I can’t believe the kids are heading back to school already. My son doesn’t return until next week, but I’ve already started my fall nesting rituals. This time of year I enjoy adding new layers and textures—warm throw blankets on the backs of chairs, a simple tablecloth in the dining room, and a few rugs to make rooms feel cozier.
Our entry has been evolving for years, but it finally feels like it’s coming together. Painting the front door and adding a new rug have made a big difference in warming up the space and giving it a finished look.
With dogs in the house, indoor/outdoor rugs have been especially practical. They’re easy to keep clean: a quick wipe or taking the rug outside to hose off on a sunny day gets it fresh again. The rugs are low-maintenance for a busy household—while the dogs get their own baths when needed.
Indoor/outdoor rugs suit our casual, no-fuss style and stand up well to pets and everyday traffic.
My new rug is the Samode Rug by Dash & Albert from Rug Studio. It has a lively pattern that adds softness and interest without feeling too heavy or wintry. The design feels balanced—cozy but still light enough for transitional seasons. Jack and Lily love lounging on it, and I expect Bella will enjoy it on her next visit, too.
Update 2019: I designed rugs for Dash & Albert, which was a dream come true. Seeing those designs come to life has been exciting.
If you’re curious about houseplants, I recently posted about keeping a fiddle leaf fig healthy—there are practical tips for light, watering, and care that have helped mine thrive.
Wall paint: Studio Taupe by Behr All-in-One
Door paint: Kendall Charcoal by Benjamin Moore
A full list of my paint colors is available for reference if you’re planning a refresh.
Details about the flooring and the hickory hardwood in our home are also available for readers who want more background on the house’s finishes.
There’s also a tutorial for the blue DIY bottle lamp shown in the top photo for anyone interested in a simple, creative lighting project.
Have you tried indoor-outdoor rugs in your house?
See my post on keeping a clean house with dogs for practical tips and routines that make pet care manageable.