When you set out to make home improvements or remodel, you probably have a good idea of the look and feel you're after. But how do you get from here to there? The editors of Inspired House have collected some of their most popular, and practical ideas to guide you through selecting products and materials. More than a dozen articles will help you answer questions like, Why buy an engineered wood floor if it's just as expensive as a solid one? What's the difference between a carpet made of nylon and one made of polyester? and Is the more expensive paint really better?

You'll discover straightforward advice throughout the three easy-to-navigate sections, Kitchens & Baths, Interior Details, and Doors and Windows. Highlights include:

Choosing the right countertop
Finding the perfect sink
Sorting your flooring options
Picking the best paint
Selecting patio and garage doors

You'll also find advice on installation, new products, where-to-buy resources, and more.

Get the unbiased, helpful information you need to make the right decisions - order Smart Choices for Your Home today.

Editor's Note

Kitchen & Bath

-Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop
With the number of countertops growing, you can mix and match materials to create a unique combinations of colors, textures, and functions.

-Kitchen Cabinets Your Way
Chose from new styles, finishes, and options to get a custom look on any budget

-A Better Bathroom Bowl

-Glass Tile
It shimmers, it shines, and it can be used in place of ceramic on walls, counters, and floors

-Bathtub Basics
Find a tub that fits your body, your bath, and your budget

-Splashy Bathroom Sinks
A balance of beauty and practicality is the key to choosing a lav you'll love

Interior Details

-How to Choose a Wood Floor
Reclaimed pine plank, engineered exotic--the choices in wood flooring just keep growing

-Choosing Carpeting
Cut pile or loop, wool or nylon--there's lots to consider when you're going wall to wall

-Pick the Right Paint
The surest way to make the best choice is to brush up on the basics

-Choosing Focus Lights
With the right fixtures, you can show off artwork, create ambiance, even make a room feel larger

Windows and Doors

-Windows Inside and Out
From double-hung classics to insulated-glass casements, here's a close-up look at windows for your home

-Patio Doors
Replace a sticky slider or make a wall of glass--today's patio doors are stylish, durable, and secure

-Garage Doors
Style is on the upswing with improvements that truly fool the eye