The Dean of Home Renovation & Repair Advice

Author Archives: Gretchen Grant

Gretchen Grant

About Gretchen Grant

General Manager at BobVila.com. Since buying a condo in NYC, home improvement has taken on a whole new meaning for her. Her prized possession: her father’s gift of a big red toolbox.

Three Home Improvement Innovations

Induction cooktop that uses magnets to create heat.

Photo: Summit Appliance

Cooktops that use magnets to generate heat.  Lawn trimmers without wheels.  Dishwashers for outdoors.  Innovation is happening all over home improvement.  It’s inspiring to us here at BobVila.com to see companies invest the best of their creative energies to address home improvement needs.  We know our readers invest a lot of time and energy in their do-it-yourself projects, after all.  But how do you sort through the ever growing options?  Here are three trends that Bob has followed throughout his career.  We think they are particularly relevant today, and focusing on them is a good way to make the most of your time and budget

Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Design

From photovoltaic roof shingles in the Habitat For Humanity TV project, to air quality improvements in Babyproofing the House, to Bob’s new Building Green Web series, Bob has focused on eco-friendly solutions as a way to help the environment and save money at the same time.  Learn about what you can do for sustainability in this video of how a Georgian Colonial house was rebuilt after extensive mold damage.  See how architect Allen Shope’s earth-bermed house, built into a hillside, saved energy and lowered utility bills.

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A Tape Measure with a Story

GGrant Tape Measure Bob Vila Tools

This old tape measure follows me around everywhere.  My father gave it to me, and it does the trick.  Sure, it’s a little heavier than today’s newest models and the tape itself doesn’t stay extended with a flick of a button.  But it’s a happy memory plus a working tool, and has pride of place in my belongings.

For many of us, home improvement was a chance for parents or other mentors to give us welcome advice. Do-it-yourself projects were do-it-together occasions, and we learned practical knowledge that still serves us today.  For example, from working with a tape measure I learned:

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New Product: The Flux Chair

Flux Chair plastic seating

We at BobVila.com are dedicated to bringing you the most practical home improvement advice.  This new chair from Flux struck us as the ultimate in smart design and small space solutions.  Shown at the New York International Gift Show this week, the flat sheet of plastic on the right assembles into the chair on the left in just a few minutes (check out the video below).  When we tried it out, we were amazed by its comfort and stability.  You can buy cushions for the seat—though the chair was plenty comfortable without one—and wall hangers are available to store it flat.

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