To make: I love this quick and simple DIY outdoor bar from Shabby Creek Cottage. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly project that transforms an outdoor space into a comfortable entertaining spot. The design uses basic materials and can be adapted in size and finish to suit your patio or backyard. Add a few hooks for glasses, … Read more

Home Organization & Decluttering TThis year has been a big year for organizing our home. We’ve clarified how we want to use each space and reorganized rooms, closets, and storage to better suit our daily life. The result is a home that feels more functional and comfortable. Over the next year I plan to fine-tune … Read more

I can’t believe we’re about to celebrate our first Christmas in our new house. Last spring we were only beginning to consider a move to Seattle, and now we’re settled in and making holiday memories. Celebrating holidays at home makes a new place feel like yours, and Thanksgiving here with family was wonderful. I expect … Read more

White Diffuser + essential oil kit One of my favorite pastimes is puttering around the house. I mention it often because it’s something I genuinely enjoy. I may not be especially crafty, but I can putter with the best of them. Embracing what you enjoy and the small skills you have makes home life better. … Read more

Graphic Wallpaper Source: Rifle Paper Co (Rosa: Hunter) I have downsized and decluttered my home several times, and while it hasn’t always been easy, each round made the space calmer and more enjoyable. Below are practical, approachable steps to help you begin downsizing and decluttering so your home can become the restful retreat you want … Read more

IIf your bedroom has become a catchall for clothes, papers, and miscellaneous items, it’s the perfect moment for a refresh. A calmer, more organized bedroom doesn’t require a major overhaul—small, focused steps can make a big difference and can be completed in a weekend. Start by clearing surfaces. Remove everything from nightstands, dressers, and the … Read more

Kitchens Another inspiring kitchen to share this week. My friend Heather Bullard of Vintage Inspired Living recently completed a thoughtful update to her kitchen, and she kindly allowed me to feature her project here. Her makeover offers practical ideas for anyone looking to refresh a kitchen without a full remodel. What stood out about Heather’s … Read more

Hello, friends! Our contractors have been hard at work on our beach house kitchen remodel and the Tiny Cottage addition. Calling this place our “beach house” makes it sound like a second home, but this is our everyday home — and it truly feels like being on vacation every day. We live near the San … Read more

So, 2011 is coming to a close. As is tradition, here’s a concise recap of the highlights and projects from the past year. I made progress on many rooms, tackled office and outdoor updates, and had plenty of memorable personal moments along the way. January January started with a look back at the rooms that … Read more

Elle Decor / Design by Rita Konig / Wallpaper by Pierre Frey / Photo by Eric Piasecki Yesterday I shared an older post called “Finding the Happy Medium in Design.” Rereading it reminded me that my tastes haven’t changed much: I prefer balance. For our house that means mixing calm, serene elements with a few … Read more