Open shelving is a versatile addition to many home decor styles. These farmhouse open shelving ideas highlight how functional, affordable, and visually appealing open shelves can be for displaying decor or everyday kitchen items. One of my favorite DIY projects was building a set of farmhouse-style open shelves for under $40 for my old kitchen. … Read more

A beautifully designed fireplace and mantel transform the atmosphere of a room. Yet many homes lack a real fireplace, and installing one can be expensive or impractical. A well-crafted DIY or faux fireplace offers the same cozy focal point without the high cost. Historically, the fireplace was the heart of the home—providing heat and a … Read more

Turn a simple dining room into a timeless traditional space by layering classic details and mixing patterns in fabrics and wallpaper. This photo tour covers lighting, wallpaper, decor, paint choices, and more from a recent dining room makeover. This room marks a shift in style for me—from farmhouse to a more traditional aesthetic. Learning to … Read more

When it comes to painting, preparation is half the battle. Choosing paint tools matters, but there’s a lot more to decide before you start—one of the most important choices is the paint finish, also known as paint sheen. This guide will help you understand the different sheens and where to use them. Picking a paint … Read more

Let’s talk table lamps — small table lamps, bedside lamps, end table lamps — and how to choose the right one for your home. Below you’ll find practical tips, style guidance, and a curated selection to help you shop confidently. When you’re finishing a room, it’s often the small details that make the biggest difference: … Read more

I’m finally back to working on the baby girl’s woodland nursery. I had hoped to finish the room before she arrived—I nailed down the overall vision and got many pieces in place—but, as often happens, life got in the way. Between Christmas, birthdays and preparing for the baby, the nursery stayed unfinished when she was … Read more

DIY Christmas gifts are not only more meaningful—they’re often much more affordable. You could click “buy” and wait for two-day shipping, but nothing compares to the joy someone feels when they open a present you made just for them. What stands out as your favorite gift ever? Chances are it was thoughtful, unexpected, or even … Read more

Benjamin Moore Simply White is one of the most popular white paint colors. This light off-white offers the perfect touch of warmth while still feeling bright and fresh. Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117) is a warm, clean white that reads crisp without feeling cold. Named Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year in 2016, it’s a … Read more

Make a DIY industrial plate rack to showcase your favorite plates on the wall. You only need two inexpensive supplies and six simple steps to build it. This easy industrial-style plate rack has been on my to-do list for a while, and I’m so glad I finally made it. I used a few materials I … Read more

Craigslist has been a fantastic resource for me. Over the years I’ve bought and sold many items there and, until recently, I’d had nothing but positive experiences. I even drove three hours to pick up a couch I found on Craigslist—and I love that couch. For about six months I’d been hunting for a dresser … Read more