Thrive Furniture is doing exceptionally well. That was my main impression after touring their Los Angeles factory, where they design, manufacture, and ship every product. Alex Del Toro, Thrive’s skilled online director and the person behind their polished website, led me on a comprehensive tour of the main factory and an additional workshop that produces … Read more
CertainTeed Corporation has partnered with Penn State University to develop a solar energy training facility and the GridSTAR Net Zero Energy Demonstration Structure pictured above. This initiative represents the second phase of the innovative GridSTAR Center smart energy campus at The Navy Yard in Philadelphia, a campus dedicated to advancing renewable energy, smart-grid technologies, and … Read more
The trusted toolmaker SKILSAW has introduced a new magnesium-bodied worm-drive circular saw. The SHD77M-02 is remarkably light for this class of saw, weighing just 12.5 pounds, which reduces strain on your arms and back during heavy cutting tasks. This lightweight worm-drive saw is an excellent upgrade for professionals and hobbyists alike—an ideal gift for yourself … Read more
Bathrooms are peculiar. They are often among the smallest rooms in a home, yet they consume a disproportionately large share of renovation budgets and show their age faster than most spaces. The all-gray craze of the 2010s is a reminder that trends can quickly feel dated. There’s no single perfect formula for a lasting bathroom, … Read more
Introducing the Traeger Flatrock Griddle: a versatile, high-performance tool that elevates outdoor cooking for home chefs and serious grill enthusiasts alike. If you’re adding tools to your outdoor cooking arsenal, the Traeger Flatrock griddle deserves strong consideration. Built with quality materials and designed for wide-ranging use, it provides a large, dependable cooking surface ideal for … Read more
When I visit my family, my mother always complains about the state of her wood floors. She would love to refinish them, but between caring for an elderly dog, other home projects, and a tight budget, a full professional refinish isn’t feasible right now. I asked Tony Pastrana, who works in Installation Training & Services … Read more
Griddles are standard equipment in professional kitchens worldwide, but they’re still uncommon in many home setups. After testing the Char-Broil 2-Burner Griddle, I’m convinced this straightforward appliance deserves a place in your outdoor cooking area. This was my introduction to griddle cooking, and it quickly became clear what I’ve been missing. The Char-Broil handles a … Read more
It’s here: the weekend Angelenos have been dreading for months — CARMAGEDDON. For two days the 405 freeway will be closed across a roughly 10-mile stretch between the I-10 and the 101 while crews repair a damaged bridge. The lead-up to the closure has felt a bit like Y2K, with many people planning to stay … Read more
Lighting plays a far more important role in a home than many homeowners realize. The right lighting improves comfort, boosts functionality, enhances interior design, and can even increase a property’s value. Whether you’re remodeling a single room or updating an entire house, modern lighting upgrades can dramatically change the look and feel of your living … Read more
SEMA 2021 was an incredible event. After a two-year break between major tradeshows, I wasn’t sure what to expect in terms of attendance or atmosphere. The 2019 show set a high bar, and to my surprise SEMA 2021 came very close—packed with enthusiasm, busy exhibit halls, and plenty of people eager to see the latest … Read more