Summer is finally here, so when I found this fabulous Boathouse makeover over on Remodelista, I had to share with you. Look at how Seattle-based architects, Bosworth Hoedemaker, converted this rather dull, concrete boathouse into a stunning yet simple guest cottage. Doesn’t look like much from the outside but open up those doors…Front row seats […]
I’m dreaming of a dacha…
Happy Friday! So…ever heard of a dacha? Well, neither had I until I came across a story in Food & Wine magazine. A dacha is a Russian summer cottage and they are widely seen through out the country. Most of these homes were built during the Soviet era and had size restrictions – a majority […]
Multifunctional Rooms
Hi all! It’s been a busy couple of weeks but I’m back with some more inspiration from my real life “downsizers”. One very talented client of mine went through the downsizing shift with grace, settling into her new life and making sure she made room for her beloved grandchildren. A creative whiz and fabulous artist, […]
Seattle Weekend by Train
Hello friends! Hope you had a fantastic holiday weekend. We went on my favorite quick getaway and caught the train up to Seattle. I absolutely love the train ride – reading magazines, sipping wine and just relaxing. By the time I arrive, I have unwound and I’m ready to enjoy the city! Traffic and parking […]
Rejuvenation and Rummer
A couple of nights ago, I attended a fantastic lecture at Rejuvenation – one of Portland’s most loved vintage lighting and home wares store. This lecture series is sponsored by a wonderful organization called P:ear – they creatively mentor and inspire homeless youth! Check them out here. A nice bonus to the evening: famed, local […]
Summer Guest House
When I saw this amazing summer guest house, I just had to share! I love it when garages or out buildings become these beautiful, well planned spaces – instead of being forgotten or filled with junk. Brilliant designer, Alexandra Angle combined a Scandinavian look with a laid back Californian flair. Look how gorgeous…I could definitely […]
Bring your Antiques!
Just because you are downsizing doesn’t mean you have to get rid of your favorite antique pieces! With a little creative thinking and good space planning those beloved hutches, chests, secretaries and bookcases can come along with you. They often provide ample storage, which is key in a downsized home and they almost certainly hold […]
Portland love: bright designlab
In Portland, the first Thursday of every month is celebrated in the stylish Pearl District. Galleries, pubs, restaurants and design studios leave their doors open late to welcome Portlanders seeking out inspiration, delicious snacks and a glass of free wine! What a fabulous combination! I was in the crowd last week, my design radar was […]
Closet Office
I have begun to meet up with several of my 555 residents to document some of their downsizing solutions. It has been so much fun re-connecting with them, touring their homes and having them share their downsizing stories with me. One of my favorite solutions that I have seen is the closet office! In a […]
Kitchen Trends for 2011 – Shaker Style
With the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) happening right now in Vegas, I can’t help but dream of fabulous kitchen designs! Downsized kitchens need extra attention to detail to ensure every square inch is utilized but just because it’s smaller doesn’t mean it has to be boring! One of the hottest emerging trends in […]