Inspired Rooms: Add Fun and Whimsy to Your Home

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Coastal Living I love to see a little fun and whimsy in a room. A kitchen like the one pictured proves that a few playful touches can transform an ordinary space into something memorable. The dog artwork adds warmth and personality, while oversized buttons on slipcovers introduce a cheerful, unexpected detail. These small elements work … Read more

Seabrook Dream House: Waterfront Retreat with Modern Luxury

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Would you like to join me on a Seabrook dream house tour? My family and I were thrilled to spend a few days in a literal dream home on the Washington coast. The house belongs to my friend Susan, and we feel so grateful for her generosity in sharing it. As a long-time blog reader, … Read more

Cookbook Obsession: How to Style Your Shelves Like a Pro

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HHello, I’m Melissa and I have a soft spot for books—especially the ones I love to both read and display. In the kitchen, books feel at home. Cookbooks are the obvious choice, but I’m also drawn to books about vegetable and herb gardening, entertaining, and related topics. bookends from Lulu and Georgia In our previous … Read more

Creative Master Closet Storage Ideas: 7 Smart Solutions

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DIY Jewelry Storage via Whippy Cake Along with the craft closet we are planning for our guest bedroom, we’re ready to tackle our master bedroom closet this year. I’m really excited about the project. My small walk-in closet works but lacks personality and function, so I’ve begun gathering inspiration to shape what I want to … Read more

Paint Outside the Lines: Creative Freedom for Bold Artists

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Make people wonder about you. It makes life more fun. I remember when I first discovered Homes & Gardens — they celebrate the kind of creative, unconventional painting I enjoy. Their pages felt like permission to break the rules and design with personality. When visitors ask why my paint stops short of the ceiling, I … Read more

15 Small Life Updates and Home Style Saturday Highlights

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Hello, friends! Happy Saturday — I hope you’re doing well. Here are a few things happening around our house lately: I’ve been spending cozy hours by the fireplace writing a new book. I shared my daily coffee ritual in my Instagram stories and enjoyed the small, simple routine. Though we haven’t been out much, FaceTime, … Read more

5 Fresh Spring Kitchen Ideas to Brighten Your Space

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This post is in partnership with Wayfair A week of snow in my coastal town turned into an unexpectedly cozy February surprise. Even with lingering winter weather, small changes can make your kitchen feel fresh and welcoming. Below are five simple spring ideas I’m enjoying right now that bring brightness and charm to any kitchen. … Read more

The Surprising Home Accessory Hiding in Your Cupboard

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A while back I mentioned that mason jars were my top party decorating idea ever. But honestly, a glass container of any kind is my favorite everyday decorating and organizing accessory. There’s almost no limit to what you can do with jars: big jars, small jars, lidded jars, wide jars, tall jars — they all … Read more

Calm Color Schemes: How to Style a Room for a Serene Mood

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Do you prefer bold color or soothing neutrals? I love both. I can admire a serene, organic neutral room and also feel delighted by spaces with cheerful pops of color or even rooms that are boldly colorful from top to bottom. Maybe you’re firmly on Team Neutral or Team Color — or perhaps, like me, … Read more

Top Fall Candle Picks for Cozy Evenings

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I love fall. That opening line might be familiar — I’ve used it a lot — and I’m not ashamed. Autumn is my favorite season for the home, and I know many of you feel the same. It’s a season of cozy comforts and small changes that make a house feel warm and inviting. Even … Read more