Today I want to share a quick update answering some of the most frequently asked questions about items in our home. I can’t cover everything in one post, but I’ll address several of the pieces people ask about most often.
One of the top questions I receive is about our leather sofa. We bought it about two and a half years ago when we still lived in our previous house. We chose leather in a toffee/caramel shade because I loved the color and because my white slipcovered sofa had begun to feel impractical.
With two dogs frequently coming inside from the yard, maintaining a white slipcover became more than I wanted to manage. I still appreciate slipcovers for their ease of cleaning—they can be washed and refreshed—but at that time I was ready for a change. We needed a new sofa anyway, so trying leather made sense.
I have no regrets about choosing leather. I absolutely love the sofa. It’s essentially carefree. Jack, our golden doodle, sometimes gets exuberant and digs at the couch for reasons unknown, but despite surface scratches he’s never punctured the leather. Over time the sofa has developed a beautiful patina; it’s softer, more comfortable, and gains character the more it’s used.
I give it a thumbs up!
This little stand generates a lot of questions whenever I share photos. I’ve owned it for years and it remains one of my favorite small pieces—sturdy and versatile, it’s useful around the kitchen and dining room and would look great in almost any room. The tiny house on the stand also gets asked about frequently; it’s a simple, charming accent.
The mug rack I installed years ago is another item people always ask about. It’s practical and frees up cabinet space while keeping favorite mugs on display. Nearby is my favorite espresso machine, which served us well for many years and made excellent coffee. Though it was a splurge, it lasted a long time and was worth the investment.
I don’t have an espresso machine at the moment, but I’m very happy with my copper French press. It’s a dependable, attractive option that gets used often and draws questions whenever I post a photo.
Many of my mugs are found locally or from popular home stores. We also use Rae Dunn mugs for their simple, graphic look. The larger 24-hook mug rack is a great choice if you collect many mugs or want to display a variety of favorites.
I like to decorate with artwork that has meaning for our family. One piece that drew a lot of attention is an “It Is Well” sign I added before last Christmas; it quickly became a favorite and a commonly asked-about item. Choosing art with personal significance makes a room feel more comforting and intentional.
I still love a cabinet I bought years ago from a well-known retailer; it was a sale find in an antiqued taupe finish and has proven to be excellent quality. It has held up beautifully through moves and everyday use. The blue-and-white lamps I’ve had for years also survived our move and day-to-day life with kids and dogs, so they earn a thumbs up as durable, stylish pieces.
An essential oil glass diffuser I use often is both decorative and functional. It fills the room with scent and also plays music, so it draws attention whenever guests visit. I keep mine in the living room and it’s been reliable for several years.
Our wood iPad stand is another frequently asked-about item. It’s a handy accessory in the kitchen and will be back in use in our new kitchen as well.
Tassel blankets have become very popular, and I’m glad I bought a giant tassel throw a few years ago. It makes a bold, cozy statement on a bed or sofa and I use mine regularly. They can instantly add texture and warmth to a room.
I purchased two dip-dyed stools that have become go-to accents in our home. They work well as side tables next to chairs or sofas or as standalone decorative pieces. Their versatility has made them useful in multiple rooms.
Before Christmas I decided to get a larger rug for our living room. I found a cable-knit wool rug on sale and it has exceeded my expectations. I worried about practicality with our dogs, but it has performed well. It shed a little at first but settled quickly. The rug is soft, plush, and neutral, and it made the room feel cozier and more inviting. Compared to similar styles at higher price points, this one felt like a great value.
I also continue to get lots of questions about a blue-and-white patterned rug I’ve shared before. That rug is durable and functions well as an indoor/outdoor option, which is ideal for families with pets. Patterned statement rugs can anchor a room and add lasting visual interest.
Here are a few other FAQ posts:
Where Did You Get Your Dutch Doors and FAQ
My Lighting Sources
Blinds & Window Coverings FAQ
Shiplap Walls: What to Use and FAQ
Hickory Flooring FAQ
My Paint Colors
How to Hang Plates, Platters, and Bowls on a Wall
Follow me on Instagram!
Shop My Instagram:
Shop My House