In the world of architecture and design, we see beyond what is. We see what could be, and we revel in the act of making it so. Here are some insightful and inspiring stories of projects I’ve tackled, lessons I’ve learned, and a little bit of humor to keep things interesting. Because, if you can’t laugh about life and home renovations, then what the heck are we all here for?
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As you cook up a storm this holiday season, the yearning for a new kitchen probably feels stronger than ever.
How long have you dreamt of a pristine, sparkly, inspiring kitchen? If only it weren’t for that silly little obstacle: money.
The good news: you don’t have to deplete your bank account to get what you want! There are simple ways to keep your costs low and your satisfaction high.
Read More9 Rules for a Successful DIY Wedding.
October 1st was the one year anniversary of my and Mike's DIY wedding. This past year has given me lots of time to reflect and talk with family about our big day. Then, last month, I participated in my best friend's DIY wedding. Now I'm doubly qualified to dole out some advice.
Read MoreThis client's DIY remodel increased his home's value by $120k!
Blair remodeled his kitchen with his own two hands. He wanted a new space AND a higher home value. After two years, thousands of dollars, countless late nights, and missed weekends the project was complete. During a recent refinance, Blair's home appraised for $120k more than the purchasing price. It was all worth it.
Read More6 steps to clear your home of clutter.
Lots of people get the urge to clean in Spring. If you're feeling that way right now, take advantage of it! Many friends tell me they'd love to live with less but clearing stuff out is a daunting task. Here's a guide to get you started.
Read More7 things that make the greatest impact on your interior design.
It's that time of year again. You're coming down from the holidays. The decorations come off the walls and you think, "hm, this space needs reorganizing." Or it needs a fresh coat of paint, or a new couch, or a recent photo hung on the wall... you get my point.
BUT, you don't have enough money! It's a conundrum that I hear from friends all the time. Don't worry, there's a solution: GET THE MOST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK.
Read MoreBeautiful interior design for this Oregon businessman.
I recently traveled to Portland, Oregon to decorate a client's apartment. We started with zero furniture and by the end of my week-long visit, the place was completely livable! Beautiful even! This client was on a budget and the apartment is pretty tiny so ...
Read More5 steps to find the perfect designer for your project.
Want to remodel or redecorate but have no idea where to start? How much money will you need? How long will it take? How do you find the right team? No matter if you're doing a small bathroom renovation, a new house build, or just furnishing your new apartment, you need a team you get along with.
Read MoreA recent article questions our love of small spaces.
How do Tiny Spaces make you feel? Do you want to stay? Or run away? Recently, The New York Times published a quick and very interesting article that made me think. Why do people like Tiny Houses? Molly Young thinks she has the answer.
Read More7 ways to lower your energy bill.
In green building, there’s this thing called “Passive” Design. It sounds unexciting but it’s one of the most powerful tools at a homeowner’s disposal. You rarely hear about it because very few people make money with Passive Design, except the homeowner!
The easiest time to apply Passive Design is in the schematic design of a new house. In the verrry beginning. But there are also things small moves you can do in an apartment or small house renovation.
Read MoreThe bright and welcoming remodel of our full-time RV home.
We lived in and remodeled a 34 foot long 5th wheel. This was our first adventure in Tiny Living and we wanted our new home to be special. We worked weekends and nights and MANY hours in between. All for a custom renovation and a home that felt our own. It was absolutely worth it.
Read More5 steps to create a comfortable and welcoming space.
Most designers can turn a cramped, claustrophobic room into a spacious, safe haven. I want to equip you with the basic tools to feel the love in your space. I want you to be your own designer!
Read MoreHow to build your own tiny office.
You'd like to work from home, but how will all your stuff fit? Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up your own tiny office.
Read MoreA few steps to help you choose the perfect paint colors for inside your home.
Painting the inside of your home can be a daunting task. Choose your colors, buy the special tools, clear out furniture, tape and lay down plastic, and then hours of painting; it’s all guaranteed to make your wallet ache and your arm muscles sing. Needless to say, you don’t want to do it twice. Let me teach you how to choose the right colors, the first time.
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