Hello! Hope your week has been going well! Right now, I’ve got sheds on the brain. You see, after much thought we have decided to renovate the detached garage of our rental home. Inspired by the many garage remodels that I have seen recently, I’ve taken the leap and started my own! Don’t worry, I […]
Fabulous Swedish Apartment
Hello friends! I hope you enjoyed your weekend! We had far too much rain here…although it did allow me to spend some time finding inspiration online. I am constantly amazed at the endless sources of gorgeous ideas on downsized living. When I found this amazing loft in Sweden via here, I knew I had to […]
Urban Gardens Galore
Summer is my season to spend afternoons in the garden (when my schedule allows) and really get my hands dirty. I find it both relaxing and rewarding. As many of you know, we are also in the process of downsizing and I often wonder what my next – inevitably smaller – outdoor space will be […]
Boring Boathouse turned Nautical Guest Cottage
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 […]
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 […]
Pdx Events: “Home for a Lifetime” Fair
As many of you know Aging in Place is a big focus of my work (see definition below) and having this knowledge truly helps my clients make their lifestyle one that will last! Aging in place refers to living where you have lived for years, typically not in a health care environment, using products, services, […]
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 […]