Luxe Magazine
I’ve been thinking a lot about this little house and imagining how she might evolve. I call her a girl—call it habit—but there’s a personality here that’s been waiting to come out. Lately the house has been insisting she doesn’t want to be stifled. She’s ready to change, to show a livelier, more modern side, like a butterfly emerging from a cocoon.
Underneath the familiar bones is a charm that doesn’t belong stuck in the past. It feels limiting to stay tied to how she was seen before; the house wants to move forward. I can sense it, and I’m excited to help that transformation unfold.
Like a butterfly, she’s ready to leave the snug cocoon and reveal a brighter personality—an updated 1950s cottage vibe with modern touches. Same house, more spunk.
The previous owner told me this street once held 54 kids. I picture a bustling, family-friendly neighborhood where children played freely and neighbors gathered for block parties. In that era, a Dutch door would have been a perfect, friendly touch—practical, welcoming, and characterful.
Coastal Living // Photographer: Dominique Vorillon
Can you picture it? A Dutch door at the kitchen, opening onto a side porch—Jack the dog poking his nose through the top half to tell me he’s ready to come in. It feels meant to be. The cat might prefer the existing kitty door, but a Dutch door provides charm and function.
Dutch doors are ideal for catching breezes, letting sea air cool the kitchen, and keeping the house connected to the outdoors. They’re practical for calling kids in for dinner or passing a cup of sugar to a neighbor while keeping curious pets safely inside. With Jack’s penchant for mischief, a Dutch door seems like the perfect solution.
I’m eager to share inspiration for updating the kitchen and the rest of the “before” images soon. There’s so much potential in this compact space, but right now I can’t stop thinking about how a Dutch door would fit and how it would anchor the design direction.
Sometimes you have to start somewhere—take one bold step toward what’s next. Let that choice spark the other design layers and allow the home’s personality to evolve over time.
Molly Wood Garden Design
Dearborn Builders / Tory Haynes Interiors – Photography by Max Kim-Bee, Styling by Erin Swift
BHG
Melanie Turner Interiors / Harris Trail
Farmhouse Country Kitchen inspiration
The small area just outside the kitchen door is already coming to life and will be ideal to access through a Dutch door. I’ll share that vision and the project details soon. The idea is coming together and it’s a delight to watch.
I’m genuinely excited about how this little house is unfolding.
Thank you for letting me share her story and for your kindness as she learns to spread her wings. Is your home beginning a transformation or dreaming of one? Tell me about it in the comments or share your story in your own space.
If you’ve missed my updates about the move, you can find all posts and the video tour in my house category.
PS. Don’t forget the upcoming one-day pre-order sale for The Inspired Room book—a great opportunity to pick up a hardcover for yourself or as a gift.
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Exterior front door makeover at my old house
Charcoal gray front door refresh at my old house