The Latest: Apr 2011

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Save Money By Running Appliances/Recharge At Night

Utility companies generally charge higher rates during peak hours, during the day when the load is highest with everyone awake and using their stuff. During off-peak hours at night the rates are quite a bit lower. Here are some tips to take advantages of the lower evening rates to save money on your utility bills!

Faith Durand

Apr 29, 2011

Back To The Old House With The Smiths

Name: Jason, Meridith, and their two kids, Wylder and ArloLocation: Clinton, OklahomaSize: 3,000 square feetYears lived in: 1.5 When you think about the state of Oklahoma, hip loft living isn’t usually what comes to mind first. Well, this family isn’t exactly cookie-cutter and they’ve done some serious renovations to make their home top notch. Even though we’re in the middle of showcasing our smallest spaces, this one is anything but.

Sarah Rae Smith

Apr 28, 2011

Before &amp After: Kids’ Art Wall

This small wall isn’t an eyesore, but it’s just kind of “there”. It’s between the bedrooms of Kimba’s sons and she decided to make it not just a place to display their art, but a space for creating art too. Check it out:It’s nothing terribly tricky or time-consuming, but what an impact!Kimba painted thrifted and craft store frames to provide visual cohesion and filled them with her boys’ artwork.

Carrie McBride

Apr 28, 2011

Anna and AJ’s Modern T-Loft

Name: Anna Bautista & AJ CalomayLocation: West LA/T-Lofts &mdash Los Angeles,CASize: 1,000 square feetYears lived in: 1 year — Own Anna and AJ have are the first residents in this brand new loft apartment. They have taken on the task of giving it a full makeover with new decor and furnishings, and the brains behind the operation is the interior design duo of Natalie Younger and Sayre Ziskin.

Bethany Nauert

Apr 27, 2011

Before & After: Dressing Up a Naked Mirror

This poor mirror. Naked as the day it rolled off the assembly line, with its exposed edges, cracked with age, right out there in plain daylight for all the world to see! Something must be done about this!Faced with naked, builder-grade mirrors in her bathroom, Amanda over at The Ivy Cottage Blog, did what any adventurous DIYer would do — she made frames for them!

Jason Loper

Apr 27, 2011

Attractive Bins Or Baskets For A BILLY Bookcase?

Q: Has anyone found any great alternate storage bins/baskets that work in Billy bookcases? I don’t love any of IKEA’s options, and it is proving a difficult thing to find the right dimensions. Does anyone have something that they’ve found that fits and looks fabulous?Sent by NatalieEditor: Leave your suggestions for Natalie in the comments – thanks!• Got a question?

Kristen Lubbe

Apr 27, 2011

Danielle &amp Derek’s Somerville Sanctuary

Name: Danielle, Derek, and sonLocation: Somerville, MassachusettsSize: 1,000 square feetYears lived in: 10 (Derek), 8 (Danielle) — own It’s such a refreshing pleasure to visit a home where people are living large in a smaller place, figuring out creative ways to maximize their space.

Kyle Freeman

Apr 26, 2011

Gardening 101: Six Spring Vegetables to Plant Now

Cool season vegetables like radishes and greens are completely underrated in my book. They grow well from seed, mature quickly, you can often harvest them at different stages and eat multiple parts of the plant. I gathered together a few of my very favorite spring vegetable varieties here, but I’m curious to know what you

Faith Durand

Apr 26, 2011

Jo-Anne & Howard’s London Home & Bonsai Garden

Name: Jo-Anne Bichard & Howard PotterLocation: Deptford — SE LondonSize: 800 square feetYears lived in: 9 — rented/owned: a bit of both — UK program of shared ownership This design anthropologist (Jo-Anne) and oncology nurse (Howard) have long lived in southeast London — from several years renting in New Cross to taking great advantage of shared ownership with this new build terrace house/millennium design in Deptford.

Heather Blaha

Apr 25, 2011

Before & After: Turning Mismatched Pots into a Window Garden

When I bought these mismatched flower pots at the end of the season last year, they were so hugely discounted that I purchased them without a plan for their use. After a long winter to ponder it, I finally pulled the pots out of storage, gave them a little makeover, and put them to use.It’s not that these pots were ugly to begin with, they just didn’t match anything in my house. Spray paint to the rescue!

Jason Loper

Apr 25, 2011

Rearranging a Small Dining Room for the Biggest Impact

When I moved into my brother, Matt’s newly purchased bungalow, I brought with me an heirloom farmhouse-style dining room table which just barely squeezed into the 9’x9′ dining space. Since the space exists in the corner of an open kitchen and living area, it was doable, but the traffic space was limited and storage non existent.

Amanda Johnson

Apr 25, 2011

Save Money By Running Appliances/Recharge At Night

Jason Yang

Apr 25, 2011

5 Inexpensive Table Covers For Your Next Party

Although parties in general don’t appear to cost a great deal on the surface, you can quickly $5 yourself to death. Try saving a few pennies with these options for table covers that you very well might already have in your own home!1. Sheets/Blankets: Sheets and blankets are the easiest place to start looking for inexpensive table coverings. Most homes have a set for every bed in the house and swiping something colorful, or even just white is an easy fix that doesn’t cost a cent.2.

Sarah Rae Smith

Apr 25, 2011

How to Shop for an Outdoor Grill

We’re a month away from Memorial Day, the official start of BBQ season, and some of us might be thinking about buying a new grill. Beyond the well-worn charcoal versus gas debate, there are other considerations to take into account when shopping for an outdoor cooker — here’s a brief guide to help you find the best grill for you.

Sarah Coffey

Apr 25, 2011

Alex & Debra’s Modernized 1850’s Greek Revival

Name: Alex & Debra Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts Size: 1,406 square feet Years lived in: 4½ Living on the East Coast offers residents a choice in housing stock of homes built before the 1900s. Finding fluted columns on the exterior of a Greek revival home is commonplace, but finding the columns on the inside of the house was a surprise for Alex and Debra.

Marcia Prentice

Apr 22, 2011

Layered Rugs

The other day we looked at a bunch of rooms that went unexpectedly without rugs or carpets, embracing a relaxed bare-floor look. Today let’s go in the opposite direction: what does it look like when one rug just isn’t enough. The most common look for layering rugs seems to be an animal hide (faux or no) over a sisal — this is probably the most neutral option. Other examples mix patterns and colors, sometimes creating a bohemian wonderland of textiles.

Anna Hoffman

Apr 22, 2011

Nina’s Lovely North London Flat

Name: NinaLocation: Islington — North London, United KingdomSize: 485 square feet (45 square meters)Years lived in: 1 — owned Nina’s one-bedroom Victorian flat and new sense of ownership are a long way (albeit nearby) from living in a tiny shared Brick Lane flat above a curry house back in 2002. While both places certainly had/have their own charms, the biggest shift is from little light and lots of noise to light-filled and sweet serenity.

Heather Blaha

Apr 21, 2011

Rex’s Superhero Room

Name: RexAge: 3 yearsLocation: Sandy, UtahRoom size: approximately 12′ x 12′If you are familiar with Cheri Heaton’s blog, I am Momma, Hear Me Roar, you will not be at all surprised that the cool superhero room she created for her son Rex was pretty much entirely DIY. While Cheri does get some help—her mother painted the wall hanging and her dad built the bed—we still can’t help but stand in awe of the adorable and fun room she’s created.

Beth Callaghan

Apr 21, 2011

Polish Your Silver Using Banana Peels

I’ve read before that bananas can polish silver, but I’d never actually tried it. That is, until this weekend, when my parents were cleaning out their basement and my mom stumbled across a creamer she thought I might like… • Read the full post at Apartment Therapy

Faith Durand

Apr 21, 2011

Before and After: A Budget Kitchen Makeover

When Theresa and her family first bought their home it had been unused for a long time. But with the sweat off their brows, some thoughtful budget spends, and some clever DIYs they are turning their unused house into a gorgeous home. Here’s a peek at how they handled the kitchen. • Read the full

Faith Durand

Apr 20, 2011

Squid Dresser

You’ve probably seen a lot of before and afters by now where you can sort of predict what the after might look like. A coat of paint or some new knobs might be what you’re expecting for this dresser.It’s a squid! You weren’t expecting that, were you? Well, maybe the title gave it away a little.

Katie Steuernagle

Apr 20, 2011

Before & After: Beth Beattie’s Tiny Office Goes Glam

If there’s one thing Small Cool month reminds us, it’s that even a small space can pack a dramatic punch. Beth Beattie, who owns a PR, branding, and event planning business, tackled her tiny office transformation on a tight budget without sacrificing high style.After!Beth’s aim was to create a space that was comfortable and feminine with just the right amount of glam.

Sarah Rainwater

Apr 19, 2011

10 Kitchen Staples for Quicker Weeknight Dinners

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy) A quick dinner is often very dependent on how you stock your pantry. What do you stash away in your pantry for quick, easy meals? Here’s a peek inside my own pantry and freezer with ten good staples for quick weeknight meals. Read the full post at: The Kitchn

Carrie McBride

Apr 19, 2011

Lorena & Ryan’s Retro Inspired Condo

Name: Ryan, Lorena and Rex (the puppy)Location: Costa Mesa, CaliforniaSize: 1,034 square feetYears lived in: 1— rent Lorena and Ryan O’Malley live in an awesome retro complex that is a spitting image of Palm Springs in the 1950’s. The courtyard is designed around a pool and just outside their doorway they’ve built a succulent garden. The decor is minimally Mid Century and accented with rich earth tones.

Bethany Nauert

Apr 18, 2011

Five Tips for Successful Thrift Store Shopping

When people step foot into my funky home, one of the first things they ask is, “Where do you find all of this stuff?” After I tell them that most of what we own has been found at thrift stores, they then beg me to take them with me next time I go. But I assure the visitors in my home — just as I assure you now — that successful thrifting doesn’t involve any black magic or top secret tricks. Just a few practices that when used consistently, pay off over time.

Amanda Johnson

Apr 18, 2011

Nana’s Warm and Modern Family Home

Name: Nana Kim, her husband, their 2-year-old daughter and 2 catsLocation: Bouldin Neighborhood — Austin, TexasSize: 2,300 square feetYears lived in: 4 The home designed by Nana Kim, of 9 square studio, is a dream for anyone who loves modern design and nature.

Adrienne Breaux

Apr 15, 2011

Before & After: Rachel’s Rescued Chair

When my friend Rachel was given this chair — a secondhand hand-me-down from her sister — she was able to look past the ratty old upholstery and worn frame and see its true potential. With a little paint and new upholstery, the chair looks brand new.Says Rachel of the chair makeover: “I got this chair as a secondhand hand-me-down. My sister gave it to me after she had been given it from her older, quirky neighbor who she calls “Mr.

Jason Loper

Apr 15, 2011

Before &amp After: A Stylish Babyproof Fireplace

Of course safety comes first, but if you can combine safety with style, all the better. Lindsay wrote us to share a terrific solution her friend, Kate, Stone, came up with to keep her toddler out of the fireplace while adding to the decor instead of subtracting from it.A magnetic chalkboard – nice!! It’s not only leaps and bounds more attractive, but its become a functional playspace. See Kate’s toddler in action using it on Lindsay’s blog, Pink Green & Zebra.

Carrie McBride

Apr 15, 2011

Plastic Hamper Makeover: From Cheap to Chic

We know there are plenty of good-looking hampers available for sale, but some of them have not so good-looking price tags. And, come on, it’s going to have my son’s dirty socks in it. Couldn’t I just figure out a way to jazz up his old plastic hamper?Sure! I love a challenge, and this is what I came up with. Silver spray paint (with a coat of plastic primer first) and a simple orange drawstring bag.

Katie Steuernagle

Apr 15, 2011

John & Sophie’s Modern Desert Home

Name: John Schoenfeld & Sophie Schoenfeld Location: Joshua Tree, CaliforniaSize: 1,450 square feetYears lived in: 7 Desert living is quite different than living in the city. Many Angelenos make the trip to Joshua Tree to relax and bask in the hot and dry climate. John and Sophie wanted to create the best of both worlds when designing their home. They wanted the local desert environment reflected in their decor, but with modern elements incorporated.

Marcia Prentice

Apr 14, 2011

Dishwasher Safe Wood Plates From Moneral

The idea of wooden plates isn’t a new one, nor is using raw wood slices as serving trays or display pieces. But these pieces kick it up a notch. These bad boys can be used in everyday life, and they can even go in the dishwasher! • Read the full post at Re-Nest

Faith Durand

Apr 14, 2011

Dante’s Charming Spanish Flat

Name: Dante McCarthy, her husband Johannes Brugger, and their son AmedeoLocation: West Hollywood — Los Angeles, CaliforniaSize: 1,900 square feet — 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms Years lived in: 1½ — rent Dante McCarthy, owner of Cloud Noir furniture and artist gallery, shares a lovely 3 bedroom flat with her husband and son. Their home is the top floor of a Spanish building with colorful tiling, hardwood floors and old stained glass windows.

Bethany Nauert

Apr 13, 2011

Before & After: Busting Out a New Closet

Getting the most out of a small bedroom closet can be a challenge in spatial recognition akin to playing a game of Tetris. So what if you discovered that you could expand your small closet to create a big, walk-in with enough room for even the most avid shoe buyer’s collection?I am stuck with one small closet that I share with my husband so when I saw this post detailing the expansion of a closet over at Life in the Fun Lane I was insanely jealous!

Jason Loper

Apr 13, 2011

The Midyette Family’s Tribeca Loft

Name: Midyette FamilyLocation: Tribeca — Manhattan, New YorkSize: 1,300 square feetYears lived in: 10 — owned The Midyettes are an amazing family. They somehow balance the busy schedule of 3 young girls, 2 very demanding jobs, and the everyday demands of Manhattan living. They do it all with the ease and grace that one would expect from a southern belle and a gentleman.

Gregory Sparks

Apr 11, 2011

Before & After: A Modernized Luggage Rack

When I saw this lonely little luggage rack pushed to the back of a Salvation Army store, I felt sorry for it. Unloved and discarded by its former owner, I could see past its current beat up and water stained condition and to the gorgeous little thing it could become. Under my tender loving hands, this luggage rack has been granted a new lease on life.The quickest way to modernize this luggage rack was to spray paint it.

Jason Loper

Apr 11, 2011

Before &amp After: Clara’s Two-Toned Desk

Ginger wanted to hand down her own childhood desk to her daughter Clara, but due to water damage and “the remnants of various stickers I put on there long ago (oops)” she needed to give it a refresh first. See how it looks now:Great job Ginger! We see desks like this all the time at flea markets and usually dismiss them as too dowdy, but bright paint totally modernizes the look.

Carrie McBride

Apr 11, 2011

Top Ten Barstools: High & Low

A good barstool is hard to find — often made for commercial use, barstools can lack the smaller scale and warm materials of home furniture. Here are 10 that range from inexpensive industrial metal models to painted wood to upholstered seating, at price points between $100 and $1,000.

Sarah Coffey

Apr 11, 2011

Wine Storage From Antique Railroad Supplies

For the last 4 years I’ve lived within a stone’s throw of 6 major railroad tracks. Some might call it loud, I call it homey. And the result is that there’s an amazing amount of debris and old parts lying around for the taking. (Don’t worry, we asked). Even though I’ve conjured up all sorts

Faith Durand

Apr 11, 2011

Penny & Mark’s Charming Family Home

Name: Penny, Mark, Minnie & Charlie Leaver Green & cat FynnLocation: Kingsdown — Bristol, UKSize: 1500 square feetYears lived in: 3 — owned Textile artist Penny Leaver Green knows how to make the most of her historic 1850 home. She’s graciously kept the many of the home’s distinguished elements while adding a touch of sophistication. This looks like a fantastic home for Penny and her husband to raise their two children.

Meg Lewis

Apr 8, 2011

Before & After: Fresh Starts at the 2011 DC Design House

How do you revive a dark and dated room without completely eliminating its original character? I gleaned quite a few ideas from the 2011 DC Design House where some of my favorite DC designers brought fresh sophistication to their spaces by simplifying and lightening — perfect inspiration for spring!• 1-3: The Pool Room: Erin Paige Pitts Erin was charged with the task of making the rather gloomy pool room into a functional and inspiring retreat.

Leah Moss

Apr 8, 2011

Before &amp After: Gina’s 1-Hour Doll Stroller Refresh

You may be looking at this thinking, “I have that exact same stroller at home.” While yours is also likely pink (the non-pink doll stroller is akin to the Holy Grail), you’re probably referring to the state of disrepair this one is in. From how quickly they fall apart, you’d think these kids were pushing around bowling balls not little baby dolls.

Carrie McBride

Apr 8, 2011

Angela’s Posh Pad

Name: Angela BosworthLocation: Short North — Columbus, OhioSize: 1,000 square feetYears lived in: 4 — owned In less deft hands, Angela Bosworth’s home in a newly built condominium in Columbus’ Short North neighborhood could have been a cold and impersonal space. After all, the building, constructed in 2007, doesn’t have some of the architectural details that older buildings boast.

Jennifer Wray

Apr 7, 2011

Cory and Nick’s Compact Hilltop Home

Name: Cory Buckner & Nick RobertsLocation: Malibu, CaliforniaSize: 700 square feetYears lived in: 2 Years Cory and Nick’s place is about an hour outside of the city. After driving miles and miles up the winding streets to the summit, we finally reached their home. The expansive view, which includes the ocean on clear days, was well worth the drive. I counted just five other homes in sight and the only noise was that of birds.

Marcia Prentice

Apr 7, 2011

Holden’s Fresh & Frugal Hideout

Name: HoldenAge: 8 monthsLocation: Marin County, CaliforniaRoom Size: 150 sq. feet Holden’s home in California is full of love and adoring parents who are willing to scour the ends of the earth for a bargain to pull together a great look. This room is full of thrifted and even a few free finds that make it feel light, bright and playful — oh yeah and there’s a super cool cow on the wall!

Sarah Rae Smith

Apr 7, 2011

Eat Cake For Breakfast! 15 Cakes for Morning Enjoyment

(Image credit: Apartment Therapy) Everyone around me seems to be revving up their fitness routine to get ready for spring. Friends order salads when we eat out, and family members are working out twice in one day. Me? I’m eating cake for breakfast. Read the full post at: The Kitchn

Carrie McBride

Apr 7, 2011

10 Must-See Small Cool Entries: Week One

We’re only in the first week of Small Cool 2011 and things are already hot, hot, hot! These mover and shaker entries have caught the eyes of our readers thanks to their savvy solutions and smart style. How many of these have you clicked the “favorite” button on already? Click through for the hot list,

Faith Durand

Apr 7, 2011

Daniel Bellow Porcelain

Pick-up a few dinnerware or serving pieces from this oh so talented potter before his work appears in retail favorite Anthropologie. Bellow’s ware is non-toxic, dishwasher and microwave-safe. I’ve seen his work in person, and it’s lovely, organic and whimsical while being sturdy and durable. • Read the full post at Re-Nest

Faith Durand

Apr 7, 2011

Before & After: Kids’ Artwork Display Wall

Heidi is a hoarder. She doesn’t have dusty stacks of newspapers lying around or dozens of cats, she hoards her son’s artwork. And who can blame her! Determined to display his cute scribblings and paintings, she strung a small line of rope and hung his artwork with clothespins. Finding this inadequate, she took a tip from another blogger and went big. Really big. Find out what humble material has solved her problem:Yep, chicken wire!

Carrie McBride

Apr 6, 2011