Bumps and thumps might be driving you crazy, but they also might mean big trouble. We give you the lowdown and which pro to call for help

Leaf blowers, trucks or noisy neighbors driving you berserk? These sound-reduction strategies can help you hush things up

Take your surroundings to another level by introducing the element of sound with ground covers, water features and wind catchers

Modern glass and stone structures hug two waterways on a sprawling Texas Hill Country compound

Sleep tight with curtains, shades and more designed to keep out bright rays while letting stylishness in

Love the look but don’t want the ruin? Learn how to have vine-draped walls without all the cracks and crumbling

Stay warm without turning up the thermostat by choosing the right curtains, windows and more

You can come out from behind the closed curtains now. These strategies let in the light while blocking the ugly

Small wonders: Bump out your upper floor with a doghouse, shed or eyebrow dormer — we give you the benefits and budget tips

Original wood ceilings, a cool layout and, yes, a quarter-scale train persuaded these homeowners to take a chance on a run-down property