7.1.10 - High and Low - Gourd Lamps

By Paige Gilbertson

A decorator staple, the gourd lamp can blend seamlessly with most any style interior. Their simple, fluid, strong silhouette is graceful, but commands a presence.  Additionally, the gourd is most commonly recognized as a symbol of longevity and good fortune, stemming from ancient eastern traditions where the gourd was once used as a drinking vessel.

5.13.10 - DIY - Chevron Pattern Dresser

By Kimberly Reuther

Those who know me best are well aware of my ability to envision possibilities in almost any space and are always pleased with the finished product. However, knowing my visionary ability means they are also cognizant of my low tolerance for detail work and executing these visions myself.

Therefore, when I conceptualized transforming this drab dresser into a modern classic a mere 2 weeks before my Habitat for Humanity deadline, I received a lot of eyebrow raises and not a lot of paintbrushes raised. Which is not quite what I had hoped, as I am also acutely aware of my shortcomings. But alas, I couldn't let my weakness (nor sleep) stand in the way of my imagination.

3.5.10 - 5 Things You Won’t Learn About Flipping and Rehabbing Houses From Cable TV

By Cary Baumann

A&E and HGTV still haven't called, nor have their cameras ever appeared at one of the many properties I "flipped" or rehabbed.

I've been at it longer than these stations have existed: buying foreclosed and distressed properties fixing them up, staging them and selling the property for a profit. It did surprise me that someone found flipping real estate to be worthy of a television show until I saw a few of these shows. Suddenly the way I rehabbed felt very boring.

1.14.09 - Bottom Line: Tile Backsplashes

By Kimberly Reuther

Welcome to a new series of blogs designed to help you prepare your budget for your remodeling or new construction project. The first topic we are going to tackle is tile for kitchen backsplashes. There are numerous sizes and materials to choose from. How do you know what is right for your budget and your overall design? Here a re a few tips that will help you get started!

10.26.09 – What makes an oven great?

By Kimberly Reuther

"I love to cook, correction, I love to bake. Mainly, I love to make cookies for the holidays. When I was growing up, my grandma used to make so many different kinds of cookies, the Tupperware containers spanned for miles! Well, maybe it just seemed like that to an eight year old with visions of chocolate chip cookies in her head!"