A focus on function creates a kitchen that doesn't look or feel stunted despite its square footage

Upgrading Below Grade
Full-service remodelers can have their time nickel-and-dimed with a flurry of little projects. That makes it important to take advantage of the big projects that come along such as a basement remodel. Well-constructed basements have characteristics that make them suitable for daily living space.

A Taste of Energy Efficiency
Here are the five ingredients of an energy- and water-efficient kitchen, no matter its layout, size or amenities. They are all easy to find and install.

Let the Sunshine In
The focal point of the master suite is the window wall, which celebrates the beauty, imagination and range of variety within core, basic shapes.

Growing Up Green
A remodeler takes an energy-efficient approach to a renovation of his own home.

Rebuilding an 1870s Shack
An 1870s shack is rebuilt and reborn with 21st-century materials.

Marketing: To Survive or Thrive?
With a proactive marketing plan, you can not only survive but thrive through the tough economic times.

Mission Accomplished
A nightmare remodel — just begging to be bulldozed — turns into a dream come true thanks to the contractor's creative approach.

Silence is Golden
Strategies for absorbing, reducing and eliminating household noise.

Parting Worlds
Bright colors bring playful innocence to a basement with a notorious past.

Improving the Odds
Anticipating the worst allows Olsen Homes & Renovation to plan for the best.

Franchising: Is it for You?
A franchised business is not right for everyone, and not everyone is right to be a franchisee. Why?

Light Up the Lower Level
Transforming an unfinished basement into a bedroom suite and more.

Kitchen Conversion
How to get good looks for less.

The Basics of Universal Design
Simple home modifications for an aging consumer base.

Self-Expression Showcase
Architect-homeowners renovate a modernist display case.

Putting in the Fix
A faulty 12-year-old remodel turns a "cosmetic" problem into a contractor's chance to save the day and win more work.

Creating a Contemporary Masterpiece
Homeowners' input makes for an eclectic ambiance.

Designing a Dream
Architectural details make for an uplifting outcome.

A Cold Winter Still Brings in Sunshine
Maxing window space opens the kitchen and the view.

Building Equity
Buying and improving a rental fixer-upper brings short-and long-term payoff.

Remodel Redux
Fixing a 1950s kitchen in a stone 1812 addition to a 1722 home.