photos: Sarah Richardson Design via Country Living {photograph Stacey Branford} I enjoy studying rooms to understand what makes their designs feel warm and inviting. Looking closely at successful interiors reveals recurring choices—balance, texture, and thoughtful furniture placement—that encourage comfort and connection. I’m also a fan of Sarah Richardson’s work, from her farmhouse projects to her … Read more

Images: This Old House I recently came across three beautiful white kitchens styled with striped rugs. The combination is simple yet striking: the clean, timeless backdrop of a white kitchen paired with bold, graphic stripes on the floor creates instant visual interest and warmth. White kitchens offer a fresh, versatile canvas. They reflect light and … Read more

House Beautiful This cottage, settled in a sunny spot, feels like an ideal place to enjoy a backyard pool. The combination of the house and the pool house creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere where outdoor living takes center stage. If I lived here, I imagine I would swim every day. Regular laps would become part … Read more

Pleated Lampshade // Similar Lamp // Tulips // Find a ‘get the look’ mood board with more sources at the end of this post! Since moving in last year we’ve been making small, thoughtful updates to our bedroom. A bigger change is coming when we swap the carpet for wood floors, but in the meantime … Read more

Great Neighborhood Homes Even though I’m very happy and content in our current home, I’ll always be a dreamer and a lover of houses. That part of me never goes away. We may never move, but it’s enjoyable to imagine new possibilities. Even if those daydreams simply inspire improvements where you already live, dreaming can … Read more

Do you want practical, stylish tips on how to decorate—regardless of your taste or budget? If you’re looking for fresh ideas to refresh your home, this guide collects years of decorating advice and inspiration to help you get started. This Decorating 101 collection brings together simple, affordable strategies and a gallery of posts to spark … Read more

  I’ve been doing a bit more fall nesting around the house this week. I absolutely love this time of year. Yesterday felt like a perfect fall day — sunny and crisp. I spent some time tidying and swapping out a few summer items for autumn decor. I didn’t tackle everything on my to‑do list, … Read more

Happy Monday! The word on the street is that the Better Homes & Gardens issue featuring my kitchen has finally arrived. I haven’t spotted it on a newsstand yet, but several readers have emailed to say they’ve received their copies in the mail—so check your mailbox or local store! I did get a few copies … Read more

via flickr: aussiegall T Some of you on Twitter and Facebook (feel free to follow me at facebook.com/theinspiredroom) may already have heard snippets about my recent unplanned, life-threatening surgery. Thank you so much for the well wishes, concern and prayers. I’m now beginning the recovery process and expect to be fine. I won’t be filling … Read more

Toward the end of last year, we launched the Cottage by the Sea Shop, a carefully curated collection inspired by life near the water and the relaxed, cozy atmosphere of seaside homes—wherever you live. Today I’m sharing a few new mood boards featuring recent pieces from the shop that I think you’ll love. Each board … Read more