Best of 2016: Home & Design

Make It Better’s Best of 2016 drew more than 168,000 votes across 11 categories. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #Bestof2016. Best Builder A. Perry Homes It’s a four-peat for this family-run business known for award-winning architecture and expertly crafted custom homes. 564 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka Best Architect (Suburbs) Reynolds Architecture […]

Make It Better Staff Picks: Books to Travel With

Every summer, there are lists upon lists of suggested beach reads. We know beach reads are good intentioned, but really, when it comes to the beach or laying by the pool, that book gets abandoned for the perfect sun session or a romp in the water. So Make It Better’s staff wants to give you […]

Better Makers: Chicago Children’s Choir Surprises Shedd Aquarium’s Dark Waters Gala Guests

The Shedd Aquarium took guests into Dark Waters for its 2016 gala, held June 11. The event raised $1,900,000 for the Shedd’s conservation research initiatives, environmental stewardship programs, rescue and rehabilitation endeavors and education opportunities for kids. The night featured a steampunk-themed performance of the Shedd’s aquatic program featuring belugas, dolphins, penguins and sea lions […]

8 Chicago Food Festivals We're Excited About

Chicago and the suburbs offer an endless lineup of great summer festivals, activities and entertainment for the whole family. Having trouble choosing from so many amazing options? Everyone loves to eat, so you’ll never go wrong with a food festival. We’ve taken a look at some of the area’s best food fests and have picked out the tastiest […]

11 Must-See Summer Movies

Who doesn’t love summer movie season? This year’s crop of must-see summer movies looks action-packed, giggle-inducing and, in some cases, heart-breaking. We’ve picked 11 features that will be must-sees in theaters this summer. Me Before You (June 3) Jojo Moyes‘ enthralling novel that is part love story, part tragedy is hitting the big screen with “Game of Thrones” star […]

Chicago's Professional Sports Teams Make It Better

Chicago’s top sports teams are making an impact in local communities through their charitable arms. We asked each team to tell us more about these nonprofits, their achievements and how players and coaches get involved. Chicago Cubs Nonprofit: Chicago Cubs Charities Mission: To provide increased access to sports opportunities and target improvements in health, fitness […]

Organization Ideas: Tips for Putting Your Home in Order

Are you finding your home to be too cluttered? Here are some of our best tips for getting your home organized. How to Organize Your Desk and Work More Efficiently 13 Clever Contraptions to Organize Your Family’s Car The Prettiest Ways to Keep Accessories Organized 13 Mudroom Must-Haves for a Clutter-Free Home Pros Reveal Their […]

Merchandise Mart's DreamHome Provides Interior Design Inspiration

Find your home decor inspiration, or aspiration, at the 12th Annual DreamHome, which will be on display at the Merchandise Mart through Dec. 4. Here’s a taste of the six rooms created by Chicago interior design firms. Foyer Don’t invest in home design elements that are too trendy, advises Lynn Boutross of Blutter Shiff Design Associates, […]