Ideas & Tips — Remodeling & Upgrade

Whether it's a full-on centerpiece or a mason jar full of flowers from your garden, a flower arrangement brings a breath of fresh air into your living space, especially in the colder months when you're less likely to see flowers outside. Before you buy an expensive bouquet, consider choosing and arranging the flowers yourself. It's a relaxing creative activity that lets you match or play off of your existing decor while saving money. Here are some tips from Better Homes and Gardens and blogger Mateja Holter: First, create a grid in the opening of your vase with scotch tape, or...

Stainless steel is king in the kitchen and has been for decades, according to the Wall Street Journal. A recent article explored stainless steel's dominance when it comes to kitchen appliances, noting shoppers' unending devotion to the sleek, clean metal.  "The appliance industry has tried to promote new looks before," the article said. "In recent years, manufacturers have pitched 'oiled bronze,' 'antique copper' and a gray hue called 'meteorite,' as well as aluminum and other look-alikes, but none has been able to unseat stainless steel." No appliance finish resonates with consumers like stainless steel because none is so reliably attractive,...

The new year is the perfect time to get started on home improvement projects you've been putting off, and what better part of the home to improve than your kitchen? If you're a fan of cooking, you probably spend a lot of your time in this room, so here are some tips to help you upgrade it to be the best it can be without expensive remodeling: Replace cabinet knobs: If the knobs on your drawers and cabinets are tarnished or loose, now is a good time to replace them. You would be surprised what a new set of gleaming knobs...

Many people think that if they don't have an entire extra room, then they can't have a home office. However, even the tiniest spaces — like an extra closet or pantry — can be turned into stylish work places. Here are some tips to get you started: Add light: It's crucial that an office space have proper lighting, so if you are converting a closet then be sure to hire an electrician to add wiring. A combination of overhead and lamp light creates ideal conditions for working.  Include desk accessories: Elegant accessories in stainless steel can elevate your desk style....

The kitchen is one of the most-used and hardest to organize rooms in the house. No matter how much space you have, it likely doesn't feel like enough! However, some simple tips and tricks can help you declutter and control the chaos:  Corral your condiments: Keep your salt, pepper and favorite condiments neatly organized in this beautiful caddy. (Looking for something to spice up your meals? Try various hot sauces like Tabasco and Sriracha or several different flavors of gourmet mustard!) A sophisticated looking handle makes it easy to tote from counter to table.  Create a "stage": Too many items...