Who Is Joss? Discover the Story Behind the Name

featured 45519

Last October we teamed up with Joss & Main to curate a sale on their site — we combed through hundreds of items to create a “Young House Love” collection — and we had a blast. When they asked us back for a spring collection and offered an extra special perk for readers this time … Read more

How We Wrote Our Second Book: Behind-the-Scenes Journey

img 65024 1

We’ve been hinting about a second book for months, and now we’re finally ready to share more details. How did you get a second book deal? Our original contract with Artisan Books was for two books, so we always knew a follow-up was in the plan when we signed in 2011. That first book was … Read more

Bedroom Problems: How to Fix Sleep, Space, and Design Issues

featured 88341

After a short Instagram video showing Sherry’s pared-down closet prompted hundreds of questions, we’re sharing her method for building a wardrobe that saves space, cuts costs, and reduces decision fatigue. If you want to tame an overflowing closet, lower your clothing budget, or simplify mornings for yourself or your kids, this episode is for you. … Read more

Free Rainfall Giveaway: Let the Rain Fall Down

img 14061 1

***This giveaway is no longer accepting entries*** We like to turn setbacks into opportunities. When the forecast looks gloomy, why not capture that rain and put it to work? This week we’re excited to host a giveaway from The Rain Barrel Company, a brand that offers durable, attractive rain barrels and other sustainable garden products. … Read more

Grouting White Subway Tile: Expert Tips for Clean, Even Lines

featured 20785

After my tile laying extravaganza, grouting and sealing felt like minor tasks — especially since I’d taken the week between Christmas and New Year’s off and had several days to finish them. Yet somehow I really dreaded grouting. My dad called it “the pits,” and even Katie Bower admitted it was the hardest part of … Read more

After Party Guide: What to Do After the Big Night

featured 1254

On Tuesday, Annastazia reminded us that many readers have impressive before-and-after photos of their homes. Even better, there’s now an opportunity to turn those photos into support for a good cause — and possibly earn a small reward: a $50 gift card. One Project Closer — a blog that follows the home improvement projects of … Read more

We Downsized — Here’s What We Kept and Why

featured 105627

Settle in — this is a deep dive. A long, honest reflection in the spirit of old-school blogging. If you’ve got a cup of coffee, come along as we unpack: Lessons we’ve learned about downsizing over the past few years Which pieces from our larger house made the cut and why they’ve worked Thoughts on … Read more

Outdoor-Style Chairs for Indoor Dining Rooms

featured 50818

And now for a little chair-related riddle: What’s worse than buying eight chairs on Craigslist only to discover they don’t work after a year and a half? A: Buying eight chairs on Craigslist and then chronicling the whole failed experiment online. We like to keep it real, so here’s the condensed lesson learned after many … Read more

Toilet Leak Through Ceiling Below? What to Do Next

featured 63222

During our recent bathroom renovation we discovered that the wallpaper wasn’t the only problem awaiting repair. Over the last few weeks we dealt with a plumbing issue that finally wrapped up a few days ago — and it wasn’t pleasant. We’ll spare you the graphic photos, but here’s the full story of what went wrong … Read more

Lush Green Shag Rug Ideas for a Cozy Living Room

featured 33824

Yup — that’s the best way to describe our new living room rug. We’ve officially got a case of happy feet. It’s even plusher and more luxurious than we expected. Before we dive into rug photos, though, we want to thank you. The support, kindness, and humor you bring — not just on this morning’s … Read more