a new house. And while many housing markets across the country have seen flat or even declining real estate prices, people are spending more than ever to redecorate their homes.

Published: 2007-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Spring Redecorating Made Simple with Software

Spring is a time of renewal, beautiful flowers, fresh air and bright colors; a time to strip away the winter doldrums and bring new life to your space with bright new colors and patterns. You don't have to spend thousands redecorating the whole house to achieve a new look.

Published: 2007-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Today's Master Bathroom--- Is it a Bathroom, or is it a Living Room?

Today's master bathroom combines all the elements of a luxury spa with the comfort of a living room. From living room furniture such as easy chairs, chaise lounges and sofas to fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee makers, the new master bathrooms wrap up the whole house and put it one room!

Published: 2007-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Time for a Spring Clutter Inventory

Catch it. Cut it. Contain it. Such are the three Cs of a thorough spring clutter inventory, according to the publisher of one of the country's fastest growing house wares catalogs.

Published: 2007-02-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A Door For Every Room: Specialty Interior Doors Distinguish Homes

With the growing popularity of personalized home décor and design, homeowners are not only interested in entry door "curb appeal," but are increasingly focusing on specialty interior door designs to distinguish their homes.

Published: 2007-02-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

"Scent-mosphere" - the Hot New Trend in Home Decorating!

Scent-mosphere?! You won't find it in the dictionary, but it's a hot home decorating trend that's all about styling your home with an eye (or nose) for all your senses, from the touch of fabrics, to the color of the wall to the acoustics of hardwood floors.

Published: 2007-02-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Old Family China Creates New Beginnings

Like many baby boomers, Sarah Vick and her husband decided to downsize to a smaller home after her two sons went off to college. When they started sorting through their belongings, Vick realized she had 22 sets of china. Some she'd bought herself, while others had been inherited from her mother, grandmother and aunts.

Published: 2007-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Homeowners and Homebuilders Seek Eco-Friendly Materials

With the country going green, many homeowners are looking for eco-friendly materials when buying their next home. And as more homeowners struggle with high utility bills and become more concerned about the environment, many are updating their homes to be more eco-friendly.

Published: 2007-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Buyers, Current Homeowners Seek Eco-Friendly Materials

With the country going green, many homeowners are looking for eco-friendly materials when buying their next home. And as more homeowners struggle with high utility bills and become more concerned about the environment, many are updating their homes to be more eco-friendly.

Published: 2007-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Maintain an Eco-Friendly Home

With the country going green, many homeowners are looking for eco-friendly materials when buying their next home. And as more homeowners struggle with high utility bills and become more concerned about the environment, many are updating their homes to be more eco-friendly.

Published: 2007-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Eco-Friendly Decorating Easier Than Ever

Homeowners need not sacrifice the appearance of their home in order to go green with the rest of the country. As more homeowners struggle with high utility bills and are becoming more concerned about the environment, many are updating their homes to be more eco-friendly.

Published: 2007-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Update Your Home Décor Instantly With Flowers and Indulge Yourself

Flowers are an easy and simple way to refresh your home. Not only does a flower bouquet add instant style and personality to a room, but it's a treat for your overall well-being. In fact, according to a behavioral research study conducted by Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D.

Published: 2007-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

7 Painting Tips for Quick and Easy Home Updates

If the look and feel of your home's décor is starting to feel drab, perhaps it is time to freshen it up. Boring-wall syndrome plagues houses with vast expanses of plain, white walls with no color or textural interest. New paint can add style and personality to rooms, and the good news is updating your home is easier than you think.

Published: 2007-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Seven Painting Tips for Quick and Easy Home Updates

If the look and feel of your home's décor is starting to feel drab, perhaps it is time to freshen it up. Boring-wall syndrome plagues houses with vast expanses of plain, white walls with no color or textural interest. New paint can add style and personality to rooms, and the good news is updating your home is easier than you think.

Published: 2007-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Kitchen and Bath Facelifts: Trends That Work

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and despite its utilitarian function, major trends in the kitchen today revolve around thinking of it as a hub. Meanwhile, the trend in the bath is creating a spa-like haven for retreat and relaxation.

Published: 2007-02-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give Your Kitchen Cabinets and all your Wood Surfaces a New Lease on Life

When Vicki Lewis decided her 15-year-old kitchen cabinets were beyond salvaging, she started pricing new cabinets and quickly discovered that replacing her cabinets would be too expensive.

Published: 2007-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Freshen Up Your Home with a "Mini Makeover"

Remodeling a room in your house can be a big undertaking. It requires planning, time and in many cases a significant amount of financial resources. (No wonder they can sometimes call it an "extreme" makeover!)

Published: 2007-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Redoing Your Teen's Room? Tips for Making Them Happy and Keeping You Sane

Parents of teens know that kids need a place to call their own, a place they can have their privacy and entertain friends. And there comes a day when the carousel theme or the dinosaur wallpaper just has to go.

Published: 2007-01-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Remodel Your Lighting for Eyesight, Energy and Style

As people get older there is more time to really enjoy the homes they have built for themselves. The kids have grown and moved away, and being physically comfortable has, perhaps, become more important than it was once. Knowing that aging eyes need a better kind of light and more of it to be comfortable, remodeling the lighting in your home improves comfort threefold.

Published: 2007-01-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Top Ten Home Décor Trends for 2007

In the spirit of David Letterman's much-loved Top Ten lists, interior designers and industry experts share their predictions as to what will be hot in home décor in the coming year.

Published: 2007-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Winter Heats Up with Garden Inspired Décor

Now that the hurdle of the holidays has passed, even the most ardent winter enthusiasts can find themselves dreading the long, cold weeks between New Year's and Memorial Day. Warming up your interior décor with garden-inspired looks and themes is a great way to beat winter blues.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

When Tile Becomes Art

Once relegated to floors and countertops, ceramic tile has evolved into a fresh and exciting way to decorate a home and give it a touch of true panache. In fact, the artistic DNA of tile, which traces its roots back to ancient eras, is emerging anew to rival the practicality and functionality of the material as interior designers and homeowners discover untold uses for it in their decorating projects.

Published: 2006-12-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Hot Color Trends in Home Decorating for the New Year

Want to get a jump start on discovering 2007's hottest decorating and paint color trends? Winter is an ideal time to start planning your interior decorating spruce ups. And, one of the easiest and least expensive ways to give a room a new look and feel is with paint.

Published: 2006-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Improve Your Home's Curb Appeal this Winter

Whether you're planning to sell your home in the near future and need some way to set it apart from all the others on the market, or just want to improve its curb appeal for your family's own enjoyment, now is a great time to start planning your improvements.

Published: 2006-12-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Super Size My Walls: Patterns of Epic Proportions

Americans are living large these days. And we're not just talking about meal portions and expanding waistlines. You don't need big eyes to notice that cars have morphed into SUVs; house sizes have ballooned; even the charcoal grill has been supplanted by a built-in gas model the size of a sports car. Inside the home, wallpaper designers have been inspired to scale great new heights in design.

Published: 2006-12-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Stress-Free Solutions to Wrap up Your Holiday Shopping

Whether you've yet to start your holiday shopping or you just need a few last-minute gifts, these smart shopping tips will have you singing "Hallelujah!"

Published: 2006-11-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Experience the "Magic of Christmas" Without the Headaches

There are many things that can spark the Christmas spirit inside of us -- the arrival of cold weather, the smell of cookies baking in the oven and the presence of family are all examples. But nothing seems to trigger the magical feelings of the holiday season quite like holiday decorations.

Published: 2006-11-17 00:00:00 read more...

Let Your Nose Take You Home for the Holidays

It's the holiday season, and while lights and decorations are an important part of the celebrations, nothing brings back memories of those special holiday moments better than classic seasonal scents such as pine, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar cookie.

Published: 2006-10-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

"Portrait-Style" Fireplaces Bring Warmth and Value to Kitchens, Baths and Bedrooms

Thinking of purchasing a new home sometime soon, or improving your existing one? Many savvy homeowners are making smarter home improvement decisions - choosing projects that yield the highest return on investment.

Published: 2006-10-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Design with Your Region in Mind

If people in different areas of the country can dress differently, eat differently and talk differently, wouldn't they also design their kitchens differently, too?

Published: 2006-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give a Gift that Shows How Much You Care

The holiday season means different things to different people. While some look forward to this time of year because it means time off work or school, others love getting dressed up for parties and going shopping; parents and grandparents enjoy having the whole family together; and for the kids, it's all about the presents.

Published: 2006-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Book It: Find the Perfect Wallpaper on Your Lunch Hour

It's a fact of life: the more choices, the more decisions there are to make. And when it comes to selecting wallpaper from the wide assortment of patterns in every imaginable color available today, it can be a little daunting.

Published: 2006-10-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Choosing a Custom-made Wood Floor

The idea of creating your own custom wood floor is an unusual new way of adding uniqueness and personality to your home. Like custom kitchens and baths, you can now specify your own custom wood floor including the wood species, the finish it will have, its surface texture, whether the boards will be wide or thin, random or consistent lengths and even whether the wood is reclaimed or antique.

Published: 2006-10-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Have No Fear, Easy Hardwood Floors are Here!

Are you constantly worried your kids or pets will damage your precious hardwood floor? Or maybe you're concerned that you don't have another second left in your busy day to keep up with your hardwood floors. With the introduction of new hardwood floors made with an exclusive patent pending technology, there is no longer a need for concern.

Published: 2006-10-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Finish Your Bath in Style

Once you've designed your dream bath and selected the big ticket items like the flooring, tiles, faucets and sinks - it's time to add the fun details and finishing touches. Will you choose chrome bath accessories to match your modern sensibilities? Or will you lean toward rich, old world finishes to complete your look?

Published: 2006-10-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Warm Up Your Winter Decor

The nip of fall is in the air and you may soon be looking for ways to ward off the emotional chill that winter can bring to your home. Short days and overcast skies can cast a shadow over even the cheeriest home décor.

Published: 2006-10-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Simple Steps to a Great-Looking Outdoor Living Space

While most people think spring or early summer are the only seasons to spruce things up, fall is an ideal time to turn a tired-looking deck into a fabulous outdoor living space with just a few simple touches.

Published: 2006-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fit for Fall: Simple Steps to a Great-Looking Outdoor Living Space

While most people think spring or early summer are the only seasons to spruce things up, fall is an ideal time to turn a tired-looking deck into a fabulous outdoor living space with just a few simple touches.

Published: 2006-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

Give the Gift of Custom Framing This Holiday Season

This year, the most memorable, unique and heartfelt gift you give may be to take care of a loved one's cherished memory.

Published: 2006-10-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Four Facts from the Recliner Renaissance

After years of hiding in Dad's den - or garages converted into rumpus rooms - the recliner is making a come-back. Hot new designs, styles and motion now make the recliner one of the most comfortable and good-looking seats in the house. And a stylish new entry from an established manufacturer is leading the way for a design renaissance of the gliding recliner market.

Published: 2006-10-05 00:00:00 read more...

Spruce Up Your Home for the Holidays

Before long, flakes will be flying and Christmas carols will be playing on the radio. The holidays are just around the corner, making now the perfect time to spruce up your home for the season.

Published: 2006-10-04 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bring Outdoor Accessories Inside this Winter for Year Round Enjoyment

The beautiful new urns on your deck or patio were a sight to behold this summer. Overflowing with brightly colored flowers, they brought you pleasure all season. But now that the colder weather is setting in do you need to unplant them and store them out of sight where no one can enjoy them?

Published: 2006-10-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Prints, Plaids and Patterns - Expert Tips on How to Mix Them

Not since Austin Powers daringly paired a lilac and cobalt blue suit with a blue polka dotted shirt and red-and-white scarf in the 2002 hit movie have we seen such a profusion of prints, plaids and patterns in fashion.

Published: 2006-09-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Deck the Halls Like a Pro

Professional decorators have fine-tuned their design plans for the big"holiday buzz." As the weather cools, anticipation and preparation will begin for festive celebrations, intimate get-togethers and savory feasts.

Published: 2006-09-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

What Will Your Lighting Look Like in the Future?

The next time you walk into a department store, or model home for that matter, pay close attention to how the room is lit. You just may get a peek into the future.

Published: 2006-09-26 00:00:00 read more...

Do-it-Yourself: Guide to Interior Decorating

How do you feel about your home décor? If you're tired of it, and know it needs some updating, but are afraid to act, you're not alone. Fear of change is the number one reason people live in spaces they don't really like.

Published: 2006-09-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Upscale Fireplaces Combine Form and Function

Relaxing comfortably in front of the fireplace is a time-honored way to spend a crisp autumn evening at home with family. If the first cold snap sends you indoors to embrace the warmth of a comforting fire, you'll be happy to know that luxurious design has now met modern fire technology - making high-quality fireplaces the "hottest" home appliance trend this season.

Published: 2006-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make Your Bathroom a Winter Haven

Another change of season is almost upon us and if you're stressing out over all the things you need to get done before the weather turns bad, you're not alone. Millions of Americans are in the same boat

Published: 2006-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Are You Afraid to "Live" in Your Living Room?

Just about every family has one - an older relative who has plastic covers on all the furniture, the better to protect it and keep it looking new. Never mind that fact that the covers also make it unpleasant to sit in. And let's not even talk about what it does to the ambience of the room.

Published: 2006-09-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make this Thanksgiving a Memorable One

Before you know it, the friends and loved ones you cherish most will join you for Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you'll be serving the traditional turkey with all the trimmings, or your signature dish, how you set the stage will be the key to making this holiday a memorable one.

Published: 2006-09-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fall-Inspired Painting Tips

The colorful season of fall is almost upon us. But before we can sit back and enjoy the changing leaves and cooler climate, there are a number of fall fix-up projects that every homeowner should consider in order to prepare for the ensuing months of winter.

Published: 2006-09-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tying Styles Together in the Kitchen

Though an eclectic design looks easy to accomplish - a little bit of this and little bit of that, it's actually one of the most difficult looks to successfully achieve.

Published: 2006-09-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

'Fall' into New Seasonal Decorating Ideas Just in Time for Thanksgiving

Two words come to mind when we think of Thanksgiving decorating: The Table. We want the dinner table to be perfect - from the candles and centerpiece right down to the tablecloth and napkin rings. While many homeowners will soon be preparing their dining rooms in time for the big Thanksgiving dinner, they often overlook the one room holiday guests frequent most - the powder room.

Published: 2006-09-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

One Wall Wonders: Turn Wallpaper into a Room's Artwork

A little bit goes a long way. That's certainly true when it comes to one of the hottest trends in decorating: Wallpaper - hung on one "feature" wall - that takes on the look of artwork.

Published: 2006-09-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tile Inspired by Nature

With the growing attention to sustainable building, allergies and the fast pace of life, ceramic tile can offer the look and feel of stone and wood without all of the concern.

Published: 2006-09-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Multiple Wood Species Add Warmth and Richness to Your Home

Wood is all the same, right? Not so, say window and door experts, especially when it comes to how wood appears in your home.

Published: 2006-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Falling Into Home Improvement with Design Expert Lee Snijders

As fall's crisp temperatures arrive, Americans head indoors -- and home improvement projects follow. From revamping the living room to tackling stubborn ceiling stains, fall is prime time to address home projects before the winter holiday season sets in.

Published: 2006-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Take a Peek Behind the Bathroom Door

Bathroom reading -- everyone knows what it is and many do it, but nobody talks about it. Now, American Standard has literally written the book on bathrooms...

Published: 2006-09-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Designing a Bathroom with Form and Function

In bath design, function has always come before form. But today's homeowners expect their hardworking bathrooms to go beyond hygienic and practical functions. For some, a bathroom should be wired to 21st-century technology for ready access to information and entertainment.

Published: 2006-09-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The ABC'S of an A+ Kid's Room

Family bonding time that is both fun and productive is often rare. Redecorating your child's bedroom is a great opportunity to give your child a creative new play space while spending quality time together.

Published: 2006-09-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Frightfully Fun Decorating Trends for Halloween

The official start of the holiday season isn't until Thanksgiving, but before you know it, ghosts, goblins and creepy creatures big and small will descend on a neighborhood near you; and some of the places they plan to haunt will be all decked out! According to the National Retail Federation, Halloween is the second biggest decorating holiday of the year.

Published: 2006-09-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Seniors Benefit from Natural Light

According to the Center of Design For An Aging Society in Portland, Ore., older people need more light (about 3 to 5 times more than younger people) for both vision and maintaining health. Many seniors don't get outside enough, so there are many reasons to consider bringing more natural light in.

Published: 2006-08-30 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make Memories into Art

Now that summer is going out like the tides, gather your favorite vacation photos and souvenirs to display throughout your home. Scrapbooking is one way to display your memories but why not take them out of the album and put them on your walls?

Published: 2006-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Decorate, Congregate, Celebrate! Fall is a Season to Savor

Fall is here … and with cooler weather comes the perfect time to reflect the spirit, beauty and richness of the season, while adding warmth and comfort to your home decor.

Published: 2006-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Back to School Flashes Forward with Functionality and Cool Design

Parents and kids alike are discovering that creating a smart study space in a bedroom or playroom goes a long way toward creating smart study habits. And nothing makes that easier than stylish kids furniture that creates the ultimate multi-functional kids space - one room where kids can sleep, play and study.

Published: 2006-08-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Autumn Inspiration: Imaginative Spruce-Ups for Your Yard

With temperatures soaring into the triple digits, nothing is more likely to trigger a mile-long smile than a break from the heat. As the final days of summer flicker away, the promise of cool, crisp fall air awaits. With autumn on the horizon, emerge from the AC and enjoy the outdoors with these inspirational spruce-ups for your yard.

Published: 2006-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Autumn Inspiration: Imaginative Spruce-Ups for Your Yard

Now that the cool, crisp fall air has arrived it's time to get your yard in shape with these inspirational spruce-ups.

Published: 2006-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Imaginative Spruce-Ups for Your Yard

Now that the cool, crisp fall air has arrived it's time to get your yard in shape with these inspirational spruce-ups.

Published: 2006-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Dress Your Home Like You Dress Yourself

If someone asked you to define your personal style, you'd probably have an answer ready and waiting. You might talk about the color palette you're attracted to, your favorite designer and whether you consider your style more formal or casual. But what would you say if you were asked about your home's style?

Published: 2006-07-31 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Take a Cue From Mother Nature

As the leaves on the trees begin to change color, so does taste in home décor. The transformation from a green landscape to one filled with rich russet colors and bright Halloween hues inspires us to bring all that color inside to enjoy.

Published: 2006-07-31 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy Hang Wallpapers Take the Fear Factor Out of Installation

Blank walls in need of a makeover almost always beg the question: What color to paint? But before trotting off to the paint store for color strips and tester cans, consider a new alternative: wallpaper. Because one of the oldest home décor products - around since the 1600s - has been reinvented.

Published: 2006-07-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bright Ideas for Kitchens

Lighter and brighter is a winning combination in many rooms, but in the kitchen it's a must since that's one of the most used rooms in most homes.

Published: 2006-07-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Turn Your Bathroom into a Designer's Showcase

Tired of starting your day in a bathroom that's so ugly you're glad it's tucked back in the master bedroom where no one else can see it? If so, it's time for a change, and you won't be the only one making one.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Add Designer Touches to Your Bathroom

Ready for some updates to your bathroom? Whether you're planning to gut it and start from scratch, or just give it a facelift that will bring it into the 21st century, there are lots of ways to add great design touches to the most frequently visited room in the house.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make an Impression with Your Flooring

Most people think the first impression of their home is made by the color on the walls or furniture in a room; but in reality, it's made by what's under your feet - the flooring. If the carpet is dirty and worn, tiles are chipped, or the wood floor is warping, it's time for a change.

Published: 2006-07-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give Kids the World

When Todd Imholte signed on with a Hopkins, Minn. company that makes and sells wallpaper murals, he never guessed his job would have "global" impact for thousands of American school children.

Published: 2006-07-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Transform Your Room and Your Wardrobe for Back-to-School with These Quick Updates

Labor Day is just around the corner, signaling the traditional start of back-to-school. This is the time to take advantage of the best selection and the best deals, so get ready to revive your room and your wardrobe for back-to-school with these quick tips.

Published: 2006-07-11 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Stylish Trends and Ideas to Spruce up Your Kitchen and Bath

Adding some style to a kitchen or bath can be as effortless as swapping the cabinet knobs or as complex as gutting the whole room and starting from scratch. Do-it-yourselfers can jazz up their kitchen and bath in no time.

Published: 2006-06-20 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living: Creating a Personal Oasis

Do you know that an outdoor space -- a backyard, patio, deck or porch --can be transformed into a personal oasis by design? And you don't need an enormous budget to turn a "blah" outdoor space into one that makes you go "ah!"

Published: 2006-06-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Effortless Summer Decorating Made Elegant

The days of summer have finally arrived, and it is time to throw open the windows and bring life back into the home. The summer months are the perfect time to incorporate a seasonal touch of bright colors or fresh flowers to create a relaxed, welcoming look.

Published: 2006-06-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Buying Sofas on the Internet

For many people, buying a sofa ranks near purchasing a car on their list of unpleasant shopping experiences. Both can be high-ticket, long-term-commitment items with complicated buying processes and frustratingly long delivery delays. But a sofa-buying revolution is under way, thanks to the Internet.

Published: 2006-06-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Room Redesign: Teens Can Do it Themselves

In some ways, decorating a baby's room couldn't be easier. The room's primary occupant really doesn't have much to say about the décor. Enter the teen years. Now, she hates the pink carpet and floral curtains you thought were precious beyond words. He's into Japanese anime, and your clever pirate theme makes him want to walk the plank.

Published: 2006-06-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Forecast is Bright: Infuse Your Home with Color

Every year when summer rolls around people look to brighten and refresh their homes with the bold, fun colors that represent summer flowers, sunny days and the outdoors.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Choosing Paint Color Like a Pro

Summer is the ideal time to catch up on your home improvement projects, including interior painting. But if you're having trouble picking the perfect paint color for your summer home decorating project, don't feel bad - even professional decorators may need help from time to time.

Published: 2006-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Shopping for Lighting

With thousands of different types of lighting fixtures on the market, shopping for new lighting can feel like a daunting process. To narrow and refine your lighting search, Kevin Herdt, CLC, with Austin Bluffs Lighting in Colorado Springs, Colo., suggests you articulate your style of décor "so you can focus on something that will complement your interior design."

Published: 2006-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Interior Design without an Interior Designer

Interior designers once enjoyed almost mystical power. Even homeowners who understood the importance of good interior design weren't really sure how interior designers did their jobs. Credit cable television with changing all that.

Published: 2006-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

History Never Smelled this Good

Candles have provided light in the darkness and been treasured companions throughout history. Candles have had historic significance as part of religious ceremonies and celebrations, and some would argue have played an integral role in setting the right mood for pro-creation over the years.

Published: 2006-05-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Create an Art Gallery in Your Home

Summer parties mean more people viewing your décor and less time for you to spend on decorating your house. Creating an art gallery in your home is a great way to achieve high impact with modest effort. Your art selections will tell your guests a lot about your personal style. Plus, a home art gallery is easily changeable to suit the season, a special occasion or your mood.

Published: 2006-05-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

If These Walls Could Talk: Wallpapers That Speak to Our Passions and Pastimes

It starts out innocently enough. Something captures the imagination and takes hold. One lesson in golf leads to a lifelong obsession. A wine tasting is the beginning for a wine collection. These are the things that come to define who we are and how we live. It is in this spirit that the Echo Collector's Home Collection from Gramercy was created.

Published: 2006-04-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Keep Your Memories Alive After the Honeymoon

When they get back from the honeymoon, most couples end up stashing their wedding mementoes away in boxes, but not Linda McAleer of Plainfield, Ill. "My wedding was such a wonderful experience, I want to relive it every day," she says.

Published: 2006-03-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The New Trend in Slipcover Furniture

Originally designed to protect heirloom furniture and expensive upholstery from everyday wear and tear , slipcovers have reached new heights to meet the needs of contemporary modern living. Now you can buy furniture that comes with its own tailor-made slipcovers, blending the look and fit of custom upholstery with the quick cleaning and redesign ease of slipcovers.

Published: 2006-03-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Kitchen Psychology 101

It's time to remodel your kitchen . . . time to start tearing pictures out of magazines, calculating your budget, interviewing designers and picking a color scheme, right?

Published: 2006-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bringing the Essence of a Day Spa Home to Your Bathroom

In today's fast-paced society, more people are searching for the perfect escape from the stresses of juggling work, family and other responsibilities. While some head to spas for much-needed relaxation, others want to be able to unwind in the privacy of their own homes.

Published: 2006-02-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Let the Change of Season Inspire You

Summer is almost upon us, and you know what that means. Time to redecorate.

Published: 2006-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Creative, Inexpensive Decorating Tips Help Spring New Life into Your Home

Ah, spring, it's almost time to let your hair down, step outside, breathe in the fresh air and have some good old-fashioned fun. Or, in some cases, it may be time to start your spring home decorating projects.

Published: 2006-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Great Looking Interiors Mix It Up with Styles and Budgets

So many of us find ourselves in the same decorating boat - a home filled with a few family heirlooms, flea market or tag sale finds, and maybe even one or two treasures from a successful dumpster dive. You love them all, but how do combine high and low design pieces to create a unified and polished look for your home?

Published: 2006-02-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Trading Up: Small Details Create Spring Havens

It's that time of year again when you might feel the urge to purge - otherwise known as spring cleaning. But think twice before trading in some of your home décor items - instead, trade them up. By adding small details to what you already have, you can achieve a chic and rejuvenated look for spring.

Published: 2006-02-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bathroom Accessories Are More Than Just Accents

Small spaces call for big attention to detail, and that's especially true in today's baths. In a room where tile and cabinetry may take up more visual real estate, it's the little things, like towel bars, tank levers and shower curtain rods that are adding appeal when consumers are designing or updating a bath.

Published: 2006-02-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make Your Home a Work of Art

Your home is an expression of you and it's your haven from the hustle and bustle of today's fast-paced world. That's why it's not a surprise the results of a homeowner survey found 45 percent said they would change the look of a room at least once a year if they could do so simply and affordably.

Published: 2006-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

And the Winner is . . . Your Nose!

It's awards time again, when every industry looks back on the last year to recognize the best and worst performances. Jennifer Garner, Reese Witherspoon and Kelly Clarkson are just a few of the top celebrities who hope to be recognized by their peers, their fans, and their industry associations for their work in 2005.

Published: 2006-01-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Confused by Contemporary?

Mixed up by modern? Confused by what's considered contemporary? With more emphasis on home design today, it can be difficult for homeowners to distinguish between the array of design styles.

Published: 2006-01-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Preserving Your Special (and Possibly Strange) Vacation Memories

The numbers are in: Americans are no longer cocooning, they're traveling more now than at any time in the past seven years, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. So it's to be expected that a record number of souvenirs - both the mundane and unusual - are entering American homes.

Published: 2006-01-03 00:00:00 read more...

Valentine's Day Flowers to Fit any Relationship

It is an unspoken rule that flowers are an essential gift on Valentine's Day to show that special someone how much you care. But for many, the pressure of picking the right flowers can ruin the whole sentiment of the day.

Published: 2005-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Beat Winter Blues with Garden Inspired Décor

Even the most dedicated snow-lovers can find themselves suffering winter blues when the sun disappears for days, and that long gap between New Year's and spring stretches out before them.

Published: 2005-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Paint Color: Can It Really Uncover Your Inner Personality?

Do you daydream about a fuchsia family room? Or, maybe you just can't decide what color to paint your bathroom -- green or gray? One of the most important things to remember about decorating with paint is that it really isn't about decorating at all. It's about creating a comfortable home environment that accurately reflects who you truly are, a place where you feel relaxed, nurtured and protected.

Published: 2005-12-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Planning to Give a Gift From the Heart This Year? Protect It!

The holiday season is here and while most people will run out to the mall or shop online for gifts for friends and loved ones, those who want to give a true gift from the heart will end up making something instead.

Published: 2005-11-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

When You Give a Gift from the Heart -- Protect It!

What are you going to get your sweetheart for Valentine's Day this year? For a gift that's truly meaningful, go beyond the expected.

Published: 2005-11-22 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give a Gift to a Soldier Overseas by Ordering Your Christmas Tree or Wreath Online

Like thousands of American military families, Tiffany Reeves' 4-year-old son will spend Christmas without his daddy this year.

Published: 2005-11-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Make a Design Statement with Table Lamps

Upgrading lighting is one of the easiest ways to instantly update your home decor. And the most effortless way to change your lighting is by using table lamps. All you need to do is put a plug in an outlet and, voila, instant ambiance.

Published: 2005-11-14 00:00:00 read more...

How to Find the Perfect Gift for a Child

Whether you have little ones of your own, or haven't spent much time around kids since you were one of them, shopping for the perfect present for a special child on your list can be a challenge. Children today have a variety of interests, influenced by a more defined sense of style than five or ten years ago.

Published: 2005-11-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Murals Make Lasting Impressions

The next time you get the urge to update your home décor, look for items that are meaningful to you personally. Is your passion sailing? Do you love going on nature walks? Or are you interested in animals or wildlife? No matter what your interests, your home should be a reflection of you.

Published: 2005-10-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Pumpkin Carving Ideas and More

Without a doubt, the most recognizable symbol of Halloween is a pumpkin carved into a jack-o-lantern. But if you are looking for a unique way to impress your family and friends this Halloween, try carving a butternut squash into a bewitching harvest-style centerpiece. It makes a great addition to any autumn table.

Published: 2005-10-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Create a Harvest-style Centerpiece

If you are looking for a unique way to impress your family and friends this season, try carving a butternut squash into a bewitching harvest-style centerpiece. It makes a great addition to any autumn table.

Published: 2005-10-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tips for Rejuvenating Traditional Holiday Décor

After years of use, holiday décor can become old and lifeless. Breathe life back into those cherished ornaments, wreaths and stockings with a little inspiration and a few fresh ideas. The makers of Perfect Glue offer these helpful tips for updating your holiday season.

Published: 2005-10-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Vast Window Options Add to Home Design and Appeal

Ice cream shops thrive today because they offer a variety for every taste bud. If basic flavors aren't enough to satisfy, you can mix in delectable toppings to create a custom concoction. Everyone craves personal satisfaction and what satisfies you today may be different tomorrow; and is very likely different than what satisfies your neighbor.

Published: 2005-10-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

The Next Time You Remodel, Dare to Do Something Different

When was the last time you heard the phrase, "Think outside the box." It's usually associated with the business world, but is applicable to a lot of things in our personal lives too, particularly home decorating.

Published: 2005-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Create the Perfect Kid's Room

Redecorating your child's room is more than a way to bring their space up to date. It can also be a great way for you to spend some time with your child, to see how their personal tastes have developed and to teach them some valuable lessons about negotiation as well.

Published: 2005-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Lights, Camera, Action! Set Your Kitchen to Be Your Holiday Stage

As children take to the stage in school pageants dressed as Pilgrims, Sugar Plum Fairies and Wise Men, don't let the spotlight end with the final curtain - carry it through your home, too. The holidays will be here before you know it, complete with fun, festivities and family.

Published: 2005-09-30 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Let Your Child Have a Sleepover Every Night: New Sesame Street Wall Decor Lets Best Friends Last A Lifetime

Sesame Street's Elmo, Zoe, Big Bird and Cookie Monster hold a special place in the hearts of children around the world. Now you can surround your little one with their favorite Sesame Street buddies in the form of wall décor that you both can appreciate in the comfort and safety of your child's own room.

Published: 2005-09-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Holiday Decorations Inspired by Mother Nature

The time of year when people are inspired to decorate their homes is upon us once again. You may have already put up a tree, hung wreaths on the walls and doors and garland on the mantle. That's a lot of green in the house, but it's easy to spice things up. Just add colorful flowers.

Published: 2005-09-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Everyone Needs a Guardian Angel

This time of year, angels are everywhere - kids make snow angels when they play outside, you may have angel ornaments on your tree and you might even be baking angel shaped cookies. But angels aren't just a holiday phenomenon.

Published: 2005-09-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Green is the New Black: Seven Environmentally Friendly Painting Tips for Your Home this Winter

If you plan to paint your home's interior this winter, make sure the experience is a safe one. "Many people forget or simply aren't aware of important preparations or products when it comes to painting their homes," says Ed Waller, founder of CertaPro Painters.

Published: 2005-09-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wallpaper that Kids Can Make Their Own…No Kidding!

"Mural, mural on the wall -- Mine's the coolest room of all!" Want to guarantee your kids will say that? Let them personalize their space (don't worry; you'll love it too).

Published: 2005-09-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

There's a Big Payoff When You Get Your Kids Involved in Decorating Decisions

When they were babies you could get away with pretty much any decorating scheme you wanted in your son or daughter's room. Maybe you had fish and duckies on the walls or baby animals and ABCs. The look probably worked when your child was a toddler too, but once they're in preschool it's time to make a change.

Published: 2005-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Sconces Set Latest Trend in Sophistication, Style

The latest look in decorative lighting has hit the wall. Sconces, light fixtures attached to the wall halfway between the floor and ceiling, get thumbs-up approval for adding sophistication to a space.

Published: 2005-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

From Gloom to Glow: Seven Secrets to Shopping for Lighting

The secret is out -- lighting is the single most important element in decorating, dramatically improving the look and feel of any room. But with so many options out there, finding that right light may be a little easier said than done.

Published: 2005-09-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Halloween Fun for the Home and Hearth

For little kids, Halloween is about one thing -- candy. But for young-at-heart grown-ups, All Hallows' Eve is more about drama and food than about headless horsemen. And because Halloween falls smack in the middle of fall, the harvest season provides plenty of design inspiration for both the home and hearth.

Published: 2005-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

(Why) Not Your Mother's Wallpaper?

One of the more exciting trends today in interior design is mid 20 century modern, but, retro with a twist. Modification of this motif is necessary because today's new homes are, according to The National Association of Homebuilders, more than twice as large as they were in the 1950s, and 50 percent larger than they were in the 1970's.

Published: 2005-09-02 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Bringing the Sectional Out of the Basement

(ARA) - Ladies and men alike don flip-flops at the White House and the office, where casual Fridays have turned into casual everyday. J.Crew, Banana Republic and Ann Taylor are selling wedding and bridesmaid gowns to women looking for simplicity and style at reasonable prices.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Color Your Home with the Feeling of Fall

As the air becomes crisp and summer fun gives way to indoor activities, it's time to make your home look as warm and inviting as possible. Fall is just around the corner, and the hottest new home decorating trends are reflecting the colorful changing landscape.

Published: 2005-08-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Deck the Halls . . . and Walls and More

Holiday decorating has gone beyond just "decking the halls." This year, reminisce childhood memories and personalize your "home for the holidays" by incorporating the soothing scents of the season.

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tips for Designing a Home Gym

Once upon a time, the term "home gym" meant a treadmill taking up valuable space in your bedroom. But times have changed, and more and more homes now boast state-of-the-art home gyms that include a variety of equipment you might expect to find at your local fitness center.

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating Tips: How to Incorporate "Scenterior" Design into your Home

With home renovation and redecorating at an all-time high, this year people are discovering that sight is not the only important sense when it comes to home design. Scent plays a key role in expressing style and creating ambiance and is at the forefront of design trends with innovations such as new scented oil candles.

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Deck the Halls and the Sunroom Too

Temperatures are finally starting to cool off and the first flakes have already taken flight in some northern cities. If you haven't started putting up your holiday decorations yet, now's the time to come up with a plan.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Do-It Yourselfer's Guide to Building a Home Theater

If you love watching movies, but not the movie theater experience you're not alone. According to an AP-AOL poll released in June of 2005, 73 percent of Americans would rather watch movies at home. Among the many reasons cited in the poll, crowded theaters, uncomfortable seats, expensive tickets and pricey concessions.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Do-It-Yourselfer's Guide to Building a Home Theater

If you love watching movies, but not the movie theater experience you're not alone. According to an AP-AOL poll released in June of 2005, 73 percent of Americans would rather watch movies at home. Among the many reasons cited in the poll, crowded theaters, uncomfortable seats, expensive tickets and pricey concessions.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Big Style in Small Spaces: How to Make the Most of Your Bathrooms

Great things come in small packages, especially in bathrooms and powder rooms. While new home and renovation trends point to bigger being better, some older houses and apartments can't grow larger than their current cozy proportions.

Published: 2005-08-17 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

"Saddle Chic" Bath Ideas

Girls are wearing pink cowboy boots with cocktail dresses and dirndl skirts around Chicago. Both guys and gals alike don cowboy hats in New York City. Pony print hair on hide furniture is showing up on the pages of magazines such as Western Interiors.

Published: 2005-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Looking to Dress up the Fireplace? Just Add Jewelry!

The little black dress has always been a wardrobe basic, but jewelry adds the sparkle. At home, a few well-placed accessories can dress up a basic fireplace too.

Published: 2005-08-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Flowers Add Inspiration for Fall Home Decorating

Fall is a time of year when color is all around us. Leaves are turning yellow, orange, red and crimson; the grass is fading from brilliant green to varying shades of yellow, orange and brown; and bright orange pumpkins and cornucopias abound. Let nature's palate serve as an inspiration for your fall home decorating by bringing a taste of the outdoors in.

Published: 2005-08-10 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Decorative Moldings Add Affordable Elegance to Any Cabinetry Design

As homeowners continue to embrace the kitchen as the new living room, comforts like plush chairs and furniture-like accents are making their way into this once sparse, utilitarian space. Now, designers and homeowners alike are turning to decorative moldings to further accent this trend and personalize their home. Cabinetry moldings lend architectural interest and are an easy and affordable way to customize your space.

Published: 2005-08-03 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Wardrobing Your Home

What do embroidery, sequins, layering, and texture have in common? They all describe the hottest trends in women's fashions and home décor. As the parallel between fashion and home décor narrows, consumers are buying throw pillows the same way they buy shoes -- acquiring distinctive pieces that update what they already have to create a fresh look without spending a lot of money.

Published: 2005-08-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Fireplaces are a Focal Point - Indoors and Outside

Even though fireplaces have long since been replaced as the main source of heat in today's home, they are still one of the most popular options in existing homes and new construction.

Published: 2005-07-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Simple Faux Painting Techniques Add a Relaxing Feel to Bed and Bath

With the hectic lives we all lead, many of us are looking to add some relaxation time to our schedules. We spend money on resorts and exclusive spas, but what about adding a little more relaxation into your home?

Published: 2005-07-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Don't Make a Faux Pas When It Comes to Turning Your Home into a Retreat

With the hectic lives we all lead, many of us are looking to add some relaxation time to our schedules. We spend money on resorts and exclusive spas, but what about adding a little more relaxation into your home?

Published: 2005-07-26 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Making Back-to-School as Easy as 1-2-3

Back-to-school is a great time to evaluate children's rooms to make sure they have a well-organized work and play space for the coming school year. According to the experts at Pier 1 Kids, a solutions-based children's furniture and accessories retailer, there are three easy steps adults can take to better organize children's rooms for back-to-school time.

Published: 2005-07-19 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Choosing a Paint Color for Your Home Got You Seeing Red?

Finding the perfect color to paint a room can be a challenge for even the most accomplished do-it-yourselfer. After staring at 100 color swatches of what appears to be the same shade of red, it's no surprise that many people feel overwhelmed! To help take the stress out of choosing a color, True Value developed Color Made Simple, which provides the tools needed to make color selection a snap.

Published: 2005-07-08 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Homeowners Are Taking It Outside

Ringing phones and Blackberrys, refrigerators that tell you when you're out of milk, mobile offices - we're relentlessly bombarded with technology and work! Not just our own, but it seems we are unwittingly included in the guy-next-door's conversation too. It's no wonder we're constantly looking for an escape with family and friends.

Published: 2005-06-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Transform Your Living Spaces in One Weekend

When was the last time you updated the look of your living room? Does the bedroom décor make you yawn? Maybe the family room looks like it hasn't been changed since they were called "dens." If you have a room that needs a freshening -- not a complete remodel -- you're in luck.

Published: 2005-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Give Your Home an Italian Flair

For decades, Italy has inspired us: the rolling hillsides of Tuscany, the history of Rome, the artistic masterpieces of Florence. Incorporating the colors, textures and beauty of Italy into your own home can bring a touch of "la dolce vita" into daily life.

Published: 2005-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Glass Block Provides Homes with Timeless Beauty

Homeowners are constantly on the lookout for new ways to modernize the style of their homes. New trends always incorporate the latest must-have products, but with time every trend becomes dated.

Published: 2005-06-10 00:00:00 read more...

Designing Homes That Nurture

The way Bette Levin tells the story, it is a match made in heaven. After several disappointing attempts to find a designer to help transform the town home she and her husband recently purchased, Levin decided to track down a designer she had consulted on her previous home many years before. When they finally connected, it was like renewing an old friendship.

Published: 2005-06-09 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Expert Tips for Instant Outdoor Style

Whether you are looking to create an outdoor retreat or just want a great place to entertain this summer, there are a few things you can do to achieve instant outdoor style. Adding accents like a wall fountain, clustering planters near an outdoor bench or even adding chic new cushions to your porch swing will help to update last year's look.

Published: 2005-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Advice for Preparing Hobby Corners for Summer

As summer gets into full swing crafters are probably busy planning vacations and getting the house ready for multitudes of visitors. While it may seem as though each part of the home has been readied, there is probably one area that has been overlooked: the hobby corner.

Published: 2005-05-27 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Paint the Town Red, Orange and Even Yellow

You've watched every home improvement television show under the sun, carefully studied the trends, spent too much money on new rugs, and you still do not like your living room even with that fabulous mood lighting. Fret no more -- salvation can come in the form of creative paint remedies.

Published: 2005-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Material Possessions: How to Add Style and Texture to Your Bathroom

We are definitely living in a material world, especially when it comes to design. Materials -- wood, glass, porcelain, ceramic, concrete, stone, steel, laminate, rubber, plastic or cork -- fill our homes with color, texture and style.

Published: 2005-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Preserve the Value of Your Old Furniture Gems

Fans of the PBS program "Antiques Roadshow" will know the moment well. The appraiser pauses before giving the value of a piece and then says, "If you hadn't cleaned it . . . " And you know the rest.

Published: 2005-05-20 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Tips for Choosing a Comfortable Color Palette for your Home

Choosing paint color can be one of the most challenging aspects of decorating your home. There are so many beautiful choices available these days, you may end up feeling like you don't know where to start!

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How a Designer Can Help Make Your Home Work Better

To look at most decorating magazines and television shows, you would think that rooms are meant to be seen and not used. In fact, often the picture you see is not how the room looks most of the time. The contents have been rearranged, possibly even enhanced, to improve the composition of the picture.

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

How to Make Your Home Guest Friendly

- Like most Americans, you are probably entertaining more at home. If so, is your home guest friendly? Have you noticed that certain members of your family or friends always have excuses not to attend your holiday gatherings, barbeques or other social events? Don't take the excuses personally.

Published: 2005-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Easy Decorating Ideas for Kids' Rooms: How to Capture Your Child's Dreams

When it comes to decorating, kids' rooms are unlike any other part of the house. With this space, you and your child can let your imaginations run wild and really be creative. Throw those traditional décor schemes out the window - this is your chance to try something new.

Published: 2005-05-06 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

A Touch of Glass

Creating decorative art glass is easier than ever. In fact, you can create eye-catching designs in new or existing windows in just a few hours, thanks largely to new, easy-to-use products

Published: 2005-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Home Decorating

Celebrate Spring - Easy Tips for Freshening up Your Décor

The dark, dreary days of winter are coming to an end, and the promise of spring is in the air. As you look around your home, is it filled with dark, heavy fabrics, dated colors and drab accessories? Spring is the perfect time to update your decorating scheme, and it doesn't have to cost a lot of money. Here are some simple suggestions to spruce up any room.

Published: 2005-03-02 00:00:00 read more...

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