July 2008

Between friends

A few weeks ago, I visited our friend Joan, who is finishing up the renovation of her 1930s Cape Cod-style home. The final piece awaiting completion is a new front porch with sets of French doors to living spaces.

COOL IDEAS

Summer Living's Easy at BHG.com

Independence Play

What's blue and white and red all over? The Fourth of July. Cookbook author Regina Charboneau spends summer's happiest holiday outdoors-- with a gathering so effortless she enjoys it as much as her guests. We invite you to do the same.

ALL ABOUT COLOR

Peony petals from powder pinks to rich berry reds inspire a bouquet of fresh-cut colors.

Outside-In Rugs

All-weather rugs brave the elements outside yet wear equally well in heavily trafficked rooms indoors.

STYLEMAKER

"Once you start mixing artifacts with antiques and modern pieces, you never go back. It's a fun way to live with your vacation treasures."

Some Like It White

A warmed-up white-on-white palette makes this small home live large for a family of five.

Easy Does It

We designed this "Everyday Easy" kitchen to save you time, keep you organized, and welcome your family with sit-down comfort.

A Place in the Sun

Turn a sunroom from a landing spot for houseplants into the most popular room in the house. How? Add bursts of bright color, revamped tag sale purchases, and lots of personal details.

Weatherproof Cushions

Elegant Turn

In this empty living room, contributing editor Stephen Saint-Onge saw a diamond in the rough. A cool new color scheme, classic furniture, and glam accessories give the space polish.

Instant Oasis

A pinch of color and a dash of decor turn a simple canopy into a luxurious outdoor room.

His, Hers, Theirs

A family finds harmony without compromise in a stylish, kid-friendly garden.

SLICK TRICK

SHINE ON

EACH A SHOWPIECE

GREEN OIL

THIS MONTH IN THE GARDEN

Floral Fireworks

Set off an explosion of red, white, and blue with these patriotic container combos.

Off the Beaten Track

Change up your summer-- and your life-- by exploring new roads and new experiences.

Exotic Oriental Poppy Garden

Summer Paradise

A smartly designed garden offers outdoor sanctuary for the whole family.

SQUEEZE PLAY

Two parents, three rambunctious boys, and a dog under one not-so-big roof? It all adds up to pure bliss for this family.

GREAT LAKE escape

A colorful and casual decorating style suits this remodeled cottage's sun-splashed rooms.

ON THE ROCKS

BBQ BOOKS

Article

TIP OF THE MONTH

LIGHT UP THE BARBECUE

No Sweat

Keep your cool through the night, no matter what your hormones are doing.

Coach for Life

Use the lessons sports teach to guide your kids in the biggest challenge of all.

Reblooming Irises

These eight fragrant Iris varieties are changing the look of fall gardens.

I Did It!