text:
Home Makeover On A Budget
It's a well-worn cliché that a fresh coat of paint can work wonders for a space. After our first site visit to the townhome featured in our September 2014 issue, it was clear that paint would be the first step in this dramatic makeover.
To keep the painters on time and budget, I chose to paint the walls, ceilings and trim in the same creamy white — Behr Swiss Coffee. This instantly lightened the interior and gave us a blank slate to work with.
Since the home was void of architectural interest, I selectively used black paint to create the missing drama. We painted the front door, stair railing and interior doors in Behr Beluga (one of my favourite shades of black for its plum undertones). Adding black was a great way to modernize the entry while staying true to the age and style of the home.
The key to using black paint is to thoughtfully select what you'd like to highlight. The foyer, for example, was too small for a hall table, so the black doors and railing add interest and contrast while keeping it open. Similarly, the bathroom was too small to add an interesting piece of furniture, like a stool or runner, so I painted the window trim in the same Beluga black, which framed the window and made it feel larger.
Throughout the home, I used a variety of drapery tricks to give the look of full, custom draperies without the made-to-order price tag.
The living room window was already outfitted with classic white shutters, so non-functioning panels were the perfect solution (they cannot be closed for privacy).
This beautiful cotton print from Tonic Living is graphic and bold.
Lining the drapes with cotton and interlining gives them the fullness of a functioning drape.
Mia's bedroom window was completely bare, so we needed a solution that offered privacy and softness.
Using the same concept from the living room, we lined an inexpensive cotton print to create non-functioning drapery panels.
We then made the window look larger by hanging the drapery rod as close to the ceiling as possible, allowing the rod to run the length of the wall. For privacy, the perfect solution was Lowes' white faux wood blinds, which are cut to size in store.
The family room features a window and patio door, and I wanted to create the illusion of one continuous window.
West Elm's stocked drapery panels were the perfect shade of ivory with our Swiss Coffee wall colour, and a steal at only $89 per panel. I try to avoid extending drapery rods, as they often look cheap and flimsy. For a small upgrade, we ordered custom hardware that fills the wall and feels much more substantial.
Mia was interested in updating her small main bath, but it wasn't until our site visit that I realized how tired and dated this room really was. With only a month until move-in, we transformed this bathroom using a few budget-friendly tricks:
Note what needs to go: Virtually every fixture in this bathroom made the list, but the existing layout worked. By keeping all of the fixtures exactly where they were, we saved thousands of dollars.
Choose the best fixtures you can afford: The bathroom's small size meant that there was little space for extras, like a decorative stool or shelf. So the vanity, toilet and faucets all needed to offer great quality and function, as well as style. We chose pieces from the DXV Collection by American Standard — the designs are classic and timeless, making them a worthy investment. Toilet shopping has never felt so glamorous!
Look for ceramic tile: Despite this bathroom's small square footage, I avoided costly marble and stone mosaics and opted for ceramic. We saved hundreds by using a spiral black and white mosaic on the floor, and classic white subway tile inside the shower.
Pick up the September issue of House & Home to see the transformed bathroom and more! Plus, watch our makeover videos.
Here's a full breakdown of our makeover purchases:
Sofa, $720, HomeSense; Sweep armchair, 2 at $779 each, West Elm; Souk wool rug, $899, West Elm; Vittsjo bookshelp, $50 each, Ikea; Origami coffee table, $479, West Elm; side table $130, HomeSense; rattan stool, $145, Bacon Basketware; brass sconces, $495, Black Rooster Décor; console table, $995, RH Restoration Hardware; drapery fabric, 9 yards at $14.95 each, Tonic Living; sewing and installation, $1,030; toss pillows, $917, ELTE, West Elm and Indigo; accessories, $725, ELTE, HomeSense and Indigo; throw, $49.50, Indigo.
Table, $1,469, BLVD Interiors; throw pillows, 4 at $45 each, Indigo; pendant, $249, CB2; floor lamp, $599, Mobilia; bar cart, $249.99, HomeSense; tray, $245, ELTE; dining chairs, $680, Frontier Sales; chair fabric, 5.5 yards at $22.95, Tonic Living; chair, painting and reupholstery, $943.
Stools, 3 at $99 each, RH Restoration Hardware; pendant light, $119, West Elm; accessories, $80, HomeSense.
Sectional, $1,710, Crate and Barrel; sheepskin, $39.99, Ikea; Parsons Square coffee table, $699, Crate and Barrel; Morgan Black sconce, 2 at $199 each, Crate and Barrel; bookshelf, $299, HomeSense; area rug, $189, Ikea; side table, $59.99, HomeSense; fram, $149.99, Pottery Barn; drapery panels, 4 at $69 each, West Elm; drapery hardware and installation, $340; Andanza green allpaper, 2 rolls at $125 each, Hygge & West; pillows, $270, Pehr and HomeSense; rattan lounge chair, $299, Bacon Basketware; tree, $149, Valleyview Gardens; plant basket, $40, HomeSense; wallpaper installation, $160; accessories, $460, HomeSense.
Headboard, $350, HomeSense; bedside lamps, 2 at $129.99 each, HomeSense; Leksvik desk, $149, Ikea; pillow, $58, Crate and Barrel; side table, $416, RH Restoration Hardware; retro chair, $289, Bacon Basketware; rug, $315, eCarpet Gallery; drapery fabric, 10 yards at $23.95, Tonic Living; sewing and installation, $920; wallpaper, 7 double rolls at $160 each, Walls Republic; wallpaper installation, $600; throw, $255, ELTE; custom-cut white blinds, $110, Lowes.
Rug, $189, eCarpet Gallery; You Make It Chandelier, $145 US, lindseyadelman.com; closet system, $900, Ikea; bench, $99.99, Target; mirror, $70, Ikea; drapery panels, 2 at $63.20 each, West Elm; drapery hardware, $39.97, Home Depot; closet installation and electrical services, $450.
Bed, $549, Restoration Hardware Baby and Child; Vintage Locker desk, $699, Restoration Hardware Baby and Child; Vintage Schoolhouse desk chair, $199, Restoration Hardware Baby and Child; Academy Task table lamp, $129, Restoration Hardware Baby and Child; bedding, $858, Restoration Hardware Baby and Child; Reef Jute Rug, $500, West Elm; custom posters framed, $800, Art.com and Pottery Barn Kids, Custom Framing by Deserres; drapery panels, $39.99, Ikea; drapery hardware, $99, West Elm.
Princeton Bathtub, $641, DXV American Standard; Wyatt Pedestal Lavatory, $495, DXV American Standard; Percy Widespread Faucet, $655, DXV American Standard; Wyatt Toilet, $910, DXV American Standard; Percy Multifunction Showerhead, $255, DXV American Standard; Percy Pressure Balance Tub and Shower Trim, $282, DXV American Standard; Percy Wall Tub Spout, $185, DXV American Standard;roller blind, $17, Home Depot; ceramic floor tile, $200, The Tile Shoppe; shower curtain, $49, West Elm; accessories, $170, Ginger's; mirror, $59.99, Ikea; toilet paper holder, $14.99, Ikea; light, $218, Home Depot; labour and electrical, $3,150.
Dresser, $395, Vintage Fine Objects; vintage chair, $550, Tonic Living; artwork, $230, HomeSense; Ranarp floor lamp, $50, Ikea; table lamp, $60, HomeSense; bedding, $260, HomeSense; mirror, $279, Crate and Barrel; area rug, $189, Ikea; sheepskin, $39.99, Ikea; custom pillows, $583, Tonic Living; accessories, $50, Target.
Prices may vary.
Quick Holiday Ideas
I have a confession to make: last year I didn't decorate much for the holidays at all. Sometimes the weeks just slip away from me, and since my husband and I are more likely to travel than host, it seems silly to go crazy decking the halls. Add to that the fact that our Toronto home is quite tiny — it can be a challenge to add even more decorating on top of what's there. But I've been looking around for inspiration and I think I've come up with some plans for this year. I will keep it simple and focus on the natural. Here are some ideas I'm considering.
There just isn't enough floor space at our place for a tree (plus our wee dog has failing vision, so I fear a tree might be a danger to her). In the past I have done tabletop trees, but this year I am thinking of placing branches in large glass demijohns. I'll put three on the console in our front window and add tiny white lights on a timer since I love to see them twinkling inside when I come home from work.
I used some white feather cone trees for the vintage Christmas decorating story I styled for the December 2013 issue of the magazine (see Merry & Bright). I liked the effect and plan to make up a few of these faux fur versions and mix them in with flocked bottlebrush trees to decorate my mantel.
My neighbour Lindsay Stephenson recently posted holiday wrapping ideas on her site The Penny Paper Co. and it's like she read my mind. Her ideas are a wonderful mix of earthy with a touch of sparkly embellishment (think glitter washi tape and sparkly brooches).
And best of all, she sells everything you need for the look on her site. Order soon to make sure you get all your supplies in time for your wrapping.
Another confession: I'm not a fabulous cook. So when I am cooking I need to concentrate on the recipes and keep the table decor as simple as possible. I love using fruit for a centrepiece or sideboard. After the sweets course, I encourage guests to help themselves to some of the arrangement! I'll tuck bay leaves or rosemary sprigs amongst the fruit for a wonderful colour contrast and scent.
Red ilex berries say holiday loud and clear. Find them at flower markets and farmers' markets in December. The key to making an arrangement look great? Strip the stems of any berries or side branches from the top of the vase to the base. Then prune the branches so they form an even fan shape, just like this display by celeb NYC floral designer Michael George.
A length of garland, a lush wreath and a new plain coir welcome mat are all you need to spruce up an entryway for the season. Too bad it's already a bit too cold for me to repaint my front door this colour. Adding that to my spring to-do list.
I spotted this idea at the Club Monaco store on Bloor St. in Toronto and I think I'll do a scaled-down version in front of my house. The mix of evergreen varieties in different heights and planters is so casual and so pretty. Proof that nature truly needs no embellishment! Ok, fine, maybe some tiny white lights...
Photo credits:
1. via Enjoy Your Home blog.
2-3. Project by My Sister's Suitcase via Tatertots & Jello blog.
4-5. Lindsay Stephenson, The Penny Paper Co.
6. Lissa at Keep It Simple Keep it Fresh blog.
7. via Michael George Flowers.
8. A Country Farmhouse blog.
9. Margot Austin
Quick & Inexpensive Updates
At this time of year I am always looking for fast decor fixes before the holiday crush starts and my money is earmarked for gifts and entertaining. I found these items on recent Ikea visit: they add a little décor lift and won't empty out the Christmas coffer.
This super fun and colourful steel number has an almost futuristic vibe. It will lend a playful energy to your kitchen and it's much more interesting to look at than your standard wood bowl.
This clamping spotlight is a very cool mix of modern and industrial. The matte white shade perfectly contrasts the metal accents, and the light itself is really versatile, so it can adjust it to suit your needs.
Get the kiddies started early on their appreciation of good design. This simple wood stool is just the right height for a proper dining table, but because it's simple and black, it doesn't scream "childrens' furniture!".
Who doesn't love a good woven basket? This striped one has a cute nautical look to it. It's also big enough to store a load of toys, laundry or fresh towels.
Photo credits:
1-4. Ikea
Editors' Stocking Stuffer Picks
Stumped for small gift ideas that still pack some design punch? Indigo's home category has really stepped up. We polled our design department for their stylish selects.
Hilary Smyth: For gift giving this holiday season, I love the shagreen-style textured finish and deep jewel colours of these leather bound journals. Everybody can use a beautiful book to doodle in.
Hilary Smyth: For myself, this shimmering golden glass decanter adds a little luxe to the holiday table.
Morgan Michener: These napkins are made of a lovely washed linen and come in an assortment of colours (I just bought three sets of the dark grey for myself). They are perfect for holiday entertaining — especially with a sparkly napkin ring — and would make super gifts (don't just give one pack, be sure to give at least eight napkins to the lucky people on your holiday list).
Sally Armstrong: I love the gold cushion — just because I like anything gold these days. This glam pillow would be a happy addition to most sofas: a little bit of sunshine.
Sally Armstrong: It's always nice to have something handy to jot notes down in, and so much better when it's pretty to look at. Everyone can use this.
Margot Austin: I've been noticing the reappearance of the coupe cocktail glass and love the retro feel. I think this one would be best accessorized with rosé champagne, and a red taffeta dress with a crinoline-enhanced poufy skirt. Perfect for the holidays.
Margot Austin: I don't go in for theme-y plates but these are definitely on my wish list. They would add a festive note to my plain white everyday dishes or my bone china, which is white with a gold rim. Also, entertaining over dessert and champagne or liqueur is much more my style than the full fuss of a multi-course meal. These plates are elegant but with a sense of fun.
Margot Austin: This is the gift I would buy intending to give to someone else but would start nibbling on the way home from shopping! I met Mary MacLeod once when I featured her shortbread in a photo shoot and loved hearing her explain the Scottish tradition of holiday shortbread. The sound of her Scottish brogue saying "you put it on a doily" still rings in my head. This is the only shortbread that rivals my mom's. Highest praise.
Margot Austin: This lovely object and a jar of artisanal preserves (wild blueberry is my favourite, hint) would make the perfect host gift. Presenting jam or jelly in such a container adds a sense of occasion to the brunch table, but I also love that this is a pretty accessory even when it's off duty.
Joel Bray: I Love the smell of this candle! It's the perfect way to conjure up the smell of fresh-cut fir if you have an artificial Christmas tree.
Joel Bray: The peacock feather ornament would make a beautiful addition to any gift, tied to the bow.
Joel Bray: This bowl brings a hit of sparkle to any coffee table. Fill it with nuts or candies.
Photo credits:
1-14: Indigo
Top 5 Bargain Finds
A designer I know recently tweeted that he loves things that don't look expensive but, in fact, are. I tweeted back that I like things that look expensive but, in fact, are not. Don't get me wrong, I understand his point — understated luxury is like a fabulous secret just for you. There is great pleasure in that. Fine materials and workmanship can set a piece apart and make its quality and value only discernible to those in the know.
But as someone who is surrounded by the best of the best on a daily basis, I admit it can be a little disappointing to have champagne tastes on a tap water budget. That's why I take such delight at finding pieces that have great design lines at very affordable prices. Here are my top 5 current faves.
The Portfolio stainless outdoor wall light, $37 at Lowe's, has a great nautical look but it doesn't have to stay outdoors. I recently suggested it for a friend's cottage bathroom and it looks great. In my research I came across many that look like it with price tags 10 times higher.
These 2" faux wood horizontal blinds have been a favourite of mine for many years. Prices start at about $30 for a small window. I have installed them or specified them for more than 30 windows. That includes the six I installed myself over the weekend at our place in Tweed, Ont. They can be custom cut at the store to the right width for your window. I prefer a snug inside-mount installation. I almost always pair them with fabric side panel drapes or a fabric valance and roman blind to soften the look. Here's an example of how I paired them with café curtains. Bonus: having the same blinds in every window boosts your home's curb appeal too.
I spotted these Carlisle Metal Barstools or Counter stools ($99/set of 2) at Target recently. What a fun pop of colour. I think the yellow is my favourite. You get two of these for half the price of what one reasonably priced stool usually costs. They come in several colours, but I have found stock to be low in many Target stores so you may have to hunt for them if you want them.
I used the Ikea Aina linen curtain panels, $60/set of two panels, as hangings for my four-poster bed, but I've been using them for years on windows too. For this same bedroom I had the panels lined with room-darkening lining and had French pleats added to the top for a semi-custom window treatment.
Every season West Elm tempts me with something sumptuous for the bed. Last week when I popped in the store I fell for this collection. The Linen Cotton Blend Bedding (queen duvet cover, $165) has very simple unfussy styling and some very yummy colours. I like the idea of mixing the darker hues to cozy up the bedroom for autumn. And for the record, I would style them in all their wrinkled splendour — no steaming or ironing.
Photo credits:
1. Lowes
2. Homedepot (left), Michael Graydon (right)
3. Target
4. Donna Griffith
5. West Elm
Dressing Room On A Budget
Before starting at House & Home, I was working on a two-year masters program in Toronto. With all the late nights spent reading and writing, I really benefitted from having an office in my apartment. It wasn't pretty, but it definitely provided enough work and storage space.
The spare room is a decent size, but once I had finally graduated it became wasted space. The room with great storage continued to be just that — a room to house all of my junk. That's when I had the brilliant — although admittedly self-indulgent — idea to transform the office/junk room into a walk-in closet. I wanted to create a lighthearted and unique room that allowed me to hang and see my clothes and shoes. The main difficulty of course, would be fitting it within my very limited budget.
Here are some of my inspiration shots of gorgeous walk-in closets:
Taking inspiration from these feminine, high-end dressing rooms, I attempted to translate the look of built-ins with a very skimpy budget.
I repurposed a shelf and desktop from Ikea into an island for the centre of the room by painting the shelf and wrapping the stainless steel tabletop in fabric.
To create hanging areas, I used four tall Expedit bookcases from Ikea with rods attached between. I secured each shelf to the wall with heavy-duty plugs, since the rods would be weighted down significantly. For the rods, I picked up some sturdy, non-extendable curtain rods in 1-1/8" widths from Designer Fabrics in Toronto.
I used side-mount brackets — also from Designer Fabrics — to secure the rods to the sides of the shelving units, and metal plugs specifically designed for hollow-core doors and walls — important considering the amount of weight distributed along the rods.
Here are some in-process shots for the project that was only supposed to take me two weeks, but ended up taking the whole summer.
Inexpensive Ikea shelves are sturdy enough for shoes, and keep the sightlines open.
And with a few more ingredients and finessing, here is the final product:
Now onto the next project — actually organizing my clothes!
For more ideas, see our Closets & Dressing Rooms photo gallery.
Photo credits:
1, 8-12. Lauren Petroff
2. Reasons to Breathe blog
3. Reasons to Breathe blog
4. Reasons to Breathe blog
5. Expedit shelving unit, Ikea
6a. Expedit tall shelving unit, Ikea
6b, 7. Rod and bracket, Designer Fabrics
Chic Slipcovers
Now that I have a little mug-wumps running around the house, I fully understand the appeal of the slipcover. So, when this Loose Fit Urban line from BEMZ for IKEA furniture came across my desk, I was all over it!
They had me at 100% washed linen! I love the loose look, and the visible seaming!
What do you think? Tell me in the comments below. Then, see more slipcovered beauties in our decorating photos.
Photos 1-3, BEMZ
Budget Kitchen Reno
I recently took a trip to the Etobicoke Ikea to purchase my son's big boy bed (sniff sniff). I know some people that get stressed out or just plain lost in Ikea, but I love it. I really do! I love walking around the showrooms, checking out the market, and I love me some 75-cent hot dogs.
Anyway, like so many of my trips there, I came in for one thing and left with more than I expected. At first my husband was pleased to find that what I returned with was not a bag of 6,000 tealights or several Ribba frames that will sit empty because really, who has time to get photos developed? But I digress.
No, what my husband realized, much to his dismay, is that I came home with an idea. Scrap that. It's bigger than that, it's a dream. A dream and a plan for a new kitchen.
It just happened. I could see it all unfolding perfectly as I walked through the Ikea kitchen showroom.
My husband seemed, well, not psyched.
So, bloggy friends, I am going to share a few of my dreams with you and maybe you will understand. Or, maybe your eyes will glaze over like my husband's, but I won't be able to see you so it will be cool.
First, let's start with the inspiration. Here are a few images that have been on my computer and corkboard — or, inspiration board as we say in the biz — at work for a while now. I blame these images first and foremost.
Up next, the items I met at Ikea:
Hello, black-brown Nexus cabinet. I've seen you in a flyer and I have to say, you look even better in person.
I'm thinking a couple of high cabinets around the fridge and wall and base cabinets along the west wall (I have an "L" shaped kitchen). Connecting on the north wall will be the lower cabinets that meet up to the dishwasher and stove. Of course, those cabinets will be outfitted with all those terrific interior organizers that are going to change my life, but let's not go there right now.
Okay, while I would love to cover those base cabinets in something amazing like Carrara marble, I am a realist, even in my dreams. So butcher block countertops it is. What's up Numerär? Want to come live with us?
Here is the part of the dream where things get a little confusing for me. Do I go Domsjo double? I have white appliances and I think they might be into each other.
Or, do I play it cool with Boholmen and his drainer? I actually don't know if I have the space for a Domsjo double. I guess that's why Ikea invented the kitchen planner.
Either way, I am pretty into Elverdam and his extendible spout.
Above the sink and cabinets on the north wall, I thought a Värde wall shelf with hooks might be nice. I wonder if he could be stained? Hmmm...
And above the stove for pots and pans, a good ol' Grundtal, with hooks for utensils of course.
Finally, the trimmings. These will require a little more research, but are making their way into the dream. As for the hardware, I'm thinking polished or antiqued brass. I have long loved the glowing warmth of brass and I'm happy it's back.
The backsplash is another tricky one. Part of me would love to use wallpaper and maybe get some lucite or glass to protect it. I made my pal Cameron MacNeil schlep two rolls of this wallpaper from a friend's house in California where I had it delivered. Have I ever mentioned that Cameron is the best?
Then again, I do love a subway tile and I have a couple of boxes left from our bathroom reno.
And then there is the lighting! Oh, the decisions! Luckily or unluckily, depending on if you are a glass half full or empty type, I think I have a bit of time. My better half hasn't fallen into dreamland with me yet. His feet are still firmly planted in stone-cold reality. But one day people, it's gonna happen.
Are you still awake? Then I have just two more things to say to you:
1. I have to confess, I did also come home from Ikea with more than a bed and a dream. I also bought a milk frother and a frozen chocolate almond cake.
2. No, Ikea did not sponsor this blog post, though I wish very badly they had. Can you hear me Ingvar Kamprad?
Photo credits:
1. emmas designblogg
2. 16 house blog
3. Pinch
4. Bodie and Fou blog
5-11. Ikea
12. Lee Valley Tools
13. Anthropologie
Affordable Finds
Last week fellow style editor Morgan Michener and I set out to our local Ikea to scout about, and as usual, we spotted so many great things to pitch for upcoming stories. Some are new and some are just new favourites! Keep an eye out for these items in the February and March 2012 issues!
1. Ektorp Jennylund armchair, $249. This chair is the perfect scale for a small space, and with a cosy seat and such great price, you can't go wrong.
2. Ludde Sheepskin, $70. I could see this one layered up so loverly on the grey or white Jennylund chair.
3 & 4. Bislev rug (left), $30. This little flatweave is so darn cute. It looks like it has grosgrain ribbons running down it. Morgan had the great idea of sewing two of these guys together into a large floor cushion that would be almost kid-indestructible! She's in charge of our editor DIY for a reason. And the Andrup rug (right), $25. Okay, so I admit, I have a bit of a rug fetish! I would love to see this one tossed over the back of a neutral sofa or headboard.
5. Pokal tumbler, $2. I have been really into these glasses for a while — the design is so classic! I want a latte in this cup!
For more affordable finds, see our Fall Finds Under $90.
Photo credits:
1-2, 4. Ikea
3a, 3b. Stacey Smithers
Dramatic Dresser Makeover
I recently decided to take on a couple of matching dressers straight out of the 1980s. They're solid wood, unlike a lot of the MDF out there these days, so I decided to work with them instead of leaving them on the curb. My boyfriend liked this idea, too, since he's had them since, well, the '80s.
Yup, that's blue and green paint, coated on thick and glossy.
I started with the hardware. For a traditional look that would complement my white iron bed, I wanted brass knobs, and I wanted them on a dime. Luckily, The Home Depot had tons of affordable knobs. These beauties were only 99 cents each! I needed to outfit two dressers, so I saved tons of money going with the cheapies. Pulls are usually quite a bit more, so I decided two knobs per drawer was going to be even cheaper than one pull per drawer.
Since there were single pulls on the old drawers, I had to fill holes (many, many, many holes) and drill new holes for the knobs. Pick up a wood filler for a project like this.
Because the blue and green paint was so glossy, I sanded them down with an electric sander. I could have done it by hand, but they needed a very thorough sanding. Roughing up the paint a bit also helps the new paint adhere to the wood. Here they are minus a few layers of the '80s.
And after! I went with a white-white paint to match the bed, and come on, is there anything better than crisp white? I think not. And the brass knobs really pop against the white.
Yes, this is the same room. The carpet was traded for bamboo, and the dressers really look at home now. I love the blue walls, too — very English country with the white furniture.
And because I just couldn't get enough DIY-ing, I decided to be really ambitious and wallpaper the insides of the drawers. Argh, I regret starting this, because it took about a month for me to actually finish this project. But it was worth it. The subtle beige paisley pattern looks great with the white and brass. Surprisingly, I just submerged the pre-glued wallpaper in water, just like you would for wallpapering a wall, and it adhered to the wood pretty well. I had to glue down a few corners with carpenter's glue, but I was impressed with how easy it was to wallpaper wood. Cutting each piece to size was the most tedious part.
There are a few gaps, of course, but I'm really happy with how they turned out. My socks are going to be so happy in these drawers!
For another inspiring DIY project, check out Stacey Smithers' dresser finds.
Photo credits:
Gwen McAuley
Comment Guidelines
We welcome your feedback on Houseandhome.com. H&H reserves the right to remove any unsuitable personal remarks made about the bloggers, hosts, homeowners and/or guests we feature. Please keep your comments focused on decorating, design, cooking and other lifestyle topics. Adopt a tone you would be willing to use in person and do not make slanderous remarks or use denigrating language. If you see a comment that you believe violates any of the guidelines outlined above, please click "Flag as inappropriate." Thank you.


text:
College preview: Week 1
2014-08-29 13:00:00
The DCTF staff previews college action across the state
DCTF's Greg Tepper and EJ Holland preview all the FBS college football action across the state. And they make their picks! Disagree? Leave a comment below.
SMU at Baylor, 6:30 p.m. Sunday at McLane Stadium (TV: Fox Sports 1) — Boy, we wouldn't want to be in SMU's shoes right now. Baylor enters the year ranked No. 10, is coming off a Big 12 title, has two Heisman candidates in quarterback Bryce Petty and wide receiver Antwan Goodley and oh, in case you haven't heard, the Bears are christening new $260 million McLane Stadium — we can't wait to sailgate! Meanwhile, SMU is coming off its worst season since 2008 when the Ponies went 1-11 in June Jones' first year with the program and has a new starter at quarterback in Neal Burcham, who was shaky at best when he replaced an injured Garrett Gilbert late last season. Vegas says Baylor is a 31.5 favorite, and it wouldn't be surprising to see the Bears score more than three touchdowns in the first quarter alone. The biggest question is will Art Briles take his foot off the gas.
Tepper's pick: Baylor 56, SMU 21
EJ's pick: Baylor 56, SMU 21
UTSA at Houston, 8 p.m. Friday at TDECU Stadium (TV: ESPNU) — For Houston fans, this is a day that's nearly four-and-a-half years in the making. It was back in February 2010 that UH got the ball rolling on what is now known as TDECU Stadium, now a glistening 40,000-seat on-campus stadium. To celebrate the grand opening, the Coogs will field one of their most anticipated teams ever, with QB John O'Korn, WR Deontay Greenberry and a sensational defense in tow. But UTSA, a team with high expectations of its own, looks to crash the party, and don't think they can't do it. True, Eric Soza — the only quarterback the Runners have ever known — is gone, but Tucker Carter is a very viable replacement, and experience dripping off this team will mean they won't be intimidated. The key matchups here are relatively boring: it's UTSA's veteran offensive line against Houston's pass-rush. If the line can keep Carter clean, it'll help slow the game down and let him settle in. But if Joey Mbu and Trevor Harris start getting in Carter's grill, the Roadrunners' attack could stall, and that will open the door for the O'Korn and company to get back on the field and potentially wreak havoc.
Tepper's pick: Houston 38, UTSA 28
EJ's pick: Houston 44, UTSA 31
North Texas at Texas, 7 p.m. Saturday at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium (TV: Longhorn Network) — It's the moment we've all been waiting for: Charlie Strong's first game as the head coach of Texas. How different will the Longhorns look under the former Louisville coach who has earned a reputation for running tight ships? It's safe to assume Texas will be more disciplined and the defense led by defensive end Cedric Reed and Quandre Diggs will be stout, but there are still plenty of question marks on offense. The big boys up front are inexperienced and quarterback David Ash is injury-prone, to say the least. So this might be a closer game than many expect. Remember, North Texas won nine games a year ago, and the program is on the rise thanks to the fabulous coaching styles of Dan McCarney. Sure, North Texas was wiped out by graduation and will be breaking in a new quarterback in Josh Greer, but the Mean Green will make a game of this. Mark our words.
Tepper's pick: Texas 35, North Texas 27
EJ's pick: Texas 28, North Texas 23
Rice at Notre Dame, 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Notre Dame Stadium (TV: NBC) — Is Rice the quietest reigning conference champion in the country? We hear all about SEC champion Auburn, ACC champion Florida State, Big 12 champion Baylor, Big 10 champion Ohio State…what about the Owls, fresh off their Conference USA title? There's not a ton of ballyhoo over the Owls, which may make them prime candidates to sneak up on Notre Dame on Saturday. Yes, ND will once again be surrounded by pomp and circumstance — not entirely unworthy, especially with the return of QB Everett Golson — but this is a good Rice squad. Can the young offensive line, replacing four starters, hold up? Can Driphus Jackson emerge as a threat at quarterback? Can Christian Covington begin his campaign of terror on the defensive front? The key to the upset for Rice will be to stop the run, particularly Coppell product Cam McDaniel, and force Golson to beat them with his arm, where Rice's seconardy led by Bryce Callahan should be up to the task. From there, it's a matter of softening the defense with RBs Darik Dillard and Luke Turner, and then hitting a couple big plays. It's a tight line to walk, especially on the road with a largely new team, but what a springboard it would be.
Tepper's pick: Notre Dame 42, Rice 28
EJ's pick: Notre Dame 38, Rice 17
Samford at TCU, 6 p.m. Saturday at Amon G Carter Stadium (TV: Fox Sports Southwest)— Look, we fully expect TCU to beat down Samford, an FCS school with a less than one percent chance of winning this game. But you should tune in for these two reasons: 1. It will be interesting to see what TCU's offense looks like. Remember, the Horned Frogs went out and hired Sonny Cumbie and Doug Meachum this offseason. Both are known for helping teams put up monster numbers through the air, and Gary Patterson confirmed TCU was going to open things up more after last season's struggles. 2. The quarterback race. Matt Joeckel transferred in from Texas A&M and seemed like the ideal fit for the new offense. But Patterson has yet to name a starter and said Trevone Boykin will also get some snaps under center. Boykin is a phenomenal athlete, but he was less than impressive as a passer in 2013. We still think Joeckel is 'the guy,' but you never know.
Tepper's pick: TCU 52, Samford 10
EJ's pick: TCU 52, Samford 13
Central Arkansas at Texas Tech, 6 p.m. Saturday at Jones AT&T Stadium (No TV) — We can talk all we want about how Central Arkansas really isn't bad (the Bears went 7-5 last year), or how the offense should hum (they averaged more than 450 yards per game last season) or how they've nearly upset FBS teams in the past (see: 38-24 loss to Colorado last season). We can talk about that. But the bottom line is that if Texas Tech is who we think they are — a good, potentially great team — they should have their way with this FCS foe at home. Of particular note will be the maturation of QB Davis Webb — he was occasionally transcendent, occasionally ordinary, and usually good-not-great. If he looks good, and the defense (a question mark in 2014) can slow down this usually (relatively) potent Bears attack, it bodes well for the Red Raiders going forward. This is the type of game that shouldn't really be measured by the scoreboard, but rather how the Raiders look.
Tepper's pick: Texas Tech 55, Central Arkansas 14
EJ's pick: Texas Tech 59, Central Arkansas 20
Arkansas Pine-Bluff at Texas State, 6 p.m. Saturday at Bobcat Stadium (TV: ESPN3) — UTSA is garnering quite a bit of attention, but don't forget about the team just to the north. Texas State was this close — we're squeezing our index finger and thumb together — to making a bowl game last season. In fact, if freshman quarterback Tyler Jones wouldn't have gotten hurt late, the Bobcats, who were bowl eligible at 6-6, probably would have gone bowling. But last year is in the past. This year's squad is even more talented with Jones having a year under his belt, stud running back Robert Lowe back in the mix and a relatively inexperienced but potential-filled defense led by veteran linebacker David Mayo. Texas State should get the momentum going early against Arkansas Pine-Bluff, an FCS team that went just 2-9 last season and lost SWAC Defensive Player of the Year Jer-ryan Harris to graduation. Expect Jones to be efficient, Lowe to break away for big runs, Mayo to lay the wood and Texas State fans to rejoice.
Tepper's pick: Texas State 45, Arkansas-Pine Bluff 13
EJ's Pick: Texas State 49, Arkansas Pine-Bluff 12
UTEP at New Mexico, 7 p.m. Saturday at University Stadium (No TV) — The 67th installment of this rivalry gives us an opportunity to reflect on the history. New Mexico leads the series, 35-29-2, but that's including a 17-year winning streak by the Lobos from 1970 to 1986. More recently, this matchup has been very evenly matched: in the eight games played since 1998, UTEP has won five of them, and the games have been decided by an average of 9.5 points. As for this year's installment, this game could be over in two hours flat, because both teams are going to run-run-run. From UNM, expect to see a lot of runs from QB Cole Gautsche (a monster at 6-4 and 227 pounds) and RB Crusoe Gongbay out of the option scheme. For UTEP, you'll get the Aaron Jones and Nathan Jeffery show. What'll matter is the defense, and that's where New Mexico may have the advantage. They return the bulk of their defensive front seven, while UTEP will be ushering in a bevy of new folks. This is a tough one to call, and it should be close, but the edge goes to UNM by virtue of being at home and having a more proven front seven.
Tepper's pick: New Mexico 30, UTEP 24
EJ's pick: UTEP 27, New Mexico 24
If you would like to report inappropriate behavior within the Facebook commenting system, please email firstname.lastname@example.com and we will review your request.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Even Obama's re-election numbers haven't changed much. In a poll of adults taken August 27-30 2010, 39 percent said they would definitely or probably vote for Obama while 52 percent said they would probably or definitely vote for someone else - figures almost identical to the latest poll numbers. In polls taken in April and January of 2010, the numbers are also very similar. The latest survey of 1,000 adults was conducted March 4-8 by FD, with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent. A sub-sample of 872 registered voters was surveyed with a margin of error of +/- 3.3 percent. Check out National Journal's Ron Brownstein's take on the poll here.
Don't Miss Today's Top Stories
Rick, Executive Director for Policy
Concise coverage of everything I wish I had hours to read about."
Chuck, Graduate Student
The day's action in one quick read."
Stacy, Director of Communications
I find them informative and appreciate the daily news updates and enjoy the humor as well."
Richard, VP of Government Affairs
Chock full of usable information on today's issues. "
Michael, Executive Director


text:
Originally Posted by Dovaras
Ok.. at the risk of being laughed at... please see attached picture. This is also a Leica 50mm/2 Summicron. Look at the inner copper ring, you can see it through the nickel colored bayonet curve. This is not true on my lens (see photos in 1st post). The inner copper cylinder on my lens seems to have been shaved down. I'm not talking about the machined curve in the lens mount, i'm talking about the copper colored ring behind it. The copper ring in this photo appears to be the same height all the way around, on mine it's shaved down to follow the curve of the mount.
I noticed the same is true on my Type 2 Rigid Summicron. The Leica Rangefinder is calibrated for 51.6mm. The focal length of individual lenses may deviate slightly, and most manufacturers just leave the RF cam flat. The Leica cam is milled to take the deviation into account. By the looks of my RF Cam, the difference is about 0.1mm. The cam is milled to correct for the slight deviation in the focal length of this particular lens from 51.6mm. I suspect this was required when the minimum focus of Leica lenses was brought in to 0.7m from the old 1m standard of the M3 generation lenses.


text:
Posts Tagged «National Security Agency»
Obama outlines NSA reforms: Data hoarding to be subject to presidential review January 17, 2014 at 1:49 pm
After months of escalating disclosures about the nearly incredible extent of the US's electronic spying programs, President Obama has unveiled some hoped-for reforms, but they don't go far enough to make critics here and abroad happy.
NSA spied on Xbox Live and World of Warcraft to infiltrate terrorist groups December 9, 2013 at 12:00 pm
While you might fondly call the hell-raising inhabitants of online gaming haunts like DotA and Xbox Live terrorists, the NSA and CIA both felt that certain online gaming communities are home to the real thing. So, they did what any good security agency would do, and started spying on bored gamers who are forever killing 10 rats and crafting epic gear.
Making sense of the NSA Prism leak as the real details emerge June 10, 2013 at 6:25 am
Every day new information is coming to light about the scope of our governments spying on our phone and internet activities. We shed some light on what is actually happening and how it works.


text:
Regular Office Hours
Monday - Friday:
Saturday & Sunday:
Current Specials
Special Offer:
$25.00 OFF Shipping
For a Limited Time Only: $25.00 OFF Shipping
We are offering $25.00 OFF shipping for online orders only on the initial purchase of any blueprint order over $600.00 (before shipping fees and taxes). Simply enter or mention this promotional code when placing your order: 04H15
Custom House Plans
Blog Talk
Ranch Home, 043H-0068
Click image above to view larger
Views may vary slightly from working drawings. Refer to floor plan for actual layout.
Design 043H-0068
|Buy this House Plan Now!
|Modify This Plan
Plan Details
Plan Features
Plan DescriptionTruly designed for the Sunbelt, this Mediterranean house plan is graced with a stucco façade accented with gentle arches and stylish trim. Inside, its compact floor plan is sure to surprise you revealing formal and casual gathering areas as well as four bedrooms and a two-car garage. Enter to find the combined living and dining rooms, the ideal arrangement for entertaining guests and hosting exquisite dinner parties. Beyond, the open kitchen boasts an island with snack bar as it adjoins the cheerful breakfast nook and overlooks the comfortable family room. The 2-car garage enters through the nearby utility room, an added convenience. Ideal for a growing family, this design offers three secondary bedrooms arranged around a hall bath ensuring theres plenty of room for everyone. Your master bedroom is a special retreat sporting a walk-in closet and deluxe bath complete with soothing spa tub. Volume ceilings throughout lend to spaciousness. Though designed for a narrow lot, this ranch home plan delivers the feel of a much larger home.
Please note: Only electronic files (PDF or CAD file) are available for orders outside the continental United States.
Please note: Reproducible masters are printed on bond paper and come with a copyright release.


text:
1 August, 2013@10:48 am
0 comments
The Protocol Recordings impresario and inventive producer, Nicky Romero, announces his 'Nothing Toulouse' North American tour with dates throughout the United States and Canada spanning from Saturday, August 31st to Sunday, September 29th. After pulling out all the stops on the prominent stages of world-renowned festivals and events such as Ultra Music Festival, Coachella, Electric Daisy Carnival, and Sensation White this year, Nicky has decided to take matters into his own hands. Having just released his secret weapon, "Legacy" with Krewella, he will remain as a key player in dance music and further establish himself on his beat-driven conquest of cities far and wide. At each and every stop on the tour, fans can expect the jaw-dropping DJ-ing and full-throttle energy that have come to be associated with the always stunning Nicky Romero.
Purchase tickets for Nicky Romero's Nothing Toulouse North American Tour here: nothingtoulouse.wantickets.com
Nicky Romero will be joined on tour by the Dutch duo, Vicetone. Within a matter of months, Vicetone has exploded from their bedroom studios straight into the top clubs and festivals of the world. They have quickly risen to become one of the most sought after up and coming artists in dance music today.
Making himself known for this year's DJ Mag Top 100 DJs poll, Nicky Romero has released a cinematic video depicting a story of the asked "Toulouse" character haunting him in his dreams and reality all for one simple request. Watch the video here to find out what happens next, and be sure to #VoteNicky for the Top 100 DJs poll.
- Alesso Signs To Def Jam And Releases "Tear The Roof Up" Single
- Kaskade To Release "Redux" EP
- Borgore Sets July 7th Date For "#NewGoreOrder" LP
- Deadmau5 Reveals Track Listing for 'while(1<2)' LP
- Deadmau5 Announces New Album 'while(1<2)' Set For Release June 17
- Questlove & Diplo Team For New VH1 Series, "Soundclash"
- DJ Dan – "Conjunction Funktion" [Remixes]
- A$AP Mob – "Hella Hoes (Thugli Remix)" [Free Download]
- Chris Lake – "Sundown (Chris Lake Remix)" [Preview]
- Flosstradamus – "Rebound" (feat. Elkka)
- Nicki Minaj – "Anaconda (Saint & Lambo Bootleg)" [Free Download]
- Deorro & D!RTY AUD!O – "Hit It" (feat. IE-Z) [Free Download]
- Ellie Goulding - "Goodness Gracious (The Chainsmokers Remix)"
Commented on by soundcloud.Com
- Dimitri Vegas, Like Mike, Diplo & Fatboy Slim - "Eparrei (W&W Remix)" (feat. Bonde Do Role & Pin)
Commented on by boogie bored
- Afrojack - "Forget The World" (Review)
Commented on by boogie bored
- DJ Dan - "Nothing But A Party" [Review]
Commented on by boogie bored
- Alvaro & Carnage - "The Underground"
Commented on by boogie bored
- Kelis - "Food" (Review)
Commented on by Hodges