Don’t think downsizing is a trend? Well…it looks like the design world is responding to it in a BIG way! This amazing line of space saving furniture is not only beautiful but incredibly efficient for small and multi-functional rooms. Designs like these are making the shift towards downsizing even easier. Get ready to be wowed […]
Car free in Germany
I’ve been out this week with clients, touring some of Portland’s up and coming neighborhoods. We focused on the Alberta and Mississippi districts and I’m so impressed with how far our city has progressed. Check out more info on Portland’s fabulous communities here. So, with urban design on the brain, I had to share with […]
Rent a home for the Holidays!
If you are an empty-nester or retired with grand kids, you may be facing the pressures and delights of hosting the holidays in your home. But what if you have already downsized to that trendy downtown condo or a lovely bungalow for two? Where do you put everyone? Where will you serve your grand feast? […]
My birthday get-away, from the Columbia Gorge to Luxembourg!
I recently celebrated my birthday. It was a wonderful day full of adventure. One of the ways, I get my gardening/nature fix, is to get out into the wilderness of Oregon. What better backyard than our gorgeous state parks! I couldn’t think of a more fantastic venue for my birthday. To further illustrate my endless […]
Small Kitchen Design by Julie DeJardin
Today, I wanted to feature one of my favorite people – Julie DeJardin. I met Julie when I was working as a designer for Neil Kelly and she was the president for the National Kitchen and Bath Association. She’s an amazing designer, a dear friend and she really knows how to downsize in style! Julie […]
Apartment Therapy in a Book
I’m sure many of you love following the extremely successful and inspirational blog : Apartment Therapy. Never heard of it? You must go take a look. It is chock full of fantastic ideas and home tours of some really incredible spaces. For all those considering downsizing, it is an absolute necessary stop on your internet […]
What’s under the stairs?
In my last post, I discussed maximizing your space and today I wanted to share some really innovative solutions for that space under your flight of stairs! Why waste this perfectly good spot? Have you considered this commonly overlooked space as… Or a…OR (and I love this one)… Just some fun ideas! More here. Do […]
Summer Supper Club
This past Thursday we hosted a lovely supper club at my vintage Manzanita beach house… Images via Grace & Ivy I really love these events. There’s nothing like a table full of food, served family style, to inspire a true sense of community. This time around we did a pig roast and celebrated, friend and […]
Urban garden inspiration
I like to garden and get my hands dirty…it can truly be a creative experience – a zen moment. Although I may garden alone, sharing my garden with friends brings me much joy! Many of the people I meet, often feel attached to their large yard and this prevents them from downsizing. They may not […]
I SPY
As an interior designer, I am always looking for interesting, creative design that captures a sense of adventure but still functions well in a home environment. Being a foodie and wine enthusiast, Portland is a mecca for wonderful restaurants. The restaurant’s design is just as important as the food being presented. I especially love going into restaurant bathrooms to see if […]