Bob's Blogs » Mackenzie Miller

On-Campus Living

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:32:58 +0000

Photo: dormdesign.tumblr.com

There’s no time like college to get acquainted with beginners’ DIY projects. In most on-campus living scenarios, you’re virtually given a blank slate (in the form of a spare or even bare dorm room). People don’t want to feel as if they’re living in borrowed space, least of all during the ‘glory days’ of college, so here are some ideas on how to make yourself at home.

Make a List
The first step is talking to a resident advisor at your school (failing that, try calling the office in charge of student living). Ask specific questions about what you can and cannot alter in your room. If you break the rules, you’re likely to be charged a fee upon moving out. Find out whether you can put holes in the walls to hang frames, for instance, or whether painting is tolerated. The idea is to determine where your creative energy will be spent most responsibly.

Photo: hgtvremodels.com

Painting
The quickest, least expensive, and (just maybe) the best way to transform a room is with paint. If your dorm allows painting, then you’re well on the way to making the room distinctly yours. Consider painting an accent wall in your bedroom to add interest, or simply coordinate your walls with a favorite color in your bedding. There are lots and lots of possibilities. Just remember you’ll have to live with your choice for eight months!

Photo: rubbermaid.com

Storage Wars
If you’re like most college students, you’ll get to your dorm with too much stuff and too little storage space. Avoid overrunning your shared space by purchasing an under-bed storage box, like the above product from Rubbermaid. Search around—it’s all about finding the perfect container for your room! Small, stacking drawers are great, too; they’re a cheap way to virtually double your room’s storage potential in a hassle-free way. Also, maximize the storage potential of your closet by using its full height. Add a second rod (above or below the existing one) for an additional support on which to hang clothing.

Photo: walmart.com

A Place to Sit
Institutes of higher learning tend to skimp on dorm room furniture. You’ll probably get a bed frame, desk, and desk chair—maybe a dresser if you’re lucky. But having a place to sit and relax is a big deal. Luckily, there are many space-saving options out there for lounging. Folding chairs are a beloved staple, and circular models like the above come in a multitude of fabrics and are easily stored.

Wall Decal from AllPosters.com

Wall Decals
Whether it’s a wall-size map, an evocative beach scene, or a smattering of small flowers, there is surely a stick-on decal to fit your taste and budget. Good places to look for larger-scale wall-transforming decals are IKEA, Target, and online poster retailers (e.g., AllPosters.com).

Photo: ikea.com

Finishing Touches
With so many affordable and attractive lighting options, there’s no reason to suffer office building hallway-type lighting all year. One of my favorite ways to turn a dorm room into a much more welcoming home-away-from-home is indirect lighting. A desk and floor lamp in tandem are much more pleasant than the typical fluorescent overheads found in most dorms.

Whether you’re moving into a brand new building or an older, more worn-in dorm, it may take some work to make the place feel like yours, but you won’t have to break the bank, or your back. Simple ideas like these will have you calling your dorm room “home” in no time!

On-Campus Living Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

DIY Deals: Desk Accessories

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 22:08:52 +0000

Whether you’re focused on going back to school or getting back to organizational sanity, the desk is a great place, maybe the best place, to begin. This time of year everyone seems to be scrambling to get their workspace outfitted, but luckily there are deals to be found on products that will help you maximize the storage potential of your study or office area. There’s spring cleaning and then there’s fall organizing; we’ll help you accomplish the latter without straining your budget.

Lighting. Adequate lighting is a must-have, and of course desktop lamps come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s hard to beat the utility of a lamp with an adjustable neck. This weekend Target is offering a basic, attractive model for just $12.00 (reg. $14.99).

PB Teen, $59.00

In the market for something more elaborate? Consider PB Teen’s task light (pictured above). It features iHome technology (for playing digital music) as well as storage crannies for pencils, clips, and other supplies. At only $59.99 (reg. $69.99), this lamp meets the requirement—adequate lighting—and then delivers much more.

Desk Chairs
One of the most obvious ways to upgrade your workspace is with a comfortable chair, and a new one need not cost a small fortune. The model below from the Container Store, sporting Bungee cords for comfort, is on sale for $149.99 (reg. $189.99).

Container Store, $149.00

If you’re looking for something simpler, PB Teen has a contemporary stationary wood chair, ergonomically designed for comfort, which has been marked down to the reasonable sum of $79.00—swoop in and snag it!

Storage
Whether on top of your desk or just below it, additional storage is always welcome. For the smaller stuff, desk containers like these from PB Teen, on sale for $9.99 (reg. $25.00), will help keep your pens, paper clips, and USB cords all neatly corralled.

Container Store, $7.99

Another great way of keeping your desk organized is to use standing folders. Those pictured above are from the Container Store and cost only $7.99 apiece; invest in a set and your desk surface will remain clutter-free and actually usable for projects (instead of buried under papers).

For heftier items like portfolios or textbooks, storage at the foot of your desk may be in order. This weekend, stackable bins from the Container Store are available for $12.99.

For more on home offices, consider:

Creating Your Home Office Plan
Bob Vila Radio: Dorm Room Storage
Designing a “Green” Home Office

DIY Deals: Desk Accessories Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

Weekend Bargains: Get Grilling!

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 22:59:49 +0000

There’s no denying it, grilling is one of the best parts of summer living. It is a great way to get the family outside, eat healthy, and broaden your culinary horizons. And while autumn is still a ways off, you can find some pretty amazing deals even now on grills of every size, shape, and type. Here’s a sampling of the savings you’re likely to find shopping for grills this weekend.

ELECTRIC GRILLS

PowerChef Pedestal Deluxe Electric Grill at Hayneedle.com, $699.99

If you’re considering an electric grill and have a modest amount of space to spare, a free-standing model like this PowerChef Pedestal Deluxe from Hayneedle.com is a good choice. Featuring sleek, contemporary styling and a dual-element cooking system with 216 square inches of grilling surface, this model is a great buy at $699 (reg. $899.99).

Electric grills are great solutions for apartment and condo dwellers, particularly smaller models like the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor BBQ from Wayfair, now reduced to $99.95 (reg. $128.74). The compact design offers tremendous versatility even in limited space.

A built-in grill is a great way to create a permanent backyard cook station, adding value to your home in the bargain. The stainless steel, 24-inch ElectriChef Island Marine grill top is now just $2,489 (reg. $3,235) at GrillsDirect.com.

CHARCOAL GRILLS

Fire Sense portable grill at Sears, $55.04

Any traditional griller knows that charcoal is the way to go if you’re looking for optimal heat and a hands-on grilling experience. Charcoal grills are also portable, making them ideal for barbecues at home or away. This Fire Sense grill from Sears, now just $55.04 (reg. $71.95), is made of stainless steel, offers 184 inches of cooking surface, and folds up for easy storage.

For a more substantial charcoal grill that still offers mobility, consider the Masterbuilt from Kmart. Featuring dual countertops and a massive interior that can handle 36 burgers at once, the Masterbuilt is a smart buy at just $140 (reg. $199).

If you are looking for a permanent mounted grill, consider the Ultra Play Bi-Level Grill from Sears. Reminiscent of the stationary grills at campgrounds, this one mounts on a 4-inch-square post, is powder-coated, and offers a massive 1,008 square inches of cooking surface. The price is now reduced to $848.69 (reg. $975.99).

GAS GRILLS

Gas grills are an excellent option for cooks looking to enjoy all the benefits of grilling without the mess created by, or skill required in, cooking with charcoal. Push-button convenience and temperature controls on models like the Coleman Road Trip Grill, now $159.99 (reg. $199.99) on Amazon, make grilling fast, fun, and easy.

For the more committed gas griller, there are bargains on free-standing backyard appliances like the KitchenAid Pedestal Grill, now at Sears from $569.99 (reg. $599.99). Dual cooking surfaces and spacious side prep shelves make it a substantial yet movable option for your deck or patio.

Jenn-Air 5-Burner Gas Grill at Lowe's, $699

If you’re devoted to the idea of a gas grill, maybe an installed unit is the way to go. It personalizes your grill and allows you to customize your preparation space and style. This Jenn-Air built-in model, on sale for $699.99 (reg. $899.99) at Lowe’s, offers substantial grilling power and space and the customized look of a built-in appliance.

For more on grilling, see:
How To: Care for Your Grill
Installing an Outdoor Electric Grill
Pick the Right Grill

Weekend Bargains: Get Grilling! Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

DIY Deals: Outdoor Rugs

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 23:21:50 +0000

Outdoor rugs are a great way to add interest, warmth, and character to your patio, porch, or deck. And with the variety of designs, shapes, and sizes available at retail, they are an easy—and inexpensive—style solution for just about any exterior living space. As the end of summer quickly approaches, some of the best outdoor rugs are already available at reduced prices. Here’s a sampling of what we found… just in time for weekend shopping!

Graphic Designs

Pottery Barn, from $35

Geometric rugs like this Farah Diamond indoor/outdoor design from Pottery Barn are now on sale, from $35-$299 (reg. $59-$499). Handwoven with weather-resistant recycled polyester yarns, the colors, pattern and decorative fringe will liven up any drab outdoor space.

For an overall graphic design, consider the Bimini Black/Sand rug from Overstock.com. Measuring 10′ x 11′ and made from 100% fine-spun polypropylene with fringeless border, the rug is marked down 30% to $197.69 (reg. $280.99) and certain to make a statement indoors and out.

A variety of outdoor rugs are also available at Wayfair. The Moroccan-inspired Trans Ocean Floor Tile rug is just one example, now starting at $49 (reg. $79). Made from synthetic fibers, it is durable, easy-care, and UV-stabilized for fade resistance—plus it’s got a knockout pattern.

Stripes

Restoration Hardware, from $45

If you’re not ready to plunge into the geometric trend, solid rug patterns are not your only alternative. Stripes add interest in a classic way, especially when they are as subtly patterned as these Valencia Striped rugs from Restoration Hardware. On sale now from $45-$315 (reg. $65-$395), they are the perfect complement to a variety of outdoor schemes, from casual to traditional.

For a more broad and colorful pattern, consider the 5 Seasons Collection South Padre Rug from Outdoor Rugs Only, reduced to $29-$319 (reg. $36.25-$398.75). An all-weather rug manufactured by Couristan, it is power-loomed of 100% fiber-enhanced Courtron polypropylene and certain to add lasting color and pattern to any outdoor space.

A Solid Choice

Crate & Barrel, from $62.95

Perhaps your outdoor scheme is busy enough, or you’re looking to create a more serene area? Then solid rugs are the way to go. This Biscayne beauty in Pecan coloring from Crate & Barrel will never go out of style. Made in Belgium of 100% polypropylene, you can pick up a 4′ x 6′ rug for just $62.95 (reg.$89.95). Additional sizes—at similar savings—are also available.

Always offering low prices and high quality, Hayneedle features a variety of indoor/outdoor rugs, including the Colonial Mills Janelle Lamp Simply Home Braided rug, now on sale from $48.99 (reg.$58.99). Combining polypropylene braided construction with an earthy, golden hue, the rug is certain to be a timeless addition to your backyard oasis.

For more on outdoor living, consider:

10 Fire Pits We Love
Shopping for a Swing Set
Get Inspired! 12 Sensational Deck Designs

DIY Deals: Outdoor Rugs Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

DIY Deals: Bird Baths

Mackenzie Miller — Sat, 28 Jul 2012 18:18:18 +0000

If you’re looking to bring charm and variety to your outdoor space, a bird bath is the perfect choice. Not only will it add a decorative accent to your garden, it will provide a welcoming oasis for your yard’s feathered friends. We’ve done the bargain-hunting for you, and as the end of summer approaches, there are some great deals to be had. Here’s just a sampling of what you are likely to find this weekend.

Hadley Birdbath at RH, from $315

A great source for substantial and classic outdoor pieces, Restoration Hardware is offering special pricing on an assortment of bird baths, including this Hadley design for $315 (reg. $350). From linear to romantic and available in a variety of washes and finishes, you are certain to find something to grace your garden for years to come.

You can find some great options at Plow & Hearth, too, including the Vineyard Solar Bird Bath with Planter. Made of durable cast aluminum and iron, the all-in-one planter/bird bath comes with a solar-powered light for night bathers and is just $139.99 (reg $199.95).

For the smaller garden, consider something like the Campania International Songbird’s Rest Cast Stone bird bath from Hayneedle. Combining a compact design with the authentic look of antique stone statuary, it is perfect for small spaces and—at $54.99 (reg. $82.99)—for all budgets.

Birdbaths.com, from $169.98

Naturally there’s a large selection of designs to be found at BirdBaths.com, like the Spanish Scallop Bird Bath for $169.98 (reg. $199.99). Constructed in weather-resistant marble resin, it features a beautiful scalloped rim with detailed pedestal base and comes with an antiqued finish in choice of colors.

Wayfair is the destination for a full range of outdoor garden accents, including the Orlandi Statuary line of bird baths. Made of a fiber stone composition and finished to look antique, designs like the 17″H Meditating Birdbath with its angelic cherub perched on a sculpted shell basin, is now $63.99 (reg. $121). A beautiful accent for the romantic garden.

Amazon, from $16.64

Amazon offers an array of affordable bird baths as well, including this Esschert Cast Iron Pedestal design measuring just 9″H and 6″ Diameter. At just $16.64 (reg. $18.99) it proves how even diminutive bird baths can bring beauty to your yard and still provide some summer relief for the birds.

For more on outdoor decorating, see:
10 Fire Pits We Love
DIY Deals: Container Gardening
Landscaping Ideas

DIY Deals: Bird Baths Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

DIY Deals: Container Gardening

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 20 Jul 2012 21:57:51 +0000

Photo: container-gardening-for-you.com

Whether you’re a city dweller, rural resident, or citizen of suburbia, container gardening is a convenient way to get the best of the backyard on a small, manageable scale. Rectangular planters are ideal for the patio or a balcony vegetable garden, but circular containers and urns are perfect for the gardeners wishing to plant for purely aesthetic purposes. With the middle of summer upon us, there are some fantastic deals to be taken advantage of. We’ve done the bargain-hunting for you; all you need to do is get to the store and start your DIY project today!

The galvanized metal planter from Privet House for Target is a chic and space-conscious option for the smaller-scale container gardener. At 50% off this weekend, it comes to a smart $17.49.

Restoration Hardware, from $130

Restoration Hardware, purveyor of all things luxurious and substantial, has deals on five lines of planters. If you’re looking for something that makes a statement and lasts forever, take a look at the Estate Zinc Collection, with styles from $130 on sale.

Perfect for a small vegetable garden and designed in traditional cedar, The Home Depot offers Blue Marble Designs’ 40-inch planter at $43.45.

Wayfair, $115

If it’s minimalist appeal you’re looking for—but you don’t want to pay modern art prices—Wayfair offers an affordable 30-inch planter by Gus Modern, fashioned in stainless steel with contemporary styling.

As always, Amazon offers affordable options for the spontaneous DIY container garden project. With 10% savings this weekend, the Adams 36-inch planter is only $29.77.

Hayneedle.com, from $129.98

For longer-rooted plants, cedar planters in either 41-inch or 70-inch sizes are available for 35% off from Hayneedle.com (prices begin at$129.98). Bonus: you’ll get free shipping this weekend.

DIY Deals: Container Gardening Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

5 Outdoor Shed Storage Bargains

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 20:21:08 +0000

Sometimes the garage doesn’t cut it for storing garden tools and lawn supplies. That’s when outdoor storage enters the picture, and right now, there are some fabulous finds on the market.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best bargains you’ll find this weekend at your local and online retailers. From traditional wooden sheds to metal storage closets and greenhouses, you’re bound to find just the right solution for your storage needs.

Outdoor Living Today Garden Chalet from Wayfair

With small to large sizes available, many Outdoor Living Today cedar sheds are being offered at reduced prices from online retailer Wayfair, including the panelized “Garden Chalet” kit shown above, complete with Western Red cedar roof shingles, for $549.98 (reg. $584).

The Home Depot is offering its selection of Lifetime sheds at considerable savings this weekend. Enjoy price cuts of up to $200 on the durable Lifetime plastic resin storage sheds now.

The well-constructed Suncast resin storage sheds are at guaranteed low prices at Sam’s Club. The 10′ x 10′ Suncast storage building—complete with windows, shutters, and window boxes—is reduced to $1,499 ($75 off regular price) and the perfect size for storing garden tools and equipment, including a riding mower.

Arrow Steel Storage Locker Shed from Overstock

If you prefer metal storage, online retailer Overstock offers the Arrow sheds starting at just over $400. The Arrow Steel Storage Locker, pictured above, has a foot print of 2′ x 7′ and features double swing doors, four adjustable wall shelves, and a tool-hanger kit. Priced just right at $421.82.

5 Outdoor Shed Storage Bargains Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com

5 Natural Outdoor Lighting Bargains

Mackenzie Miller — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 17:58:37 +0000

Natural outdoor lighting is the rage in backyard renovation, offering an easy and environmentally friendly way to shed new light on your favorite summer spaces. Whether you’re shopping for luminaries, tiki torches, lanterns, or table lighting, we’ve gathered a list of the best deals you can find this weekend at your local retailers. No matter your budget or taste, you’re bound to find a light source your backyard can’t go without!

RH's Balinese line, from $44.99

Restoration Hardware: Get RH chic at sale prices! Available in six different lines and a variety of sizes starting from just $17, these substantial and unique hanging, tabletop, and floor lanterns are now on sale in stores and online.

Home Depot: With their half-off sale on outdoor décor, The Home Depot is an obvious choice for affordable natural lighting fixtures. For as low as $11.99, find brass torches, lanterns, and tabletop lighting to perfect your outdoor living space.

Pier 1 Cathedral Line, from $8.00

Pier 1 Imports: Starting from just $8.00, Pier 1 has a multitude of hanging and tabletop lanterns, as well as citronella torches, now on clearance. The colored glass and rustic aesthetic might be the vibrant touch your deck or patio area has been waiting for.

West Elm: For $5.99 and up, West Elm retails affordable and charming backyard lighting fixtures, finished in materials from perforated bronze to hand-blown colored glass. The discounted selection of small to large hanging and tabletop lanterns can’t be beat.

Ikea BORRBY Lantern, $6.79

Ikea: From $3.99, always-affordable Ikea offers tabletop lanterns for tea lights and larger candles.

Williams-Sonoma: For larger, more substantial natural lighting, look to Williams-Sonoma. With lanterns on sale from just $59, you can make a bold lighting statement for a price that won’t raise your eyebrows.

For more on outdoor lighting, consider:

Landscape Lighting 101
How To: Devise a Lighting Plan
Outdoor Lighting: 12 Products to Light Your Way

5 Natural Outdoor Lighting Bargains Home Improvement, Home Remodeling & Home Repair - BobVila.com