TThis weekend I shared several inspirational images about creating functional, livable spaces. Today I want to highlight one of my favorite functional rooms — my home office. This room is from my previous house, and while I haven’t finished styling my new office yet, the ideas and lessons from this space will guide the design … Read more

I’m excited to introduce the newest Cottage by the Sea Dreambook, A Coastal Grandma Summer. This summer edition of the If I Lived in a Cottage by the Sea Dreambooks is a beautifully curated collection of seaside inspiration and cozy coastal style. Our Dreambooks are created as a gentle escape for coastal grandmas—whether that’s your … Read more

Painted Furniture Yellow file cabinets I have a feeling there are file cabinets somewhere that are just begging to be painted yellow right now. A warm wood top would suit them perfectly too. That’s it—simple and cheerful. One small note: Avoid painting a piano yellow; large, heirloom pieces often deserve a different treatment. Sometimes furniture … Read more

Thanksgiving, Party & Holiday Table Idea! While attending the Relevant conference, I kept noticing the charming table decor. From what I observed, the decorations were created in part by Events by Design, whose designer I met there. The table arrangements were full of thoughtful, creative details. This clever hanging votive idea was created by Melissa … Read more

Hey friends! When I first began writing online nearly a decade ago, I never imagined I would meet such a warm, creative community. It’s a joy to share ideas about house and home with kindred spirits. If you’re new here, please kick off your shoes, pull up a chair, and make yourself comfortable. Thank you … Read more

Hello! I hope you had a great week. Ours was busy and a little chaotic, but it’s Friday, so I’m breathing a sigh of relief. Here’s a brief update on what’s been happening around the house lately. My plants are thriving in the new living room. The fiddle leaf fig surprised me by producing three … Read more

Be still my heart. This beautiful timber frame house in Washington captures rustic charm with refined design. Exposed timber beams, natural wood siding and large windows create a warm, inviting exterior that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. The classic timber-frame structure conveys durability and craftsmanship while offering an open, airy interior layout. The façade features … Read more

One thing I miss about our previous house was how complete and welcoming it felt. It wasn’t perfect, but it had the comfortable, lived-in atmosphere that made it easy to relax. The rooms had just the right elements working together so we felt peaceful and at home the moment we walked in. I enjoy creating … Read more

Mark D Sikes – House Beautiful – built-ins inspirationWhen we first saw the living room in our new house, we were excited to find several features that made it special. This is the living room on the main floor. It’s larger than any room in our previous home, which gives us room to breathe and … Read more

A Nancy Meyers–Inspired Coastal Cottage Christmas People often tell me my decorating feels like Nancy Meyers meets coastal cottage, and it’s a compliment I never tire of. Those film homes—think The Holiday, Something’s Gotta Give, and It’s Complicated—blend comfortable, lived-in warmth with a timeless, welcoming aesthetic. At Christmastime that cozy feeling becomes especially enchanting: imagine … Read more