Brick is a durable material that lends itself to a wide variety of patio designs. However, there are several considerations homeowners should take into account when choosing the color, laying pattern and layout of their new brick patio. Avoid matching your brick patio to the home’s siding; doing so can quickly overwhelm the outdoor space with too much “noise.” Aim for a more neutral palette, or use accent colors and laying patterns to add visual interest. Color and Style Brick patios can complement a variety of design styles and add value to the property. They can be built out of clay or concr ..read more

Elevate your shower with a boldly shaped tile that adds visual interest and provides traction. Try a herringbone pattern, like the one shown here, or experiment with alternating shapes and sizes, like penny rounds and small hexagons. Large-format tiles are becoming an envied focal point for bathrooms. Play with tile layouts that use these larger slabs, like staggering them in a traditional brick-bond pattern or laying them horizontally to create a modern wainscot. Herringbone Patterns Herringbone patterns are an eye-catching design option that combines elements of both classical and modern des ..read more

The first step in removing wallpaper is to apply an agent that dissolves the glue. You can purchase a commercial wallpaper stripper, or you can use an ingredient from your pantry. A vinegar solution works well, explains Cecil Snider, an expert on painting and wallpaper. He suggests pouring the solution into a spray bottle and climbing a ladder to spray a corner seam. Preparation Wallpaper can add a great deal of interest to any room, but it’s important to be mindful of your design style and make sure the wallpaper you choose fits your taste. If you have old wallpaper hanging around the house t ..read more

Spring cleaning is a time to breathe new life into your home. Use this comprehensive checklist to help get the job done. Clean floors – Sweep or vacuum. Mop hardwood or tile floors for a fresh finish. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries, and replace if necessary. Purge pantry, refrigerator and shelving – throw away expired items and organize what remains. Clean the Windows Clean windows are a sign of a healthy, well-maintained home. Streak-free windows let in more sunlight, which brightens and freshens interior rooms. And they also help reduce the amount of dust and dander in yo ..read more

Shower upgrades are one of the most popular renovations for transforming bathrooms into spa-like sanctuaries. Think expanding the shower area, adding built-in nooks and seating, and installing multiple shower heads with body sprays. Homeowners are also incorporating natural materials and earth tones into their bathroom designs. Other popular choices include terrazzo, reclaimed wood and concrete. Walk-In Showers A walk-in shower can create a spa-like environment in an en suite bathroom or make a spacious primary bath feel more updated and luxurious. They can be expanded to include a built-in no ..read more

Recessed lighting is a unique way to highlight features of your home. From a bookshelf full of your favorite novels to an antique piece of furniture, these lights can really make them stand out. The most visible part of a recessed light is the trim, which is available in a broad variety of styles and finishes. Here are six reasons to consider recessed lighting in your next project: Energy Savings Recessed lights can offer a subtle glow that softly illuminates a room without creating hot spots or shadows. They also allow you to highlight artwork or other design elements that you want to draw at ..read more

Turn your basement into a game room that the entire family will love. Start by creating a plan for what games will fit in the space. Avoid over-packing, as table games like air hockey or foosball need 3 to 4 feet of space around them to be fun. Incorporate gaming memorabilia and framed art into the décor to elevate the room’s ambiance. Choose soft fabrics for seating options and add rugs to provide comfort when playing. Ping Pong The classic game of ping pong is a staple for any family-friendly basement. Ping pong tables are inexpensive and can be easily stored when not in use. Make your own t ..read more

The shutter color you choose plays a major role in the impression your home makes. The right color will complement or contrast the colors already showcased on your house, and create a cohesive look for your entire exterior palette. White and colors in the same tonal family are foolproof options for light home exteriors, and dark houses can carry bold shades like red, purple, and green with panache. Brown As a natural material that can enhance the look of any exterior, wood is an ideal option for shutters. Whether you choose raised panel, louvered, or board and batten (BnB), the color of your s ..read more

Home improvement projects can seem overwhelming. But you don’t have to take on major renovations before selling your home to increase its value and boost curb appeal. Simple updates like painting, deep cleaning and upgrading hardware can make your home more appealing to potential buyers without requiring a large investment. Here are some easy upgrades to complete before you sell your home. 1. Paint the Interior While it’s not always cost-effective to make major renovations before selling, minor changes can give your home a new look and help buyers see the potential. New paint, for example, can ..read more

Sidelights provide a clear view into the entryway without having to open the door. They also increase security and can help with home energy efficiency if they are insulated. Ideally, sidelights should match the door in color and materials. There are a few exceptions to this rule though: Decorative Sidelights For homeowners seeking a front door upgrade with a decorative touch, door sidelights are an ideal choice. Available in a variety of glass options, these windows help to illuminate wide entry way corridors and create an inviting atmosphere. Decorative window film also helps to filter light ..read more