A Family Survives Quarantine—and a Craftsman Remodel—by Putting Some English on It

Carole and Don Watanabe have transformed an ordinary 1963 California ranch-style house in Sebastopol into a unique and vibrant living art piece called Chez La Vie. Carole, a multi-talented artist, and Don, an architect, collaborate to create a home that is an ongoing project of artistic expression and precision. The property encompasses multiple structures, including their main residence, an attached apartment for Don's father, an appealing guesthouse known as the Art Chapel, and various utilitarian sheds that are integrated into the artistic landscape. The main house immediately catches the eye with its vibrant ultramarine blue exterior, trimmed with deep turquoise and brick red. A wide berm in front of the property features Carole's "drive-by gallery," where steel frames crowned with corrugated aluminum roofs will display sheet metal paintings by local children, sold to support school art programs. The entrance to their home and Don Sr.'s apartment are adorned with enormous antique Indonesian facades made of intricately carved teak. Tall columns flanking the Watanabe entrance are covered in colorful spirals, created by Carole using abandoned mirrors and broken ceramics, giving them a jewel-box appearance. This use of found and repurposed materials is a hallmark of Carole's work, with a significant portion of the home's materials sourced from salvaged items, often acquired for minimal cost from places like a Santa Rosa Goodwill store. The backyard features a stream circulating water through the Paradiso Pond, which Carole considers her most significant work. The pond, a 4-foot-deep, rubber-lined creation, is landscaped with truckloads of rock and adorned with lilies and other water plants, evoking a Monet painting. On the western edge of the property, an outdoor fireplace, a table under a large tree, painted chairs, tiled tables, carved benches, tiny sculptures, clever mobiles, and painted fences contribute to the whimsical atmosphere. A curving dragon made of random ceramics weaves through the garden, intersected by brick pathways leading to a double-doored gateway to the neighbor's property. Inside, the whimsical aesthetic continues with furniture crafted from discarded wood and an assortment of found objects. Walls are accented with Carole's cursive writing and display her paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Recessed altars and mirrors decorated with colorful tiles are present throughout the interior. The flooring varies from room to room, incorporating area rugs and even a floor covered with squares of fabric and old photographs sealed with Varathane. The master bedroom features a custom-made headboard and Carole's handwriting on the walls, while her studio serves as her creative sanctuary. The Watanabes envision Chez La Vie as an "elder compound" where they can age gracefully amidst their beloved creations. They plan to host art openings in their spacious backyard, with a pizza oven available for guests. Banners of art, much of it created by children, will adorn patios and fences, transforming the home into an interactive gallery open to the public. #HomeTransformation #ArtisticHome #RanchHouseRenovation #SebastopolHomes #CreativeCouple #FoundObjectsArt #GardenDesign #SustainableDesign #SonomaHomes

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Emma and Graeme undertook a significant renovation of their 1780-built, four-bedroom detached cottage in Hucknall, Nottingham, transforming it into a modern, open-plan family home with a Scandi-inspired aesthetic. The property, though well-maintained, was dated, featuring numerous small, dark rooms, dusky pink carpets, patterned curtains, and a dark pine kitchen. The couple, with Emma being an interior stylist and Graeme skilled in DIY, decided to create a large open-plan kitchen, diner, and living space by knocking down walls, aiming to complete the major work before their first child arrived. The total project cost was £72,000. The renovation began with the demolition of internal walls to merge four smaller rooms into one expansive area. Graeme utilized a Room Sketcher app to plan the layout, and a builder friend assisted with wall removal and steel beam installation. Emma, inspired by a high-end kitchen design, achieved a similar look on a budget by collaborating with a local company, Inspirational Interiors. They opted for white Shaker-style units with a blue island, incorporating a custom double larder from what was intended to be a boiler box-in, and a built-in microwave in the island to maximize counter space. The dining area features a bespoke reclaimed wood table, replicating a Pinterest design, complemented by rattan pendant lights and Camaro LVT flooring with a wood finish and grey/blue tint. The staircase, initially problematic after wall removal, was custom-built by Graeme using timber for simple spindles, costing only £50, instead of expensive glass that would show fingerprints. The living room was designed with a darker palette, using Farrow & Ball's 'Down Pipe' to create a more formal, luxurious evening atmosphere. Graeme updated the fireplace with reclaimed brick, a wood mantle, and York stone, giving it a high-end look on a budget. Efforts to panel the room were eventually replaced by gloss paint on the walls to give the illusion of wood, and the dark wood window frames were painted white to brighten the space. In the master bedroom, Graeme installed timber panelling on the back wall, painted in 'Inchyra Blue,' while the bathroom, initially featuring a dated corner bath, was upgraded with a navy blue roll-top bath and a custom-made vanity unit crafted by the same furniture maker who built the dining table. The patterned floor tiles in the bathroom served as a focal point, allowing the rest of the decor to remain simple. For their daughter Arla's nursery, the couple attempted a painted wooden floor, which Graeme sanded extensively and filled gaps with rope, though in hindsight, Emma suggested carpet for practicality. Future plans for the property include renovating the rear garden, converting an outbuilding into an office and gym, and eventually transforming the double garage into a guest annexe, reflecting their long-term vision for the home. The project highlights how DIY skills, strategic planning, and resourceful sourcing can achieve a high-quality renovation at a reduced cost, illustrating effective ways to transform a dated property into a functional and aesthetically pleasing open-plan living space. #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #OpenPlanLiving #BudgetRenovation #InteriorStyling #ScandiDesign #FamilyHome #CostSavingTips #PropertyTransformation

This article details the home renovation project undertaken by Victoria and Marcus Ford, focusing on the transformation of their bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. The couple's approach to home decor is described as "intentional," selecting items that reflect their personalities and bring soul to their living spaces. The bedroom makeover centered on creating a tranquil retreat using a light blue paint color for the walls, complemented by darker blue tones in a patchwork quilt and a Kazak-style rug. Personal touches such as souvenir pennants, vintage tennis rackets, and an old state fair sign were integrated to add meaning. A gallery wall above the bed features reproduced "Black ABCs" flash cards, reflecting Victoria's appreciation for African American culture. For functionality, a multipurpose desk replaced traditional nightstands, accommodating work-from-home needs and paired with a repurposed barrel chair. The bedroom also incorporated a pillow-top mattress from the Country Living Welcome Home collection to enhance comfort. Nautical elements, including a flag with Captain James Lawrence's famous order and wooden African American sea captains, were introduced on a dresser, which was painted in Sherwin-Williams' Courtyard, to align with Marcus's interests. The bathroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, moving from an off-center vanity layout to a symmetrical design featuring two wooden vanities. This transformation incorporated a mix of ribbed hardware, brass sconces, chrome faucets, and brass-framed mirrors to create a layered, evolved aesthetic. A large-scale, four-inch hexagon tile flower motif on the floor provided a fresh yet nostalgic feel. A key design element was the sixty-inch-tall blue beadboard wainscoting, adding both height and texture to the space. The shower area was also expanded by removing a glass door, and its walls and ceiling were covered with handmade dusty blue subway tiles, designed to seamlessly integrate with the bathroom's blue theme. For the laundry room, an unused bedroom and an extra hall closet were combined to create a dedicated and spacious area. The new layout features a space-saving laundry tower, built-in cabinets with folding space, and a small work sink. The couple chose a navy and white striped shirt motif wallpaper, which Victoria found appealing and appropriate for the room's function. A large checkerboard tile floor, laid diagonally, was selected to visually expand the space and complement the wallpaper and navy high-gloss paint on the millwork. A vintage sink, reminiscent of Victoria's childhood, was installed, accompanied by a print from artist Elizabeth Mayville. The article highlights the detailed choices and personal touches that defined each room's renovation, resulting in spaces that are both functional and deeply personal to the homeowners. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #BedroomMakeover #BathroomRemodel #LaundryRoom #DecoratingIdeas #CountryLiving #HouseTour

The article details the home renovation journey of Mel and Greig Sinclair, a couple who transformed a three-bedroom detached house in Scotland to better suit their family's needs. After a challenging property search in a competitive market, they purchased an off-market house with a garage in November 2021. Despite initial feelings of downsizing compared to their previous spacious new-build, the location was ideal. Their renovation began with prioritizing the upstairs, redecorating the three bedrooms quickly to create comfortable living spaces before tackling the downstairs. Lacking space for a traditional extension, they opted to convert their garage. The garage, being longer than the house's depth, was fully utilized, still leaving ample parking. However, the conversion presented challenges due to differing floor levels, which complicated adherence to new disabled access regulations. The under-stairs cloakroom was extended into the garage space to accommodate a shower room, adding to the complexity. A key learning point for the couple was the difficulty of managing multiple individual tradespeople, which led to delays and a rushed decision-making process. They reflected that using a single building firm might have streamlined the project and allowed for more thoughtful design choices, such as incorporating wall lights in the kitchen or additional built-in shelves. The couple approached the interior design of their new home with a fresh start, having sold most of their previous furniture. In the living room, they selected a white sofa, a departure from their usual preference, anticipating higher usage in that area. The dining area features a table inherited from the previous owners, with plans to potentially replace it with benches for space optimization. The kitchen was designed with a focus on maximizing light and included a peninsula breakfast bar, chosen over an island to best fit the space. White cabinetry was selected to enhance brightness, and consistent pale grey wooden flooring was used throughout the ground floor to create a cohesive flow between different areas, addressing the various floor levels. The main bedroom, though small and featuring built-in storage, was enhanced with beige paneling behind the bed to add character. The family bathroom was designed to feel warm and textured, moving away from a clinical aesthetic. Beige and putty tones, along with brushed brass fittings, were chosen to achieve this. The cost of materials during the renovation significantly exceeded initial estimates due to rising prices. For their daughters' bedrooms, Mila's small room was optimized with a secondhand, gold-sprayed mid-riser bed for under-bed storage, while Abbey's room utilized sheet vinyl flooring for durability and ease of maintenance, reflecting the desire for practical spaces where the children could relax without strict rules about cleanliness. Mel also incorporated wall paneling in her bedroom, a DIY project she highly recommends for adding character and value without extensive cost, providing detailed advice on materials and installation for others to follow. The Sinclairs are currently enjoying their redesigned home, which now better supports their family life, with potential future plans for further expansion as their children grow. Mel Sinclair, a hairdresser and small business owner, and her husband Greig, a gas technician, live in the house with their daughters Abbey, 11, and Mila, nine. Mel actively shares her home and renovation journey on Instagram through her accounts @its-all-about-the-house and @the.naturalstylist. #HomeRenovation #GarageConversion #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #DIYHome #WallPanelling #ScottishProperty #SpaceOptimization

David and Emma Engerer, a young couple, have embarked on a significant endeavor to revitalize the historic Stuart Neighborhood in Kalamazoo through the renovation and rental of its aging houses. David, 28, from metro Detroit, and Emma, 22, from Austin, Texas, met at a skateboarding contest in Houston and later married in October 2019. Their venture into real estate began after David's graduation from Western Michigan University, encouraged by his father to purchase and renovate older homes to generate rental income. The couple's commitment to the neighborhood is evident in their hands-on approach to renovations, with David performing most of the restoration work alongside Emma. Their efforts have been lauded by local residents, including Gary Wark, president of the Stuart Area Restoration Association, who notes the positive contrast with absentee landlords. The Engerers are part of a growing trend of younger individuals investing in the historic area, which boasts many houses dating back to the 1870s when it was a thriving community for businessmen and professionals. David emphasizes the importance of maintaining a vision for the properties' potential, despite the inherent challenges of home fix-ups. Their first acquisition was an American Foursquare stucco house at 821 Kalamazoo Ave., built in 1910. Originally a single-family residence, it had been converted into a duplex in the 1920s and suffered from neglect, including foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical issues. Emma humorously compared it to the 'Money Pit' movie. Despite its condition, the house had existing tenants, and its structural integrity was surprisingly sound. This initial project served as a significant learning experience for the couple. Following this, the Engerers purchased two more 19th-century homes in the neighborhood, with plans for additional acquisitions. One of these is their personal residence, a 4,000-square-foot Queen Anne Victorian at 418 Stuart Ave., known as the French/Allen House, built in 1895. This house, rich in history with four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, stained-glass windows, and a sweeping veranda, was originally appointed by Marshall Field. It was once owned by Dorr French, a justice of the peace and city attorney, and later by Harold Allen, vice president of First National Bank and corporate secretary for The Upjohn Co. They acquired this house in May 2020 at a reduced price, undertaking interior upgrades such as replacing old galvanized steel pipes and plumbing, replicating door moldings, and re-doing bathrooms, all while meticulously preserving the historic integrity. David expresses strong disapproval of renovations that strip old homes of their original charming features. Local historian Sharon Carlson, a resident of the Stuart Neighborhood, commends the Engerers' dedication, noting that landlords who live in the neighborhood tend to be the most effective. In July 2020, they bought another rental property at 500 Stuart Ave., a four-unit dwelling built by George Rickman in the late 1880s, one of three brick Queen Anne-style houses on the street. They are currently performing exterior and limited interior renovations, with more extensive work planned as tenant leases expire. This house, along with its neighbors, is distinctive for its brick construction, unusual for Victorian homes of that era. Emma, who initially had no plans to leave Texas, credits her move to Michigan to her relationship with David and a strong sense of divine guidance. She discovered Michigan's distinct seasons, a new experience compared to Texas. David's background includes a past as an aspiring professional skateboarder and snowskater, sponsored by Ambition Snowskates. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in exercise science, initially intending to become a physical therapist, but discovered a passion for home renovation after summer jobs involving repairs. David's father, a successful physical therapist and experienced home renovator, has been a significant mentor, guiding them with insights into making properties profitable and managing renovations. The Engerers emphasize that while financial viability is crucial for such projects, passion and vision are paramount. They plan to remain in the Stuart Neighborhood long-term, expressing their love for the community and its historical homes. #HistoricHomeRenovations #StuartNeighborhood #KalamazooRealEstate #PropertyInvestment #CommunityRevitalization #QueenAnneVictorian #OldHouseRestoration #RentalProperties #NeighborhoodDevelopment

This article details the Netherton family's journey in revitalizing a 100-year-old Craftsman bungalow located outside of Bolivar, Missouri. Brian and Nikki Netherton acquired the two-acre property, which includes three barns, with the intention of raising their children, Dalia (8) and Paul (6), in a rural setting reminiscent of their own upbringings on farms. Nikki was particularly drawn to the historical details of the house, such as its decorative concrete column bases on the front porch, which evoked a sense of over a century of history. Upon purchasing the home, the Nethertons embarked on extensive restoration efforts focused on preserving the original character of the bungalow. Brian dedicated an entire winter to meticulously removing thick, black carpet adhesive from the original hardwood floors using a heat gun and scraper. The couple also undertook more significant renovations, including replacing windows and adding a half bathroom. A notable project involved the dining room fireplace, which was part of a 1969 addition and did not align with the Craftsman aesthetic. They removed cedar trim and wood panels, replacing them with sheetrock that was painted to match the room, and opted for a minimal brick hearth to allow for a seating area. On the exterior, Brian began peeling away vinyl siding, a material that had obscured many of the bungalow's original features. This process uncovered the home’s authentic white cedar shake siding, a gable with beveled trim above the front porch, and even the original bracket boards, revealing the architectural details that had been hidden for over 50 years. The house's history dates back to 1914 when it was built by Charles and Stella Hood after a tornado destroyed their previous home. Nikki discovered the Hood family's names etched in the concrete of the basement floor, a testament to the home's deep roots. Nikki Netherton's passion for historic homes significantly influences the interior decoration. She favors items with an old-world charm, aiming to create a "fancy-feeling lifestyle" with cloth napkins, tea and coffee serving sets, flower vases, candlesticks, and vinyl records. She frequently sources furniture, wall art, and blue-and-white dishes from local antique shops like Back Road Relics in Bolivar. Her decorating choices reflect a desire to instill in her children an appreciation for architectural history and well-crafted items from the past. The home also serves as a canvas for the family's cherished traditions and the kind of childhood they envision for their children. The living room's built-in bookcase colonnades, originally featuring a curtain rod, were transformed into a stage with a red curtain. This stage now hosts an annual nativity play performed by Dalia, Paul, and their cousins, with Nikki providing piano accompaniment. During the winter months, the family embraces their natural surroundings by foraging pine branches, pine cones, and holly twigs from their property to use as decorations, fostering a cozy atmosphere conducive to reading, baking, and sipping hot tea by the fire. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanBungalow #HistoricHome #FamilyLife #InteriorDesign #HomeRestoration #RuralLiving #ArchitecturalPreservation

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century Newton home, transforming it into a luxurious yet family-friendly space for a family of six. The homeowners, moving from a condo, were drawn to the original charm of the 1848 abode, including its authentic millwork, curved staircase, and glass-etched double front doors. Their vision was to infuse the historic property with a fresh, modern energy while preserving its inherent character. Interior designer Cara Fineman spearheaded the "glow up" primarily focusing on the first floor. This involved minor modifications to improve livability in the kitchen, pantry, and three bathrooms. Key updates included new countertops, tile backsplashes, brass hardware, and modern fixtures. Notably, the existing custom Kochman Reidt + Haigh kitchen cabinetry was in excellent condition, necessitating only a fresh coat of wispy white paint. The adjacent pantry and wet bar received a more dramatic makeover with bold new color schemes on existing cabinets, complemented by Aux Abris grasscloth and Ferrick Mason wallcoverings, along with linen window treatments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fineman's design strategy for the study, family, and living rooms centered on integrating soft furnishings crafted from family-friendly textiles and contemporary lighting. In the family room, a spacious and plush sectional, ottoman, and lounge chairs were installed to create a comfortable gathering space. The living room now features a sleek game table made of lacquered swirl resin, designed to encourage board games and social activities. A significant design element across the communal spaces was the strategic incorporation of color and pattern, particularly through wallpaper, fulfilling the clients' desire for a vibrant and dynamic interior. The home boasts a sophisticated yet serene atmosphere, achieved through a diverse material palette including silk, grasscloth, antique brass, velvet, and rattan. A personalized sanctuary was created for the mother of the house in the first-floor study. This feminine space, designed for quiet reading, features an opal wall color, warm artwork, and bookshelves filled with books, accompanied by an overstuffed sofa for relaxation. Despite having four young children under the age of six, the first floor was intentionally designed to feel luxurious and mature without being overly precious or inaccessible to the kids. The design philosophy emphasized materials that were not easily damaged and the rehabilitation of existing elements rather than complete replacement, such as using natural fibers and updating existing cabinetry. This approach allowed for the preservation of the home's originality while adapting it to the contemporary needs of a young family. The playroom, adjacent to the boys' bedroom, features a lively Serengeti wallpaper, beanbags, storage baskets, and wall shelves, designed to be age-appropriate yet durable for a growing family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NewtonHome #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #ModernDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign

This article details the collaborative effort behind the transformation of a formerly notorious beach lot at 11 E. Asheville Street into a modern coastal haven in Wrightsville Beach. The project was a result of the combined expertise of homebuilder Tanner Konrady of Konrady & Son Construction, Architect Eric Jabaley of Dogwood Architecture, and Lead Designer Brandy Crawford of Bridgett Mazer Interiors, all working closely with homeowners Wanda and Ron Copley. The Copleys initially purchased a property known for its past as a fraternity party house, with the intention of tearing down the existing structure and building a new home. Their decision to work with Tanner Konrady stemmed from his previous work repairing their condo after Hurricane Florence, establishing a foundation of trust. Konrady, a fourth-generation builder with extensive experience in coastal construction, emphasized the importance of durability and low maintenance in beach environments. His approach involved building with consideration for salt air, high humidity, storm exposure, and sun damage, utilizing materials like closed-cell foam insulation, sound-dampening interior walls, hurricane-rated windows, and pre-finished PVC siding and concrete-look panel systems that are designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Konrady's team also facilitated the installation of expansive sliding doors and oversized windows to maximize ocean views and promote indoor-outdoor living, requiring careful structural planning. The architectural vision, led by Eric Jabaley, focused on creating a modern yet coastal-inspired home that blended with the local aesthetic while capturing ocean views. Jabaley worked to incorporate Wanda Copley's sophisticated vision, which desired a modern design rooted in the Wrightsville Beach vernacular. A key design element is the top-floor main living area, which extends onto a spacious wraparound porch through large sliding doors, effectively creating an additional outdoor room for relaxation and entertaining. This seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces allows residents to fully experience the coastal environment. Brandy Crawford, the lead designer, guided the interior aesthetic toward a "coastal modern" style, incorporating light, clean lines, and a less fussy approach. Wanda Copley's bold sense of style and love for color, particularly pink, were central to the interior design. This is most notably expressed in "The Pink Room," an office that doubles as a guest suite, featuring a hot pink sleeper sofa, ottomans, acrylic chairs, and pink cabinetry. Other design highlights include a powder bath with a floating, backlit vanity, and a wall-mounted resin art installation by Alex Turco in the second-level sitting room, referred to as "living glass." The home also includes an independent downstairs suite for the Copleys' daughter, complete with a kitchenette, en suite, and private porch, designed for independent living. The success of the project is attributed to the strong synergy and communication among the homeowner, builder, architect, and designer. The team's collaborative approach and shared commitment to the client's vision resulted in a custom-crafted home that reflects a unique lifestyle and personality. The project serves as an example of how a unified team can transform a challenging property into a beautiful and functional coastal residence, built to withstand environmental elements while exuding modern elegance. #CoastalRetreat #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #WrightsvilleBeach #Architect #CoastalConstruction #Homebuilder #ModernHome #Innovation

Tony and Charlotte Perez, driven by a desire for freedom and a life of travel and volunteer work, designed and built their 280-square-foot tiny home on wheels. Tony, a builder with over two decades of experience in custom homes, constructed the dwelling for an estimated $35,000. Their motivation stemmed from extensive international travel, having visited nearly 60 countries and lived in Africa for four years, which cultivated a preference for a minimalist lifestyle and enabled them to work less and dedicate more time to volunteering. Currently situated on a friend's five-acre property in Northern California, their tiny home offers mobility, though the couple has found a stable base. The exterior of the home features white-painted standing-seam metal combined with cedar accents near the front door, offering a modern aesthetic with warm, organic touches and requiring minimal maintenance. An expansive deck with an outdoor kitchen extends the living space, seamlessly integrating the structure with its natural surroundings. Inside, the walls and ceiling are adorned with white-painted pine shiplap, and the floors are laid with waterproof vinyl planks, chosen for their practicality and ease of cleaning, even extending to the shower wall. The interior design emphasizes an open and airy feel to compensate for the compact footprint. The kitchen showcases pale gray cabinetry, custom-designed online and flat-packed for on-site assembly. These cabinets are primarily drawers to maximize efficient organization and feature soft-close undermount slides. Practicality is evident in repurposed elements, such as upper shelves crafted from a beloved coffee table that was too large for the tiny space. Innovations include three taps in the kitchen for carbonated water and home-brewed beer, reflecting the couple's personal preferences. An office area and storage are integrated beneath the stairs, and a sliding door separates the kitchen from the bathroom. The bathroom is notably spacious for a tiny home, housing a stackable washer and dryer, a large shower, and a six-foot closet system with ample hanging space and customized soft-close drawers, designed to accommodate varied clothing needs for international travel across different seasons. A thirty-inch sliding wall devised by Tony separates the washer-dryer unit from the toilet area, also concealing a full-length wardrobe mirror. In the loft bedroom, cubbies serve both as storage and a partial screen for privacy. The couple devoted a year to planning their home, meticulously considering every item they owned and its place within the small space. Specific features like a designated spot for a vacuum, cleaning supplies, a Vitamix, a juicer, a coffee bar, a wine area under the stairs, and a pull-out pantry were incorporated to ensure comfort and functionality. A wood-framed chalkboard folds down from the kitchen wall to extend counter space for food preparation or dining. The Perezes completed the construction of their home in two months, acknowledging the challenges but ultimately celebrating the fulfillment of designing and building their personalized living space, which they continue to cherish daily. #TinyHome #MinimalistLiving #DIYHome #SustainableDesign #TravelLifestyle #CustomBuild #NorthernCalifornia #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #CompactLiving

Emily and Jason Porche embarked on a significant home renovation project to transform a 1972 split-level ranch in Marietta into their envisioned 'forever home' with a modern farmhouse aesthetic. This extensive renovation, which began immediately after purchasing the property in 2017, involved adding an extra story, a garage, and opening up the interior spaces to create a more functional and cohesive living environment for their family of four. The architectural design for the project was handled by David Doran of Classical Concepts, while Jason's father, Clark Porche, owner of Monogram Homes, oversaw the construction. The family's objective was to create a comfortable space conducive to making lasting memories. The finished home spans 4,500 square feet, featuring five bedrooms and six bathrooms, blending the original split-level structure with contemporary farmhouse elements. Key renovations included constructing a new garage with a bedroom above it, connected to the main house by a breezeway with wooden swings, which quickly became a favorite spot. The Porches also covered a raised patio next to the pool, incorporating skylights to maximize natural light, making the outdoor space more enjoyable year-round. Inside, the main floor was reconfigured to create an open-concept layout, connecting the kitchen to the living areas and providing unobstructed views of the pool and the adjacent Indian Hills Country Club golf course. The kitchen, a central gathering point, features a 13-foot island, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances from Frigidaire Gallery Pro, and VIGO faucets. Lighting fixtures, such as pendants from Shades of Light and a Pottery Barn chandelier in the dining room, were chosen to enhance the modern farmhouse style. Emily Porche, a marketing professional who also blogs about interior design on theporcheplace.com, played a significant role in the interior design, maintaining a neutral palette with shades of white and cream, accented by brown tones in elements like the mantel, exposed beams, and leather armchairs. The girls' rooms are designed with a soft glow from Crystorama wall sconces from Build.com, and their shared bathrooms feature vanities and floor tile from Lowe's, mirrors from HomeGoods, and a PBteen chandelier. Practical upgrades included an expanded laundry room with Samsung appliances, a copper sink from Sinkology, and a Pottery Barn drying rack. The master bedroom features a tufted bed from Ballard Designs and a rug from Pottery Barn, further emphasizing the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Additional family-friendly spaces include a basement sunroom, which was adjusted to accommodate a flat-screen television and furnished with items from Pottery Barn and Ballard Designs. Jason Porche also custom-built a kegerator for the basement bar. The renovation extended to a creative play area for their daughters, transforming a Costco playhouse into a 'Porche City Market.' Throughout the project, the Porches prioritized creating a home that not only reflected their style but also served as a backdrop for their family life. #HomeRenovation #FarmhouseStyle #SplitLevelTransformation #InteriorDesign #CobbCountyHomes #MariettaRealEstate #FamilyHome #ModernFarmhouse #ArchitecturalDesign

Architects Frank and Megan Lin, co-founders of Austin-based Co(X)ist Studio, undertook the renovation of their 1962 ranch-style home, aiming to modernize it for their lifestyle and showcase their firm's design capabilities. The original house, located in South Austin's Sherwood Oaks neighborhood, was characterized by its dim interior, compartmentalized layout, and lack of connection to the outdoors. The renovation involved opening up the floor plan, adding an extension, and constructing a spacious back porch, while also incorporating several reclaimed materials. A key feature of the redesigned space is the unobstructed living area, where a sliding glass wall facilitates a seamless transition from the dining room to the back porch. This porch also provides access to the guest room and the master bedroom. A deliberate cut-out in the porch's canopy accommodates the branches of a crepe myrtle tree, offering additional shade, which is particularly beneficial in the Texas climate. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes cross-ventilation and maximizes natural daylight, thereby reducing the home's electrical consumption. The architects implemented a 'Y' shaped split in the new addition, which effectively separates the master bedroom from the other bedrooms, ensuring greater privacy. This split also creates a corridor that channels more light into the interior, transforming a previously uninspired area into a vibrant space. Furthermore, the garage was converted into a studio office, serving as a functional workspace and a direct reflection of Co(X)ist Studio's architectural practice. This dedicated studio allows the architects to meet clients in a professional environment that embodies their design philosophy. The project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to modern living, balancing functionality with aesthetic improvements and environmental considerations. By addressing the original home's shortcomings, the Lins created a residence that is not only a comfortable live/work space but also a living portfolio for their firm. The renovation emphasizes natural light, outdoor connection, and efficient use of space, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices through the use of reclaimed materials. #RanchHomeRenovation #LiveWorkSpace #AustinArchitecture #CoXistStudio #ModernRenovation #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeTours

Laird Memory and Matt Bunting, an Atlanta couple, transformed a former ranger station and law office in Highlands, North Carolina, into a mountain retreat. Despite its initial unattractive interiors, featuring fake wood paneling and brown carpet, the property's prime location near town made it an appealing investment for a second home. To maximize views and enhance entertaining capabilities, the couple collaborated with Atlanta architect David Colgan to add a second floor, creating an "upside-down house" layout. This design places the main living areas, such as the living room and kitchen, on the upper level, while the bedrooms are situated downstairs. This arrangement allows the social spaces to benefit from expansive views, including those of Harris Lake, visible from the large windows, vaulted ceiling, and a spacious porch of the living area. The interior design, personally overseen by Laird Memory, who channels her creativity from years at Turner Broadcasting into art and decorating projects, blends modern and traditional elements. The home is adorned with a mix of vintage, thrift-store finds, and contemporary pieces, notably large-scale, domed light fixtures hanging from the 15-foot ceilings. Memory's fondness for the color red is evident throughout the house, which she considers a neutral that brings happiness. Local history and charm are incorporated through enlarged and framed vintage postcards of Highlands displayed on the walls. The kitchen, originally an Ikea birch Shaker-style setup, was customized with Benjamin Moore "Victorian Garden" paint and complemented by brass fixtures and accessories, adding warmth against subway tiles. The living room features midcentury-style sofas and chairs, layered with rugs from eBay and handmade pillows. The wooden staircase banister, designed by Laird with rounded cutouts and built by Mason Neil of MountainKraft Builders, also reflects a personal touch, alongside a quilted flag made from wool blankets. In the master bedroom, cheeky bird prints by artist Charlie Harper are framed and paired with vintage side chests, and the wooden bed, though from Target, mimics the appearance of a more expensive panel bed. A guest bedroom adopts a navy-and-white color scheme, industrial-style headboards, and lively Kantha quilts. The master bathroom is appointed with travertine tiles and a tree-stump table for added warmth, with black doors and window mullions used consistently throughout the house. The exterior of the former ranger station now presents a cottage chic aesthetic, painted in a dark hue with a bright red door. Matt Bunting noted the advantage of remodeling a commercial building, particularly its durable construction by the parks department decades ago. The family, including children Raleigh and Augie, resides in Buckhead but frequently enjoys their time in Highlands, engaging in activities such as trail wandering and exploring the town. Matt observes that they often see their Atlanta friends more frequently in Highlands than in their primary residence, highlighting the area's appeal as a communal getaway. The project successfully transformed a functional but uninspired commercial structure into a personalized and inviting residential space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while accommodating the family's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. #HighlandsNorthCarolina #MountainHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #UpsideDownHouse #VintageDecor #DIYDecor #CreativeLiving #SecondHome

A Wisconsin couple, Maria and Mike (both 32), have successfully transformed their unfinished basement storm shelter into a retro 1970s-style den. This renovation was prompted by a year of severe weather events, including softball-sized hail and a lightning strike to their 100-year-old home, which led them to spend more time in the basement than anticipated. The couple, with Maria being a climate scientist, decided to make the space more inviting, as it also serves as a safe haven for their anxious dog during storms. The project was completed in just four days and cost only a few hundred dollars for materials like floor paint and panels, as they primarily utilized vintage items and existing furniture they already owned. The renovation gained significant attention after Maria shared it on Reddit under the username u/IntentionLeather7806, with her post titled "Turning our unfinished basement storm shelter into a cozy 70s den" receiving 24,000 upvotes. The transformation involved creating a cozy, semi-finished space. Key design elements include rugs made from leftover carpet scraps designed by Amsterdam artist Arno Hoogland, a Kenwood KR-6600 receiver, a Pioneer PL-512 turntable, Onkyo S-58 speakers, and a paneled fridge. Maria expressed particular fondness for the rugs, music setup, and the paneled fridge, and mentioned plans to add a disco ball for entertaining. Mindful of the challenges of renovating a century-old home, the couple took precautions such as avoiding drywall, leaving gaps for airflow, and running a dehumidifier to maintain the basement's dryness. The basement's high ceilings also contributed to its suitability for the renovation. This project aligns with a broader trend of increased home renovation spending in the U.S., with median costs rising significantly between 2020 and 2023, according to a Houzz survey. The couple's budget-friendly approach and innovative use of existing resources offer an inspiring example of a successful home transformation born out of necessity and creativity. #HomeDecor #Basement #InteriorDesign #Reddit #Viral #HomeRenovation #DIY

In Hilton, South Africa, during a period of lockdown, the Stainbank family undertook a creative project to inspire hope within their community. They painted their gate with rainbow colors and displayed a sign bearing the word "hope." Keith Stainbank, the husband, shared the story, highlighting his wife's role in extending this message of optimism. As a teacher at Merchiston Preparatory School, she challenged her students to create their own "Rainbows of Hope." This initiative led to an overwhelming response, with numerous children, confined to their homes due to the lockdown, submitting their own rainbow artworks. The children's involvement resulted in a widespread sharing of painted and drawn rainbows across social media platforms. What began as a personal endeavor to engage the children and express a localized message of hope expanded significantly, reaching a wider audience than initially anticipated. Keith Stainbank acknowledged his initial surprise at the transformation of their gate but expressed eventual pride in their "Rainbow Gate." The gate serves as a continuous reminder to the community to maintain hope, and the broader message of creating and sharing rainbows reinforces this sentiment during challenging times. The initiative demonstrates how a simple act of home decoration, undertaken by a family, can evolve into a community-wide movement to foster positivity and unity. The use of the rainbow, a widely recognized symbol of hope, resonated deeply during a period of uncertainty. The teacher's strategic use of her platform amplified the message, engaging children in a meaningful artistic expression that contributed to collective morale. This story highlights the power of creative engagement and community spirit in navigating difficult circumstances, proving that small, localized efforts can have a significant and inspiring impact on a larger scale. #FamilyProject #CommunitySpirit #RainbowOfHope #LockdownActivity #PositiveMessage #SouthAfrica #HomeDecoration #InspirationalStory