Habitat for Humanity, the charity that builds homes for needy people, also runs stores in many states and Canadian Provinces that sell old home hardware, fixtures and accessories that have been donated from renovations and remodeling. All proceeds go to fund Habitat’s charity work. The stores are low on frills, but offer the Clever shopper the chance to find really great architectural salvage pieces. Read the rest »

After checking out some unfinished furniture stores and visiting several used furniture stores for a potential changing table for our baby, we found a long, waist high dresser that needed a little TLC for about $100. With the help of a sander, some paint and some new extra large knobs, we had ourselves a piece of furniture that friends thought was a store bought piece from a boutique. We’ve since “rehabbed” another dresser/changing table for our second child. Read the rest »

Need a primer on primers? Is your color palette pleasing? If “Décor and More” is the biggest category on your perpetual “to do” list, keep reading.

As a professional organizer I help clients accomplish goals and implement new systems. It isn’t unusual to be asked to organize an upcoming project for them. Recently a chronically disorganized client (CDC) asked for my assistance organizing a painting project in her home. In each room painters were going to be freshening up the ceilings, crown moldings, baseboards and walls. The CDC was becoming overwhelmed with all the options and found that picking a paint color was easy compared to some of the other decisions which needed to be made. Read the rest »

My husband is an artist and loves color! I, on the other hand, have needed to be convinced. After 11 years of marriage (as of today, thank you very much), I am coming around to his way of seeing things. For instance, I love these three, very different, very colorful, very fun seating options:

The Fat Boy Original — comes in every color imaginable and is a great basement option. We recently bought this before we had family stay with us and it was a huge hit with the kids and adults alike! Great for sitting on, laying on or jumping on! Check out all the ways to use it at Design Public or Zac and Zoe ($229 and free shipping). Read the rest »

As a professional organizer I am always being asked if I have any bright ideas for clients and they are surprised when I suggest improving their lighting.  Light and the way it is used changes the way my clients see everything–including themselves.  Lighting can have a dramatic effect on how we apply makeup, view our computer screen, and highlight artwork in our homes and offices.  Lighting provides an almost invisible final touch to any design or system–including organizing systems. Read the rest »

The folks at Smith + Noble have thought of everything when it comes to ordering custom window treatments for less. Place an order without leaving the comfort of your own home, yet still have enough information to make the right decisions about your product. Their website is attractive, easy-to-navigate and packed with helpful tips and downloads. Watch video clips on topics like measuring for your window treatments, inside vs. outside mounts, combining and layering window treatments. Download files like a worksheet for measuring and planning your project. Or just call and talk to a customer service rep who will help answer questions. Read the rest »

Thinking about giving your dining room (or bedroom, or living room, or even your home’s exterior) a face lift with a fresh paint color, but aren’t sure if your color choice will work? Afraid you’ll be too bold or too drab? Have no fear, help is here!
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