HHello! Last year I focused on improving storage and style throughout the house. I’ve always wanted more cabinetry and dressers—not to accumulate more things but to simplify life by keeping everyday items organized. I had some pieces already, but I wanted to evaluate what worked, what didn’t, and make thoughtful updates where they would help the most.
I’m often scouting secondhand shops, but I don’t always find what I need—either because of size constraints or because certain drawers are a hassle to use. I avoid adding items that create frustration; everything I bring in has to serve a purpose, look good, and function well.
After a long search for a nightstand that fit our space, I found one online at Joss and Main that matched our needs—the depth and width were right, and I loved the unexpected pattern and gold finish. I took a chance hoping it would look as good in person as it did in the photos.
It exceeded expectations. It was heavy (it sat at the bottom of the stairs for a while), but once it found its spot in the bedroom I was thrilled. The drawers are shallow and don’t open fully, but they work well for what we need. The piece is called the Grace Chest.
The gold of the dresser ties perfectly to the antique chinoiserie cabinet on the wall across from it. That cabinet is a family heirloom my grandparents brought back from Thailand, and it was originally in our living room and entry before we moved it upstairs. Having that piece nearby is meaningful—its history and memories add warmth to the room.
I’m still deciding what to place on the left side of the bed, but a small console is filling in nicely for now. I updated it with a touch of gold using Rub n’ Buff to give it a little extra polish and character.
Throughout the year I made small, practical improvements in several corners of the house, and I started calling the year “The Year of the Cabinet.” I didn’t accomplish everything I hoped to, but I also didn’t expect to sign contracts to write multiple books during the same period, so I’m giving myself some grace. Overall, it was a productive year and I’m happy with the progress.
For those wondering how I keep a white duvet with two dogs: I don’t leave the duvet on the bed if the dogs might be muddy. During the day the duvet is folded away and we use an easy-to-wash blanket instead—simple precautions prevent muddy mishaps.
How did your home goals go last year? Even small steps count. If you haven’t set goals for the year yet, consider a few focused projects to improve function and style. A Home Goals worksheet can be useful for narrowing priorities. I’ll be sharing my goals for the new year soon and would love to hear yours.
Sources:
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Paint colors can be found on the blog’s paint color page.
Gold dresser/nightstand – Grace Chest (Joss & Main)
Duvet cover
Cable knit throw blanket
Bedside lamps – HomeGoods
Mirror above bed – HomeGoods
Curtains – Slate Green Velvet (may be sold out)
Navy euro shams – Anthropologie
Front euro shams – Williams Sonoma
Sweater pillow – West Elm (similar available)
Long pillow made from an antique grain sack
Love sign