The allure of estate sales

Published November 29th, 2008 - 12:05AM

Before the sun is up, the hunters begin circling. Read more...

Hannukah candles light the way with new flair

Published November 29th, 2008 - 12:05AM

Hanukkah candles have become more elaborate in recent years, coming in all kinds of new colored patterns and designs. Read more...

Great gifts for gardeners

Published November 29th, 2008 - 12:05AM

Whatever your holiday budget this year, garden gifts with a local connection should be a hit with the gardeners on your list. Here are six ideas: Read more...

Green cleaning trend revives interest in vinegar

Published November 22nd, 2008 - 1:05AM

What can tackle the germs and grease on your kitchen counters but also make your favorite pickles safe to eat? Read more...

Frosty-looking foliage makes delightful addition to garden

Published November 22nd, 2008 - 12:05AM

Plants with blue-green or silvery foliage look frost-kissed all year, and many are available in nurseries now. Here are eight to check out: Read more...

Set a spectacular holiday table with good deals

Published November 22nd, 2008 - 12:05AM

The day and time are set, and the menu is planned. Now it’s time to focus on the basics. We asked several experts for their thoughts on household essentials for holiday entertaining. If your supply is low, after-season sales are great for stocking up. Read more...

Plants with unusual textures also come with novel names

Published November 15th, 2008 - 12:05AM

With most flowers and fall leaves faded, interesting textural plants attract attention at local nurseries now. A recent field trip turned up this quintet with quirky names: Read more...

You haven’t seen wallpaper like this

Published November 15th, 2008 - 12:05AM

Wallpaper was a booming industry for years until the late 1990s, when it fell out of fashion as faux paint finishes captivated the interior decorating scene. Floral patterns and fruit borders were no longer innovative. Read more...

Variety of sizes, colors makes it exciting time to do tile work

Published November 8th, 2008 - 12:30AM

Dear Debbie: I’ve been given the go-ahead to redo our master bathroom and bedroom, something we’ve put off forever, as other rooms always seemed to be more pressing. I am looking for some kind of tile design that will be fresh, but not just boring white. Also, I’d like the bath and bedroom to work together. – Madelaine Read more...

Transparent window film slows heat loss, protects from UV rays

Published November 8th, 2008 - 12:30AM

A do-it-yourself window film promises to insulate windows and reduce the ultraviolet rays that can fade fabrics. Read more...

Eight simple tips to a user-friendly home office

Published November 8th, 2008 - 12:30AM

These days my home office serves many functions: from coffee room to diaper-changing area to bill-paying headquarters to gift-wrapping space. Oh, and I do a little bit of work in there, too. Read more...

Give your fireplace a face-lift to dramatically alter the room

Published November 1st, 2008 - 12:30AM

A few weeks ago, I discussed the exciting variety of fireplaces that you can choose from to create the perfect cozy setting for your home. No matter where you live, there’s a size and fuel type that will fit your needs, from the traditional log burners and gas inserts to electric fireplaces and the new ethanol burners. Read more...

Kitchen cabinet, backsplash colors should match mood of other rooms

Published October 25th, 2008 - 12:30AM

Dear Debbie: We have a small, rectangular kitchen that sits open to the eating area. It has new steel appliances, which I can’t afford to change, but I’m not sure what color cabinets would look best to take the clinical edge off the shiny steel. I'd also like your opinion on the backsplash area, which is now white tile. – Bryan

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Landscape water features need wise winter tuneups

Published October 25th, 2008 - 12:30AM

Most water features in the home landscape can be enjoyed year-round, but follow these tips to prepare them for winter: Read more...

Mix traditional, modern for a warm feel

Published October 11th, 2008 - 12:30AM

Dear Debbie: We are moving into a newly built house, but we are traditionalists at heart. The new house is smaller but has high ceilings and lots of light, which we love. Have you any ideas for warming up a modern space to suit empty nesters? We entertain friends and family a lot. – Miriam Read more...