The Lifestyle Reader

The Lifestyle Reader

7.3.2026

Diy

12 articles

A hand spraying a rose bush infested with aphids using a DIY washing-up liquid solution.
The Edit

DIY washing-up liquid spray for aphids: Benefits and caveats

A common kitchen staple, washing-up liquid, is being hailed by home gardeners as a surprisingly effective, yet delicate, defense against rose aphids.

David Jones·June 28, 2026
A living room fireplace transformed with IKEA BILLY bookcases, creating a custom built-in look for under $700.
The Edit

IKEA BILLY hack transforms living room fireplace on a budget

For a mere $650, a living room fireplace, completed in 2026, shed its mundane shell for built-in charm, courtesy of an unlikely hero: IKEA Billy bookcases.

David Jones·June 20, 2026
A stylishly decorated under-stair space transformed into a functional home office and a cozy reading nook.
Home & Design

4 Aesthetic Decor Ideas for Under-Stair Spaces

That dusty, forgotten space under your stairs could become a fully functional mini home office, a cozy reading nook, or even a dedicated pet retreat.

Ingrid Olson·June 18, 2026
A beautifully renovated modern farmhouse kitchen featuring unique, budget-friendly thrift store finds and elegant decor, all completed for under $1500.
The Edit

Budget Design Transforms Old Kitchens with Thrift Store Finds

A dated 1980s kitchen, once a sea of laminate and beige, now gleams with modern farmhouse charm—all for under $1,500.

David Jones·June 15, 2026
A vibrant, freshly made michelada cocktail in a salt-rimmed glass, garnished with lime and cilantro, perfect for a summer day.
Mind & Body

Make a Fresh Tomato Michelada From Scratch

Forget the canned stuff: a new michelada recipe from Bon Appétit demands fresh tomatoes be juiced from scratch.

Ingrid Olson·June 15, 2026
A newly renovated patio with a stylish 7-piece dining set, contrasting with the previous overgrown and neglected state of the backyard.
Home & Design

Wayfair Sale Inspires DIY Patio Redo for Overgrown Yards

A 7-piece outdoor dining set, once $1,200, is now $480 during Wayfair's 'Summer Refresh' sale.

Ingrid Olson·June 14, 2026
Frustrated homeowner surveys a neglected garden bed, with a thriving xeriscaped yard visible in the background, highlighting the consequences of rushing landscaping projects.
The Edit

Homeowners Often Make Costly Landscaping Errors by Rushing

Xeriscaping, a water-wise landscaping approach, can save homeowners thousands on water costs annually, according to Men's Journal .

David Jones·June 13, 2026
A stylish, floating IKEA side table hack mounted on a white wall in a minimalist bedroom, holding a plant and a book.
Mind & Body

IKEA Find Becomes Floating Side Table Hack

For just $20, an IKEA find can become a floating bedside table, eliminating floor space needs.

Ingrid Olson·June 7, 2026
A modern bedroom with a striking, bold accent wall behind the bed, showcasing a vibrant pattern and unique design.
Mind & Body

DIY bold accent wall bedroom design ideas spark new trends

Pinterest searches for 'bold accent wall' have skyrocketed by 150% in the past year, marking a dramatic shift in bedroom design, according to Pinterest Trends .

David Jones·May 31, 2026
A beautifully renovated vintage RV with modern upgrades, parked in a picturesque natural setting during sunset, symbolizing freedom and creativity.
Home & Design

DIY Enthusiasts Transform Old RVs into Mobile Dream Spaces

After a two-hour inspection, one couple snagged a 1993 Ford Four Winds Class C motorhome for just $1,000, according to Home Is Where We Take It .

Javier Rodriguez·May 25, 2026
A bright beam of natural sunlight shines down from a solar tube into a dark basement den, illuminating a cozy seating area.
Mind & Body

DIY Basement Den Sunlight Creation: Solar Tubes Bring Light Indoors

For as little as $300, homeowners can now channel natural sunlight directly into previously dark interior rooms, transforming basements and hallways without professional help.

Javier Rodriguez·May 24, 2026
A beautifully renovated small kitchen with budget-friendly DIY upgrades, demonstrating a stylish and affordable transformation for under $5,000.
The Edit

Discover budget-friendly DIY kitchen renovation ideas now

Taylor Greeley transformed her entire 84-square-foot kitchen for an astonishing $4,385, according to Realtor .

David Jones·May 24, 2026