The Best Thing Leanne Ford Ever Bought on Etsy for a Renovation

Farah Prochaska, a Utah-based design blogger and freelance stylist, embarked on a DIY bathroom renovation project inspired by designer Leanne Ford's signature textured wall treatment using Surecrete. Prochaska was motivated after watching Ford apply the concrete coating on "Home Again With the Fords" and seeing it in person at one of Erik Allen Ford's Buck Mason stores. She successfully transformed her children's builder-grade bathroom into a more serene space, documenting her process and sharing key lessons learned. The project involved several crucial steps and considerations. Prior to applying Surecrete, Prochaska streamlined the existing bathroom by replacing an old all-in-one tub-shower with a new alcove bath and framing the walls with a waterproofing membrane. She also removed trim work around the window to achieve a sleek surface. A significant lesson learned was the importance of thorough preparation, particularly priming. Initially, Prochaska attempted to apply Surecrete directly onto the bright red, waxy waterproof board of the shower, as she had observed on television. However, this resulted in the red color peeking through and an uneven application, leading her to sand down and chisel off the initial coating. After this setback, she successfully prepared the walls with two coats of an all-purpose primer, creating a neutral and smooth base for the Surecrete. Applying Surecrete requires specific techniques. Prochaska advises covering the entire area, including floors, switch plates, faucets, and toilets, to protect them from the material. She also recommends creating a drop station outside the working area to prevent tracking debris through the house. When mixing Surecrete, it's a combination of half Surecrete, half colored powder (she used Whitewater), and one quart of water, mixed to a pancake batter-like consistency. The mixture requires continuous stirring and occasional addition of water, noting that adding water will slightly darken the mixture, which can be embraced by applying random swipes for a natural variation in tones. Prochaska suggests starting the Surecrete application at the top 8 inches of the room, near the ceiling, using a fan-like motion. This approach helps manage drips and blobs that might occur due to the awkward angles. After the top section is complete, she recommends smoothing out any drippings and applying a few random 1-by-1-foot swatches around the room, as this will represent the whitest shade of the cement. For cleaning, Surecrete is waterproof and can be easily cleaned with a kitchen dish brush and clear dish soap. The renovation extended beyond just the Surecrete application; Prochaska further committed to the aesthetic by replacing the old vanity cabinet with a floating IKEA unit, installing a concrete sink, and a marble countertop. An asymmetrical mirror completed the look, and she even sourced a matte black faucet which caught the attention of Leanne Ford herself, signifying the success of her DIY endeavor. #BathroomRenovation #DIYProject #Surecrete #LeanneFordInspired #HomeImprovement #TexturedWalls #BeforeAndAfter #DesignInspiration

Etsy, a global marketplace founded in 2005, has evolved from a platform primarily for handmade goods to include a vast array of craft supplies, antiques, and vintage items. With over 2.5 million sellers, navigating the site effectively can be challenging due to its extensive and diverse offerings. This guide provides strategies for shopping on Etsy, akin to how style and design editors approach it, offering advice on how to locate unique treasures while avoiding common pitfalls. One key recommendation is to approach Etsy with a mindset similar to visiting a flea market or an antiques store. Given the boundless nature of online shopping, setting a time limit for browsing can prevent aimless wandering. Instead of prolonged, undirected searches, users are encouraged to employ specific keywords in the search engine. Sellers utilize various descriptors such as tags, titles, categories, and attributes to list their products. Therefore, being precise with search terms increases the likelihood of finding desired items. If initial searches are unsuccessful, creative rephrasing of keywords can yield better results, as effective sellers often use a multitude of descriptors to attract a broader audience. Planning ahead is crucial, especially when an item is needed by a specific date. Many products on Etsy are made to order, and international shipping can introduce unpredictable delays. Unlike conventional boutiques or large retail chains, Etsy sellers might require several days to prepare and dispatch items. Even with expedited shipping, international deliveries can vary significantly in duration; a rug from Turkey might arrive in two days, while a smaller package from Europe could take three weeks. To mitigate these uncertainties, it is important to factor in extra time when a deadline is involved. For urgent needs, utilizing filters to find products shipping from within the user's country, such as the U.S., can help expedite delivery. Communication with sellers is another important aspect of successful Etsy shopping. If product images or descriptions are insufficient, potential buyers should not hesitate to message the seller to request additional photos or more detailed information. Inquiring about faster shipping options than those stated on the product page is also acceptable. The responsiveness of a seller often indicates the quality of their service, though it is reasonable to allow at least a day for a reply. For custom-made items, reaching out to discuss specifications or custom work is encouraged, as artisans often welcome discussions about their craft and new project ideas. The article also highlights specific Etsy shops recommended by VERANDA editors, categorized by the types of items they offer. These recommendations include Brauer Antique for rustic linens, Anthea's Attic for vintage artwork, 4 Holly Lane Antiques for vintage English tableware, and Happy French Vintage for French objets. Other notable shops are Victoria Handmade for hand-woven bags, HANDSONHIPS for Turkish carpets, Illuminate Vintage for vintage-inspired lighting, So Rugs and Textiles for vintage textiles, African Art Box for African handicrafts, Krasnova Silk for hand-dyed silk ribbons, Indian Stores for block-printed fabrics, Easternwoven for Turkish textiles, and Chayaacrafts for hand-painted lampshades. Each of these shops offers unique items that contribute to distinctive home aesthetics and personal style. #EtsyShopping #HomeDecor #VintageFinds #HandmadeGoods #InteriorDesign #OnlineShoppingTips #ArtisanCrafts #GlobalTreasures #DesignEditor

The article presents a curated list of spring home decor trends and product recommendations from an interior designer mom. The seasonal update focuses on botanical and garden themes, rattan and wicker materials, and floral designs. The recommendations include a variety of items ranging from decorative pieces to functional home essentials, aimed at refreshing living spaces for spring. Key decor pieces suggested include a scalloped-edge rattan tray from Pottery Barn, available in rectangular and square sizes, suitable for serving or organizing. Another prominent item is a dark rattan club chair from Target, featuring a high back and a cotton seat cushion, designed to introduce natural elements and coziness into a room. For entryways, a thin, slip- and water-resistant doormat from Porte + Hall is recommended, which effectively catches dust and pollen without obstructing door movement. Lighting options feature iron lanterns with forged leaf details from Pottery Barn, which can be styled together for a botanical effect. Dining and kitchen accessories include unique tulip-shaped resin salad servers from Folkulture, notable for their whimsical design and durability, and a scalloped rattan bowl from PRETYZOOM, versatile for use as a fruit bowl, bread basket, or centerpiece. Art and textiles play a significant role in the spring refresh. A set of vintage-looking botanical floral canvases from Madison Park is suggested for adding a cohesive artistic touch to various rooms. For soft furnishings, embroidered cotton canvas pillow covers from The Whimsical Corner are highlighted for their bohemian ombre designs and machine-washable practicality. A gauzy organic cotton throw from Quince is recommended for lightweight comfort during warmer evenings, suitable for both indoor use and outdoor activities like beach trips. Decorative accents include colorful bud vases from Anthropologie, ideal for displaying a few flowers and adding a whimsical touch to any setting, and a vintage-inspired lucite box with tortoise accents from CopperCollection via Etsy, noted for its unique treasure chest design. Lighting also features a rechargeable table lamp from Anthropologie, which offers three light settings and can be placed in various unexpected spots to provide a soft glow. Finally, a linen duvet cover from Brooklinen is suggested as a bedding transition from winter, offering a breathable and airy alternative to flannel, and colorful taper candles from Anthropologie are recommended to balance heavier decorative elements like brass candelabras. #InteriorDesign #SpringDecor #HomeTrends #RattanFurniture #BotanicalDecor #HomeAccessories #SeasonalRefresh #HomeStyling

This article explores the best items that interior designers have purchased from Wayfair, highlighting that even professionals utilize the online retailer for their projects. It addresses the common challenge of vetting product quality on e-commerce sites, especially when items lack customer reviews, and offers a unique solution: gathering recommendations directly from experienced designers. The piece underscores that designers frequently find high-quality and stylish pieces on Wayfair, ranging from major furniture items to smaller decorative elements, often at competitive price points. The article features several specific recommendations from various designers. Corine Maggio, founder of CM Natural Designs, praises a sleek, modern chandelier from Modway that perfectly complemented a breakfast nook. Laura Collins of For Porter expresses her satisfaction with Wayfair's in-house furniture, noting the extensive range of textiles and diverse furniture styles available. Abbie Naber of A. Naber Design highlights a twin-over-full solid wood bunk bed from Viv Rae, emphasizing its suitability for budget-conscious clients in kids' rooms due to its hard-to-find configuration and quality. Allison Handler of Allison Handler Design shares her preference for Wayfair's outdoor furniture, acknowledging the practical need for affordable options in climates with harsh seasonal changes, allowing for replacement when necessary. Leigh Jendrusina, owner of Salthouse Collective, recommends Wayfair for sourcing end tables and stools, citing her successful purchases of a shower stool and two different end tables for recent projects. Finally, Alexis Vitale, owner of Vitale Design Group, champions the Eisley Upholstered Standard Bed, appreciating its solid wood frame, cotton-blend material, and the ability to customize fabrics while keeping costs low, making it an ideal fit for a cabin setting. Collectively, these designer endorsements demonstrate that Wayfair offers a wide array of products that meet professional standards for quality, style, and value across different categories, including lighting, seating, bedroom furniture, outdoor pieces, and accent tables. The article serves as a curated guide for consumers seeking reliable and stylish home furnishings on Wayfair, validated by the insights of interior design experts. #WayfairFinds #InteriorDesigners #HomeDecor #FurnitureShopping #ShoppingGuide #AffiliateMarketing #BudgetDecor #DesignTips

This article details interior stylist and blogger Kate Pearce's $3,000 bathroom renovation in Evanston, Illinois. The project focused on transforming a drab, shared guest-slash-kids' bathroom in a 1899-built house into a fun and colorful space. The approximate square footage of the bathroom is 45 square feet. Pearce's philosophy for the renovation was to achieve a high-end look without excessive spending, emphasizing strategic splurges and numerous cost-saving techniques over a full-scale remodel, which was completed over two weekends. The renovation's primary objective was to infuse color and fun into the existing white bathroom, making it suitable for both children and guests. A key aspect of the project involved updating the grimy white floor, which Pearce wanted to match the existing navy shower tile. She utilized a ColorReaderEZ device to scan the shower tile and identify a matching paint color, ultimately selecting Sherwin-Williams’s Porch and Floor Enamel in Commodore. The process for the floor involved thorough cleaning, two coats of Sherwin-Williams’s Extreme Bond Primer, and then painting stripes with a roller and extension pole after allowing the primer to dry overnight. The painted stripes have maintained their appearance after six months without a sealant. For the bathroom walls, Pearce opted for a bold red color, using leftover Farrow & Ball’s Book Room Red paint from a previous project. The combination of blue and red was a design preference. The wall and floor painting was completed in a single weekend at no additional cost for materials, as the paint was already on hand. This decision significantly contributed to staying within the budget, highlighting the benefits of using existing resources. The most significant expenditure in the renovation was a $2,500 antique Calacatta Viola sink purchased from Aegean Marble on Etsy. This splurge was a deliberate choice, with Pearce allocating a large portion of her budget to one or two high-impact items. The sink, custom-made to her specifications, was shipped from Turkey within six weeks. To complement the sink, a $150 mid-century Danish dresser was acquired from Facebook Marketplace and repurposed as a vanity. Pearce's husband adapted the dresser to accommodate the plumbing and the marble sink. A wall-mounted faucet, costing $70, was chosen from Amazon due to limited depth for a standard faucet. Decorative elements included a gallery wall featuring a collection of vintage and antique silhouettes, some dating back 150 years, mixed with new art and mirrors of various shapes and sizes to create visual interest. Brass sconces, bought on sale from Anthropologie three years prior, were finally installed to flank the vanity, their classic design fitting the space perfectly. For towel storage, Pearce avoided bulky furniture or shelving to prevent clutter. She discovered a $219 vertical towel rack from Dutton Brown on Facebook, capable of holding up to seven Turkish towels, which were selected for their cozy texture and versatility for various uses, including swimming. #BathroomRenovation #DIY #BudgetDesign #HomeMakeover #InteriorStyling #BeforeAndAfter #EtsyFinds #PaintTransformation #SmallSpaceDesign

Ree Drummond, widely recognized as The Pioneer Woman, has expanded her collection at Walmart with a new line of kitchen and dining furniture. This latest release aims to offer consumers heirloom-quality pieces designed to complement a country kitchen aesthetic, with prices starting at under $100. The collection addresses the need for updated kitchen and dining room furnishings, providing stylish and functional options for those looking to refresh their home spaces. Among the featured items is The Pioneer Woman Callie Kitchen Island, priced at $348. This solid wood island includes two drawers and two shelves, offering additional storage and workspace. Measuring just under 48 inches long and 24 inches wide, it provides ample surface area for kitchen activities. Customer reviews highlight the island's sturdiness, attractive color options (teal is mentioned), and suitable size for a country kitchen, praising its value for the price. Complementing the kitchen island is The Pioneer Woman Dining Table, available for $268. This solid wood dining table, like the island, comes in white or teal and is designed to comfortably seat six people. Reviewers consistently commend its quality and sturdiness, especially given its affordable price point, noting its perfect size for a country kitchen setting. The ease of assembly is also cited as a positive aspect by customers. To complete the dining set, Drummond's collection also includes The Pioneer Woman Callie Vintage Floral Dining Bench, priced at $98. This upholstered dining bench is offered in white, walnut, and teal, each featuring a vibrant floral fabric that adds a touch of country charm. The bench has received a perfect five-star rating from customers, who emphasize its quality and sturdiness despite its budget-friendly cost. Reviewers appreciate its durability for everyday use and its aesthetic appeal. The new furniture line from The Pioneer Woman at Walmart provides an opportunity for individuals to incorporate country-inspired design into their kitchens and dining rooms without a significant financial outlay. The collection focuses on solid wood construction and practical features, aiming to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of these central home areas. Interested customers are encouraged to explore the full range of furniture pieces available in this collection to find items that suit their specific needs and design preferences. #PioneerWoman #Walmart #KitchenFurniture #DiningFurniture #HomeDecor #CountryKitchen #AffordableFurniture #ReeDrummond #FurnitureCollection

Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy's trend expert for nine years, shares her personal selection of nursery decor items from Etsy for her newborn son, Ozzie, in her California home. Johnson emphasizes incorporating elements that reflect her and her husband's passions, such as astrology and nature, into the nursery design. She also highlights the use of renter-friendly DIY solutions, including removable molding on the walls, to personalize the space. The article details specific items chosen for Ozzie's nursery, showcasing how they blend functionality with aesthetic appeal and personal meaning. Among the chosen pieces are versatile pillows designed for both pregnancy comfort and as decor. The pregnancy pillow, featuring a braided texture, now serves as a backrest for a daybed, demonstrating its adaptability beyond its initial purpose. A personalized name pillow for Ozzie is also featured, adding a unique and intimate touch to the room. The selection includes a distinctive ceramic floor lamp from Naaya Studio, described as a sophisticated yet playful lighting fixture, moving beyond conventional lamp designs. For wall decor, Johnson opted for peel-and-stick wallpaper in Lime Cream, Etsy's color of the year, providing a renter-friendly solution. She recounts the process of installing the wallpaper, highlighting the importance of precise measurements. Custom artwork by Stephanie of Vivid Vidal adorns the walls, featuring illustrations of items invented by African Americans, intended to inspire Ozzie as he grows. This collaboration exemplifies how customers can engage with Etsy sellers for personalized creations that align with their vision and values. Additionally, a leaf-shaped play mat from Be Nature Store was chosen to connect Ozzie's space with nature, reflecting Johnson and her husband's love for hiking and the outdoors. For organization, felt bins with leather details from Skandinavious were selected for the changing station, prioritizing aesthetic appeal over conventional plastic storage. These bins demonstrate Johnson's approach to using items that may not be explicitly for children but still fit perfectly within a nursery setting. Lastly, the article showcases semi-custom shelves from My Ellie Beans Nursery Bookshelf and Wood and Room Nursery Bookshelf, which were customized in collaboration with sellers to match the crib's wood stain and incorporate specific design requests, such as open shelving for displaying items and hanging clothes. Johnson emphasizes that personalization extends beyond simply adding a name, encompassing size adjustments and specific design modifications through direct communication with sellers. #NurseryDecor #EtsyFinds #HomeDesign #KidsRooms #PersonalizedDecor #RenterFriendly #DIYHome #InteriorStyling #ProductRecommendations

Lizzie Fortunato, a jewelry designer, and her husband, Peter Asbill, endured a year-long wait to finalize the purchase of their 1924 shingled home in Bellport, New York. Despite the delay and other properties appearing on the market, the couple remained committed to this particular house, which is located just 55 miles from their Brooklyn apartment and offers a manifestation of their desired lifestyle. The home's potential for transformation, unlike their city rental, was a significant draw. Upon acquiring the property, Fortunato collaborated with her childhood friend, Kate Towill of Basic Projects, on renovations. Key changes included converting the kitchen into a mudroom and a porch into the primary bedroom. The most substantial alteration involved removing a wall to create an open-concept first floor, a process that necessitated adding a structural header. This renovation aimed to create a more fluid and interconnected living space. The decorating process was deliberate and personal, avoiding big-box stores in favor of unique, meaningful pieces. For instance, Fortunato sought a vintage draper's table at counter height to serve as a kitchen island. After an extensive search, she discovered an 1800s-era French model on Jayson Home. Its delivery during COVID-19 required coordination with her contractor to move it from the lawn into the house. This island has since become a central gathering spot for the family, including their toddler daughter. Another custom piece is the patchwork chair and ottoman in the sitting room, designed by Studio Sam Klemick. This involved a 10-month collaboration, featuring vintage kantha cloth sourced by Fortunato during a trip to India. The floral chandelier in the dining room was an Etsy find, though its delivery was delayed due to pandemic-related shipping restrictions, arriving only after most of the house was decorated. Some design elements were immediate additions, such as the Alexander Calder bicentennial tapestry, inherited from Fortunato's maternal grandparents. This piece, previously stored in their Brooklyn home, was among the first items hung and influenced the selection of red and blue textiles throughout the house, creating an Americana aesthetic without being overtly patriotic. The style aims for a beachy feel while avoiding common coastal clichés. Fortunato made some spontaneous design decisions, like installing Moroccan tiles in the primary bathroom backsplash, originally intended for a future pool. The vanity cabinet in the bathroom was repurposed from a removed kitchen cabinet. Upstairs, the three bedrooms were furnished with family hand-me-downs, and Etsy headboards were primed and painted to add character. The focus was on creating inviting gathering spaces, reflecting the home's role as a social hub for family and friends. Despite its smaller size compared to properties owned by nearby relatives, Fortunato's home is frequently the preferred spot for gatherings, a testament to its carefully curated and welcoming atmosphere. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #Renovation #VintageDecor #CustomFurniture #BellportNY #LizzieFortunato #DesignInspiration

This article shares valuable shopping tips for HomeGoods, a popular home decor chain known for its deals. The author, a home design director, provides strategies to maximize savings and find unique items. One key recommendation is to shop early in the day, preferably on weekdays like Thursdays, when stores are well-stocked and organized. Mondays can also be good as shipments often arrive then, but may involve more restocking activity. Building a rapport with sales associates is highlighted as a beneficial strategy, especially when searching for specific items or brands, as they can provide alerts on new arrivals. Shoppers are advised to look for red price tags, which indicate clearance prices at HomeGoods and its sister stores (TJ Maxx, Homesense, and Sierra). While dedicated clearance sections exist, marked-down items are often found mixed throughout the store. The article emphasizes the importance of thoroughly searching shelves and displays, as many hidden gems and misplaced items can be found by sifting through layers of products like pillows and artwork. The author recounts an experience of finding a matching storage bin by searching diligently through a stack. Dedicated sections for bedding and towels are presented as prime locations for discovering high-quality items from well-known brands such as Stearns & Foster, Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein at discounted prices. The organizational method of towels by color is noted as a particular advantage for decorators. The kitchen section is identified as another area with excellent deals, offering everything from holiday-themed dish towels to baking pans and branded items like Mikasa dishes and Le Creuset baking dishes. HomeGoods is also recommended as a go-to for wooden cutting boards, suitable for both meal prep and charcuterie presentations. The article encourages shoppers to remain open to discovering lesser-known brands, as quality is not solely dependent on brand recognition, and many high-quality products come from smaller companies. This approach is particularly useful for finding multiple items for special occasions or exploring new decor trends. Lastly, shoppers are encouraged to negotiate discounts on slightly defective items and to utilize the store's hold service for larger purchases, ensuring they don't miss out on desired pieces due to immediate transportation challenges. #HomeGoods #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #DiscountShopping #InteriorDesign #ClearanceDeals #SmartShopping #RetailSecrets

The renowned designer Leanne Ford, known for her layered, monochromatic aesthetic, approached the backsplash in her latest renovation project—a Sears Craftsman house in Pittsburgh—with an experimental DIY method. Instead of traditional installation, Ford aimed to whitewash plain ceramic tiles to achieve a unique, textured look. She sourced dark gray cement tiles from Clé and enlisted Pittsburgh-based ceramicist Philip Soucy for assistance. Together, they hand-painted the tile fronts with white glaze, deliberately embracing imperfections for a distinct, artisanal finish. During the kiln firing process, an unexpected chemical reaction occurred. The gray tiles, when baked, reverted to a terra cotta color, introducing warm, earthy tones that were not initially planned. This serendipitous outcome, however, proved to be a pivotal design element for the entire kitchen. Ford embraced this 'happy accident,' allowing the newfound warm hues of the backsplash to inspire the broader design scheme of the room. She complemented these orangey tones with metallic accents, specifically incorporating brass and copper elements throughout the kitchen space. This creative improvisation not only resulted in a chic and personalized kitchen backsplash but also demonstrated how unforeseen elements can significantly influence and elevate a design project. The unique, handcrafted backsplash now stands as a distinctive personal touch from Ford for the future owner of the renovated home, setting the aesthetic direction for the kitchen's overall ambiance. The article highlights how embracing spontaneity and collaboration can lead to innovative and beautiful design solutions, turning an accidental color shift into a central feature of the home's design. #LeanneFord #DIYHomeDecor #KitchenBacksplash #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CeramicTiles #DesignInspiration #HappyAccident #WhitewashedTiles

The article chronicles the author's experience visiting a Joann craft store during its liquidation sales following its bankruptcy filing. Prompted by a team message about potential home design bargains, the author, Sarah Buder, a Manhattan resident, describes the logistical challenges of reaching a Joann store, as none are located within Manhattan or Brooklyn. She and her girlfriend planned a trip to Paramus, New Jersey, combining it with a regular out-of-city grocery run. This personal mission was fueled by a desire to explore DIY opportunities amidst the store's financial restructuring. Buder reflects on her childhood memories of Joann (formerly Jo-Ann Fabrics) in Corte Madera, California, where she purchased materials for sewing classes and costume-making. She notes the significant shift in the store's offerings, contrasting the past focus on fabrics and crafts with the current, more diversified inventory that includes home decor items akin to those found in Target or Home Depot. She acknowledges her lack of recent engagement with Joann stores, having relied on competitors like Michael's or Blick Art Materials for occasional craft supplies in New York City. Upon arrival at the Paramus location, Buder anticipated a somber and depleted shopping environment, similar to her past experience with Bed Bath & Beyond's closing sales. However, she found the store to be surprisingly active, with more shoppers than expected, though largely older demographics. The clearance sections, marked 25% off, appeared disorganized, suggesting either rapid customer turnover or hurried stocking by employees. Other sales included 50-70% off fine art canvases and 10 for $5 on acrylic paints. Operating within a $200 budget, Buder and her girlfriend strategically acquired various items for planned and spontaneous DIY projects. Their purchases included 15 bead strands and a roll of cord for necklace making, a bead organizer, a 10-pack of 8x10 canvases, two 5x5 canvases, a 24-tube acrylic paint set, larger paint tubes, black spray paint, and wooden semicircle cutouts for a mirror project. They also bought fiber filling for couch cushions, three collapsible bins for kitchen storage, an 11x14 black picture frame, and a five-pound bucket of air-dry clay. These selections reflect a clear intention to transform these raw materials into functional and decorative home items. The article details the immediate DIY projects undertaken with their haul: refilling couch cushions, decorating a glass vase with beads, repainting a picture frame with acrylics, spray-painting wooden semicircles for an Ikea mirror, and crafting a foot-shaped catchall from air-dry clay. These projects showcase how the discounted items were effectively utilized to enhance their home decor. The author highlights the inspiration drawn from previous travels and observations for these creations. The narrative concludes with the realization that their purchases provide ample supplies for many more future DIY endeavors, and the possibility of utilizing an online promo code for further purchases without needing another physical store visit. The experience underscores the potential for finding value and creative inspiration even in the context of a retailer's financial struggles, turning liquidation sales into opportunities for home improvement and personal expression. #JoannFabrics #BankruptcySale #DIYHomeDecor #CraftingProjects #BudgetDecor #HomeImprovement #LiquidationSales #CreativeReuse #ArtSupplies

The author, a writer for Realtor.com®, chronicles her personal home renovation journey, detailing how she applied design advice gleaned from popular reality TV home improvement experts like Chip and Joanna Gaines, Christina Haack, Jonathan and Drew Scott, and others. The renovation of her 1927 English Tudor-style home in San Francisco, purchased in 2020, took place throughout most of 2021, transforming a property that had not been updated in decades. The overall footprint of the two-story, four-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,230-square-foot house was maintained, but the floor plan was adjusted, and every surface was touched. One of the core principles applied was to design for real life rather than solely for resale value, a concept championed by "Home Town" star Erin Napier. Since the author and her husband intend to grow old in the house with their two young children, decisions were made to suit their family's current and future needs. This included converting a formal extra bedroom into a flexible space that can function as a home office, as recommended by Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt of "100 Day Dream Home." The renovation also embraced open spaces, removing a wall between the kitchen and dining room and widening openings to the foyer and living room, allowing children to be visible and connected while parents work, cook, and clean, aligning with Shea McGee's insights from "Dream Home Makeover." Russell Holmes of "Renovation Impossible" reinforced the idea that value extends beyond monetary appraisal to include enjoyment. The kitchen, a key area for return on investment, received significant attention, particularly the island. Christina Haack of "Christina on the Coast" inspired the decision to install a large, oversized kitchen island. The author opted for a 7-foot by 5.5-foot slab of Calacatta gold marble with bold veining, which, despite its cost, became a central feature for family dinners and gatherings. The selection of materials prioritized timelessness over fleeting trends, a recommendation from Dave and Jenny Marrs of "Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano." The use of honed marble for countertops and backsplash, with continuous gray veins and a matte finish, paired with brushed-brass fixtures, aimed for classic durability, ensuring the white-on-white kitchen would remain stylish and functional for years. Preserving original architectural details was another important aspect of the renovation. Despite the extensive overhaul, elements like antique doors, knobs, a cast-iron bathtub, multi-paned windows, and sections of the hardwood floor were retained. Where original features were missing or unusable, efforts were made to re-create the look, such as with crown molding and tall baseboards. Joanna Gaines highlighted the cost-saving benefit of salvaging original items, while Clint Harp emphasized that blending old and new elements creates a desirable design balance, allowing appreciation for timeless pieces. Strategic splurging was advised by Tamara Day of "Bargain Mansions" and Michel Smith Boyd of "Luxe for Less," who suggested investing in frequently used items like sofas. The author and her husband prioritized a comfortable sectional from Room & Board, featuring a durable, custom green upholstery. Personal preferences guided interior decor choices, adhering to Jonathan Adler's rule: "Forget the rules. If you love it, it will work." This led to an olive-green couch matching her husband's vintage truck and pink accents inspired by "Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge" judge Tiffany Brooks. The downstairs powder room was a space for bold experimentation, featuring a palm print wallpaper reminiscent of the Beverly Hills Hotel, a tip supported by Alison Victoria of "Windy City Rehab." Careful consideration was given to paint colors, drawing inspiration from Keith Bynum of "Bargain Block" for exterior curb appeal and Tamara Day for interior lighting nuances. The home's exterior features a cream base with dark chocolate trim, while the interior is painted in Cool December by Dunn-Edwards Paints, providing a neutral backdrop for colorful decor. Finally, decluttering practices, inspired by Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent of "The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project" and Jean Stoffer of "The Established Home," were implemented, encouraging the retention of only cherished items and minimizing horizontal surface clutter, with a realistic acknowledgment of managing everyday mess, as even Marie Kondo admits. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealityTV #HomeImprovement #KitchenDesign #TimelessDecor #DeclutteringTips

The blog post introduces Erin Francois, a Minneapolis-based home blogger and DIY enthusiast, who, along with her husband Ken, undertook the renovation of their 1936 Tudor duplex in south Minneapolis. The couple acquired the property in July 2015, recognizing its potential despite its need for significant work. Their primary goal was to modernize the living space while preserving its classic charm. A major focus of their renovation efforts was the original kitchen, which lacked modern amenities such as a dishwasher and had a limited electrical setup. The couple aimed to redesign the kitchen's layout to enhance functionality and integrate efficient, up-to-date technology. Concurrently, they updated the aesthetic with bright, classic finishes, ensuring the space moved into the 21st century without losing its historical essence. This thoughtful approach extended to other areas of their 1,200-square-foot home. Beyond the kitchen, Erin and Ken also transformed their outdoor space by installing a paver patio in the backyard, creating an inviting area for relaxation and entertaining. Inside, they addressed guest accommodation needs by incorporating a pull-down Murphy bed into Erin's home office, demonstrating their commitment to maximizing space and versatility. Furthermore, they meticulously designed a nursery for their daughter, Sylvia, who was one year old at the time of the article's publication. Erin describes their interior design philosophy as an eclectic blend of Scandinavian, classic, boho, and modern styles. Despite the diverse influences, she emphasizes simplicity and functionality as guiding principles for all their projects. Her approach ensures that every element within their home serves a purpose and contributes to a comfortable and curated environment. Erin's blog, "Francois et Moi," and her Instagram presence, @francois_et_moi, showcase her design projects and DIY expertise, garnering a substantial following. The article also highlights Erin's plans to expand her creative collaborations, indicating her interest in working with other artisans and brands such as Relativity Textiles and Arc’s Value Village. This reflects her desire to engage with the broader creative community and bring new perspectives to her design work. The post also features three specific DIY home hacks from Erin, providing practical inspiration for readers: stencil-and-paint pillow covers inspired by Mexican Otomi patterns, a walnut bench crafted from reclaimed wood and metal legs, and a floating media console with a herringbone wood top designed for built-in storage. These examples underscore her hands-on approach and ability to create stylish, functional pieces for her home. #InteriorDesign #Remodeling #DIY #HomeDecor #Minneapolis #TudorDuplex #KitchenRenovation #ScandinavianDesign #HomeHacks

Emily Henderson, a prominent interior designer, recently unveiled a captivating redesign of a 1930s living room, showcasing a masterful blend of old-world charm and contemporary aesthetics. This particular project, undertaken for her friends, involved carefully curating finishing touches, furniture, and decor that honor the home's original character while injecting modern edge and personality. The redesign is a testament to transitional design, effectively merging disparate styles to create a cohesive and unique space. A standout piece in this living room transformation is a luxurious blue velvet sofa, a design by Sarah Sherman Samuel, which retails for approximately $14,900. Recognizing this as a significant investment, the article delves into sourcing the exact sofa and also provides more affordable alternatives to achieve a similar aesthetic. Beyond the sofa, other notable elements of the design include a vibrant green leather rug, chosen for its durability and distinctive texture, and a substantial stone coffee table from Soho Home. The choice of a large, modular coffee table addresses a common design challenge of finding adequately sized pieces for spacious living areas. The design process involved integrating existing elements that the homeowners had already selected, such as a Farrow & Ball wallpaper. Despite not being Emily Henderson's initial choice, she embraced its bold yet subtle pattern, allowing it to contribute to the room's transitional style rather than clashing with it. This approach highlights a flexible design philosophy that prioritizes client preferences and existing features. The lighting in the living room also received careful consideration. Given the home's 1930s architecture, which often features lower ceilings, Henderson opted for a unique flush-mount fixture from The Urban Electric Co. This piece provides a statement without the visual intrusion of a long pendant, demonstrating a practical yet stylish solution to architectural constraints. Emily Henderson's design ethos in this project is characterized by a fearless approach to color and texture. The living room seamlessly integrates diverse elements such as blue velvet, rust velvet, green leather, marble, and patterned wallpaper. Despite this rich mix, the space maintains a balanced and sophisticated atmosphere, preventing any single element from overwhelming the eye. The designer describes the overall effect as an "incredible vibe," where each piece functions as a focal point without competing with others, contributing to a chic and unified interior. The article provides readers with practical shopping guidance, presenting both the high-end pieces used in the design and more budget-friendly options. This allows individuals to replicate the look and feel of Henderson's eclectic and transitional design within their own homes, regardless of their budget. Key pieces available for purchase or inspiration include the Anthropologie Andi Sofa as a velvet sofa alternative, the exact Farrow & Ball Helleborus Wallpaper, the CB2 Camilia Patchwork Dark Green Hide Area Rug, a Crate & Barrel Dualité Travertine and Burl Wood Block Leg Coffee Table, a West Elm Zigzag Table Lamp for edgy lighting, and World Market Cecilia Rust Velvet Scalloped Upholstered Stools as versatile accent pieces. This detailed breakdown ensures that readers can understand and implement the design principles demonstrated by Emily Henderson. #InteriorDesign #EmilyHenderson #LivingRoomDesign #TransitionalStyle #EclecticDecor #HomeRenovation #FurnitureSourcing #LuxuryDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor

Summer presents an opportune time for home renovation projects, leveraging longer daylight hours and generally favorable weather conditions for both indoor and outdoor improvements. Whether the goal is to enhance a home's market value, boost its functionality, or simply refresh its aesthetic, a selection of five Amazon-available products can facilitate these transformations. Amazon Prime members can benefit from 24-hour delivery on these items, with a 30-day free trial option available for new members. One featured product is the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 LED Smart Bulbs, priced at $49.97. These smart bulbs significantly impact a home's ambiance by allowing users to customize lighting with a palette of 16 million colors and various shades of white. They also support voice control through platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant, offering both convenience and modern aesthetic appeal. Another innovative suggestion is the Moen Arbor Motionsense Two-Sensor Touchless One-Handle High Arc Pulldown Kitchen Faucet, available for $249.99. This kitchen faucet addresses practical challenges, such as operating a faucet with messy hands, by incorporating MotionSense technology for touchless activation. Its design also includes a reflex system for smooth operation and secure docking, combining style with enhanced functionality in the kitchen. For flooring upgrades, Achim Home Furnishings Nexus Vinyl Tile is presented as a cost-effective and user-friendly solution, priced at $13.41 for a pack of 20 tiles. These stick-and-peel tiles are designed for easy installation in any room, providing a stylish update without a high cost or requiring extensive home renovation experience. They are available in a variety of colors and styles to suit different preferences. Painting is highlighted as a direct way to refresh a living space. Prestige Paint, available on Amazon, offers a range of colors to brighten any room. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically alter a room's appearance, making it feel revitalized within a short period, potentially within a few days. Finally, Remote Control Curtain Lights, priced at $16.79 on Amazon, offer a simple yet effective way to add ambiance to a home. These lights, consisting of 10 strands with 30 LED lights each, are ideal for creating a pleasant backdrop for outdoor evening entertainment or family gatherings. They provide a cost-friendly method to instantly enhance the atmosphere of any setting. #HomeRenovation #HomeImprovement #SmartHome #AmazonDeals #DIYHome #InteriorDesign #LifestyleProducts

The author, Charlotte Olby, who is undertaking her second total gut home renovation, shares a curated list of 15 essential Amazon products that have proven invaluable for home improvement projects and daily living during a renovation. The article highlights how these items, ranging from practical tools to decorative solutions, can help manage a renovation budget and ease the inherent stress of living in a construction zone. The recommendations are presented as game-changing buys available on Amazon, many of which are currently on sale. The list begins with a 17-piece paint roller kit, emphasized for its utility during extensive decorating projects, especially for individuals prone to accidents. Next, a Loloi II Wynter Collection area rug is recommended as a temporary and cost-effective solution for covering old or undesirable flooring while saving up for a permanent replacement. The article then introduces flexible molding trim, a peel-and-stick product suggested for adding architectural detail to ceilings and cabinetry, inspired by design influencer Drew from Lone Fox. For practical lighting, LEPOTEC 30-LED Motion Sensor Cabinet Lights are presented as a solution for illuminating dark spaces like larder cupboards without the need for electrical wiring. Wicker storage baskets with lids are advised for organizing belongings, which often need to be moved frequently during a renovation. Peel-and-stick botanical wallpaper is suggested for quick and easy decorative updates, offering a temporary way to refresh a space without a large commitment. A crucial safety tool, the Fluke 1AC II VoltAlert Non-Contact Voltage Tester, is highlighted for its ability to detect live voltage, ensuring safety when working with electrical components. Art3d Peel and Stick Vinyl Floor Tiles are recommended as a temporary fix for unsightly floors or backsplashes that are not yet ready for a full replacement. A farmhouse bathroom vanity with storage is featured as a significant purchase, noting that Amazon sales offer substantial discounts on such items. The Philips Hue Smart Light Starter Kit is recommended for creating a cozier ambiance and for its smart home integration capabilities, emphasizing its utility even during a renovation. Sleek round antique brass cabinet knobs are suggested as a budget-friendly hardware option for upgrading cabinets without excessive cost. A ONEWISH Cordless Lamp is recommended for providing portable and ambient lighting, serving as a more elegant alternative to flashlights during a renovation. Plastic drop sheets for painting are included as an essential for protecting surfaces from paint, dust, and dirt, helping to maintain cleanliness. A Retro Style Infrared Heating Air Fryer Toaster Oven is highlighted as a versatile cooking appliance for those without a functioning kitchen during a renovation, offering a stylish alternative to standard models. Finally, a ROTHLEY Hanging Pot Rack Hanger is suggested as a cost-effective way to achieve the aesthetic of English kitchen designs, even if it's made of stainless steel rather than brass. #HomeRenovation #AmazonPrimeDay #DIYEssentials #HomeImprovement #BudgetFriendlyDecor #SmartHome #InteriorDesign #RenovationTools