How-To & Guides
If you’re ready to funnel your ideas and inspiration into your own project, Dwell is here to help with resources, guides, and how-tos. These articles give you practical advice and information about everything from the best types of tile for your kitchen renovation to interior design tricks for creating a polished, midcentury modern look.
Ask an Expert: What Is Biophilia, Really?
Yes, it’s about plants. But it could also be the key to a healthier home.
How Much Should You Spend on a Wall Sconce?
Wall sconces are versatile, space-saving fixtures that can act as functional art in the home.
How Much Should You Spend on Kitchen Countertops?
Top designers dish on the best countertop materials for your kitchen—and their attendant price tags.
The Definitive Guide to Prefab Home Companies in Your State
Prefab builders across the U.S. are striving for smarter, faster ways to make homes.
21 Resources on Redlining’s Role in Cementing the American Wealth Gap
A decades-long housing policy that segregated U.S. cities still plagues Black communities today.
Here’s How to Support the Protests Against Police Brutality
Protestors across the U.S. are demanding justice for George Floyd and other victims of police brutality. Here’s how to help, even if you can’t march.
How Much Should You Spend on a Kitchen Faucet?
Top designers give their advice about how to choose a stylish, functional faucet—and what it will cost. Hint: It’s more than you may think.
An Introduction to Architects
Aside from that mischievous caveperson in France who used a piece of charcoal to draw a line around some stick figures that suggested some kind of manmade shelter, it is generally...
7 Steps to Creating Your Own Outdoor Barbecue Area for Summer Entertaining
Nothing beats a good old backyard cookout with family and friends in the summertime.
9 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day at Home
Honor our military service members and kick off the summer while staying safe at home.
The Beginner’s Guide to Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors
Dreaming of your own veggie garden, but not sure where to start? Here’s how to sprout vegetable seedlings right on your windowsill.
Here’s How to Make Your Own Bee Home for World Bee Day
IKEA’s design lab, SPACE10, is sharing free plans to build a custom home for bees.
How to Create the Best Home Office for Your Living Situation
Whether you’re battling noise or are short on space, these guides can turn your office into a distraction-free zone.
Here’s How to Put Your Bed on the Floor Without it Looking Sloppy
Done right, a mattress placed on the floor or a low-lying bed frame has an irresistible cool factor.
The Best New Outdoor Products for City Living
The selection includes Philippe Starck’s chunky outdoor chair and BoConcept’s bulbous flower pots.
Introducing the Best New Outdoor Furniture and Accessories
From urban, lakeside, and subtropical gardens to mountain and desert terrains—we have it covered.
Here’s What it Takes to Build a Pretty Good House
LEED and Passive House have become gold standards for energy-efficient homebuilding—but some say there’s a better way.
How to Pick the Perfect Rug for Your Space
We’ve got the scoop on everything you ever wanted to know about designing with rugs.
Here Are Four Places to Rent Stylish Furniture for Your Best Work-From-Home Setup
Eventually, we will return to our offices. Until then, don’t think you have to break the bank to set yourself up for success at home.
How Changing the Layout of Your House Can Make it a Home
Parachute founder Ariel Kaye gives us the 411 in this excerpt from her new book, “How to Make a House a...
Just Browsing
Personal devices are the new frontier for shops peddling their wares. Have a look at how your toddler will shop.
Patent Vending
Rescued from its long tenure as the home of processed snacks, the vending machine is enjoying a moment of unprecedented glitz.
A Poor Fit
Even high-design dressing rooms, rare as they are, rarely function or inspire as the shop floor can. That may be changing, though.
Glass Appeal
There’s a fine art to getting you to gape—one that shop-window designers of all stripes must learn.
Trend Report: Design Brands Cope With COVID-19
With manufacturing paused and major industry events canceled, the design industry has been hit hard by the coronavirus.
Put Lipstick on Your Door: 5 Ways to Make Your Home Unapologetically Bold
Russell Whitehead and Jordan Cluroe of 2LG Studio share their design tips for creating a home with an unforgettable personality.
How Much Should You Spend on Door Hardware?
Top designers explain the nuts and bolts of choosing door hardware at different price points.
Pouffe! There It Is
Versatile like an accent pillow or throw, a pouffe need not match your living-room set to settle in and look right at home.
The Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Vegetables
With the current pandemic comes the return of the victory garden. Here’s how to get started growing your own greens.
Yes, You Should Wear a Face Mask. Here’s How to Get or Make One
Crafters and designers are offering DIY instructions and options to “buy one, give...