Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for January

This month, as you make your resolutions to spend less, go on a diet, join a gym, learn a new skill, or perhaps just find more time for yourself, consider adding another goal for 2014—putting your house on an energy diet. If you want to keep your house trim and fit in the new year, adopt these 12 easy ways to reduce your energy consumption and costs.

Although many of today’s homeowners opt for the convenience of a gas fireplace, the traditionalists among us still prefer the smoky smell, crackling sound, and tactile ritual of a real wood fire. There is an art to building a fire, but it all begins with the right choice of wood—and, of course, a fireplace that has been properly maintained.

Wood floors are a thing of beauty, but only if they are well maintained. If your floors have lost their luster, are riddled with scratches and gouges, or show signs of neglect, age, and wear, don't despair. There are a number of remedies you can try, from sandpaper and stain to precolored latex wood filler. Check out our Rx for Hardwood Floors.

January is the month for fresh starts. In our busy lives, any new beginning should include clearing out the clutter that has a habit of taking over our homes—and lives. Start with the closets (keep what you use and shed what you don't), then tackle the drawers and organize your cupboards—where you may find items that you can repurpose into useful storage containers. The journey begins here: We've put together a plan to get you clutter-free in 30 days!

Now that winter's come, you'll be spending more time indoors. Put your home time to good use by making something fun and creative. For example, even with a minimal amount of DIY skills, materials, tools, and time, you can create a one-of-a-kind headboard. Candidates for repurposing include unused doors, salvaged shutters, or a piece of plywood cut into a distinctive shape and coated with chalkboard paint. Check out these other nine "dreamy" headboards you can make. 

Set your inner interior decorator free by transforming walls, furniture, countertops, and more with DIY decorative finishes, glazes, and treatments. Even if you're not up to the faux bois finish shown here, which was accomplished by means of an easy-to-use tool you can pick up at The Home Depot, a simple can of paint and a brush can transform anything.

Unlike Christmas presents, gingerbread cookies, and wrapped gifts, holiday plants—poinsettias, amaryllis, paper whites, and Christmas cacti—can let you exercise your green thumb, even during the dormant winter months. While there’s no guarantee these plants will bloom again next year (they can be a little persnickety), you can certainly try. Here are some tips for getting amaryllis and poinsettias to rebloom. Good luck!

Discover and admire beautiful and innovative home architecture, from grand Victorians to quaint cabins and all the styles in between. Take a look at the latest images and inspiration!