Nothing feels better than jumping into bed for a rejuvenating night’s sleep. But our rest can be disturbed in many ways, so we strive to create a comfortable cocoon with pillows just the way we like them, soft sheets, and maybe a noise machine to overtake aural distractions. However, there is one element we might be overlooking that contributes to the lack of Zen: the color of the walls. While the paint color of a room is intended to create ambiance, it can unintentionally affect our feelings. In the bedroom, where relaxation is the goal, you’ll want to stay away from loud and bright hues that energize, especially these four colors.

Color capping is a painting technique that uses different shades from the same color family to add depth to any room. Here are some practical tips to help DIY enthusiasts master the look.

In Chicago, CNN Hero Quilen Blackwell and Southside Blooms turn vacant lots into flower farms, employing 25 local young people to grow, harvest, arrange, and sell flowers at the group’s nonprofit flower shop.

Who wants to be stuck indoors once warm weather arrives? (Not us!) If your home’s exterior and lawn feel a little more “stay away” than “relax all day,” you might find yourself indoors more than you’d like. Of course, the obvious solution is to take on a wheelbarrow full of landscaping projects to make your yard or patio feel more welcoming — but who wants to spend all weekend on yard work? (Again, not us!) Fortunately, there are several ways you can add some pizzazz to your home’s exterior with minimal effort.