Help potential buyers visualize living in your home http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130222/BLOGS/302229985/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:10:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130222/BLOGS/302229985/-1/blogs01 Tips on home staging, return investments on adding outdoor living space, and gardenias.

]]> Add pops of color to spice up a room http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130220/BLOGS/302209978/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:10:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130220/BLOGS/302209978/-1/blogs01 How to quickly accent neutral- or solid-colored furniture.

]]> Hot home trends and easy upgrades http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130218/BLOGS/302189960/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 18 Feb 2013 17:11:16 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130218/BLOGS/302189960/-1/blogs01 The top home decor trends for 2013 are already emerging, and homeowners seeking a fresh look will find a lot to love. Not only can these looks be accomplished in minimal time -- they're budget friendly and easy enough for DIYers to finish in a weekend or less.

]]> How to not kill your orchid http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130215/BLOGS/302159980/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 15 Feb 2013 14:10:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130215/BLOGS/302159980/-1/blogs01 It’s just not fair: Orchids have this bum rap for being some of the most finicky plants to grow. Yet the truth is orchids are some of the easiest plants to grow if given the proper exposure, potting mix and right amount of water. Just ask Becky Brinkman, longtime manager of the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Fuqua Orchid Center. Becky has come up with her "Eight Ways to Kill Your Orchid."

]]> Decorating Tip: Accent wall http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130213/BLOGS/302139977/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 13 Feb 2013 12:10:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130213/BLOGS/302139977/-1/blogs01 If you're interested in a quick project, consider painting one wall of a room as an accent wall.

]]> Three gardening chores to prepare for spring http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130208/BLOGS/302089986/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 8 Feb 2013 11:17:16 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130208/BLOGS/302089986/-1/blogs01 Prepare for spring by diving into late-winter chores in the garden.

]]> Decorating Tip: Granite look for less http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130206/BLOGS/302069984/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 6 Feb 2013 11:17:13 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130206/BLOGS/302069984/-1/blogs01 Can't afford granite countertops? Fake it with Granite Paint.

]]> Simplify your laundry routine http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130204/BLOGS/302049928/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 4 Feb 2013 3:13:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130204/BLOGS/302049928/-1/blogs01 If it seems that you can never quite diminish the size of your laundry pile, you're not alone. Laundry is a part of everyday life, and the more people in your household, the bigger the pile and the more often you need to wash. Designate one place in your home to be the laundry zone and sort through these time-saving tips to make your laundry routine faster and easier, leaving you with more time to do the things you love. [...]]]> Easy way to save $100 a year http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130201/BLOGS/302019914/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 1 Feb 2013 0:10:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130201/BLOGS/302019914/-1/blogs01 Learn about saving energy, how to pick a real estate agent, and arborvitae.

]]> Decorating tip: Try moulding http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130130/BLOGS/301309913/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:26:19 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130130/BLOGS/301309913/-1/blogs01 Susan Muschweck, a Pittsburgh-based interior designer, says painting walls and upgrading floors is a great way to dress up a listless space, but for many clients, she often suggests another cost-effective option.

]]> Small energy improvements that save big money http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130128/BLOGS/301289899/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 28 Jan 2013 17:26:19 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130128/BLOGS/301289899/-1/blogs01 The beginning of the year is a great time to make positive changes in your home.

]]> Forgot to plant your bulbs? It's not too late! http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130125/BLOGS/301259904/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 25 Jan 2013 17:26:18 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130125/BLOGS/301259904/-1/blogs01 If you miss planting your bulbs at the optimal time, don't wait for spring or next fall.

]]> Decorating tip: Be unexpected http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130123/BLOGS/301239917/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 23 Jan 2013 22:06:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130123/BLOGS/301239917/-1/blogs01 Just because a product is made for a specific purpose, doesn't mean you can't reimagine how it could be used.

]]> Simple fix-ups you can complete in a weekend http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130121/BLOGS/301219958/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 21 Jan 2013 20:16:44 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130121/BLOGS/301219958/-1/blogs01 No matter how pressed you are for time, you can spruce up your house by focusing on simple projects that can be completed quickly ... in a day or a weekend. Don't delay - check these easy and affordable projects off your to-do list today and soon your home will be perfectly prepared and instantly updated.

]]> Grow edible flowers http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130118/BLOGS/301189994/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 18 Jan 2013 17:07:00 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130118/BLOGS/301189994/-1/blogs01 How to grow the edible flower nasturtium and other tips.

]]> Decorating tip: Mix materials http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130116/BLOGS/301169977/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:12:38 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130116/BLOGS/301169977/-1/blogs01 A great way to make a big impact on a small budget is to mix materials.

]]> Setting your home office up for success http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130114/BLOGS/301149948/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 14 Jan 2013 17:16:33 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20130114/BLOGS/301149948/-1/blogs01 Unless you carefully construct your home office environment, you may find that working from home is less productive than you anticipated. Staples, the world's largest office products company and a trusted source for office solutions, offers the following tips for setting up your home office to help maximize your productivity.

]]> Home Help: Proper maintenance keeps homes warm http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121217/BLOGS/312179944/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 17 Dec 2012 17:25:53 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121217/BLOGS/312179944/-1/blogs01 GateHouse News Service's weekly Home Help, with tips on heating and plumbing system maintenance, open house parties and repostionable wallpaper.

]]> Garden Guide: Enjoy holiday plants all year http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121212/BLOGS/312129988/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:30:43 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121212/BLOGS/312129988/-1/blogs01
Poinsettias, Christmas cactus and holly bring color and life to holiday celebrations, and they can all be kept alive from year to year. Here's a look at what it takes:



 
]]> A guest-friendly home is easier than you think http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121210/BLOGS/312109990/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:31:07 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121210/BLOGS/312109990/-1/blogs01  



One of the many exciting and sometimes stressful parts of the holiday season is entertaining at home with friends and family. To prepare for their arrival you may be tempted to just clean the kitchen counters, toss a few extra towels in the guest bathroom and ignore the rest of the house. Instead, your visitors will enjoy the party more if they have full access to an open, organized and welcoming home. [...]]]> Home Help: Home care for the holidays http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121203/BLOGS/312039965/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 3 Dec 2012 16:37:04 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121203/BLOGS/312039965/-1/blogs01 GHNS' weekly Home Help, with tips for home care and cleanliness throughout the holidays, how-to make a homemade spray-cleaner, and an innovative new product.

]]> Home Help: Lawn mower care — it's time to winterize http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121126/BLOGS/311269987/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 27 Nov 2012 8:44:17 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121126/BLOGS/311269987/-1/blogs01 GHNS' weekly Home Help, with tips on winterizing your lawn mower, sealing your heating and cooling ducts, and year-round backyard safety.

]]> Home Help: Beautiful basements made easy http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121119/BLOGS/311199983/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 20 Nov 2012 7:51:01 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121119/BLOGS/311199983/-1/blogs01 Weekly Home Help, with basement renovation ideas, steps to rodent-proof your house, and food to attract winter songbirds to your backyard. Or check out these other items. 

]]> Home Help: Four fast fixes for a fabulous shower http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121112/BLOGS/311129984/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:37:14 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121112/BLOGS/311129984/-1/blogs01  


Weekly home rail, with tips on fixing your shower, a holiday lighting design tip, and more.



 
]]> Home Help: Four fast fixes for a fabulous shower http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121112/NEWS/121119995/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 12 Nov 2012 7:00:00 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121112/NEWS/121119995/-1/blogs01 For many people, the shower is an escape from reality - perhaps the only “me time” in an otherwise hectic day. But if your current shower isn’t living up to your relaxing expectations, it may be time for a facelift. Don’t think you have the time or money? Don’t throw in the towel just yet - an improved shower is within your reach. Simply follow these four quick and easy fixes that will make an amazing improvement to the everyday enjoyment of your shower.
- Shower curtains [...]]]> Home Help: Four steps to a more beautiful bathroom http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121105/BLOGS/311059987/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:37:20 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121105/BLOGS/311059987/-1/blogs01 Weekly home rail, with tips on upgrading your bathroom, how to create a focal point in your design, and more.



 
]]> Home Help: Four steps to a more beautiful bathroom http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121105/BLOGS/311059988/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:37:16 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121105/BLOGS/311059988/-1/blogs01  


Weekly home rail, with tips on upgrading your bathroom, how to create a focal point in your design, and more.



 
]]> Decorating Tip: Candles http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121031/BLOGS/310319992/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:37:14 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121031/BLOGS/310319992/-1/blogs01 Try a new take on a traditional favorite. Candles are an easy way to add instant ambiance to any room. Flameless candles are a long-lasting alternative that gives the same beautiful look and feel of traditional candles. - Brandpoint

]]> Upgrading your kitchen from 'blah' to 'bling' for less http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121029/BLOGS/310299982/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Tue, 30 Oct 2012 8:46:07 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121029/BLOGS/310299982/-1/blogs01  



To design a kitchen that meets the multiple needs of today's modern family, including standing up to its daily wear and tear without breaking the bank, homeowners can transform their kitchens with a few tips and tricks from interior design experts and companies that have created more durable and affordable yet equally beautiful products.



 
]]> Home Help: Upgrading your kitchen from ‘blah’ to ‘bling’ for less http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121029/NEWS/121029271/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Mon, 29 Oct 2012 8:00:00 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121029/NEWS/121029271/-1/blogs01 To design a kitchen that meets the multiple needs of today’s modern family, including standing up to its daily wear and tear without breaking the bank, homeowners can transform their kitchens with a few tips and tricks from interior design experts and companies that have created more durable and affordable yet equally beautiful products.
- Begin redesigning your kitchen to address multi-functional needs with some smart planning, and consider remodeling in phases rather [...]]]> 101 Ideas: Kitchen lighting that sizzles http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121026/BLOGS/310269981/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 26 Oct 2012 11:30:43 +0000 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121026/BLOGS/310269981/-1/blogs01 Six tips to improve task lighting in the kitchen:

]]> Decorating tip of the week http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121024/BLOGS/310249976/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 26 Oct 2012 11:30:44 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121024/BLOGS/310249976/-1/blogs01
When you think creatively, it's easy to give old belongings new life. Paint wooden frames or potted plant holders with new, bold colors to quickly add a hint of color to any area. Reupholster pillows with patterned fabric to liven up any room. Many craft stores sell scrap fabric for a fraction of the price. Or spend even less when you repurpose gently used clothes by turning them into custom pillowcases. [...]]]> Tips for completing a DIY home project on time and on budget http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121022/BLOGS/310229985/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 26 Oct 2012 11:30:44 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121022/BLOGS/310229985/-1/blogs01  



The down economy has inspired many Americans to skip the pros and complete home improvement projects themselves - and this trend isn't just for low- or middle-income families. Wealthy families are making an effort as well, with 70 percent of mass affluent Americans ($50,000 to $250,000 in total household investable assets) saying they took on home improvement projects in the last year, according to a 2012 Bank [...]]]> Simple cleaning http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121015/BLOGS/310159993/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:28 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121015/BLOGS/310159993/-1/blogs01 Take care of the bathroom tub by scrubbing with baking soda on a clean, damp sponge. Rinse, then wipe dry. You can clean and deodorize your vinyl shower curtain by giving it the same baking soda treatment.

]]> Decorating Tip: New, fresh looks http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121001/BLOGS/310019991/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:28 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121001/BLOGS/310019991/-1/blogs01 Spruce up kitchen cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or stain, or simply remove the doors for a truly European-style kitchen. To fix up an old ceiling fan, have new blades installed, or just clean out and repaint the old ones.

]]> Halloween decor http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121001/BLOGS/310019992/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:28 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20121001/BLOGS/310019992/-1/blogs01 Gary LaVasser, academic director in Set & Exhibit Design at The Art Institute of California – Hollywood, offers these tips for sophisticated Halloween decor:

]]> Decorating Tip: Use your pet for inspiration http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120926/BLOGS/309269998/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:31 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120926/BLOGS/309269998/-1/blogs01 Your pet can be a source of inspiration when choosing colors for your room. Paint a concrete floor the same shade of gray as your cat. Cover your sofa in a honey microfiber that matches your golden retriever.

]]> Weatherizing windows, skylights http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120924/BLOGS/309249996/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:30 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120924/BLOGS/309249996/-1/blogs01 When the days get shorter and cooler, the amount of sun that enters your home is important. Inadequate sunlight can influence seasonal mood changes, vitamin D deficiency and even your utility bills.

]]> Cleaning Tip: Car upholstery http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120921/BLOGS/309219996/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:29 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120921/BLOGS/309219996/-1/blogs01 For upholstery, use a mild solution (a couple of drops per gallon) of dishwashing detergent and water to clean seats. Dip a clean towel into the solution and rub gently. For leather upholstery, a leather cleaner is recommended.

]]> Clean your gutters http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120917/BLOGS/309179996/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:29 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120917/BLOGS/309179996/-1/blogs01 If more homeowners knew the proper way to clean out their roof gutters, there would be less deaths and injuries.

]]> Decorating Tip: Keeping pets in mind http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120906/BLOGS/309069997/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:27 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120906/BLOGS/309069997/-1/blogs01 Keeping your dog or cat clean will help your house stay cleaner for longer. Think of it this way: It's easier to clean your dog than your upholstery, and it's usually more fun.

]]> Small changes, big impact http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120903/BLOGS/309039998/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:30 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120903/BLOGS/309039998/-1/blogs01 Want to give your home a fresh look, but don't have the time or energy for a complete makeover? Ditch the daunting DIY projects. Think small projects to make a big impact, says Jamie Wood, design expert and VeccoStudio.com blogger.

]]> Garden Guide: Help trees avoid disease http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120829/BLOGS/308299998/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:27 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120829/BLOGS/308299998/-1/blogs01 Several practices can help reduce the amount of damage caused by diseases from drought. When the foliage is dry, remove dead branches and dead stem tips. Because the fungus survives on cones, rake and remove fallen cones throughout the season.

]]> How to stain wood http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120827/BLOGS/308279995/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:27 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120827/BLOGS/308279995/-1/blogs01 If you want to stain wood surfaces like a professional, first prep the surface. This is the most important part of finishing a wood project. Improper or insufficient surface preparation leads to 85 percent of all coating failures, according to the Paint Decorating Contractors of America.

]]> Decorating Tip: Find a color palette http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120821/BLOGS/308219982/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:30 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120821/BLOGS/308219982/-1/blogs01 Dinnerware is a one-stop shop for pretty palettes. Plates come in all styles and colors, from casual to formal, so you can pick out a color story for every room in the house. And you needn't buy a service for eight. Often you can get a single salad plate or teacup to use as your mood board.

]]> Rid odors http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120820/BLOGS/308209994/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:29 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120820/BLOGS/308209994/-1/blogs01 Kitchen refrigerator: Clean the drawers and shelves with a homemade cleaning solution of a few drops natural dish soap mixed with a bowl of baking soda, and stir until it creates a thick paste. Also, store an open box of baking soda inside the fridge to help eliminate odors before they start. Replace it with a fresh box at least every three months.

]]> Cleaning Tip: Remove hard-water scale http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120731/BLOGS/307319983/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:26 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120731/BLOGS/307319983/-1/blogs01 To remove hard-water scale or mildew on shower and faucet heads, soak them in vinegar. If the head isn't removable, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and position it over the faucet, taping the bag shut to let it soak.

]]> Faster laundry http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120730/BLOGS/307309976/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:25 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120730/BLOGS/307309976/-1/blogs01 1. If you spill on a garment, immediately rinse or blot away the stain using cool water to prevent it from setting. Make sure to read fabric care labels, and wash accordingly to help clothing last. And before you toss garments into the wash, be sure to double-check the pockets, as well as zip zippers and fasten buttons –– this helps cut down on snags, holes, etc.

]]> Using organic mulch http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120725/BLOGS/307259864/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:25 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120725/BLOGS/307259864/-1/blogs01 Mulch should be between 2 to 4 inches deep. Often, when applied, it appears deeper. But after settling, you should end up with a 2-inch matted layer.

]]> Prevent lawn diseases http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120723/BLOGS/307239927/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:25 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120723/BLOGS/307239927/-1/blogs01 Here are some tips to make your home and landscape less of a target for pest and insect infestation:

]]> Decorating Tip: A feng-shui entrance http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120718/BLOGS/307189887/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:24 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120718/BLOGS/307189887/-1/blogs01 For a feng-shui entrance to your home, follow these tips:


- Include uplifting "greeters," such as a waterfall or piece of artwork.


- Place inspiring objects leading up to the front door, like a meandering pathway and flowers.

]]> Boosting outdoor appeal http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120716/BLOGS/307169911/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:24 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120716/BLOGS/307169911/-1/blogs01 Adding decorative lanterns to walkways or porches is an easy and inexpensive way to add charm and light. You can often find these pieces at yard sales, thrift stores or dollar stores and then simply paint them in a matching hammered or metallic finish for a bright and stylish look.

]]> Shopping Tip: Buying a dresser http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120713/BLOGS/307139878/-1/blogs01?rssfeed=true Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:46:26 http://www.augustagazette.com/article/20120713/BLOGS/307139878/-1/blogs01 If you're in the market for a new dresser, expect to shop around a lot. Plan on visiting several stores to get an overall feel for what's out there and what fits your budget.

]]>