Conversation Starter Printables I look forward to holiday traditions every year. While I’m not the biggest fan of all the cooking, I enjoy preparing a few favorite dishes, trying one or two new recipes, and setting a warm, inviting table. Beyond food and décor, I make it a priority that conversations flow and people connect. … Read more

How to Decorate – Ballard Designs Blog I love creating outdoor rooms almost as much as indoor ones. Designing a comfortable, attractive outdoor space doesn’t have to be costly—use what you already own and add a few thoughtful touches. The same basic elements of an indoor room make outdoor living both comfortable and inviting: rugsfurniturepillowsartworkmirrorsstoolsbirdhouseslanternscandlestickswreathsplantslightingaccessories … Read more

The other day I shared a simple cell phone photo on Instagram — a candid moment from everyday life. It’s a view I see often, and on a particularly wet, gray afternoon it reminded me how easy it is to let gloomy fall and winter weather affect our mood. I try not to let that … Read more

How to mix and match different hardware finishes is one of the most common questions I receive. It can feel confusing — a few poor choices can make a room look disorganized. In our recent kitchen remodel we spent a long time deciding on finishes. Starting from scratch felt overwhelming: gold, brass, nickel, black, or … Read more

Cottage kitchen via BHG Lately I’ve been reflecting on a theme I’ve mentioned here before: a quieter, more deliberate way of living. It isn’t about following a strict minimalist dogma or changing everything about my life. Instead, it’s a shift in how I measure fulfillment. As I get older, I find myself craving a steadier … Read more

I prefer simple, subtle transitions between seasons. September feels like early fall to me. I love how warm autumn light pours across books and apples on the mantel. That was my mantel last September. Although I appreciate simplicity, my style isn’t minimalist or overly crafted. I avoid fussy displays, not because craft is bad, but … Read more

My husband gave me these two little birds for our anniversary last spring. He held them out and said, “this one is you and the other is me.” Now that we are empty nesters, those two small birds feel even more meaningful. They sit in our home as a quiet reminder of our years together … Read more

While I’m still waiting to share the finished kitchen, I wanted to talk about another unfinished space in the house: the mint-and-pink bathroom. A few readers asked to see it after I mentioned the pink tub, so here it is. Would I choose mint green and pink for a bathroom design on purpose? Probably not. … Read more

Our 2024 Christmas Shop Christmas House Tour (2023) The Story of Our English-Inspired Cottage Kitchen at Christmas A Charming Winter Tradition: Window Candles My Favorite Evergreen Christmas Garland The 400 Square Foot Tiny Cottage Tour at Christmas Our Coastal Christmas Mantel How to Make Christmas Garland Extra Full and Festive 4 Reasons We Love the … Read more

Hi there! I’m Courtney, Melissa’s daughter, and I’m excited to share a full tour of my Seattle studio apartment. About a year and a half ago I moved into my first place and it has been such a joy to make it my own. I’m grateful for the natural light, cozy layout, and small-space solutions … Read more