Recently we needed a current floor plan to apply for a building permit and show the changes we planned to make. When we dug out the blueprints that came with the house, we were surprised to find they were older than we are. The differences were startling: walls were in completely different locations, and our … Read more

We recently spent a few hours with Andrew Wagner, the new editor-in-chief of ReadyMade magazine, who previously worked at Dwell and American Craft. He has been in his role for several months, and the magazine’s new direction is already showing—both the print edition and the website look fresh and well considered. Shortly after overseeing a … Read more

Danner hiking boots are known for their build quality, durability, and reliable performance. The Mountain 600 line has long been a favorite for day hikes and casual wear around town because it blends comfort, support, and classic styling. Danner’s newest models—the Mountain 600 EVO and the Crag Rat EVO—continue that tradition. Both are engineered to … Read more

When it comes to winterizing and weatherproofing your home, a few inexpensive materials can significantly improve indoor comfort and reduce energy costs. If you have drafty windows but can’t replace them—whether due to cost or because you rent in an older building—simple solutions like plastic shrink wrap can be highly effective. Shrink wrap helps seal … Read more

Working with a skilled interior designer brings expertise, creativity, and coordinated project management that can turn your ideas into a cohesive, beautiful home. To get the most from a full-service interior design engagement, come prepared with focused questions. Knowing how a designer works, how they manage costs, and how they communicate will set the stage … Read more

Every year we make the drive from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe. Instead of taking the faster but monotonous I-5, we choose the scenic US Route 395, which follows the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada. It’s a spectacular route with new discoveries each trip. The 395 corridor is filled with diverse stops that keep … Read more

Since brushless drills and tools first appeared, we’ve recommended them for professional and DIY users alike. Early on, the main drawback was higher cost compared with equivalent brushed-motor tools. As manufacturers such as DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita and Bosch push battery and motor technology forward, extracting more power and longer runtime from each cell becomes increasingly … Read more

When water damage happens, the first priority is identifying the source and assigning the correct water category. Understanding the category is essential because it determines which materials are likely salvageable and which must be discarded for safety reasons. Category III Water Is Dangerous Category III water is the most hazardous. It includes water contaminated with … Read more

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have surged in popularity in recent years, driven by rising housing costs and the increase in remote work. These compact secondary homes offer flexible solutions for homeowners seeking extra space, rental income, or multigenerational living arrangements. Also known as in-law units, granny flats, or casitas, ADUs are now commonly referred to … Read more

This summer, national parks are on our minds. Recently we drove the scenic Route 395 from Lake Tahoe, traveling down the Eastern Sierra and skirting both Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks—places where we’ve enjoyed camping on past trips. Air Wick has captured that national park spirit in a new National Park Collection of fragrances. The … Read more