Entertaining
June 2013
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Buyers beware
Call the utility company to find out what you should expect to pay each month for heating and cooling. High bills could mean poor insulation.
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Optical illusions to make your room appear bigger
Savvy design strategies can visually add square footage to the smallest of spaces.
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8 ways to modernize your home … cheaply!
Add space to a cramped bathroom by replacing your standard swinging door with a modern sliding barn door.
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May 2013
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Flowering the fields
Beautiful, fragrant and naturally earth-friendly, wildflowers enjoy their moment in the sun during National Wildflower Week.
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Architectural salvage for your home
The reclamation and reuse of architectural materials is popular both for those looking to make a profit.
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Upgrade your outdoors
These five fast and easy upgrades are sure to make your property sparkle this spring.
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April 2013
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Every chef needs a gourmet outdoor kitchen
Meet the newest outdoor grill innovation: full-service spaces that meet every culinary and entertainment need.
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The fundamentals of xeriscaping
Show the planet some love this Earth Day with xeriscaping, a landscape practice developed as a way to conserve water and promote native plants.
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Simple spring spruce-ups
Despite rigorous spring-cleaning, do certain rooms in your home still look downright dreary? Here are a few easy, budget-friendly ideas to spruce up any lifeless space.
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March 2013
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Garden prep starts now
As trees bloom and bees buzz, think about how spring planting can add color and interest to your home and community.
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Professional design tricks for your home
We spoke with four interior designers who agreed to spill their secrets and give us one go-to trick that they love.
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Get your home puppy ready
Celebrate National Puppy Day March 23 by bringing home a furry face to add to your family!
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February 2013
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Creating a photography wall in your home
Creating a photo wall is a great way to add a personal touch to your home.
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DIY projects you need to tackle now
Use those precious 48 hours to tackle a quick, yet satisfying do-it-yourself project.
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Start your spring garden prep now
It may be too early to plant most things in February, but avid gardeners can still get a jump on spring.
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January 2013
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Properly plan your remodel
Doing it yourself may sound like a great way to save, but before you grab that drill make sure you’re truly up to the task.
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Don’t downgrade, downsize
Downsizing comes in all shapes and sizes and can be a positive way for anyone to cleanse from the past.
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Egg carton plants
Try out your green thumb with egg carton plants, just in time for Houseplant Appreciation Day.
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December 2012
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Holiday decorating tips from the pros
Add a little yuletide love to your home that goes far beyond simple stockings.
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Recycling broken ornaments
Broken ornaments can be reused in a number of ways to create easy and unique holiday décor.
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Holiday decorating that won’t break your budget
You may be surprised how far your holiday décor dollar can go.
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November 2012
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Deck the (front) hall
Create a festive first impression this year with an entryway that proclaims “Happy Holidays!”
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Give your houseguests a hotel experience
You can truly make this a memorable stay by doing a little bit extra for your guests.
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Create a great holiday centerpiece
Expecting a crowd at your Thanksgiving table and feeling unprepared? Start with the basics.
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October 2012
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Make the most of your balcony space
Now that fall has arrived, why not transform your balcony from a summer hangout to a cozy fall retreat?
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Fireplace preparation 101
Whether it’s a smoldering fire to tell ghost stories or a backdrop for your favorite stockings, fireplaces are a staple in holiday celebrations.
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Fiery fall color
Cooler temperatures don’t mean your garden has to go dormant.
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September 2012
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Turn that unused closet into prime real estate
Re-task your moldering hall closet, guestroom closet, or linen closet into a dedicated space tailored to your interests.
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Create your own laundry paradise
Use these tips to carve out your own slice of laundry heaven.
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Need a new look at home? Try wallpaper.
Although we’ve spent the past two decades ridding our homes of it, today wallpaper is back in style in a big way!
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August 2012
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Create a study hub for the kids
How do you create a dedicated study area when space is limited?
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Make your rental feel like home
Renting doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a sterile environment.
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Create an adorable & affordable abode
Katie Goldsworthy offers tips to make your abode affordably adorable.
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July 2012
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Keep clutter at bay this summer
A few simple strategies from 3 organizational gurus can help keep the inevitable clutter at bay this summer.
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Bring indigo into your home
More vital than straight black, sexier than gray and richer than plain navy, inky indigo makes it pop at home.
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Wreaths all year round
These delightful decorations can enliven your front door no matter the season.
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June 2012
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This Father’s Day, rev up the garage
These days, the garage often holds a coveted spot somewhere between a man cave and a showplace.
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Space limited? Try container gardening.
Flowers and herbs aren’t the limit. Many tasty vegetables thrive in containers.
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Keep outdoor guests cool with a mister
Misters do a great job cooling off tired patrons at amusement parks, restaurants, and other outdoor events.
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May 2012
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3 creative ways to squeeze in a home office
Combining “home” with “office” can get tricky in small spaces, but even in the tiniest abodes, it’s not impossible.
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Hanging beds give hanging out a new meaning
These days, it’s about getting your shuteye while hanging from the ceiling.
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Lighten your gardening load with adaptive plants
Maybe it’s time to consider replacing those thirsty plants with native or adaptive plants.
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April 2012
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Love your laundry room
Who knows, this just might become your favorite room in the house!
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Budget-friendly wall decor
You don’t have to be an interior designer (or able to afford one) to give wall space a personal touch.
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How clean is your house?
We think, as adults, we have cleaning down. But do we? What about these often overlooked areas?
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March 2012
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Make that kitchen (seem) bigger
Even on a ramen-noodle budget, the tightest quarters can feel bigger and brighter.
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Organizing your child’s room … it’s possible!
Whether a tot or teen, your child can and should participate in the process.
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Curb appeal secrets
Creating and cultivating curb appeal isn’t as intimidating as it might sound.
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February 2012
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Display your travel souvenirs
Take a tip from LA-based interior designer Thomas Schoos, whose projects exude worldliness without resorting to clichés.
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Installing a pool? Think small!
Homeowners with small lots may not have enough space for a full-sized pool, but there are other options for small spaces.
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Blending handmade with store-bought
Whether you’re incorporating textiles or turned wood, go for combinations that will feel timeless.
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January 2012
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New Year, new home design
Use the New Year as an opportunity to breathe new energy into your home.
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2012 Home design trends
Home trends for 2012 are all about individuality. And a little work can turn even the most dated space into a haven of well measured chic.
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Beautiful balcony must-haves
Turn your balcony into a toasty haven for dining, entertaining, or tucking into a good book.
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December 2011
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Customize your furniture
If your home décor isn’t working for you, invest in some great pieces that will last and “do over” the rest.
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Unexpected Christmas decorations
Jazz up your home with unexpected Christmas decorations this December.
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Dazzling non-traditional trees
Non-traditional Christmas trees wake up your holiday décor while complementing your home’s design scheme.
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November 2011
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Creative autumn wreath ideas
For striking autumn wreath designs and colors, look for inspiration from unusual sources and consider a unique mix of materials.
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Decorating with pearls
Pearls exude unabashed glamour and style, whether adorning a neck, studding a lampshade, or accenting a toss pillow.
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Fantastic light fixtures
Smaller design houses around the country have brought edgy light fixtures back with turn-of-the-century inspired designs.
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October 2011
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Spruce up your stairs
Staircases provide ample opportunities for adding a bit of pizzazz.
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Wood paneling gets a face-lift
Real wood panels are back and are proving that this organic staple is more than capable of chic design in your home.
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Dream garage makeover
By making a few simple changes, a garage can become a versatile workroom or a showplace for entertaining.
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September 2011
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Store bad-weather essentials this season
If you’re gearing up for coastal hurricanes, an organized bad-weather kit is a must.
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Fall decorating for your home
To update your interior for the fall season, take cues from the runways of Paris, Milan, and New York.
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Make your entryway more inviting
Welcoming touches and thoughtful design make your foyer fantastic.
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August 2011
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Choose the right paint colors
Today’s array of paint colors offers more options than ever. Set the perfect tone for your living space by choosing the right hues.
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Million-dollar interiors on a budget
Three nationally known designers offer tips for getting million-dollar looks that won’t wallop your wallet.
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Carpet makes a comeback
The following trends may entice you to give carpet a second chance.
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July 2011
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Tackle minor home repairs this summer
Leave the landscaping overhaul for cooler weather and tackle that loose cabinet door or perk up basements.
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Hammocks for a relaxing retreat
Different ways to hang hammocks means you no longer have to anchor your perch between two sturdy trees.
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Appliances that save money and energy
Surprise! You may save hundreds by buying a pricier model.
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June 2011
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Flowers for foodies
Yummy designs for a garden-fresh table. Tips from designers on thinking beyond tradition.
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Gorgeous wood flooring for less
From bamboo to cork, budget-savvy options abound for hardwood flooring, offering high style and impressive quality.
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Construct a summer room
Screening in a porch or an apartment balcony is the perfect way to move indoor comforts to the outdoors.
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May 2011
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Beautiful and budget-friendly kitchen countertops
Get tips on amazing deals and fantastic look-alike on fabulous kitchen countertops.
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Wall moulding to transform any room
Transform your walls and ceiling dramatically with decorative wall moulding.
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Avoid these patio furniture pitfalls
Patio furniture with comfortable seating can transform a basic backyard into an outstanding outdoor living space.
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April 2011
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Display Your Children’s Art
Even if you’re not an artist yourself, there are other simple and inventive ways to display your child’s art beyond the magnets.
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New Look to Old Accessories
Fabrics, paint, paper & more! All can help you bring new life to old accessories.
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Decorating Your Teen’s Bedroom
Design a budget-friendly room for your teen and see his or her personality truly come out. Follow these teen and parent cohesive tips.
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March 2011
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Choosing Window Treatments
Designers offer advice for choosing window treatments that will stand the test of time.
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DIY or hire some help?
Learn when to bring in a professional and when to save money
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Decorate with White
From frames to rugs, accessorize or add texture
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February 2011
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Perfect Lighting Techniques for Your Space
Easily update each room to create ambiance and interest
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Discover Your Decorating Style
Identify what you like through compiling snapshots, samples & notes.
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Latest Game Room Gadgets
Get the latest high-tech trends for hot game room interior design.
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January 2011
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Decorating Mistakes to Avoid
Knock off on the knickknacks and look at the big picture for rooms that dazzle
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Low-Cost Bathroom Renovations
Give your bathroom a brand-new look, even on a budget.
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5 Unusual Wallpaper Projects
Off-the-wall ideas from covering the furniture to framing gorgeous swatches.
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December 2010
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Beautiful Guest Bedroom Ideas
Designer Jan Showers shares essentials for gorgeous guestrooms.
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Essentials to prepping a room for painting
Painting pros give wall-prep tips from ‘liquid sandpaper’ to why you need quality supplies.
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Fast Gift Wrap Ideas
Look like a pro with the presents but save time. Plus: gift wrap trends!
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November 2010
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Easy & Affordable Room Makeovers
From new laminates in the kitchen to peppy paint jobs, do it yourself and save money.
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10 Inspirations for Mantel Decorating
Make your fireplace a focal point in any season!
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White candles bring life to any space
Consider simple, neutral candles as your decorative centerpiece or simple shelving accessory.
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October 2010
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Redecorating by repurposing
Elevate that old ladder into a trendy-looking shelf (really!). Tips for reusing great items around the house for a unique, fun interior.
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Improve your golf swing — indoors!
Become a better golfer without leaving the house, from practicing your swing to golfing exercises and golf simulators
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Start Your Art Collection
Whether you love modern or Monet, create an art collection that reflects your personality
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September 2010
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Home Projects on a Budget?
Nationally known decorator and author Chris Madden shares must-haves for the kitchen, bath, and living room
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Create a Homework Center
Organize a study space with great lighting, comfy seating, and clutter-busting accessories
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Right-size Your Home
House too small? Repurpose rooms according to your needs, not outdated uses
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August 2010
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Secrets Most Interior Designers Don’t Tell You
‘Accessorize in threes’ and other top interior design advice.
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Splurge or Save? Your Guide to Furniture Shopping
Make sure your seating passes the ‘tush-test’ and other helpful rules for great deals.
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Call a Truce in the Battle Over Master Bedroom Decorating
Compromise on color, linens & clutter control.
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