Today I’m sharing a spring mantel refresh that includes some delightful secondhand finds. On a sunny weekend getaway my husband and I stopped in a charming seaside town and popped into a thrift shop where we discovered a pair of brass pheasants. Their fine detail and long feathers immediately appealed to us, so they came … Read more

Now is the perfect time to think about fall nesting and decorating. I was inspired recently when I rediscovered one of my glass hurricane vases and decided to create a simple, fall-inspired arrangement. Glass hurricane vases come in many sizes, shapes and finishes. I’ve owned this one for years, and now that our renovation is … Read more

@missmustardseed Sunday Strolls + Scrolls is a series inspired by interiors and outdoor spaces that caught my eye while browsing online. I love discovering rooms and gardens that convey a true sense of sanctuary. My hope is that each post feels like a relaxed walk down a charming street, a quiet stroll through a garden, … Read more

Happy Monday! A few weeks ago many of my blogging friends helped celebrate the launch of my book by sharing their favorite rooms on their blogs. It has been a true pleasure reading their posts. Each one includes wonderful stories and beautiful photos, and I’m grateful for the kindness and support from so many talented … Read more

Click here for above sources The holiday season often brings a rush of tasks and obligations that can make it hard to find calm. Even when life is going well, balancing responsibilities with the desire to create a peaceful, welcoming home can feel overwhelming. Small shifts in routine and intention can make a big difference … Read more

Remember when I mentioned months ago that we were repainting our bedroom? We finally finished, and I took photos so I could share the color and the final look. Painting a dark color with white trim is slow work, and my very meticulous painter (my husband) took his time, but the result was worth waiting … Read more

While I was on a short working getaway last week, my daughter Courtney and I had a lull between events, so we drove through one of our favorite Seattle neighborhoods, Queen Anne. The area is known for beautiful homes, many with views of the Space Needle or the water. With scenery like that, it’s no … Read more

One of the things I’m most looking forward to once the larger, construction-oriented projects around our house are finished is tackling smaller creative endeavors. These smaller projects will help bring personality, warmth and memories into our freshly updated rooms. I’m thrilled that almost every wall in our home will have been repainted in the last … Read more

I love hanging garlands and wreaths on my mantel, front door, staircase, windows and furniture. I enjoy them draping just so, or hanging in the exact spot that looks right. For years I struggled with finding the best way to secure them without damaging surfaces or settling for a less-than-perfect placement. I’ve tried tying, wiring, … Read more

Summer Thornton Design Have you wondered whether all the metal finishes in your home must match? The short answer is: no. Mixing metal finishes can be a deliberate design choice that adds depth, warmth and character to a space when done thoughtfully. Using multiple metal tones—brass, nickel, bronze, blackened steel or copper—creates visual interest and … Read more