Home Improvement Guide

BEAUTY SQUARED

During the 30 years he taught engineering at UCSD, Dan Olfe never figured he'd take up quilting after he retired. Nor did he envision that his textile artistry would be exhibited in galleries as far away as England. Or that HGTV would do a show about him.

GLASS GEM

When San Diego designer Mark Stary first glimpsed the upstairs master bath in the 2005 San Diego Historical Society Showcase home, the low-ceiling room was splashed top to bottom with an oversized floral wallpaper in shocking pinks and greens.

SMALL FAVORS

Furnishings to make the most of cramped quarters

DIRTY WORK

Laundry systems doing dirty work in style

CLEAN SWEEP

Having a system and the right tools makes maintenance go smoothly and quickly

STAR POWER

Show your true colors this Fourth with some easy, fun craft projects

CABINET-LEVEL DECISIONS

Whether your dream kitchen is Old World, modern or retro, it's the cabinetry that will make the most prominent design statement.