It's Time For Home Fall Design Trends

What's happening in the world of home design this fall? According to this group of experts, it's more "mix" and less "match." But do they agree on grey being the color of the season? Take a look at what they had to say about these topics and more.

http://www.lohud.com/story/money/real-estate/homes/sell-this-house/2014/10/10/home-design-trends-fall/17027937/

Remodeling Your Home? Keep It Small

When people dream about renovating their home, they sometimes envision grandiose plans of addition and expansion. But often it's better to keep everything on a smaller scale. Before you go crazy on your next remodeling project, take a step back and ask, "Is bigger really better?"

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865612870/Bigger-isn7t-always-better-in-home-remodeling.html?pg=all

Replacing House Windows Can Yield Resale Benefits

We all know there are certain home improvement projects that are more exciting than others. Redoing your bathroom or kitchen, for example, allows for a certain amount of creativity. When it comes to replacing windows, however, most homeowners respond with a big yawn. If you are interesting in selling your house, though, changing those frames and panes could be a worthy investment.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/a-not-so-sexy-home-improvement-project-with-real-benefits-2014-10-06

TV Expanding Its Foundation of Home Improvement Shows

If you like watching home improvement shows, then you are probably pretty satisfied with your TV options these days. Networks are zeroing in on the popularity of DIY projects, with about 180 renovation-related shows currently in development. Wow.

http://www.latimes.com/home/la-hm-home-show-hosts-20140906-story.html

Boost Bathroom Appeal With These Renovation Tips

Everybody likes a new bathroom. In fact, these relatively small spaces can make or break the sale of a house. If you are looking to sell your home, or simply want to spruce up where you live, then bathrooms are a good place to start. Take a look at the following renovation tips for your bathroom.

http://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2014/07/18/13-ways-to-save-on-your-bathroom-renovation

Some Home Renovations Not Worth the Money

We often talk about which home renovations can help improve the value of your property. But there are some alterations that may be more trouble (and expense) than they are worth. Take a look at these five projects that may not be the best use of your time or finances.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2014/07/12/home-renovations-to-avoid/12483595/

These 10 DIY Projects Can Help Home's Curb Appeal

When you are trying to sell your home, first impressions matter. And the first thing prospective buyers see is the exterior of your house. There are several projects you can take care of yourself to aid your home's curb appeal.

http://www.theintelligencer.com/article_91c02317-6e2b-53df-aa3a-28251bbb6786.html

Construction Site Leads To Fabulous Fossil Find

Sometimes construction can yield more than what's on the blueprints. Excavation can especially be full of surprises. Take, for example, the recent fossil find at a construction site in Fremont, Calif.

http://www.mercurynews.com/science/ci_26099360/fossil-treasure-trove-discovered-at-silicon-valley-construction

Ohio Man, 91, Creating Small-Scale Replica of Jacobs Field

Attention to detail is a trait that every good building contractor understands well. That's why we can especially appreciate the work of Joe Duncan, a 91-year-old man who is building a detailed replica of Jacobs Field. It's not the first model he's undertaken, but it may be the most intricate, right down to the seating on the third-base line. Take a look at his amazing work!

http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2014/06/jacobs_field_ballpark_joe_dunc.html

When Renovating Home, Choose Contractor Wisely And Don't Forget Insurance

There are many things to consider when renovating your home. Two of the most important aspects involve selecting an experienced, trustworthy contractor and setting up adequate insurance for the project. The following article offers some advice to help your remodeling process go as smoothly as possible.

http://www.idahostatejournal.com/vac/money_and_finance/home-renovation-starts-with-good-planning-and-good-insurance/article_c63c5788-ecb2-547b-8cd1-17a6fe652e3b.html

Be Smart About Home Renovation With These 5 Tips

Most people like the idea of renovating their home, but what are the best changes to make? Although any upgrade is welcome, there are some aspects of a house that can create more bang for the buck. Read on to discover how steel doors, wood decks and kitchen remodeling can make your home renovation truly shine.

http://wallstcheatsheet.com/personal-finance/5-of-the-most-profitable-home-renovations-you-could-make.html/?a=viewall

Restaurant Rewards Couple For 'Well-Behaved' Kid

Are you one of those people who notices children in restaurants? Particularly when they are quiet? A restaurant in Canada issued a "well behaved kids" discount to a couple dining on Mother's Day with their 1-year-old daughter. How do you feel about the idea?

http://www.click2houston.com/news/restaurant-gives-family-wellbehaved-kids-discount/25950458

Modern Kitchen Renovations Combine Style, Utility

Many people take pride in their kitchens, and rightly so. This room not only provides food, but for many individuals, it also gives a home its soul. It's no wonder, then, that kitchens are one of the most-renovated parts of a house. If you are considering a remodeling of your kitchen, then take a look at some of the newest trends.

http://www.columbian.com/news/2014/may/08/high-profile-modern-kitchens-benefit-updates/ 

Beard Awards Name America's Best Restaurants for 2014

The highly coveted James Beard Awards have been announced, marking the best that American restaurants have to offer in 2014. The annual recognition is one of the most prestigious honors available in the U.S. dining industry and includes a variety of categories, such as best new restaurant, outstanding bar program and outstanding chef. Take a look at the results.

http://eatocracy.cnn.com/2014/05/05/2014-james-beard-awards-chefs-and-restaurants-winners-are/

Spring Is Time To Deck Your Home With New Patio

Now that winter has faded away, it's time to enjoy what Spring has to offer. With a new patio deck, you can bask in the beautiful, blooming and bustling outdoors. Just keep in mind these tips as you are planning this exciting home addition.

http://www.neagle.com/article/20140411/News/140419874

Use Tile to Add Style -- And Easy Maintenance -- to Floors

When you are building or upgrading your home, one of the best investments you can make is tile flooring. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also easy to clean. Plus, there are tons of options, ranging in color, size, texture and price. Read on to learn some tips for choosing the right tile.

http://ravallirepublic.com/special-section/how-to/article_00aae254-c102-5918-95d1-1c317ffbcdfa.html

Renovating Your Home for Spring? Let There Be Light!

Take advantage of Spring to lighten up your home. Consider projects like inserting a skylight or sprucing up your walls with a brighter shade of paint. Not only can these changes enliven your abode, but they may also provide added value to your home.

http://marion.wickedlocal.com/article/20140414/NEWS/140418854/12445/LIFESTYLE

Tableside Computer Tablets Add Speed, Entertainment to Restaurant Dining

That computer tablet you’re holding in your hand could be coming to a restaurant table near you.

An increasing number of food establishments are turning to technology to add some spark to their service. Well-known restaurant chains like Chili’s Bar & Grill and Applebee’s, as well as smaller eateries across the United States, are incorporating tableside touchscreen tablets so customers can order drinks, appetizers, desserts or even their entire meal.

With the unlimited aspect of technology, restaurants can offer more detailed menu descriptions and nutritional information.

Another use for the tablets is quick payment, as diners can swipe their credit card themselves.

Not only is this mobile technology being used to speed up ordering, but it is also providing a means of entertainment for customers. Diners can tap into sports shows or listen to music while they are eating or awaiting their food. It’s a more personalized approach to the televisions you see hanging around many sports bars.

Other entertaining features include interactive games for adults and children. That means, instead of a ubiquitous pack of crayons, kids could use a touchscreen tablet to play connect the dots, conduct a word search or paint a picture.

Restaurants are utilizing these tablets in a variety of ways, including setting up special kiosks or simply providing handheld devices to patrons. Both options seem to be getting positive feedback from clientele.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Detractors are worried about the effect these tablets will have on waiters and waitresses, including whether jobs will be lost in the name of technology.

Other concerns revolve around the dining experience itself, as some opponents decry the solitary nature of these handheld devices. After all, “eating out” is typically a social endeavor. Will that camaraderie be lost if guests have their noses buried in a tablet?

Regardless of debate, it seems that tableside tablets are the trend du jour. Tech companies like MenuPad, Ziosk and E La Carte are striking more deals with restaurants across the United States, so don’t be surprised to be working with one of these devices the next time you stop in at your favorite dining spot. 

Restaurant Customers Use Social Media to Protest Menu Changes

Ever been disappointed when your favorite eatery updates its menu -- and gets rid of your favorite dish? You are not alone, and there are plenty of social media campaigns to prove it. Find out how your fellow diners are fighting for what they want to eat.

http://time.com/59733/social-media-is-bringing-back-chain-restaurant-menu-items-from-the-dead/

Take Time to Create Solid 'Blueprint' for Renovation Project

It can be easy to get over-excited when you are planning a renovation for your home. But be sure to step back and make a plan ... before you jump into any changes. By taking your time, you can avoid mistakes and ultimately achieve the home upgrade you desire.

http://www.dailyinterlake.com/online_features/real_estate/renovating-laying-a-good-foundation-for-home-improvement-success/article_65f64586-1afe-517b-8d18-b339b013b286.html