Sheila Kim

Dec 24, 2024 | thespruce.com | Sheila Kim

Aside from literally and figuratively brightening your day, ample natural light offers an array of benefits: It reduces your dependency on energy use and visually expands and opens a space. But if you’re inhabiting a sunlight-challenged apartment, particularly a rental unit, you might be wondering what non-lease–breaking alterations you can easily do yourself to combat poor sun exposure. Read on to learn nine decorative strategies any apartment dweller can apply.

Nov 28, 2024 | thespruce.com | Sheila Kim

When it comes to hosting your very own dinner party, it could be daunting to think about the chores that come with the big task. But just a few to-dos before and after the big event will leave you feeling well-prepared and relaxed enough to host flawlessly. We spoke with home entertaining and organizing experts to learn what are must-dos before guests arrive, as well as a few tips and tricks that will help make the post-event tidying go more swiftly and smoothly.

Nov 26, 2024 | wsj.com | Christina Poletto |Kelsey Mulvey |Sheila Kim |Sal Vaglica

What’s second only to a gift you’ve made yourself (in an alternate universe where you have endless free time)? An impressive, folksy offering that other human hands have crafted. Charming imperfections—swirls in the blown glass of a soap dispenser, the knobby knots of a handwoven welcome mat—reveal the gifts below as one of a kind. We’ve also found winning kits that will make a maker of anyone on your list who’s innately crafty. Everything they need to make a Matisse-inspired needlepoint pillow?

Nov 21, 2024 | thespruce.com | Sheila Kim

When your sofa looks dusty, dull, or dated, you might be thinking it's time to purchase a new one. But compared to other furniture pieces in the home, the couch is something of a costly investment, so pause a moment and consider the many options that you can easily undertake—at a fraction of the cost—to refresh your existing couch. We're sharing all the best ways to transform your old couch to look brand new.

Nov 16, 2024 | thespruce.com | Sheila Kim

Appliances—particularly those used year-round such as refrigerators, cooking ranges, dishwashers, and laundry machines—are such costly big-ticket items, the average shopper would rather wait until a unit dies or is so damaged before replacing that appliance. The good news is that there are deals to be found on appliances if you know when and how to shop for them. We're sharing the best times to buy appliances and our top tips.