Author: Thomas Avery

Santa Barbara is a beautiful place to live, but let’s be honest- it’s also one of the toughest when it comes to housing. With limited space and high demand, finding an affordable home isn’t easy. That’s why more homeowners are turning to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) – self-contained homes with living, cooking, and sanitation provisions added to residential properties. According to county surveys (2024), ADUs command approximately $2,500 in monthly rent, compelling financial returns for Santa Barbara property owners. But here’s the problem: Santa Barbara ADU rules have made it difficult for homeowners to build. Strict zoning laws, setback requirements,…

A saltwater pool is a state-of-the-art solution for keeping the pool clean and a safe swimming environment. With this system, you can easily maximise your pool care. Through automatic chlorine creation, this novel method effectively and naturally disinfects water, improving its quality. Saltwater pool chlorinators use natural salt to produce chlorine, producing clean water gentle to the skin, eyes, and pool parts. The gentle salinity eliminates the harsh chemical smell and irritation associated with conventional pools. Saltwater pool is the ultimate solution to convenience and quality, with self-maintenance and longer life for your pool investment. Discover why pool owners switch…

Choosing white paint shouldn’t be complicated, but somehow, it is. I spent three weeks testing Benjamin Moore’s popular Chantilly Lace in different rooms of my home so you don’t have to waste your time. In this article, I’ll show you exactly how Chantilly Lace looks in real homes under different lighting conditions. You’ll learn: When this crisp white works beautifully When might it create problems How does it compare to other popular whites I’ve been renovating homes for 15 years and have used dozens of white paints. I’ve made expensive mistakes so you don’t have to. By the end of…

Looking for the perfect paint color can be tough. I know the struggle. After testing over 50 paint colors as a home decorator, I can honestly say October Mist is something special. Are you trying to find a calm but not boring color? This post will help you find one. In this article, I’ll show you: What makes October Mist different from other greens Which rooms it works best in What colors and styles match it perfectly Over the past two years, I’ve used this paint in my own home and on many client projects. The results speak for themselves.…

Are you struggling to pick the perfect paint color? This article covers everything about Benjamin Moore’s Sea Pearl – from its unique qualities to the best ways to use it. I’ll solve your color dilemma by showing exactly how Sea Pearl works with different floors, furnishings, and lighting conditions. Why trust me? During my 15 years as a painter and designer, I’ve used Sea Pearl in over 30 homes. I’ve seen it in north—and south-facing rooms, in small apartments, and in large houses. If you’re searching for a versatile neutral that won’t feel boring or dated, keep reading. I’ll share:…

Bathrooms carry more weight than their size suggests. They’re where people prepare for what’s ahead and shake off what’s behind. When the space ceases to be functional, even simple routines can feel off balance. Upgrades and renovations don’t have to involve an overwhelming, full-scale remodel. Sometimes, a simple alteration is all it takes to realign the function of a room. With the right updates, a bathroom becomes easier to use, more pleasant to be in, and better suited to serve your needs. Every part of a bathroom should work cohesively for maximum function. Storage, lighting, surfaces, and layout are all…

Are you looking for a fun, creative way to transform your living space? Say hello to DIY custom paint by numbers, a simple yet impactful craft project that lets anyone (yes, even non-artists!) create beautiful, personal artwork for their home. With paint by numbers, you can turn cherished memories into custom art pieces or add a pop of color to your walls. This guide walks you through every step, from gathering supplies to achieving those professional-looking results. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, an interior design fan, or just someone who loves art, this guide is perfect for elevating your home…

Are you dreaming of beautiful granite countertops but shocked by installation quotes? I was, too. After getting estimates that made my eyes water, I decided to install granite countertops myself—and saved over $2,400! In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through every step of DIY granite installation, from selecting the perfect stone to the final polish. You’ll learn exactly what tools you need, how to measure correctly, and the tricks I learned that made my countertops look professional. I’ve been working on home improvement projects for years, and I can assure you that with careful planning and the right approach,…

Have you ever tried getting that beautiful sun-bleached look on your wooden furniture only to end up with something that looks… well, wrong? You’re not alone. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to create that gorgeous, light-washed wood finish you’ve been dreaming about. No more guesswork or ruined projects. I’ve been refinishing furniture and have made every mistake possible so you don’t have to. The techniques I’m sharing have been tested on dozens of wood types in my workshop. If you’re looking to brighten up dark furniture, create a coastal vibe, or refresh tired wood pieces,…

Ever stood there with a caulking gun in hand, feeling totally lost? You’re not alone. That awkward moment when the caulk oozes out uncontrollably or barely comes out at all is something we’ve all experienced. In this article, I’ll explain exactly how to use a caulking gun properly—from loading the tube to getting the perfect bead of caulk every time. I’ve worked on home improvement projects and have made every caulking mistake possible so you don’t have to. The techniques I’ll share have been tested on countless bathroom tubs, kitchen counters, and window frames. Whether you’re tackling your first DIY…