Author: Thomas Avery

I’ve lived in more than one rental with weird bumpy walls, and even owned a house covered in that “knockdown” texture. So yeah, I’ve definitely stood in the aisle at the home improvement store wondering: can you put wallpaper on textured walls without it looking awful? Short answer? It depends. And there are definitely things to watch for. If you’re asking the same thing, this post is for you. I’ll walk you through which wall textures can handle wallpaper, which ones really can’t, what happens if you skip prep, and how to get it right the first time. If you’re…

The kitchen island is often the center of the action in many homes, where we cook, eat, and spend time together. Because it’s in the middle of everything, decorating the island countertop is a great way to make the kitchen look even better. The right decorations can make the space more fun and useful, in case you want to organize your things or just make the island feel cozy. From simple ideas to more creative touches, there are so many ways to make your kitchen island special. In this post, I’m going to share some ideas that can help you…

Are you struggling to choose the right paint color for your mudroom? I get it, this small but high-traffic space needs to be both practical and inviting. As someone who’s tackled my own mudroom makeover, I’ve learned that the right color can make a huge difference in how the room feels and functions. The wrong shade can make the space feel darker or less welcoming, while the right one can open it up and make it feel more organized. In this blog, I’ll share the best mudroom paint color ideas that are not only stylish but also durable enough to…

Black tiles can really change the look of your bathroom, giving it a bold and stylish feel. From eye-catching black floors to smooth black accent walls, these tiles provide many design options. In this article, I’ll share some creative black tile bathroom ideas to inspire your next renovation. You’ll find everything from modern, minimalist looks to more dramatic, high-contrast designs. I remember when I first used black tiles in my own bathroom renovation – it instantly made the space feel more polished and stylish. If you’re considering black tile for the floor, shower, or as a feature wall, there’s a…

If you’re updating your kitchen with white cabinets and granite countertops, finding the right backsplash can make a big difference. I remember when I remodeled my own kitchen and struggled to choose a backsplash that would tie everything together. After trying a few options, I finally settled on something simple yet classy. This article covers some backsplash ideas that pair perfectly with these popular features. Whether you want a classic look with subway tiles or something more unique with bold patterns, you’ll find options to suit any style and budget. If you’re after a sleek, modern look or a cozy,…

When it comes to kitchen design, one of my favorite trends is two-tone blue and white cabinets. This combination brings a fresh, modern feel to any space while maintaining a sense of warmth and coziness. The contrast between the deep blue and crisp white creates a stunning visual appeal that can fit both traditional and contemporary kitchens. If you’re looking to update your kitchen with something timeless yet stylish, this pairing is definitely worth considering. In this blog, I’ll guide you through incorporating two-tone blue and white cabinets into your kitchen, providing tips on color choices, layout ideas, and how…

I’ve spent a lot of time researching kitchen cabinet options, and melamine cabinets really stood out to me. They’re stylish, affordable, and easy to maintain, which makes them a strong choice for my own space. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything, from what melamine cabinets are to their pros and cons, different finish options, how they compare to wood and laminate, and what to expect in terms of cost and installation. I’ll also share a few care tips and design ideas I found helpful when planning my upgrade. If you’re shopping around or trying to figure out the…

Designing your kitchen can feel like a big job, especially when you’re trying to figure out where to put all the cabinets. I get it-it’s hard to picture what everything will look like just from a list or sketch. That’s where online kitchen cabinet designer tools can help. They let you try out layouts, move things around, and see it all in 3D before anything gets built. You don’t have to guess anymore. You can plan it out, right on your screen, for free. I’ve researched the best online tools that allow you to design your kitchen cabinet layout step…

When I start planning a kitchen update, one of the biggest decisions I face is cabinet style. Frameless kitchen cabinets always grab my attention because of their clean lines, full-access interiors, and sleek modern look. If you’re someone who values minimalist design and smart storage, frameless cabinets might be the perfect fit for your space. I appreciate how these cabinets let the doors cover the full front, creating a flat, uninterrupted surface that works beautifully in both small and open kitchens. They’re available as ready-to-assemble (RTA) kits or in-stock versions at major retailers and showrooms, giving you plenty of flexibility…

Painting IKEA furniture sounds fun, but it can be frustrating if the paint won’t stick. I’ve been there, watching the paint chip off way too easily. That’s because most IKEA pieces are made with a slick, non-absorbent surface. If you skip a few key steps, the paint won’t last. I’ve found a simple way to make the paint stay on and look great. I’ll show you how to get the surface ready, what tools to use, and how to finish it so your makeover holds up over time. You won’t need fancy skills or expensive gear-just the right method. If…