Best Decorating TV Websites

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Decorating on TV is wildly popular. There are shows that cater to novice apartment dwellers and savvy homeowners alike.

Most feature room makeovers, how-to tips, do-it-yourself advice, trash to treasure hints, kitchen remodeling ideas and much more, and each provides its own brand of inspiration, innovation, and information.

A decorating enthusiast can now practically watch 24 hours a day, since HGTV keeps adding new design shows and special feature presentations such as "Homes of Soap Stars" and an annual "Dream Home Giveaway". In addition, HGTV's sister station The DIY Network, offers shows on decorating aimed at anyone who loves to (or has to) "do it themselves". (Check with your cable operator for local availability.)

Here's a look at a few of the best websites associated with current decorating TV shows.

HGTV offers a host of popular shows. For the budget minded there's Decorating Cents, hosted by Joan Steffend. With help from a weekly guest designer she decorates a room for under $500, showing the before and after views, along with explanations of the design process, and some of the actual redecorating (painting, accessorizing, etc.). Their website showcases some of the projects (many with photos) that were used in the room. An additional "trash to treasure" segment features extremely creative makeovers and uses for found objects.

Also on HGTV's lineup is Room by Room. Matt Fox and Shari Hiller are affable hosts who do the work themselves in transforming a room from drab to decorated. Shari often reviews the decorating principles and the factors involved in determining layout, color schemes, and room themes. Instructions for many of the show's projects are available on the website. Be sure to see their very helpful online "Decorating Worksheet" which is a good way to begin any decorating plan.

While not primarily a 'decorating' show, Hometime on PBS offers useful insights into home construction and design. Remodeling and building projects are shown in detail, which may especially interest those of you who are contemplating a similar job. Many episodes include kitchens and bath design ideas. Their website has an extensive project database with instructions, photos, and tips for 25 home improvement jobs, including home theatre, log cabin, kitchens, and tile, along with plumbing and electrical. This is very good information for the handyperson or anyone who wants to understand the basics of home construction.

Finally, Martha Stewart Living TV provides a great deal of useful information online including project instructions, hints, recipes, and resources. This site offers information in "LEARN" and sells products as well, though it can be difficult to tell them apart. Look for "Good Things" to find quick projects and how-tos. Or, use the Search Box to look for a particular topic ("Halloween" or "making a bed").

Joe Ruggerio hosts several shows on HGTV, but also maintains his own website full of upscale design ideas. Browse for photos, tips, ideas, and some products.

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