David Shaw Homes

Breaking news for real estate and home improvement

Subscribe my newsletter for latest news and updates. Let's stay updated!

Renovation Diary

Homeowners advised on proper exterior paint preparation

by Consuelo Espinoza

Choosing a new exterior paint shade works best when homeowners first understand why the current finish is failing and how the surface will be prepared. Assessing the Existing Exterior Walk the house at ground level and photograph peeling paint, stains, open joints, and any visibly deteriorated trim. Record recurring problem spots and note whether nearby gutters, roof details, or landscaping might affect the repair work. Ask the contractor which issues…

READ FULL ARTICLE

For residents in the Lehigh Valley, selecting materials that endure freeze-thaw cycles is critical for longevity. Selecting the best countertop materials for your outdoor kitchen transforms a backyard into a functional and durable living space. Whether you entertain frequently or simply enjoy dining al fresco, the surface you choose dictates how well the area withstands weather and daily use. Durability and Weather Resistance Granite and stainless steel stand out for…

READ FULL ARTICLE

Hommeboys Interiors Merges Modernity, Nature in Los Altos Hills Home

by Consuelo Espinoza

Hommeboys Interiors transforms a 6,000-square-foot residence in Los Altos Hills, California. Los Altos Hills, a semi-rural California enclave known for its woodlands and proximity to Silicon Valley, is home to a recent project by Sonoma-based firm Hommeboys Interiors. The company, founded by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, transformed a 6,000-square-foot residence for a tech couple and their children. Blending Indoor and Outdoor Living Hommeboys Interiors is recognized for its ability…

READ FULL ARTICLE

All Posts

Chimney Swift Populations Plummet as Chimneys Vanish

Chimney swift numbers are plummeting as brick flues disappear, urging conservationists to...

Maite Ramirez • Oct 5, 2026 • Floor Plans

Chimney Swift Populations Plummet as Chimneys Vanish

C himney swifts arrive in North America each April and remain until October. Chimney swifts are disappearing as the country’s old brick flues vanish, prompting conservationists to urge yard owners to create safer habitats for the fast-flying insect eaters....

When Chimney Swifts Arrive In April the birds return to North America, filling the sky with chittering calls that persist until October. Their arrival marks the beginning of a season when they dominate the airspace above towns and parks, swooping...

Garden Experts Recommend Top White Flowers

Garden experts recommend top white flowers for a versatile and elegant addition...

Fernanda Perez • Oct 1, 2026 • Floor Plans

Garden Experts Recommend Top White Flowers

W hite flowers thrive in morning or evening soft light. White flowers are a versatile and elegant addition to any garden, capable of conveying a range of styles from casual to formal. A writer who specializes in gardening notes...

that white flowers can reflect the color of nearby flowers, making them a great choice for mixing with other blooms. When using white flowers in a garden, it's essential to consider the shade and lighting. The writer mentions that white...

Cool-Toned Fall Container Ideas From Seattle Designer

Cool-toned fall container ideas from Seattle designer Susan Nock, offering unique seasonal...

Rina Sari • Sep 28, 2026 • Material Guide

Cool-Toned Fall Container Ideas From Seattle Designer

S usan Nock of Seattle has over a decade of experience crafting seasonal container displays. Photo: Gene Samit/Pexels Garden designer Susan Nock knows that fall containers require careful attention to maintain their appearance through the colder months. Based in...

Seattle, Nock has over a decade of experience crafting seasonal displays for clients and her own garden. Her approach to fall planting favors cool-toned combinations that stand out from typical warm autumn hues. Watering and Fertilizing Essentials The most critical...

Three water-saving garden strategies cut irrigation needs

Three water-saving garden strategies can cut irrigation needs significantly with smart watering...

Maite Ramirez • Sep 25, 2026 • Builder Spotlight

Three water-saving garden strategies cut irrigation needs

A 2- to 3-gallon watering can lets gardeners target specific plants without dragging a hose. Water-wise gardening is becoming a practical necessity as water restrictions tighten across the country. The garden is the home’s largest consumer of water....

But a carefully planned garden can stay lush without wasting resources. Three straightforward strategies — smart watering tools, permeable surfaces, and rainwater harvesting — can cut irrigation needs significantly. Smart Watering Tools for Every Garden Task Most people water too...