Simple--and aesthetically pleasing--ideas include transforming Mason jars into solar-powered light jars, converting pallets into lawn furniture and reusing detergent containers as rain catchers.

FORBES: Julia Cosgrove

Vaguely diverted by the break in routine, that evening he walked on the brick-paved front driveway instead, looping around the circular lawn and through a carport in which a misplaced glass chandelier cast a friendly yellow light.

NEWYORKER: In Other Rooms, Other Wonders