Lifestyle & Trends - Home Improvement

Give your kitchen a 'make under'

Think your kitchen needs a makeover? Why not try a "make under"? "Less is more" is the new mantra for homeowners who want to take control of their home decor - eliminating clutter, streamlining products and taking a simplified, minimalistic approach to their home-improvement projects. The perfect room to begin this organized overhaul is the kitchen, as it's a spot that tends to clutter quickly. Learn how you can make under this space and uncover its true beauty. Read More

Turn a gourmet kitchen into a chef's studio

Does your kitchen feel more like Julie's than Julia's? No need to be concerned ... if Julie could learn to master the art of cooking in less than a year, you can design your own chef's studio in a fraction of that time. Follow Julie's footsteps and take your lead from those who know kitchens best - professional chefs. Read More

Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation who lives in it

Most of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide additional help in their own homes - or move aging parents into your home - how do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults? Read More

Today's laminate floors - a 'real' wood alternative

You love the look of natural wood flooring but are afraid to install hardwood because you know the floor will take a beating from the kids, dogs and the heavy day-to-day traffic all too common in modern family life. But you don't have to sacrifice high style looks for boring sensibility when considering a new flooring option in your home - not if you choose laminate. Read More

Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concrete

Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend. Read More

Create a comfy 'school zone' for studying at home

With the arrival of the new school year, now is the perfect time to "zone out" and get your family and your home in gear by creating a comfortable, yet functional study zone in your home. Read More

Don't use more energy than you need

For most people, the start of cooling temperatures in the back half of the year means more time spent at home. Take advantage of the time you're spending at home by making sure you're not using any more energy than you need to. Fortunately, there are many options to cutting down on energy use and with the tax credits expiring at the end of 2010, now is the time to take action. Read More

Seniors: How to live independently and safely

Retirement is a great time to enjoy life - especially in your own home. But if you - or your parents - are starting to slow down, suffering from occasional imbalance or are having difficulty living safely in your home, it could limit your independence, and potentially cause you harm. Here are some tips you can follow to help yourself or your loved one continue to live independently in their own home and age in place safely. Read More

Demystifying contemporary home decor and design

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. Here are hints for creating a modern look in your home. Read More

Cut heating costs with simple home decor changes and home improvements

With a scorching summer drawing to a close and last winter's deep freeze looming in their minds, many Americans are already looking for ways to curtail energy costs this winter. Fortunately, a few simple home improvements - and even some decor changes - can help reduce your home's heating costs this winter. Read More