The closet beside our front door seemed like the natural coat closet when we moved in. But because our idea of a coat closet included cleaning supplies (vacuum, dust buster), files, and random bags, we quickly realized the deeper closet under the stairs was a better fit. It’s slightly closer to the garage, so it … Read more

I know it sounds a little crazy, but after painstakingly removing five different wallpapers from this house, we’re actually considering putting some up again. I even hinted at the idea in a previous post about the nursery mobile. When we first envisioned the built-ins, we pictured creating an accent between them—either with color, pattern, or … Read more

When I was a kid and my parents took us to open houses, my sister and I always claimed the most interesting room as “ours”—the one with secret compartments or the biggest windows. If we toured Kristin’s home, the attic she converted into their daughter Ella’s bedroom would win hands down. It’s the kind of … Read more

Last fall I spent a week in Florence, Italy (with a day trip to Venice) with three friends — a trip full of art, food, long walks, and lovely surprises. I’ve already shared how I packed light for this trip, so here I’m summarizing what we did, saw, and ate. If you’re planning a visit … Read more

So… suddenly it’s December. Time to pause and look back at what we accomplished last month, gather the highlights, and share the links in one place. We also included a few never-before-seen moments to keep things interesting. As usual, we covered a lot of ground — exterior updates, nursery and office touches, ornaments and place … Read more

It should come as no surprise that my fondness for soda-themed shirts goes hand in hand with a general love of soda itself. I know it isn’t the healthiest choice, but since I avoid other vices — alcohol, cigarettes, reality TV binges — I usually let myself indulge in soda. Not this month, though. For … Read more

When Totty and Dave sent us photos of their latest room makeover, we had to share the transformation. After the rave response to their bathroom overhaul, we knew their kitchen update would be a hit. Here’s the note they sent in: Dave and I have another Reader Redesign for ya. Our kitchen has been getting … Read more

***This giveaway is no longer accepting entries – see who won below!*** According to random.org, the royal treatment is going to Cathleen Pearson. Congratulations! No, not the crowned kind. This giveaway celebrates Royal Design Studio, makers of beautiful wall stencils that transform ordinary walls into standout designs. Their wide range of patterns and color possibilities … Read more

*** This giveaway is no longer accepting entries – see who won below! *** Good news – the prize pot grew to over $500! Even better news: random.org has selected our winner as… Karina, who mentions that both teaching and learning to share can be tough. Congratulations, Karina! Last week, with our curator collection, we … Read more

This post covers three small bathroom updates, starting with the most obvious one—the window. It was essentially an anti-privacy device positioned directly above the most private spot in the room. It’s a little ridiculous we didn’t do anything sooner since the window looks almost directly toward the neighbor’s house. We don’t live right on top … Read more