New England Home Hygge (pronounced “hooga”) is the Danish term for the sense of cozy comfort people create for themselves, friends, and family in the home. Think soft blankets, flickering candlelight, natural textures, the warmth of a fire and a steaming mug of soup. Welcome, fall. Those simple pleasures are endlessly inspiring. Hygge isn’t only … Read more

It’s time to show off the July {ditto} DIY challenge! Happy Monday! It’s time for the ditto DIY challenge. Once a month, ten bloggers recreate a project or design element inspired by haute couture and translate it into approachable home decor. The goal is to inspire you to bring elegant design touches into your own … Read more

It’s been gray, rainy, and chilly the last few days, and I even turned the heat on yesterday. That can only mean one thing — fall is officially here. With the change in weather, I’m already craving all the warm, comforting meals I haven’t made in a while. My daughters and I are planning to … Read more

{please look away from the band of swine paint that still circles our ceiling ..} Magazine inspiration photo for one of my kitchens in the 1990s. Once upon a time — back in the 1900s, before some of you were born — I fell in love with a kitchen photo in a magazine. I tore … Read more

YYou may remember when I brought home my Fiddle Leaf Fig last year. It arrived full and green and, aside from a few brown edges, looked healthy. It filled the corner of the family room beautifully and made me feel both stylish and somewhat accomplished at plant care. Within a few weeks, however, it began … Read more

Happy weekend before Christmas! December has flown by — I can hardly believe how quickly the season arrived. How is everyone doing? I hope you’re finding time to slow down and enjoy these last days before the holiday. I have some pre-Christmas inspiration for you today. Whether you’re wrapping gifts, planning cozy evenings, or looking … Read more

  So, while catching up on some favorite blogs recently I stumbled across a post from Young House Love about a playful decorating trend: elephants in every room. The story made me laugh because I, too, have had eccentric decorating dreams. But beneath the chuckle I was hiding a little secret I felt I should … Read more

I can’t believe 2014 is already here! If we haven’t met yet, I’m Michaela and I write a monthly entertaining-themed post. Sharing these projects is a joy. It feels like we just rang in the New Year and now I’m excited to share ideas for setting up a playful, feminine Valentine’s Day dessert bar. Time … Read more

Happy Monday! The exciting news is that Better Homes & Gardens has published a feature on my kitchen. I haven’t spotted it on newsstands yet, but several readers have emailed to say their copies arrived in the mail. If you subscribe or shop locally, check your mailbox or store—it might already be there! I did … Read more

SI’ve always been drawn to old, charming houses — especially their kitchens and bathrooms. I adore vintage white porcelain sinks, pretty faucets, classic subway tile, plaster and wood walls, and interesting lighting and ceilings. It’s the details that make these rooms feel special. That said, I’m learning to appreciate the pace and possibilities of a … Read more