Best Place to Brainstorm Remodeling Projects

Sure, you can always imitate the great remodeling ideas on Trading Spaces or Design on a Dime. But wouldn't it be better to be your own interior-design trailblazer? And for laughably low costs? We think so. That's why we regularly visit Restore Habitat, a sprawling warehouse in the Missouri River floodplain stuffed with an ever-changing assortment of perfectly good building materials left over from construction jobs around the city. You'll find everything from antique lumber and ceramic tiles of all colors to Jacuzzi bathtubs and solid-wood doors. It's easy to become an accidental designer. Just grab a cart and stroll the aisles. When you see something interesting -- such as a gallon of autumn-yellow paint or a dusty chandelier -- throw it in the cart, take it home and design your room around it. If you get good at it, maybe you'll find yourself on a hit cable TV show one day.