NJ Home and Garden

Building a better basement playroom- without a TV

10/10/2007

In this age of computer games,competitive soccer leagues and organized play dates for tots, it may surprise some parents to learn that the very best thing they could do for their youngsters'development is to send them down to the basement to play- by themselves- without a computer or aTV.

Shed some light on your kitchen

10/10/2007

Studies have shown that when it comes to spending time at home,no room gets more visitors than the kitchen.Even with media rooms and family rooms offering more than ever before, the kitchen remains a gathering spot. In spite of their universal popularity, many kitchens remain in need of a few adjustments.

Wallpaper as art

10/10/2007

Just as artwork creates focus in a room,wallpaper instantly transform plain walls into works of art.The designer trend of adding color, texture, pattern and shimmer creates a luxurious feel and an immediate sense of style. Today's oversized designs add warmth and balance to large walls in newer homes and dimension to smaller rooms.

Windows and doors - not just for looking through

10/10/2007

Many people choose to build a new home or remodel an existing home to create a dwelling tailormade for them.They don't want to be confined to a home designed for someone else's lifestyle or preferences.Homes today are customized to their owners- from the entry door to the patio door; from the peak of the great room to the choice in flooring.

Wet basement? Check your gutters first

10/10/2007

When autumn rains fall,many homeowners get the unpleasant surprise of finding water has leaked into their basements.But the solution could be very simple: Clean your gutters. If gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, they can't do their job of moving rainwater away from the house.

De-stress! Make home improvements a part of healthy living

10/10/2007

Sprucing up a house is an American tradition, but before beginning that next home-improvement project, ask yourself if it will enhance your family's life and lifestyle.Upgrades that incorporate elements of exercise, social interaction and stress relief add value not just to a home, but also to the family that lives there.

Take it outside! Increase your outdoor living space

10/10/2007

According to Brad Staggs,multi-show star of HGTV and the DIY Network, outdoor living spaces represent a continuing trend that shows no signs of slowing down."It seems that more and more homeowners want to extend their lives and their homes into their yards and onto their properties.

Protecting and maintaining your deck

10/10/2007

If building a deck is at the top of your to-do list, you need to start by deciding on the type of deck you want. Is it a simple one-level deck or is a multilevel deck on your horizon? You can begin by checking out online resources such as www.decks.com and www.decksusa.com for ideas and plans.

New wood-style fence is fit for outdoor living rooms

10/10/2007

Whether trying to disconnect from technology, reconnect with nature or simply wind down from the everyday bustle,more of us are doing so in our new living rooms - the backyard. According to the American Institute of Architects, the outdoor living trend continues to gain traction as Americans invest in upscale landscaping and outdoor amenities.

Increase home value and save energy with awnings

10/10/2007

Homeowners are continually looking for ways to get a greater return on their home investment. From lighting installments to kitchen and bathroom remodeling, increasing the value of a home and adding distinguishing features is a top priority in a saturated housing market.

How to minimize dust mites

10/10/2007

No one likes to think about microscopic organisms sharing the space they call home,but the fact of the matter is there are many things taking up residence in your home that you may not be able to see with the naked eye. Dust mites are one of them.

Getting the most out of your garage

10/10/2007

Over the last decade, the idea of the "family car"has shifted greatly. Whereas station wagons used to be the norm,nowadays those dinosaurs have given way to minivans and sport-utility vehicles (SUVs).While that shift has certainly impacted drivers'wallets when it comes time to fill up the gas tank, it's also led to a more subtle change in the way drivers use their homes.

Space is in the eye of the beholder

10/10/2007

When people move from one house to another, they often cite size as the chief reason for moving.Many homeowners, thanks to growing families, simply outgrow their homes over time.For those homeowners who are too comfortable to move, there are a few old tricks to make your home feel larger than it really is.

Best bets for hardy houseplants

10/10/2007

Flowers and foliage can do wonders to transform the outer areas of the home. That is why many real estate professionals will tell you to renovate your landscape to improve curb appeal and promote a better chance for sale. Just as plants can make for an inviting space outdoors, so, too, can they revitalize the inside of a home.Houseplants have several advantages.

Changing a room's look and feel can be easy and affordable

10/10/2007

Think an"extreme makeover"for your home has to include sledgehammers and a general contractor? Well, interior design does not always mean knocking down walls. Changing a few select items can bring new color and texture into an existing space- just the thing needed to brighten, lighten and transform any room in your home.