Have you ever been lucky enough to decorate a room that started with nothing but white walls to inspire you? The feeling is similar to the thrill an artist feels with a blank canvas, new paint and fresh ideas. It happens... more »
If you've already taken into account the 11 elements of the perfect sunroom, here are some suggestions for filling in the blanks — or giving just about any... more »
The Otomi are a group of people indigenous to central Mexico. Their traditional embroidery includes colorful, simple images of the natural world — flowers, rabbits, deer and trees — against a natural white cotton background. And it's gorgeous.
I... more »
Sometimes a lamp needs to be more than just a lamp. Paging through your average catalog or browsing a home store tends to yield the same results: average table lamp, floor lamp or ceiling fixture. But designers have taken notice and are providing... more »
Spring is wonderful in a million different ways, not the least of which is the abundance of flowers that grow at no other time of year — crocuses, tulips,... more »
I grew up in homes with wall-to-wall carpeting and didn't know the beauty of a hardwood floor until my late 20s. Moving into a newly built condo in the heart of downtown, I was faced with what seemed like acres of gleaming wood floor. I loved the... more »
I start to crave nature like a kid craves candy in spring. I think we're all ready to start spending some time with the brighter side of nature. For those of us still stuck inside thanks to dreary weather, the natural materials and nature-inspired forms... more »
Admit it, you have commitment issues — at least when it comes to picking a color. Believe me when I say you're in the company of many.
Besides a can of paint, there is no easier or cheaper way to add color, pattern and texture throughout your... more »
Books are for reading, sure. But they are also for stacking, displaying, propping and arranging.
A stack of thick coffee table books is as essential in decorating as a vase or a throw pillow. They add color, texture, height and symmetry. They... more »
With the sun shining, flowers blooming and gardens bounding to life, it's natural to crave a little spring update around the house. These doable paint projects, mini pick-me-ups and fresh ways of working with what you have will update your home for spring... more »
Whatever project I'm working on, I've found I enjoy it more — and am more likely to finish the tedious steps within that project — if the tools I use work well and are pleasing to look at. There's something about a quality tool that makes everything... more »
Whether you have just signed the lease on your first apartment, or you are working on replacing your college apartment furniture with higher-quality stuff, it helps to have a long-term strategy for furnishing your place.
You may not always have... more »
Nearly every home and office has framed pictures of loved ones displayed. It's wonderful, as they serve as constant reminders of good times with family and friends. It seems like framed pictures have been around forever. In reality, the practice is historically... more »
Years ago I was chatting with an acquaintance, and she referred to a weekly meeting she attended without naming it. I asked her what it was.
"Overreaders Anonymous," she said.
I froze. I had no idea there... more »
How we store our possessions, especially our treasures, requires careful consideration. One storage solution, the armoire, has served people well for hundreds of years, and for good reason. Its evolution from ancient Rome through the time of King Louis... more »