How to Tell if a Contractor is a Good Fit for You

If you are considering a major home improvement this year, more than likely you’ll be hiring a general contractor to manage the project. As a designer, I get asked for referrals to local contractors all the time. Finding a *good* one is not always easy, and...

How to Prioritize Your Home Improvement To-Do List

What is it about fall that has me looking around the house thinking, hmmm…what can I change or improve next? Something about the crisp air just puts me in project mode. This year I’m eyeing the front door, considering a fresh new paint color. I think there...

In Praise of Pocket Doors and Barn-style Sliders

When you live in a small home like I do, you quickly come to appreciate space-saving measures that help maximize every square inch. One of my favorite tricks for tight corridors and small rooms is to use pocket or sliding style doors, as opposed to standard hinged...

New Surfaces: Trends in Stone and Tile

I’ve had the good fortune to work on two great kitchen renovations this spring, which has given me the chance to get familiar with the latest and greatest in the world of stone and tile.  If you’re considering updating your own home, whether to make it...