creative_ideas_-_2008_05-06

M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8

LowesCreativeIdeas.com

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F O R H O M E A N D G A R D E N®

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SIMPLE PLEASURESDESIGNS TO HELP YOU

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

2008

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M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8


WELCOME ❉


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Let’s build something together“Summer afternoon—summer afternoon ... the two most beautiful words in the English language,” Henry James said. And I couldn’t agree more. As warm spring afternoons quietly become warmer summer afternoons, we find ourselves spending

just as much time outdoors as in. The grill is working overtime, your early spring garden plans are coming to fruition, and your spirit is boosted by the extra hours of sunshine. In this issue, find out how adding French doors can blend the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Also, if you’ve wanted to upgrade your kitchen or bath or refresh other rooms in your home, we have a budget-wise kitchen and bath as well as two unique rooms that do double duty. Now you’re all set to take advantage of the coming season and those beautiful summer afternoons!

together“Summer afternoon—summer afternoon ... the two most beautiful words in the English language,” Henry James said. And I couldn’t agree more. As warm spring afternoons quietly become warmer summer afternoons, we find ourselves spending

just as much time outdoors as in. The grill is working

CHECK OUT DANNY SEO’S BLOGWant to find stylish tips for living the green life? Visit LowesCreativeIdeas.com/DannySeo to read the latest blog entry from Danny Seo. From planning a backyard barbecue to the season’s most fruitful plantings, the king of green offers environmentally sound ideas to help you cultivate an eco-friendly lifestyle.

We want to hear from [email protected] or P.O. Box 523, Birmingham, AL 35201

MELISSA BIRDSONG

VICE PRESIDENT,

TREND, DESIGN & BRAND

LOWE’S COMPANIES, INC

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May/June 2008 CONTENTS ❉

10IN EVERY ISSUE 4 MORE ON THE WEB

58 LOWE’S IN YOUR

COMMUNITY

Departments6 WHAT A GREAT IDEA!

Quick projects that get you organized.

10 DECORATING

Front Porch It’s what neighbors and visitors see first. Make it welcoming.

14 UNWIND & DESIGN

Coasters Provide a pretty spot for summer drinks.

16 SHOP SMART

Healthy Home Breathe better with these suggestions for an allergy-free bedroom.

19 OUTDOOR LIVING

Creekbed This problem-solver helps with runoff and adds ambience to a yard.

24 FOCAL POINT

Back Entry French doors help a space to open up and let the outside in.

56 SKILL SET

How To Use a Circular Saw In the second installment of our Skill Set series, learn how to properly use this valuable tool.

60 TREND SPOT

Kitchen Find your favorite trends from this issue’s kitchen makeover.

Your Home30 Two Rooms in One

Our lives are about multitasking, so our rooms should be, too. Take a look at these spaces that work just as hard as you do.

40 A Kitchen That Sings Full of unique touches, this stylish

kitchen update shows plenty of ways to create a custom look for less.

48Quick TurnaroundAre you ready for a bath renewal?

This homeowner proves that you can get a timeless look while staying within your budget.

On the CoverA screened-in porch is

complete with a custom-built hanging bed, which offers a

comfy spot for relaxing. Photo by Howard Lee

Puckett (page 30)

14

Page #:_____________ Proof:________________ Initial:__________

Final approval✔

❉ MORE ON THE WEB

4 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8

LowesCreativeIdeas.comGo online to find additional articles, features, and videos or to sign up for a free subscription to Creative Ideas and our monthly e-newsletter.

More exclusive content from Creative Ideas

A LOWE’S CREDIT CARD

is an easy way to pay for everyday purchases. No annual fee. See store for details, or apply online at Lowes.com/Credit.

Check out these services offered by Lowe’s

*A Project Window is established when an initial purchase of $1,000 or more is made with a Lowe’s Project Card. All purchases made during the six month purchase period after the Project Window begins will be included in the Project Window, and during this six month period, no finance charges are assessed and no payments are required for those purchases. After the six month period ends, standard account terms apply to that Project Window. APR tier will be assigned after Account is opened. APR for first Project Window will be 7.99%, 9.99%, 11.99%, 13.99% or 17.99% if first purchase is made within 60 days after account is opened. Otherwise, a variable APR will apply: 8.99%, 10.99%, 12.99%, 14.99% or 18.99%, as of November 1, 2007. Once APR is assigned to a Project Window, it will not vary for that Project Window. Min. Finance Charge $1.00. After the six month purchase period ends, a new Project Window can be established by making another purchase of $1,000 or more. Subject to credit approval. Excludes any Lowe’s® Credit Accounts originated in Canada.

(Page 61) **Pella received the highest numerical score among window and door manufacturers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on responses from 3,039 consumers measuring 9 brands and measures opinions of consumers who purchased new windows or patio doors in the previous 12 months. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in April-July 2007. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

VICE PRESIDENT, ADVERTISING, LOWE’S

Pete Woods VICE PRESIDENT,

TREND, DESIGN & BRAND, LOWE’S

Melissa BirdsongDIRECTOR,

AFFINITY AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS, LOWE’S

Sandy CulverCOMMUNICATION MANAGER, LOWE’S

Jule Schreffler EllerSENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST, LOWE’S

Pamela HayesSENIOR MARKETING SPECIALIST, LOWE’S

April PandolfiEDITORIAL MANAGER, DIGITAL, LOWE’S

Matt Mitchell

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Leslie Dunne SadlerDESIGN DIRECTOR

Paul CarstensenMANAGING EDITOR

Shelley DeLuca KolankiewiczEDITOR AND PROJECTS MANAGER

Kelly M. SmithSENIOR PROJECTS EDITOR

Melissa Bissell PROJECTS EDITORS

Allison R. Banks, Kate Kelley, Lillian Martin

ASSISTANT EDITOR / PRODUCER

Tiffany BurgessPROJECTS COORDINATOR

Melanie MedleyART DIRECTOR

Ann CarothersSENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kate WeaverPHOTO EDITOR

Paden ReichCOPY EDITOR

Molly J. RogersPRODUCTION MANAGER

Sheryl JonesPRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

Lauren Allums, Courtney GleysteenOFFICE MANAGER

Sandra Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS

Christen Colvert, Alice L. Elmore, Lisa Frederick, Libba Hardwick, Chris Hill,

Hosey Hutson, Louisa Jeffries, Jenifer McCormick, Sarah Robins Powell,

Laura Sauceda, Rhonda Shearin, Lisa Wheeler INTERNS

Carey Faust, Kelsey Grizzle

VICE PRESIDENT, SPC CUSTOM PUBLISHING

Stephanie PattonDIRECTOR

Catherine HallPRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Carol ChamblessDIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Shane JordanMARKETING SPECIALIST

Taryn McCoyINTERN

Adrienne Fowler

Readers’ note: Almost any do-it-yourself project involves risk of some sort. Your tools, materials, and skills will vary, as will the conditions at your project site. Lowe’s Companies, Inc., and its subsidiaries (“Lowe’s”) have made every effort to be complete and accurate in the instructions and other content contained in this publication. However, neither Lowe’s nor the publisher will assume any responsibility or liability for damages or losses sustained or incurred in the course of your home improvement or repair project or in the course of your use of the item you create or repair. Always follow the manufacturer’s operating in-structions in the use of tools, check and follow your local building codes, and observe all standard safety precautions.Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden® is published by SPC Custom Publishing, Inc., 2100 Lakeshore Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209. Copyright 2008 SPC Custom Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written permission of the publisher. Lowe’s®, the gable design, and Creative Ideas for Home and GardenTM are registered trademarks of LF, LLC. All rights reserved. Address all correspondence to Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden, Attn.: Sandy Culver, P.O. Box 523-G, Birmingham, AL 35201. Lowe’s Creative Ideas for Home and Garden is staff produced and cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited material. Printed in the U.S.A.

creative


THE LOWE’S PROJECT CARD

is a better way to pay for major home improvement projects. You’re not required to make any payments during the first six months of your project. Apply online at Lowes.com/Credit.*

LOWE’S INSTALLATION

AVAILABLE: Lowe’s can provide guaranteed professional installation of products. For more info, visit Lowes.com/Installation.

Sharpen your skills with this projectBe inspired by the functional dry creekbed on page 19. Then visit LowesCreativeIdeas.com/Woodworkers for detailed how-to instructions and a materials list to construct the bridge featured here.

Create your own concrete countertopsStylish and affordable concrete countertops are turning up in kitchens and work areas around the country. To find step-by-step instructions for building your own, visit LowesCreativeIdeas.com.

Use these ideas to excite the sensesCome home to the scent of fresh rosemary or the soothing sound of wind chimes. Go to LowesCreativeIdeas.com/OutdoorLiving for tips on making your outdoor spaces delight the senses.

Creative Ideas for Outdoor LivingTM

You will love the ideas in this publication, with more stories on outdoor spaces. Sign up online to receive your free subscription and monthly e-newsletter.

Creative Ideas for WoodworkersTM

Sign up online for your free subscription to this publication and monthly e-newsletter. You’ll receive detailed instructions for woodworking projects at all skill levels.

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ONLINE NOW COMING IN JUNE ALSO IN JUNE

Final approval✔

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Good To KnowWhen arranging container

gardens, choose plants

with similar light and

water requirements.

1. Using a drill/driver and

bit, create a few drainage

holes in the bottom of a

galvanized tub (#3712). Add

a layer of leaves or compost,

and then fill the tub with

potting soil, leaving a couple

of inches at the top.

2. Plant your favorite herbs

or flowers in the tub, and

add water.

Precious Metal

Transform a galvanized tub into a heavy-duty plant container.

❉

6 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

gr eat idea!1. Use chalk to lightly

sketch the numbers on

one side of the pillow.

2. Outline and fill in the

design using a small

paintbrush and exterior

paint in the color of your

choice. Allow to dry.

Pillow Talk Display your house numbers on outdoor throw pillows.

❉❉

LowesCreativeIdeas.com 7PHOTOGR APHY BY HOWARD LEE PUCKET T

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Create a handysurface for messages with dry-erase paint.

1. Apply primer (#165217) to

an unfinished wooden door.

Let dry. Use painter’s tape to

cover the raised panels, and

paint the remaining area with

the color of your choice in a

semi-gloss finish. Allow to dry,

and remove the tape.

2. Apply several coats of

dry-erase paint (#263503)

to the flat portion of each

raised panel. Follow the

manufacturer’s instructions

regarding application and

drying time between coats.

3. Install the door in a small

office, pantry, or teen room for

writing notes and messages.

❉

Good To KnowDry-erase paint works best

when applied to a smooth

surface. Wait two days

before writing with a

dry-erase marker.

8

On Your Mark

❉

PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS LowesCreativeIdeas.com

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Surprise someone special with a handmade jewelry box.

per the manufacturer’s

instructions. The hinges

should be spaced about

2 inches apart.

3. Attach a brass box catch

(#42594) to the front side

of the box, following the

manufacturer’s instructions.

Secure the upper portion

of the catch flush with

the box surface. Install the

1. Select two classic

fencepost caps from the

lumber department.

Apply primer (#165217)

and paint. Allow each

coat to dry.

2. Connect the two post

caps by affixing a pair

of 3/4- by 1-inch narrow

brass hinges (#19484) to

the back side of the box,

lower portion leaving a

small space between it

and the box. This will

compensate for the curved

edge of the post caps.

4. Secure a piece of self-

stick felt blanket (#67033)

inside the box, and then

add heavy-duty felt pads

(#54064) to the bottom

of the box.

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Box for Bling

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Wrought iron furniture makes

dining in style a breeze. The lightweight,

stackable chairs are weather

resistant.

Front and

CENTERThe stage is set for elegance

and easy living.


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Hanging out on the

front porch is a way of life

in this family’s neighborhood,

whether it’s watching the

kids play in the yard, greeting

friends dropping by for a

chat, or having a candlelit

dinner for two. “We love

our porch and use it every

day. But it needed a face-

lift so we could continue

to enjoy it.”

The family began by

choosing a fresh paint

palette. Neutral-toned floors

and a cool blue ceiling

form a calm background for

outdoor furniture, lighting,

and accessories. Unique

privacy curtains provide

shade in high style, and

a new front door with

decorative glass completes

the transformation. Now, the

family loves their charming

front porch even more.

A cedar swing and a love seat with plush pillows give the family a place torelax. An outdoor area rug, coffee table, and ceiling fans add all the comforts of home.

PHOTOGR APHY BY HOWARD LEE PUCKET T

DECORATING Front Porch ❉

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BEFORE

BEFORE

❉ DECORATING Front Porch

Curtain Call

1. Panels of pre-hemmed, ready-to-hang

outdoor fabric in a neutral canvas color

provide protection from the sun. Available

through the millwork department, the

fabric panels can be ordered with snaps

or grommets already sewn in place for

easy installation.

2. To secure the curtain, the homeowner

uses a screwdriver to install the snaps

in the desired locations. She ordered

additional snaps for more fl exibility—the

curtain can be gathered or hung straight.

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Good To KnowLight blue is a traditional color for

porch ceilings. It’s reminiscent of

the daytime sky and is believed to

keep bugs away. In the South Carolina

Lowcountry, folklore has it that

this color, called haint blue,

wards away evil spirits.


Lowe’s List N O W O N L I N E

You can find a detailed list of materials at LowesCreativeIdeas.com.

■ Skill level: Beginner■ Rough cost estimate . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,900*

Outdoor furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,350 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $595

Door and hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $855 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $140 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $835

Swing chain project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125■ Rough time estimate: 4 days**

*Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market.

**Does not include lead time for Special Order materials.


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Warm Welcome

1. The homeowners replaced the standard

chain included with the cedar swing and

created this jewelry-inspired option. Stainless

steel rings and galvanized chain are connected

with quick links from the hardware department.

For a cozy touch, painted outdoor throw

pillows welcome guests to the porch. To find

instructions for painting house numbers on

pillows, turn to page 7.

2. The decorative glass door lets natural

light into the foyer. The homeowners painted

the door dark brown and selected a handle

set with an aged-bronze finish to coordinate

with the outdoor furniture. Wall lanterns,

new house numbers, and a pair of planters

complete the look.

3. The homeowners chose a soft cottage

blue shade for the ceiling to complement

the home’s exterior.

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PHOTOGR APHY BY NAMETOKOME

❉ UNWIND & DESIGN Coasters

Make your fresh-cut flowers last with acrylic coasters.

Lo 14 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8

❉Inspiration abounds this

month as the colors of nature

come to life. It’s the perfect

time to invite friends over

and capture the beauty of

the outdoors with May’s

Unwind & Design project,

pressed-flower coasters. All

you need are fresh blooms

from your garden (or ask

guests to bring their

favorites), a few supplies

from Lowe’s, and friends

to join the fun.



■ Skill level: Beginner■ Rough cost estimate: $6*■ Rough time estimate:

20 minutes

*For a set of four coasters. Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.

STEP-BY-STEP

❉

Good To KnowThe day before your Unwind

& Design guests arrive, place

the flowers between the

pages of a hardbound book

to help them stay flat

in the coasters.


15PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

Use Mom’s favorite flowers to

create a colorful Mother’s Day gift.

3 42

To watch a video demonstration and find tips on planning a project party, visit

LowesCreativeIdeas.com/UnwindAndDesign. And in June, go online for another Unwind & Design project, garden stakes.

Step 1: Wearing gloves and

safety glasses, cut the 8- x

10-inch acrylic sheets into

four 31∕2-inch squares. To cut

the sheets, use a framing

square as a guide and score

several times with a utility

knife. Fold the sheets slowly

at the score line. You also

can ask a Lowe’s employee

to cut the pieces for you.

Step 2: Sand the edges

of the squares using a

metal file until smooth.

Remove the stems from

the flowers and leaves.

(Flat leaves or thin blooms

will work best.)

Step 3: Using a glue gun,

apply a small dot of glue

on the underside of the

petals and leaves, and

then attach them to the

first square.

Step 4: Apply a small dot

of glue to each corner of

the first square. Place the

second square on top, and

press the corners to secure.

We all know it’s important

to get a good night’s sleep,

which is why our bedrooms

should be designed for

relaxation. But serenity can

be difficult to achieve if

you’re sniffling, sneezing, or

wheezing because of allergies

or asthma. Consider these

tips for making your bedroom

clean and allergen-free,

especially if you or your

child suffers from asthma

or allergy-related symptoms.

Here’s to a restful night.


❉ SHOP SMART Healthy Home

LoI LLUSTR ATIONS BY D IANE B IGDA

Hardwood Flooring

HOW IT HELPS:

Easy to clean and won’t

trap dirt or dander.

Ceiling Fan

HOW IT HELPS: Keeps air

circulating, which can be

helpful after you’ve rid the

room of dust; be sure to

clean blades regularly.

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SleepTıght

Keep your allergies at bay with these tips for a no-sneeze bedroom.

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17PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

Low or Zero

VOC Paint

HOW IT HELPS:

Produces no lingering

odors when applied.

Plastic Bins

HOW THEY HELP:

Store loose clutter,

which can gather dust.

Blinds

HOW THEY HELP:

Won’t trap dust like

fabric curtains; choose

from wooden or vinyl.

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Air Purifier

HOW IT HELPS:

Removes dust, pollen,

and smoke from the air.

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Mind Your MaintenanceTake these measures for cleaning

to put up your best fight against

mold and dust.

■ Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter

on all upholstery, carpet, and

window treatments.

■ Wash bed linens at least once

a week using hot water.

■ Wearing a mask, dust with a

damp or microfiber cloth instead

of a feather duster.

■ Dust walls and ceilings often.

Don’t forget ceiling fans and the

areas behind furniture, under

the bed, and on top of door and

window casings.

■ Opt for natural cleaners to avoid

potential reactions to chemicals.

■ Maintain optimal humidity

(below 50%) to discourage mold.

A hygrometer will measure the

humidity. A dehumidifier will help

rooms with too much humidity, while

a humidifier will add moisture to an

overly dry space.

■ An air purifier can help filter the air

and continually cut down on dust. Look

for a new line of products from Germ

Guardian that kill airborne germs in a

small space, such as a bedroom.

■ Use a quality HEPA air filter, and

be sure to change it according to the

manufacturer’s instructions.

Getting StartedAs you plan the design or redesign

of your bedroom, consider these

tips to make the space as allergen-

proof as possible.

■ Use low or zero VOC paint, and

choose products made without VOCs.

■ Add weather stripping around

windows and doors, or replace old

and inefficient windows.

■ Caulk areas where pests can

enter, such as cracks between the

moulding and the wallboard. Insects

such as roaches can worsen asthma.

■ Choose carpet and rugs with a

dense, tight weave. Natural jute is

a good material option because it

doesn’t attract dust.

■ Avoid stuffed toys if possible,

or wash these loved ones often.

■ Use an allergen-free mattress,

box spring, and pillowcases.

■ Store off-season clothes and

linens in plastic bins.

■ Choose fiberfill pillows and

comforters instead of those stuffed

with feathers or down.


❉ SHOP SMART Healthy Home

weather stripping

caulk

dust cleaner (Method; wipes,

#211334; spray polish, #211332)

dust mite powder (Acarosan,

#270135)

vacuum with HEPA filter

dehumidifier

Good To KnowLearn more about creating a

healthier home, including

cleaning tips and product

recommendations, at

Lowes.com/HealthyHome.

LowesCreativeIdeas.com 19

OUTDOOR LIVING Creekbed ❉

SolutionsNatural

In any weather, a dry creekbed provides beauty as well as function.

PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

A custom-built bridge adds

an interesting focal point to

the scene.

20 Lowe’s Creative Ideas

❉ OUTDOOR LIVING Creekbed

“The bridge adds a sculptural element and a way to cross the creekbed without stepping on the plants .”

The gentle slope of the creekbed redirects water away from the home’s foundation.

❉


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What They DidTHE CHALLENGE: During a heavy

rain, water would gush down the

sloped backyard and straight toward

the house, eroding the soil and causing

runoff problems. As a result, the yard

was washed-out and bare, and it

lacked vegetation.

THE SOLUTION: As an alternative

to the usual French drain, the

homeowners created an eye-catching

solution—a dry creekbed. Now

when it rains, this watercourse helps

prevent erosion by carrying runoff

away from the house.

Find detailed how-to instructions, illustrations, and a list of tools and materials for building this

bridge at LowesCreativeIdeas.com/

Woodworkers.

webFOR MORE

BEFORE

❉ OUTDOOR LIVING Creekbed

1 The homeowners chose fabricated

stone (M-Rock, Cascade River Stone,

Special Order*), which is flat on one side.

2 After the stones were laid, the remaining

area was filled with river pebbles (#92125).

3 Irregular-shaped pavers with soft

textured edges create a path to the bridge

and blend seamlessly into the landscape.

4 An 8-foot-wide basin catches runoff

and redirects it into the channel away

from the house and toward the side yard.

“Every time it rained, I found my mulch halfway down the street.”

Several boulders that were found on the

property help break up the water flow.

5 The homeowners’ love of their city’s

botanical gardens inspired the Asian

style of the bridge. The red stain and

copper post caps add a pop of color

to the landscape.

6 Blooming plants, such as hydrangeas,

contribute a welcoming feel and thrive

in the dappled light.

*Availability varies by market.

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22 Lowe’s Creative Ideas Lo

Good To KnowThe dry creekbed acts as a

natural filter for rainwater,

making it a type of rain garden.

Visit LowesCreativeIdeas.com/

OutdoorLiving to learn more

about rain gardens.

Working With Nature

Mondo grass along the edges of the creekbed holds topsoil in place. Adding plenty of mulch helps keep weeds at bay.

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Runoff Rescue

Don’t go with the flow. You can take

care of your yard’s water problems in

one of two ways.

■ Above ground, create a ditch deep

and wide enough to handle a large

volume of water, as in this dry creekbed

project. Fill it with rocks to slow drainage

and allow the water to seep into the soil.

■ Below ground, install a French drain,

which requires a perforated pipe. Make

sure the pipe’s circumference is large

enough to handle the volume of your

runoff. Cover the pipe with gravel to

keep silt out. Whether you use a ditch

or a French drain, consult with your

city government’s zoning department

regarding local landscape ordinances.

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❉ FOCAL POINT Back Entry

A facade face-lift opens up the space to the outdoors.

The homeowner is wild for nature and

wants the inside and outside of her house to

feel seamless. By replacing the back wall with

French doors, she got her wish. To make room

for the expanded entry, the heating and air

unit was moved. A pitched roof with columns

adds shelter from the elements, as well as an

architectural nod to Greek Revival style, which

the homeowner loves. Stone steps are naturally

integrated into the overall design.

Barefoot

Bliss

Lo24 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

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PHOTOGR APHY BY NAMETOKOME LowesCreativeIdeas.com

25

bliss“I love having all three doors open and feeling

the breeze. This is such a happy house now .”

Ten-pane French doors flood the kitchen with light. Aged-bronze door levers complement the lanterns and outdoor furniture. Screen doors could be added to keep the bugs out.


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“It’s the perfect place to relax with my dog and my morning

cup of coffee.”


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FOCAL POINT Back Entry ❉

Seven ways to bring the outdoors in.

■ Make sure your windows are operable and have screens.

■ Look for ways to access the outdoors—consider adding

French doors or sliding doors off any ground-floor

room, even a bedroom or dining room.

■ Include overhead fans inside and out to keep fresh

air circulating.

■ Add pots filled with colorful flowers to your entryways.

■ Install outdoor floodlights with motion detectors

for extra security.

■ Consider a pet door for times when entry doors

need to be closed.

■ Use all-weather rugs in entryways (both indoors and

out) for easy cleanup after traffic.

Design Details

1. The homeowner chose to

keep the new shingles natural

for a look that will weather

gently over time. For a different

effect, the shingles also could

be painted or stained.

2. A pair of two-light wall

lanterns with seeded-glass

panes illuminates the back

entry and adds architectural

beauty to the space.

3. Natural flagstone was

selected to continue the

rustic theme. Pavers also

would work well.



■ Skill level: Advanced■ Rough cost estimate . . .$5,375* Building materials

and lumber . . . . . . . . . . $2,400Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$430 Doors and hardware . . . $2,455 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $90

■ Rough time estimate: 1 month**



OutsideIf You Live for the

Good To KnowUpdates to your home’s exterior

can be a great investment.

An upscale siding replacement

averages 88% payback of your

remodeling costs at resale.

SOURCE: Remodeling magazine

Cost vs. Value Report

(2007 National Averages);

costvsvalue.com

MAY/JUNE 2008 ❉


HOMEInspiring projects for better living.

Your

30Two Rooms in OneOur lives are about multitasking, so our rooms should be, too. Take a look at these spaces that work just as hard as you do.

40A Kitchen That SingsFull of unique touches, this stylish kitchen update shows plenty of ways to create a custom look for less.

48Quick TurnaroundAre you ready for a bath renewal? This homeowner proves that you can get a timeless look while staying within your budget.

Final approval✔

30 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 PHOTOGR APHY BY HOWARD LEE PUCKET T

Utility RoomLaundry and Gardening

P A G E 3 2

TWO ROOMS

Just call them overachievers.

These hardworking spaces pack

in twice as much function as

an ordinary room—and pull it

off with panache.❉


31

SunroomRelaxing and Entertaining

P A G E 3 6

IN One

❉

❉32 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8

❉

Utility Room

Fresh colors provide a bright setting for indoor tasks and outdoor pursuits.

What She Did THE GOAL: This homeowner, an avid gardener, wanted to squeeze more

purpose into her underused laundry room. Because it offers easy access to the home’s back

and side yards, it is a natural spot to incorporate a potting area and storage for gardening

tools. THE PLAN: A stackable washer-and-dryer set replaces side-by-side units to free up

valuable floor space. Turquoise paint freshens the existing peg-board walls and contrasts

with the mocha brown finish on the new oak cabinets. Updated lighting, durable solid-surface

countertops, and a unique newsworthy shelving treatment complete the look.

❉ TWO ROOMS IN ONE

A stainless steel sink and a pull-down faucet are great for prepping flower arrangements as well as for cleaning

delicate clothing.


Retro-style pendant lights hang from the

ceiling. Their sleek antique-pewter finish

complements the cabinet hardware.

The homeowner replaced laminate flooring with 12-inch porcelain tiles.


“It feels like spring year-round in here—just the thing to get me in the gardening mood .”

Good To KnowTest your decoupage skills on a

scrap surface before applying

to a large space. Learn more

about this technique at

Lowes.com/Decoupage.

3

43

Garden Station

1. In-stock oak cabinets,

which house laundry and

gardening supplies, were

covered with wood stain and

a polyurethane finish. The new

stackable washer-and-dryer

set conserves floor space.

2. Linking foam mats provide

a comfortable surface for

anyone standing at the sink.

3. Lively green paint brightens

up built-in shelving along the

back wall. For a personalized

touch, the homeowner

decoupaged the shelf interiors

with pages from The Old

Farmer’s Almanac. You also

could use clippings from

local newspapers.

4. A cabinet that’s flush with

the wall conceals an ironing

board when not in use. The

cabinet is painted to match

the wall color.

2

TWO ROOMS IN ONE Utility Room ❉


Find a detailed list of materials at LowesCreativeIdeas.com.

■ Skill level: Advanced

■ Rough cost estimate . . .$5,635* Cabinetry and

countertops . . . . . . . . . $2,300 Appliances . . . . . . . . . . .$1,925 Fashion plumbing . . . . . . . $420 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $215 Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$305 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100 Moulding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . $320■ Rough time estimate: 2 weeks**




1

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PHOTOGR APHY BY NAMETOKOME❉36 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8

What They Did THE GOAL: This family wanted their screened-in porch to pull double duty.

During the day, they planned for a laid-back space tailored for casual meals and downtime. By

evening, they needed a spot that would accommodate game nights as well as adult get-togethers.

THE PLAN: Versatile shades, available by Special Order, are made from outdoor fabric and

mounted in front of copper screens. The shades can be rolled up to let in sunshine and breezes,

or they can be pulled down at night for a sense of enclosure. Strategic lighting, outdoor furniture,

and quick-change accessories smooth the transition from a daytime hub to an evening retreat.

A custom-built daybed provides a place to

lounge with a good book during the day. After

dark, it moonlights as a comfortable cot

for snoozing.

❉SunroomThe comforts of the indoors blend with scenic outdoor views for the best of both worlds.

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PHOTOGR APHY BY NAMETOKOME LowesCreativeIdeas.com

37

“The children love having more playtime in the fresh air .”

To find detailed step-by-step instructions, illustrations, and a list of tools and materials

for building the hanging bed, go to LowesCreativeIdeas.com/Woodworkers.

The bed hangs securely from chains and hooks attached to

ceiling joists. Connecting the chain to two points on each

corner of the bed limits the swinging action, making it even

more secure. The length of the chain can be adjusted

to lower the swing’s height.

38 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 0 8

A red cedar-shade wood stain on the decking transitions well between day and evening: It glows warmly in the sun yet maintains its vibrancy after dusk falls.

Good To KnowCopper screening works well

with the warm color palette in

this sunroom. A cool palette of

blue, gray, and green would

suit traditional silver-toned

aluminum screening.

1Good To KnowCopper screening lends a

warm, upscale look and a hint

of shimmer. It can be pricier

than other materials, but here’s

one way to get the effect for less:

Coat conventional screening

with metallic copper

spray paint.

Easy Outdoor Living 1. Fabric shades are a simple

solution for providing privacy

without blocking too much

fresh air. For a less expensive

alternative, fruitwood or bamboo

blinds would work well.

2. Weather-resistant outdoor fans add overhead

lighting. The dark finish complements the

furniture and accessories in the sunroom.

3. Varied seating—cushioned chairs, a love

seat, swivel rockers, and sling-style dining

chairs—suits the porch’s different functions.

The adjacent living and dining areas can easily

join together as the occasion dictates.

Outdoor pillows, lamps, wall plaques, and other small ac-cessories can be swapped out easily to change the look of the space.

Outdoor pillows, lamps, and other

accessories can be swapped out easily

to seasonally change the look of the room.

2

3

TWO ROOMS IN ONE Sunroom ❉



■ Skill level: Intermediate■ Rough cost estimate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,980* Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,620 Outdoor blinds and screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,360 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$410 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $60 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $530■ Rough time estimate: 4 days**



BEFORE

After downsizing to a historic 1920s

cottage, these music-loving homeowners found

perfect harmony with a kitchen makeover. They

bought a fixer-upper after their daughters left

the nest, and they wanted to update the kitchen

without spending a fortune. The couple chose

mainly off-the-shelf products (with the exception

of Special Order countertops) and created a

space that’s jam-packed with personality.


A microwave with an exhaust fan underneath is mounted

over the range. This is a great space-saving solution for

a small kitchen.

Two musicians get a bistro look on a budget.

SingsA KITCHEN

THAT


41PHOTOGR APHY BY HOWARD LEE PUCKET T

42 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 Lo

BEFORE

WHAT THEY DIDThe Challenge: The kitchen’s inefficient layout

and outdated appliances provided little inspiration

for the homeowners. They wanted to infuse the

warmth of a European bistro into the room’s new

design and achieve a customized look.

The Solution: Open shelving and a harmonious

color palette make the room feel larger. Sticking

to their budget, the homeowners salvaged the

hardwood floors underneath the tile and painted

unfinished in-stock oak cabinets. They chose a

suite of stainless appliances to bring the kitchen

up to date. The new refrigerator was placed

across from the sink for a better workflow, and

improved lighting provides ample illumination

in the work areas.

1


43

Above the sink, the window frames were painted black for a dramatic counterpoint to the light walls.

Back to Basics

1. Black granite countertops

are easy to clean, have a sleek

look, and tie together the dark

accents in the room. Although

the homeowners had to

order the countertops to fit

their space, the Lowe’s price

included development of a

custom template for the

kitchen’s floor plan.

2. Usually used outdoors,

these oversized wall lanterns

are a sophisticated alternative

to the hanging pendant lights

found in many kitchens.

3. The homeowners painted

unfinished in-stock cabinets

with a rich grayish blue shade

and added satin-nickel cup

pulls and knobs.

4. White subway tiles for the

backsplash provide a modern

touch and seamlessly blend

with the wall color. Subway

tiles can lay horizontally, as

shown here, or vertically for

a different style.

3

4

Good To Know You can stick to your budget and

still have the promise of payback.

For a minor kitchen update, you

can recoup up to 83% of the

remodeling costs at resale.

SOURCE: Remodeling magazine

Cost vs. Value Report

(2007 National Averages);

costvsvalue.com

range

13’

4’7” 5’9”

11’9”

dishwasher

refrigerator7’7”

2

Lo

A moulding ledge displays the couple’s favorite travel photos. To find instructions and a list of materials and

tools for building this ledge, go to LowesCreativeIdeas.com/May081.

webFOR MORE

BEFORE

Set the Bar

1. The homeowners can get

creative with their chalkboard-

painted wall, which offers

the perfect spot for leaving

notes or writing lists.

2. For a custom look, this

breakfast bar is made from

in-stock wall cabinets plus

a toe kick underneath.

Wall cabinets were selected

because they are more

shallow than base units.

The homeowners installed

the cabinets at bar height

and built the toe kick using

2 x 8s and finished with strips

of a side panel cut to size.

When the homeowners

ordered their countertops for

the main kitchen workspace,

they also had a template

made for the bar.


1

2


45

Prepare. Developing a game plan from

the beginning helps you stay focused and

stick to a theme and color palette.

Paint. By coating unfinished wooden

cabinets with your desired color, you can

get a bold look for a fraction of the cost.

Personalize. Do-it-yourself shelving

or a breakfast bar maximizes space and

adds a one-of-a-kind, professional feel.

Pick a suite. Choosing appliances

from the same brand with the same

finish will give the kitchen a more

cohesive appearance.

Pad with finishing touches. Unique additions, such as a chalkboard

wall or framed travel photos, make a

kitchen anything but ordinary.

WAYS TO GET A CUSTOM LOOK FOR LESS

Made To Entertain1. A warming drawer in the

stainless oven keeps appetizers

toasty for guests.

2. The matching stainless

side-by-side refrigerator is

ideal for these homeowners,

who prefer to stock bulk

frozen items.

2

1




■ Rough cost estimate . . .$9,980*

Cabinets, countertops, and backsplash . . . . . . . . . . $4,590

Lumber and millwork . . . . $545 Appliances . . . . . . . . . . $3,795 Fashion plumbing . . . . . . . $395 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $230 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$200 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . $225■ Rough time estimate:

1 month**



5


A Cut Above

Open shelving works well

for filling awkward wallspace

in a kitchen. These shelves

were made from 1 x 12s

and brackets painted to

match the wall color.

A Lowe’s employee can

cut the wood for you.

“The kitchen is now the star in our house. We love it!”

The well-planned color scheme is key in this makeover. Choose the color for your

cabinets, and use wall and accent choices to pull the look together. When planning

a space, pick the color combination first, and then find products that carry out the

theme. Here are a few selections (using Martha Stewart Colors available in the paint

department) suggested by the Lowe’s Trend and Design team.

Modern RetroIf you love the pop of a 1950s

diner, use white on the cabinets

and light turquoise on the walls.

Accent with yellow and mint

shades. Countertops could be

white or natural-toned wood.

SHADE TO ORDER

PIANO KEY MS164

FRENCH BULLDOG BLACK MS025

SEWING BASKET MS083

RIVER ROCK MS330

European BistroThis kitchen’s palette is classic

but dramatic. A cool-toned

white plays off the industrial

black and grayish blue, while

subtle touches of soft gold

warm the overall look.

Cottage ChicA fresh and inviting summery

combo starts with grass green

on the cabinets and light

gray on the walls. Clean white

and rich blue-green accents

complete the palette.

Good To KnowValspar paint offers thousands

of colors and exceptional

durability. The colors shown

below are mixed with

Valspar Signature Colors

premium paint.

WAINSCOT MS189

SOAPSTONE GRAY MS170

BLUE HOSTA MS346

HEMP ROPE MS127

RED DAHLIA MS026

RAIN SLICKER MS106

CUCKOO CLOCK MS102

FLOUR SACK MS237

CABANA MS344

YELLOW NARCISSUS MS109

WEATHERED COPPER MS316

SHAMROCK MS273

Arts and CraftsWant warm and cozy? Go for

brick red on the cabinets and

beige on the walls. Butcher-

block countertops can be used

to contribute the deeper yellow

as an accent color.

© 2

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Are you one of millions of people who has a

“lazy” inefficient toilet? If your toilet was installed between 1994 and 1999, it is wasting water and money. Find out how to stop flushing your money at LowesCreativeIdeas.com/LazyToilet

webFOR MORE

Lo

Think a bath makeover costs a fortune and takes months to complete? Think again.

quickTURNAROUND

48 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 PHOTOGR APHY BY HOWARD LEE PUCKET T

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“Now, the first thing you see when you come in is the fabulous tub, not the toilet.”

To create a shower curtain that extends from the rod to the

floor, the homeowner sewed together an ivory

curtain and part of a green curtain.


1

BEFORE

Take it from a Realtor“A bath or kitchen remodel is where you get the most return on your

investment,” says the homeowner, mother of one and real-estate broker.

When she decided to renovate her master bath, she wanted the biggest

bang for her buck. She chose many off-the-shelf items, mixing in a few

Special Order pieces, such as the countertop and sink, where necessary.

The bath’s layout left a lot to be desired. For starters, the toilet sat in

the center of the space. “We were really hurting

on functionality,” says the homeowner. “And we

desperately needed storage.” The room had size

working in its favor, but much of the area was

underutilized. The homeowner had the new toilet

installed in a corner and added a short wall to

conceal it. An extended vanity provides storage

and two sinks, and a tub replaces the stand-up

shower. “Now,” she says, “I can enjoy a relaxing

bath after I put my daughter to bed each night.”

11'3"

cubbies

8'

3'

3'

3'

3'

5'3"

5'

tub

4

2

3

Modern Luxury1. Eco-friendly bamboo blinds made

from sustainable material are water-

resistant and budget-friendly. With a

bank of windows in this bath, the blinds’

rich color makes a dramatic statement.

The homeowner chose a whirlpool tub

and added a tub heater underneath.

By not having to let the water run while

waiting for it to heat up, the homeowner

conserves water. And the heater keeps

the water warm in the bath, eliminating the

need to run more as the water cools down.

2. Travertine tiles cover the walls around

the tub as well as the tub apron in front.

For a strip of upscale interest on the

shower walls, several of the 18-inch tiles

were cut down to 9 inches square, laid

on a diagonal, and then bordered with

mosaic stone tiles.

3. The Venetian-bronze faucet was

mounted on the side of the tub to allow

for enough room in the space for the tub.

The faucet is from the same collection

as the coordinating showerhead, sink

faucets, and towel bars.

51

Good To KnowUsing mostly in-stock

products allowed the renovation

to be accomplished in about

two weeks. This strategy

also kept the project

within budget.

Dual Purpose1. Sheets of plywood—cut, primed, and

painted a soft ivory shade—were used to

create the side cubbies; screen-bead

moulding adds a finishing touch to the

plywood edges. The shelves hold bath

accessories and a television so the

homeowner can watch the morning news

while getting ready for work.

2. The toilet is now in the corner of the

room and concealed by a short wall.

Sleek bracketless shelves provide storage

and display space.

3. Two 30-inch cabinets, outfitted with

bone-colored sinks, form a his-and-hers

vanity. The durable quartz countertop has

a cinnamon-brown tone that coordinates

with the room’s dark finishes. The matching

backsplash is 8 inches high, allowing

plenty of surface area for protecting the

wall from splashed water. It also makes

a nice backdrop for the tall faucets.




■ Rough cost estimate . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,010*

Cabinetry and countertop . . . . . . . .$2,105 Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $560

Fashion plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,380 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $195 Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $95

Cubby material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $550■ Rough time estimate: 2 weeks**



Lo3

1

2

Realtor’s Tip

The homeowner chose a

warm, neutral color palette to

make the room more marketable.

“Neutrals appeal to a lot of people,”

the homeowner says. “You

can always punch up the

color with accessories.”

52

The bronze three-light fixture with glass globes

provides task lighting over the vanity. Mirrors with an antique-cherry finish

complete the look.


Final approval✔ Final approval✔

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❉

ACircular Saw


HOW TO USE

Master safe, accurate use of this tool, and you’ll have

the skill necessary to cut large project parts.

Skill

Set

NEW!

This is our second

Skill Set, a series of beginner

woodworking projects and

techniques. Go online to

LowesCreativeIdeas.com/

SkillSet if you missed

our first installment.

Good To KnowWhen using power saws,

wear safety goggles to

protect your eyes from

wood chips and sawdust.

SO

O

webFOR MORE

ToolsYou’ll Need

CIRCULAR SAW

CLAMPS

FR AMING SQUARE

TAPE MEASURE

PENCIL

Materials You’ll Need

1 sheet of plywood, 3∕4-inch x 2- x 2-foot*

painter’s tape

*Availability varies by market.


57

1Measure and mark. On both sides

of the plywood, use a tape measure and

pencil to mark the desired dimensions

needed for your project. Place blue painter’s

tape over these lines, and mark the dimensions

again. The tape will minimize tear-out (ragged

edges) on the plywood along the cut.

You can build a table!» Use the tips offered here, along with

the techniques you learned from our

“How To Build a Box” Skill Set in the

March/April 2008 issue of Creative

Ideas, to construct a side table. To find

our first Skill Set, visit the Web site below.

Find instructions, an illustration, and a list of tools and materials for building this side table at LowesCreativeIdeas.com/SkillSet.

2Position the board. Examine the

sheet of plywood to determine which

side feels smoother and has fewer

imperfections. Place the better side down, with

the waste (the part to be cut off) extending

beyond the end of the work surface.

3Clamp the framing square.Temporarily place the circular saw so

that the blade is on the waste side of the

marked line. Arrange the framing square so that

one edge lines up with the side of the board

facing you and the other is placed against the

shoe plate of the saw. Clamp the framing square

to the plywood as shown.

4Cut the board. Making sure that

the blade is not touching the board,

start the saw, and then guide it along

the framing square. (Starting with the blade

touching the wood will result in the saw “kicking

back.”) Do not force the saw along the wood—

let the tool do the work. At the end of the cut,

immediately let go of the trigger on the saw.

Your Second Skill: Using a Circular Saw

❉

PHOTOGR APHY BY BR IAN FR ANCIS

PE

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Tool belts jingled, hammers pounded,

and sawdust filled the air last October,

when Habitat for Humanity of Seattle/

South King County partnered with the

wives, girlfriends, and female staff

members of the Seattle Seahawks NFL

football team to frame two new homes

at High Point in West Seattle. These

women, who make up the Seahawks

Auxiliary Group, were participating in

Women Build, a Habitat for Humanity

International program underwritten

by Lowe’s.

As the official home improvement

retailer for the NFL team and its home

stadium, Qwest Field, Lowe’s provides

community involvement opportunities

for the Seahawks Auxiliary Group. The

houses framed in the October project

are two of 20 homes that Habitat for

Humanity of Seattle/South King County

is building in High Point, a new master-

planned neighborhood designed by

the Seattle Housing Authority.

Featuring low-impact sustainable

design in an urban setting, the High

Point community is the first large-scale

WA

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GirlPower

THIS MONTH:

Seattle Washington

❉ LOWE’S In Your Community

The Seahawks Auxiliary Group joins with Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program to help provide affordable housing.

development of its kind in the United

States. More than 100 mature trees

were preserved, and thousands more

have been planted. The plan also

implemented a natural drainage system

to manage storm water, improve water

quality, and protect salmon habitat.

The finished product, scheduled to

be complete in 2009, will be a mixed-

income, pedestrian-oriented community

that includes 1,600 homes in the

market-rate and affordable categories.

A week before the build, Lowe’s

hosted a one-day training workshop

The group braved a wet workday to help out on

the Habitat project.

58 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A Y / J U N E 2 0 0 8 PHOTOGR APHY BY JAMES R . ANDERSON LowesCreativeIdeas.com

59

❉

for the Seahawks Auxiliary Group and

supplied hats and gloves. Habitat for

Humanity and Lowe’s staff instructed

the women in the basics of framing

a house, such as how to square and

plumb the frame, what types of nails

are appropriate for framing, and the

differences between framing hammers

and finishing hammers.

Although the weather was dreary,

cold, and wet on the day of the build,

nothing could dampen the women’s

spirits. “The whole day was great,”

says Julia Ashworth, a member of the

Seahawks Auxiliary Group. “Knowing

that [we] could help out and be a part

of a great organization like Habitat

for Humanity is a privilege.”

Since the official creation of Women

Build in 1998, the program has put up

more than 1,000 homes around the

world. Its mission is to empower women

to take action against poverty-level

housing conditions by building homes

and communities. Women Build teaches

construction skills that the participants

otherwise might not have the chance to

learn. In partnership with Lowe’s, local

Habitat affiliates and the Habitat for

Humanity International Women Build

department provide training, education,

and resources for volunteers, preparing

them for their projects as well as

transforming them into informed

advocates for Habitat for Humanity.

Since 2004, Lowe’s has offered a series

of six Women Build how-to clinics for

the benefit of any Habitat affiliate.

“I love to work outside, get my

hands dirty, and accomplish

something, especially since it

is helping to provide housing

for a family that needs it,”

Ashworth says. “I believe that

[Habitat for Humanity] is a

great organization.”

As the underwriter for

Women Build, Lowe’s is

helping to make sure that the

program continues to grow.

To learn how you can get

involved with Women Build or to

locate a Habitat affiliate near you,

go to Habitat.org.

Tool School

InspiredWomenIt’s never too late to fasten

on that tool belt and become

handier around the house.

Kobalt’s 22-piece

tool bag set

(#278617), shown

below, will get you

off on the right foot.

Complete with a

cool blue bag, the

tools in this set

feature a soft-grip

design that reduces

vibration as well as

hand fatigue.

If you would

like a set that

includes more tools,

try the Task Force

43-piece tool set

(#246673). It includes

a level, tape measure,

hammer, and pliers,

plus a handsaw, a

hacksaw, a micro

screwdriver set,

scissors, and more.

If you don’t have

much experience

with tools, however,

don’t take on a leaky

faucet or broken

window unprepared!

Pick up a copy of

Dare to Repair, a

“do-it-herself” guide

that gives step-by-

step instructions

and tools needed

for many minor

home repairs.

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❉ TREND SPOT Kitchen

Offering enduring

style, open shelving

is perfect for a

quick reach and can

make a small space

feel larger.

FreshFareWhat’s cooking in design? For inspiration, take a closer look at these ideas from our kitchen makeover, and savor a taste of the latest trends.

Mass transit is a

smart choice, and so

are rectangular tiles

inspired by New York

subway designs from

the early 1900s.

Go au naturel with

your windows. These

window sashes and

muntins are painted

black for a great look

without curtains.

be bold

don’t hide—display!

let there be light

spruceit up

take the subway

go easyIf it’s not broken,

don’t fi x it. Save your

hardwood fl oorsThink ergonomics along

with economics. Mix easy-

to-grip, budget-friendly

cup pulls with coordinating

knobs as shown in

this kitchen.

Take the chance to

incorporate items

you truly love. For

this remodel, outdoor

lanterns were brought

indoors. Because

they’re slightly

oversized, they

command attention.

and simply

refi nish them.

❉ PAGE HEADER LEFT Page Header Script

1 Lowe’s Creative Ideas M A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 0 8

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Celebrate Mom with a pink

geranium from Lowe’s, and

support the Susan G. Komen

for the Cure breast cancer

organization. Visit Lowes.c

om/

AllAbou

tMom for more

gift suggestions.

Click and shop.

For a limited tim

e,

get $4.99 parcel

shipping on your

Lowes.com

purchases of

$99 or more.

Visit Lowes.com

for more details.

for ranking “Highest in Customer

Satisfaction Among Window

and Door Manufacturers”**.

You can � nd a range of Pella

products at Lowe’s in the

millwork department.

(**See page 4.)

.

Father’s Day

is June 15Not sure what to get

Dad this year?

Surprise him with some

cool accessories

for the grill.

Saving Water Makes Sense

Can’t decide on a color?Luckily, Lowe’s offers paint samples

in thousands of colors. For only

$3.98 each, test-drive several of

your choices to help you decide

which works best for your project.

Install WaterSense fi xtures in your home and save thousands of gallons

of water annually. WaterSense, a partnership program with businesses

and organizations, is sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to provide

more information about water conservation. Look for the WaterSense label on fashion plumbing items,

and visit Lowes.com/Water.

Congrats to Pella,

Visit Lowes.com/Clinics to sign up for a kid’s project workshop at your local Lowe’s store.The kids will love building something with their own hands—and you will too!

Mother’s Day is May 11

PRSRT. STD.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 1455

PEWAUKEE, WI

53072

To subscribe, log onto LowesCreativeIdeas.com/Subscribe, or call 1-877-LOWES-02

(569-3702). If your address has an error that needs correction or you would like your name removed from our mailing list, please send your request with your address label to: Lowe’s Mail Preference, P.O. Box 35256, Greensboro, NC 27425-5256.

P.O. BOX 35256Greensboro, North Carolina27425-5256

S430030533829S

Thank you for shopping at Lowe’s.

Save $10 and make their day .Whatever their interest, Lowe’s has something to help you make Mom and Dad

smile. Choose from small appliances, home accessories, tools, hardware

and over 40,000 other items. All at everyday low prices – guaranteed.

MAY 11

Mother’s Day

JUNE 15

FATHER’S DAY

❉ NICE SURPRISE Great Value

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