For as long as I can remember, I have been deeply passionate about creating a meaningful home. That passion led me to transform more than half a dozen houses into warm, lived-in spaces for my family. Over time, what began as a personal pursuit became a way to help others shape homes that reflect their … Read more

@simplysoutherncottage I’ve always been drawn to porches with blue-painted ceilings. That soft, sky-like color creates a calm, inviting feeling that makes outdoor spaces feel cozier and more intentional. This summer I finally have the right covered porch to bring that dream to life, so we’re planning to paint ours a soothing blue. Below are a … Read more

2012 Trend Report via Kate at Centsational Girl Hey y’all — how are you? My friend Kate shared a report on 2012 fall fashion after her trip to New York. It reminded me how home decor often echoes the fashion world: when a color or combination becomes popular in clothing, similar palettes and pairings tend … Read more

Awhile ago I mentioned that mason jars are one of the simplest and most effective decorating ideas for parties. In truth, any glass container is my favorite everyday accessory for both decorating and organizing. There’s almost no end to what you can do with jars — big or small, with lids or without, squat or … Read more

Country Living Pottery Barn Country Living DDo you have a favorite set of Christmas stockings? I’m thinking about replacing ours — we’ve used the same stockings since our early years as a family of four, and one family member never had a matching one. With our daughter married and a move to a new state … Read more

The sun finally showed up in the Seattle area this weekend — a welcome dose of vitamin D — and it prompted a bit of indoor planting. I wasn’t quite ready to tackle an outdoor project (it’s still a touch too chilly for digging in the yard), but I couldn’t resist creating a few small … Read more

It’s no secret — I love shiplap walls. Over the years I’ve used planked walls in several homes and learned what works and what doesn’t. This post collects answers to common questions, shares what materials we used, and offers tips from our experience. We’re very happy with the impact a single shiplap wall made in … Read more

“My house is my sanctuary. I know you feel the same way about yours. A home isn’t meant to be a showplace for the world; it should first and foremost nurture your family.” (Fireplace Details / Sofa Details / Room Sources) We’ve been particularly busy around the house this week, and it feels wonderful to … Read more

  So, while catching up on some favorite blogs yesterday I ran into a post by Young House Love that joked about a designer trend: elephants in every room. The story made me laugh because I, too, have quirky decorating dreams—but it also prompted a confession. I realized I have my own elephant collection. In … Read more

Roger Oates My husband has been repainting our small basement staircase for the past week or two, and it’s turning out so charming. When we moved in it was carpeted and not very attractive. A few years ago we removed the carpet and painted the steps a dark gray, but the paint wore away and … Read more