Author: Paolo Romano

A fire pit can make your yard feel warm and welcoming without costing too much. If you’ve been thinking about adding one but worried it might be expensive or hard to build, you’re not alone. I’ve gathered ideas that are simple to create, look great, and won’t empty your wallet. You don’t need to be a pro or spend hours shopping for supplies- many of these can be made with things you already have or can find easily. If your space is big or small, there’s something here that will work for you. These ideas are for regular people who…

Benjamin Moore’s Cheating Heart (1617) is a deep, rich black with subtle blue undertones that creates warmth in any room. This shade stands out because it adds depth without making spaces feel smaller – a common worry with darker colors. This blog is for you if: You’re updating your home with new wall colors You want a bold choice that still feels comfortable You need a versatile shade that works in multiple rooms I’ll walk you through real examples of Cheating Heart in different lighting conditions, show you matching color schemes, and provide tips from painting professionals who use it…

If you’ve ever read that something is “100 square feet” and had no idea what that really means, you’re not alone. I’ve felt that way too. Square footage shows up everywhere – from rental ads to renovation plans to storage unit sizes – but unless you work with it often, it’s easy to feel lost. So, how big is 100 square feet? Is it the size of a closet? A bedroom? Could you fit a desk, a bed, or your yoga mat? The truth is, 100 square feet is small, but more useful than you might think. Once I started…

Are you curious about those boxy, symmetrical houses that dot neighborhoods across America? The American Four Square home stands as a testament to practical design and timeless appeal. These classic dwellings emerged in the early 1900s, offering families a smart solution to growing housing needs. With their simple layout and efficient use of space, Four Square homes became an instant hit for middle-class families seeking comfort and affordability. In this blog, you’ll find: The rich history behind these homes Key architectural features that make them unique Practical tips for restoring and preserving their original character If you’re a homeowner, history…

A thatched roof is made using natural materials, such as straw, water reed, or palm leaves, instead of tiles or shingles. It’s layered by hand to create a thick, sloped cover that sheds water and keeps the inside dry. Even though we now have modern roofing options, many people are still drawn to thatched roofs. Some love the look – warm, cozy, and full of character. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what a thatched roof is, how it’s built, where it’s still used, and the pros and cons of having one. You’ll also learn about its history, the…

Choosing the right roof for your home is one of the most important decisions I can help you make. It affects not only the visual appeal but also durability, energy efficiency, and overall value. With so many roof types and materials available, it can be overwhelming to decide which is the best fit. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to find out some popular residential roof types and materials. By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make an informed choice that suits your home’s needs and design. If you’re constructing a new home or renovating an…

I used to think roof eaves were just there to complete the roofline, a lovely little trim, something that added character but didn’t do anything. That all changed after I saw what happened to my neighbor’s home. They skipped the eaves to save a few dollars during construction. A few months in, water started pouring straight off the roof onto their siding. Before long, the window trim warped, paint peeled, and water pooled around the base of the house. Eventually, the damage reached the foundation. Watching that unfold made me pay more attention to my own home and to what…

Measuring roof pitch might seem tricky at first, but with the right tools and methods, it’s much easier than you think. If you’re working on a DIY project or a professional job, knowing how to get an accurate roof pitch measurement is essential. It affects everything from drainage to the overall look of your roof. In this guide, I’ll show you simple, effective ways to measure roof pitch accurately, so you can feel confident in your results. I’ll walk you through the best tools to use, whether you prefer something basic or need a more advanced method. Don’t worry-I’m here…

What is a barn roof, and why does it matter? If you’re planning or fixing a barn, you’ve probably asked that. Picking the right roof can feel confusing. There are many styles, each serving a different purpose. In this article, I’ll help you figure it out. You’ll learn the main types of barn roofs, the good and the bad of each, and which roof works best in different places. Roof shape affects more than looks. It affects how your barn withstands wind, snow, and rain. It also affects the amount of space you have and how fresh the air remains…

Looking to expand your home without a full renovation? A bump-out addition could be the perfect solution. This clever technique adds square footage to a specific room without reconfiguring the entire house. If you want a cozy reading nook or a larger kitchen, bump-outs offer big benefits at a smaller cost. What makes them so appealing is their flexibility. Bump-outs can expand kitchens, create office space, or enlarge bathrooms, all without requiring a major foundation change. In this post, I’ll share bump-out addition ideas with before-and-after examples to show just how transformative these projects can be. If you’re seeking inspiration,…