If the three-way bulb on one of your table or floor lamps has only one level of light, more than likely one of the filaments has burned out. However, it could also be a connection in the three-way socket. Follow these steps to try and figure out the problem. Caution: It is very important to […]
At Home
Read about interior design tips, remodeling advice, real estate trends, fresh décor ideas, new products and more.
How to Make Your Summer Party More Environmentally Friendly
Summer is in full swing, and with it come backyard cookouts, camping trips and picnics. Unfortunately, these outings and get-togethers also include the generation of copious amounts of waste. Disposable plates, cutlery, cups and paper towels are just a few of the common wastes generated at your typical cookout or party, because we do have […]
How to Properly Clean Your Shower Liner
If your vinyl shower curtain liner has developed black spots, especially in some of the folds, it is probably mildew rather than dirt. It’s perfectly OK to wash it in your washer. Most good-quality vinyl shower curtain liners will survive years of washing. This method works very well with top load washers. Our first attempt […]
Planning for Your Future Needs with ‘Aging in Place’ Strategies in Your New Home or Remodel
Recently we began work on a home design for a newlywed couple who are starting their life together by building a home. And, they want it to be one that they can live in for a very long time. Smart thinking, as you never know what could happen, even temporarily, that might make it difficult […]
How to Restore Indoor Teak Furniture — Part 2
It is best to leave outdoor teak tables, chairs and benches unfinished and sanded to weather to a beautiful silvery-grey color (as shown in this photo). But if your indoor teak furniture, especially a table top, has been exposed to sunlight for several years, it probably has a rougher feel due to the grain being […]
Replacing Your Carpet? Don’t Forget the Carpet Pad
A client is having new carpet installed in the living room, and was told by the salesperson that the pad — which is 10 years old — needs to be replaced. The client questioned whether that’s really necessary. If you’re replacing your carpet, here’s my advice. You should absolutely replace the pad. Once the old […]
Turn a Boring Floor into a Piece of Art with Faux Paint
My husband turned to me a couple of weeks ago and said, “You know that vintage area rug you’ve got downstairs in our basement studio, trying to cover up the plywood floor? I’ve always hated that. What I’d like to see down there is something more artistic, like an acid-washed concrete floor.” So, I started […]
The Pitfalls of Using ‘Review’ Websites to Help Choose Your Building or Remodeling Contractor
You’ve seen them online, and the ads on TV. Use their website to get reviews before you hire a builder or remodeler (or a doctor, dentist etcetera). Their “list” can save you lots of headache, the ads claim. But how do these sites really work in helping you — or is there more to it? […]
Celebrate Summer by Making Your Own Cool Popsicles
Summer has officially arrived and for me that brings forth childhood memories of hearing the ice cream truck music off in the distance. I would scramble to the house and scrounge around to get enough change together before the truck passed me by. My favorite was the red, white and blue Rocket Pop. Mmmm… taste […]
