Amazing Money-Saving Makeovers

before + after: kitchen

With a revised ceiling and traditional touches, a bland box becomes warm and welcoming

before + after: bath

Pale finishes and a space-uniting arch give a gloomy guest bath an airy, open feel

updating a cozy Craftsman

A skilled DIYer brings a tired, torn-up 1916 bungalow back to life

low-cost custom details from design pros' own homes

Get inspired with these interior-enhancing ideas

how to get the most out of your contractor

Our insightful guide to today's remodeling realities will help you keep things sailing smoothly

finding the right finish

After some experimenting, the interior woodwork at the latest project house gets just the look the owners were longing for

shopping

Standout stools
• BONUS: Post your suggestions for what you want us to shop for
DEALS
• BONUS: Find TOH-exclusive deals on select stools

shop smarter

Induction cooktops

get this look for less

Quirky cottage-style home office

all about

Pellet stoves
• BONUS: Post what you want to know all about

home solutions

Turn vintage balusters into handsome candlesticks; 10 uses for sash chain; alternative deicers; tips for tracking down bargain remodeling supplies; and more
• BONUS: Read the step-by-step instructions for making candlesticks from vintage balusters

budget redo

Wood trim and paint turn a homely hearth into a handsome centerpiece

paint ideas

Five color combos that will spice up any kitchen's personality

weekend remodel

Give your entryway a style boost with a columned room divider
• BONUS: Find the cut list and step-by-step instructions for this project
• BONUS: Watch a video of this project, including extra footage of working around a receptacle

Q + A

Keep kitchen drawer fronts securely in place; the right way to route a bathroom fan duct; cool off a hot dimmer switch; and more

step-by-step

Install kitchen crown molding
• BONUS: Find a list of tools and materials used in this project, along with instructions

Norm's tricks of the trade

Remove the stubborn masonry nails that anchor sleepers to a concrete slab

TOH tested

Combination squares

letter from This Old House

On survival: Wishing us all a safe haven
• Find Hurricane Sandy relief and volunteer sources at thisoldhouse.com/give

digital highlights

Reader Remodel Contest
• How to take magazine-worthy photos of your home
• How to take more-artful garden photos
• Meet last year's Grand Prize winners

reader mail

checklist

Easy ways to improve your home right now

save this old house

A Second Empire in Frankfort, Maine, that's loaded with original details