Room To Grow

THE PERSON: Pilates teacher and studio owner desperately seeks space that accommodates staff, clients, children, and the occasional pet.

THE SPACE: Vertical storage systems allow clients and instructors to organize their things, while simultaneously creating room for other tasks. A comfy bench and a hospitality area offer the perfect spots for breaks between classes. The soft blue palette inspires a feeling of tranquility.



Zones Create Flow

1 Separating the room into zones helps create better traffic flow. Easy-to-clean jute rugs help define the spaces. At this end of the room, there’s a place for the baby’s crib and a small seating area. The floor pillow was made from drapery panels cut in half crosswise. Then, the two pieces were hemmed, wrapped around a foam insert, and secured with grommets and rope.

2 A desk fills the space at the opposite end of the room. For the desktop, grass-cloth wallpaper was attached to plywood using wallpaper paste. The board is attached to two stackable shelving units and topped with a sheet of acrylic. To create the bulletin boards, cork was mounted to fiberboard squares using spray adhesive and edged with duct tape. The boards are attached to the wall with self-fastening strips.



STORAGE UNITS
shelving (ClosetMaid, maple; 9-cube organizer, #163256; 25-cube stackable shoe organizer, #103250; 30-inch vertical shelf stackers, #59969; 24-inch horizontal shelf stacker, #66417; cube door, #163273)
wire baskets (ClosetMaid, #85799)
small taper bins†
track shelving (#107717) with
maple shelves†

HOSPITALITY CENTER
compact refrigerator (Frigidaire, Silver Mist, #235882)
countertop microwave (GE, stainless, #88833)
coffeemaker (Cuisinart, #119479)

LIGHTING
lamps (Portfolio, brushed nickel; floor, #168721; desk, #33105)

PAINT
walls (Valspar Ultra Premium, Blanched Pine 7005-15, satin)
walls (Valspar Signature Colors, Waverly Home Classics, Sky WV32007, satin)

DESK PROJECT
vertical shelf stacker (30-inch, ClosetMaid, maple, #59969)
grass-cloth wallpaper (#29148)
1 (48- x 96-inch) sheet of 15/32-inch plywood††
1 (36- x 72-inch) sheet of acrylic (#11289)
wallpaper paste (#52892)
1 package of 2d nails

CORKBOARD WALL PROJECT
2 (48- x 96-inch) pieces of 1/2-inch fiberboard
cork liner (#34744††)
white duct tape
spray adhesive
self-fastening strips (#20026)
white spray paint

BENCH PROJECT
3 (24- x 48-inch) sheets of 3/4-inch birch plywood††
3 (8-foot-long) pieces of 1/4- x 3/4-inch screen-bead moulding
6 (4-inch) rounded taper table legs (#842)
6 straight-top mounting plates (#838)
1 box (#18 x 3/4-inch) brads
1 box (#17 x 11/4-inch) brads
1 box (11/4-inch) Kreg pocket hole screws, coarse thread
paintable wood filler
wood glue (Titebond II, #41217)
primer (Kilz, #45553)
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Dark Kettle Black 4011-2, semi-gloss)

ACCESSORIES
rugs (5- x 8-foot, jute with border, #206171)
blinds (Ambria, Fruitwood, #21337)
drapery panels used to make pillows (Aspen Twill; linen, #170152; khaki, #170153; black, #170170)
fabric shower curtain used to make pillows (white waffle, #126548)
grommets used for floor pillow (#45326)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.

**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
† Selection varies by market.
††Availability varies by market.

Close At Hand

Reinterpret a stair railing by turning it into a smart linen rack.


1. Select a 4-foot length of iron railing (#14153*). If desired, spray-paint the
railing, and allow to dry.

2. To protect your floor, cut gripper pads (#54359) to fit the bottoms of the vertical rails. Then attach the pads.

3. Lean the railing against the wall. Apply black spray paint to brass cup hooks (#61015), and let dry. Attach the hooks to the wall using plastic anchors (#43792) corresponding to the height of the top rail. Secure the rail on the hooks.

4. Drape bath linens over the balusters of the railing.

* Availability varies by market.

Measuring Up

Track your child’s growth with this painted board.


1. Sand and wipe clean a (6-foot-long) 1 x 6. Apply two coats of paint using a small roller. Allow each coat to dry.

2. Using a pencil and a tape measure, lightly mark each foot and the half and quarter points. Paint the marks using a small brush and black paint in a flat finish. Allow to dry.

3. Secure a number stencil (#106943) next to each foot mark, and stencil using black paint. Remove the stencil, and touch up as needed. When dry, seal the entire board with clear Polycrylic spray (#164683).

4. Hang the growth chart on your wall by attaching a self-leveling picture hanger (#52716) to the back.

5. Prime with spray primer (#165953), and then spraypaint mending plates (found in the hardware department). Allow to dry.

6. Write the date or the child’s age on each plate using a permanent marker. Secure each plate to the board using upholstery nails (#58201).

Sit and Stow

This window seat fulfills two needs—more efficient storage and a comfy place to relax.

Earthy tweed-look drapery panels add warm color and texture to the space. Two extra panels with a tapestry design were used to upholster a seat cushion for the project. Any leftover material can be used to make pillows or curtain tiebacks.

A window seat can be the perfect spot to curl up with a good book; it also can add functional storage space. Sometimes, a room’s existing architecture begs for such a project. In this bedroom, the open area between two closets was a catchall for items such as clothes, blankets, extra chairs, and gear. The new built-in window seat provides concealed and organized storage. It also gives the space a substantial focal point and makes the bedroom not just a place for sleeping, but for relaxing too.



LUMBER AND MILLWORK
3 (8-foot-long) 1 x 3s**
1 (8-foot-long) 1 x 8**
3 (48- x 96-inch) sheets of 3/4-inch birch plywood**
1 (8-foot-long) piece of 3/4-inch shelf edging**
2 (7-foot-long) pieces of 3/8- x 11/4- inch primed pine stop moulding†

HARDWARE AND SUPPLIES
1 box (21/2-inch) wood screws
1 box 6d finishing nails
1 (1/2- x 72-inch) continuous
hinge (brass, #196296)
wood glue (Titebond II, #41217)
paintable wood filler
paintable latex caulk
primer (Kilz, #45546)
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium,
Statuesque 7002-5, semi-gloss)

DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES
curtain rod (#169456)
drapery panels (Designables,
Caspari, Curry, #245171)
drapery panels used for seat
cushion (Designables, Raja,
Paprika, #245153)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.
**Availability varies by market.
† Available by special order in some stores.

Curtains 1O1

Do you want window treatments that wow, but need a bit of inspiration? Consider these helpful hints to spark your own creative approach.


How can I get a custom look?

There are many ways to do this without the high cost or hassle:

• Mix patterns and fabrics, as shown here.
• Paint a design on cotton panels, as shown on the opposite page.
• Create a pretty and functional tieback out of ribbon, rope, or a piece of fabric.
• Hem panels to the length of café curtains, which only cover the lower half of the window.
• Add decorative trim to the edges of panels.

For a romantic touch, this dreamy sheer (#241565) adds softness and volume to a striped panel (#213443). The two panels hang on a decorative rod (#169309) and are swept to one side with a strip of drop cloth material serving as a tieback.



How high do I hang the rod?

Consider these pointers when choosing rod height:

• Hang a rod as high as possible to make a low ceiling seem higher.
• Position a rod just above the window, as shown here, to make a room with high ceilings feel more intimate.
• Raise the eye a bit by hanging the rod halfway between the window and the ceiling.

Tab-top panels (#170175) are embellished with a leaf design using a stencil and fabric paint. The panels hang on a wooden rod (#42772) with finials (#27969*) and overlay a shade (#120398) made of sustainable bamboo.


Why would I use a cornice?

Think about how a cornice, which crowns a window and imparts horizontal dimension, could help you:

• add an architectural element to a plain wall.
• create a slightly more formal appearance.
• hide a basic rod that holds the curtains.

This playful look is perfect for a child’s bedroom. The lightweight white plastic cornice (#87589*) was first coated with plastic primer (#57601) and then painted brilliant blue (#244148) to complement a pair of striped curtains (#242109) on a wooden rod.


How can I add subtle pattern?

If you want to add interest using patterns, but you don’t want them to be overpowering, try these options:

• Choose a patterned valance or café curtain (shorter pieces of fabric instead of long panels).
• Paint a simple shade with stripes, as shown here, or any other design.
• Add a patterned ribbon for trim on a plain panel.

A Country French toile valance (#25944) tops a white roller shade (#43231) painted with black stripes.

Eye On Islands

With different looks and price points, these three designs squeeze maximum space and function from your kitchen.

All Dressed Up


The addition of paint, hooks, and knobs gives this affordable cart a customized look.


UP FOR THE TASK

1 Basic hardware, including robe hooks on one end of the cart and a bath-paper holder on the other end, provides space for hanging cooking tools and towels. The cart also is embellished with a row of knobs on the front side.

2 Aged-bronze pulls on the drawers complement the rest of the hardware.



BEFORE


cart (Powell, natural wood, #202450**)
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Garden of Paradise 6002-4B, semi-gloss)
metal accent spray paint (Hammered Satin Finish, Vintage Copper, #121695)
bath-paper holder (Moen, Inspirations, Eastlake Collection, oil-rubbed bronze, #33804)
double robe hook (Moen, Inspirations, Eastlake Collection, oil-rubbed bronze, #33609)
single robe hooks (#232768†)
strap pulls (aged bronze, #227052)
mushroom knobs (aged bronze, #226913)

* Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market.
** Availability varies by market.
† Selection varies by market.


Cottage Classic


With so much functional storage, this is like having a great piece of furniture for the kitchen.

BUILT TO SUIT

1 Created from economical paint-grade poplar, this custom-made island has a simple face that belies its hardworking features. A butcher-block top makes for a sturdy, resilient prep surface for chopping vegetables or slicing bread.

2 Open shelving on both ends of the island creates a home for cookbooks and decorative accents. White paint and beaded-board paneling lend cheerful cottage style.



LUMBER AND MOULDING†

2 (4-foot-long) 1/2- x 3-inch poplar boards
4 (4-foot-long) 1/2- x 4-inch poplar boards
4 (4-foot-long) 1/2- x 6-inch poplar boards
6 (8-foot-long) 1 x 6s, poplar
1 (8-foot-long) 1 x 8, poplar
1 (2-foot-long) 2 x 2, poplar
5 (12-foot-long) pieces of 11/16- x 11/8-inch base cap moulding
2 (8-foot-long) pieces of 1/2-inch quarter-round moulding
1 (48- x 96-inch) sheet of 1/4-inch plywood
1 (24- x 48-inch) sheet of 3/4-inch plywood
1 (48- x 96-inch) sheet of 3/4-inch plywood
1 (48- x 96-inch) sheet of beaded-board paneling

COUNTERTOP
butcher-block top (special order)

PAINT
white (Valspar Ultra Premium, Bistro White 7006-4, semi-gloss)
spray primer (Kilz, #45553)
polyurethane (used inside the drawers)

HARDWARE AND SUPPLIES
knobs (#212415)
1 package (11/4-inch) pocket hole screws, fine thread
1 box 6d finishing nails
5 packages (22-inch) drawer slides
1 package (#18 x 3/4-inch) wire brads
1 box 4d finishing nails
1 package (#8 x 1-inch) pan-head screws
nail-on furniture glides (#246570)
1 package shelf pins (#198930)
safe-release masking tape
wood glue (Titebond II, #41217)
stainable wood filler

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
† Availability varies by market.


Culinary Delight


This oasis was created for the top-notch gas range and hood. Now it’s a dream kitchen.

CRÉME DE LA CRÉME

1 Custom cherry cabinets with classic raised-panel doors wear a rich chocolate brown finish.

2 Quartz countertops are more durable than unimproved stone—they resist both heat and scratches. The two levels of countertops allow family members or guests to join you while you cook without getting splashed or sprayed.

3 The cabinets accommodate a dual-fuel slide-in stainless steel range, which includes a black porcelain cooktop and cast-iron grates.




CABINETRY AND COUNTERTOPS
cabinets (Diamond, Caldwell, Cherry, Chocolate, special order)
knobs (Amerock, satin chrome, #17985)
countertops (Zodiaq, Smokey Topaz, special order)

APPLIANCES
gas range (Frigidaire, stainless steel, Model PLCS389EC, special order)
range hood (Broan, Rangemaster, stainless steel, Model 637004EX, special order)
external blower (Broan, Model 332H, 900 CFM, special order)

ACCESSORIES
cutting board (12- x 18-inch, bamboo two-tone, #227260)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.

Point of View

Whatever your style, change bath décor elements for a quick, affordable, and functional new look.

1
CLASSIC
Keep it simple with this fixture (#238544) that features an antique-nickel finish and opaque globes. Complement it with a rectangular mirror (#195276) in a pewter finish.


2
ROMANTIC
Opt for timeless appeal with this fixture’s (#115618) Spanish-gold finish and Scavo glass shades. Pair it with the pretty detailing on this oval mirror (#66654).


3
MODERN
Give your vanity urban flair with the silvery accents and smooth design of this fluorescent bar (#144747). Add a curvaceous touch with an arch mirror (#239697) that’s enhanced with two polishedchrome rails.


4
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Bring in some color by selecting the stained-glass globes and complementary bronze finish of this bar (#163255). Complete the Craftsman look with a fluted wooden mirror (#106511) that features goldtoned highlights.

Light Up The Night

Add a welcoming glow outdoors with a group of paper lanterns.

1. Wrap a string of outdoor lights (at least 6 feet in length) around a 6-foot-long bamboo stake (#56475). Leave about 10 inches at one end of the stake free of lights. Secure the lights to the stake using clear packing tape.

2. Push the end of the stake (that is free of lights) into the ground. Connect an outdoor extension cord to the lights, hiding and securing the cord as needed.

3. Thread five paper lanterns (#237095) onto the stake as shown. Gently bend each lantern’s internal wire frame to clear the stake. You will not need the electrical cording included with the lanterns.

For the horizontal hanging version of this project: Use only four lanterns so that 10 inches at each end of the stake is free of lights and lanterns. Cut and then attach a length of nylon twine (#91114) to each end of the stake. Tie the other ends of twine to porch posts or hooks, making sure the stake hangs evenly.

Come On In

A new entry door can make your house feel like a home

Sure you want a door that adds value and curb appeal, but you also want an entryway with that special something that brings your home to life. It might be the door to the first home you’ve owned, or to the home where you’ve finally decided to settle down. Whatever your future holds, make sure you choose a door that suits your home or style. The right door will increase your home’s value and give your entrance the kind of allure that makes neighbors, friends, and family members want to come inside.

Make An Entrance
You have a lot of options when it comes to entry doors, and you want to choose the one that’s just right for your home. Here’s how.

1 FIND YOUR STYLE AND SHAPE
Numerous choices for glass inserts can truly personalize your entry. Look for:

• a design style that appeals to your taste and suits your home’s architecture, whether it’s traditional, Craftsman, old-world, or modern.
• a shape that will let light into your home, yet still provide your desired level of privacy; choose from a wide selection that includes everything from a small semicircle to two full-length rectangles.
• caming options—in finishes such as platinum, brass, and wrought iron—that will enhance the glass inserts.

2 SELECT A DOOR MATERIAL
Wood, steel, and fiberglass are the materials of choice for entry doors. Each has its own unique set of benefits.
If you want:

• a budget-friendly door with an authentic look and feel, then a wooden door may be best for you.
• a hearty door that resists cracking and warping, consider steel or fiberglass. Fiberglass doors are available with smoothsurface exteriors or with wood-graining.
• an energy-efficient entryway, ask about the door’s insulation and if it comes with weather stripping. These features can help save you money on energy bills.

3 COMPLETE THE LOOK
After deciding on your glass inserts and choosing a door material, add the extras that will customize your entry and pull the whole design together.
Consider:

• a transom (a glass insert installed above the door) that will complement the shape of your door’s glass inserts.
• sidelights, which also are available in a range of designs; opt for just one sidelight, or flank your door with a pair.
• Reliabilt’s flexible design plan, which allows you to choose your features from nearly 11,000 options, and then have your door built to your specifications.

Shingle Style

An ordinary house becomes a classic cottage.

After relocating to the Southeast, this New England native wanted to bring a Cape Cod feel to her new home. She began the transformation with the front windows. Thick casing and cross-shaped panes make a bold statement across the exterior and help to establish the home’s presence.

Next, the homeowner replaced her existing siding on the front of the house with cedar shingles to capture the New England look. She plans to cover the remainder of the exterior at a later date. To expand the existing entry’s tiny stoop, she had a landing built at the top of the steps so that she would have more space when entering the home. The cloth awning was replaced with a wooden pitched roof and post. Also during the renovation, the homeowner’s contractor installed a new wooden railing to replace the small metal support that was not compliant with the modern local building code.

Finally, a new wooden door, painted a calm deep green prior to installation, adds a touch of color to the entry. Finishing touches include lighting and new shrubs with mulch.




Bright and Breezy

1. A locking mailbox adds peace of mind and a new level of home security.

2. This homeowner loves the outdoors. With the addition of large casement windows, not only can she enjoy the sunlight flooding her indoor spaces, but she also can open them for a pleasant breeze— using less air conditioning and saving money on cooling bills.

3. The crisp-white stair rail increases safety and draws the eye toward the side-facing front door.


DOORS AND WINDOWS
casement windows (Pella, Architect, 850 Series, white, special order)
door (Escon Doors, Model OC636DC, special order)

MATERIALS
cedar shingles (special order)
brick (#10298)
octagon gable vent (22-inch, white, #18204)
lumber rated for outdoor use†
beaded-board paneling†
roofing for awning (#10086)

EXTERIOR PAINT
railing paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Polar White 7003-16, semi-gloss)
door paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Cliveden Forest 5006-4C, semi-gloss)

ACCESSORIES
door hardware (Kwikset, Venetian bronze, #34568)
locking mailbox (#57021)
light fixture (Sea Gull, oxidized bronze, Model 8463-46, special order)
doorbell (#231162††)
planter (#20822)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of plants.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
† Availability varies by market.
††Available by special order in some stores.