5 Things to Do Before Clicking "Buy" on Home Flash Sale Sites

We've all heard the arguments, for and against, online designer sample sales: the adrenaline fueled urge to buy things you may or may not really need, the inability to "try things on" before committing, non-refundable purchase. With the surge in home-centric versions of these sales, how do we best navigate these issues?

I, for one, love a good patio umbrella. You get to be outdoors, while basking in the shade or being sheltered from the rain — brilliant!. My deck is covered, so I don't need an umbrella, but that doesn't stop me from singing their praises. Apparently there are some creative folks out there who feel the same, and who have gone to great lengths to incorporate umbrellas into the outdoor experience in some innovative ways.

Decor Inspiration: A Fresh Look at Modern Paper Flowers

I am the first to admit that my love for flowers can get a little out of hand. From their vibrant colors, to their silky shapes, to their intoxicated scents, they just make me smile and bring me instant joy. More

Freestyle Ceilings: Rhombus Ceiling Tiles

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If you're done hanging art on your walls, but the room you're decorating still needs something, try hanging art on the ceiling. These rhombus ceiling tiles from The Fundamental Group are made to be painted, then arranged however you see fit. More

DIY Outdoor Awning 101 Woonideeen

For right around $200 you too can create this super stylish and functional awning for your backyard or patio. I predict many outdoor meals in your future, if not a couple of chickens roaming around the yard.

Get the Look: Ellen & Portia's Art Barn

When I saw the photos of Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi's Santa Monica ranch last week, I instantly wanted to move in. I'm in a no-color phase right now and the neutral hues, especially in the Art Barn here, made me feel right at home. Like the look? Here are similar finds you can pick up even if you don't have the celebrity budget.

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Nothing adds character to a space like art. But if you're on a tight budget, your options might be a little limited. You could make like a college student and thumbtack a poster of The Starry Night to your wall — or you could make like a savvy DIYer and take some blah thrift store art to the next level.

Winning with a Low-Ball Bid:
How I Accidentally Bought a Giant Mantel

Last Saturday morning started like any other. I woke first while my husband snoozed away in bed, set up camp in my favorite wing back chair with a cup of coffee and my laptop and then started browsing around the internet. A couple of hours later, I had bought a big old mantel and I had to figure out how to get it home. You know, just a normal ol' Saturday.

Outdoor Inspiration: Relaxed, Stylish Patio

Patios are so ugly first thing in spring. Wet winter leaves are still caked in the corners, and everything is totally devoid of color until the plants turn green. So it feels really good to finally get your deck or patio to where it's usable and enjoyable.

What's black and white and fun all over? Your next home office re-design! The classic combo is sophisticated, luxurious, and professional, yet still can offer a welcoming personality. Plus, this contrasting clean slate lets your work and your gear—like a larger-than-life iMac screen—take center stage.