Realtors know that fireplaces are one of the most popular amenities buyers look for in a home, whether that fireplace is wood-burning or gas powered. They add a homey touch and are a perfect place to display family photos and holiday decorations. But adding a fireplace can be expensive.

If you're looking for the latest trend in home design, take a look around the men's department next time you're at the mall. "Menswear trends are making the transition to home styles this year," says Chris Tennyson, director of visual merchandising for Bombay.

Since the first cave dwellers put pigment on the stone walls of their homes, people have used murals to decorate, enhance and make a statement about their living space. Throughout history, muralists have used their talents to tell a story, express religious devotion, beautify their environment and even visualize political protest.

When is a bedroom not a bedroom? When it's a combination den, meditation room, wet bar, home theater, and spa. Today's homes boast expansive master suites that are oases of comfort and luxury, including extras like mini refrigerators, coffee makers, state-of-the-art televisions, whirlpool tubs, and European-style towel radiators. Oh, and of course, a bed.

This time of year, angels are everywhere - kids make snow angels when they play outside, you may have angel ornaments on your tree and you might even be baking angel shaped cookies. But angels aren't just a holiday phenomenon.

When you go home at the end of the day, your apartment, condo or house should be your sanctuary; but be honest, is it a place that really feels comfortable and welcomes you?  If not, it's time to do something about it.

In the days leading up to your wedding, you can pretty much count on complications.  The caterer calls you up and says he doesn't think he'll be able to find enough lobster tails to fill your order; or all of a sudden your uncle and his family will be coming after all and the priest just got called out of town on a family emergency.

For decades, Italy has inspired us: the rolling hillsides of Tuscany, the history of Rome, the artistic masterpieces of Florence. Incorporating the colors, textures and beauty of Italy into your own home can bring a touch of "la dolce vita" into daily life.