By ROSEMARY SADEZ FRIEDMANN, Scripps Howard News Service

Let's talk storage. And let's think outside the box -- literally. Perhaps we can get a little creative; after all, that's what this column is usually about, right?

Want a new sofa but can't afford one? How about a temporary fix that doesn't cost much? There is a new eco-friendly upholstery-fabric spray paint available that claims to "up-cycle" your sofa, chairs, pillows, lampshades and just about anything fabric you might have.

There are some 78 million American baby boomers entering their retirement years. That's a lot! And they are starting to make decisions on how and where to spend their retirement years comfortably.

Tired of hearing how bad the economy is? Well, some people are doing something about it. They are getting smaller houses. According to the American Institute of Architects, there is a demand for less living space and, overall, the demand for smaller-sized homes has increased.

Ever hear the term "curb appeal"? It's quite popular these days, and for good reason. That and "staging" have become the buzzwords for the key to selling a house.

Carpet and pad prices have steadily increased about 12 times in 24 months. Rubber and foam pads still require petroleum for their creation. But, even with the increase in price, carpet is still a less expensive floor covering than almost any other installed flooring.

Remember the futon? It was popular back in the day ... to be specific, back in the '70s and '80s. Many a college student opted for the inexpensive, yet useful, sofa-by-day, bed-by-night futon. They were quite useful in a pinch, but some were not so comfortable when used on a regular basis. But that has changed.

What do Veneman Furniture and Walt Disney have in common? A great love for Mickey Mouse? Perhaps, but there is also a connection by means of a great love for fine, attractive furniture. Yes, Disney Consumer Products has launched a Disney Signature collection that is now available through Veneman. It is Disney's first upscale, non-character lifestyle brand. Non-character?

Shower curtain, or glass shower door? Which is better? It depends.

Do you have a small fry or two (or more) living under your roof? Lucky! Enjoy them! What about making their room special? Let's explore some possibilities.
Michelle Williams of Michelle Williams Interiors has some suggestions: