Archives for January 2015
Smart Ways to Make the Most of a Compact Kitchen
January 3, 2015 By Leave a Comment
Minimal square footage is no barrier to fulfilling your culinary dreams. These tips will help you squeeze the most out of your space
We might all dream of a huge family kitchen, but most of us have to make do with something smaller. That said, whatever the size of our kitchen, the demands we place on it tend to be the same. We want it to function well for preparing and cooking meals. We might also like to be able to sit and eat in there, even if just perched at a breakfast bar. And we need space for a lot of different objects, from chunky appliances to silverware, dishes and food. The good news is, with some clever planning and great design, it is possible to have all these functions in one tiny space, as these inspiring spaces demonstrate.
What’s the Right Wood Floor Installation for You?
January 2, 2015 By Leave a Comment
Straight, diagonal, chevron, parquet and more. See which floor design is best for your space
Installing a wood floor? Whether you’re using hardwood, laminate or even plank tiles, once you’ve picked that beautiful product, you’ll have to make another important decision: which way to install it. While straight and horizontal patterns are the most popular, there are many more options, and one might be better for your project. Here are the pros and cons of some of the most popular installation methods for wood flooring to help you make the best choice for your home, budget and style.
Bathroom Countertops 101: The Top Surface Materials
January 1, 2015 By Leave a Comment
Explore the pros and cons of 7 popular bathroom countertop materials
Choosing the perfect material for one’s bathroom countertops can be a bit of a brain teaser, thanks to the abundant — and quite attractive — options available at nearly every price level. But because bathroom surfaces typically don’t face the same abuse as those in the kitchen (think hot frying pans, sharp carving knives and spilled Bordeaux), the decisions most buyers wrestle with are usually more about style and cost than Herculean strength. Fortunately, the top bathroom countertop materials on the market combine beauty and brawn in equal measure. Here’s a closer look at some of the most sought-after bathroom surfaces among today’s buyers.