Oh, and of course the disclaimer! Our house is ALWAYS "under construction" as many would say. And our "To Do" list never shrinks; it's just keeps growing and growing. So please give my hubs a great big sympathy hug the next time you see him, because he is always seen toting around his tool box and tape measure and I always have a project for that "honey do list".
13 years ago was a very exciting time for my husband and I. We were expecting our first child, we had just rushed to the altar and we were building our first home. Oh! And we were youngsters at the ages of 19 and 20. So although our hearts were big, our budget was small. We had never owned a home before, and didn't have the first clue about what all it entailed. We purchased a sweet little lot in a small Midwestern town and never looked back.
Our home started out as a modular ranch, and the walls were delivered while I was in labor with our now oldest son. I remember getting out of the hospital and heading straight to see our new home and feeling more joy than my fingers are able to type out. With shallow pockets, we ended up selecting the most inexpensive "builder grade" finishes throughout the entire home. But none of that mattered. We had one another, we had our baby and we had a blank canvas.
And that is how it all began! My first favorite memory of our new home was laying on the berber carpet in the middle of our big empty living room, looking at Bryan and feeling excited to assemble our very first piece of furniture. I have always loved to read home magazines and pour my heart into my surroundings, so having our own haven to work on has been a dream come true. Everything you are about to see in this tour has been over thirteen years in the making (and all done while also adding two more boys and two furry friends into the family mix). And what makes us most proud, is that we have done majority of the work on our home with our own two hands. Aside from hiring out help for electrical, plumbing and heating, we have planted our yard, built a deck, installed a patio, painted our hearts out, updated bathrooms, installed tile, taken down and re-built walls, laid flooring, swapped out fixtures and DIY'd furniture galore.
It hasn't always been easy. We are essentially self taught, which means we have made many mistakes along the way. But those mistakes have only fueled our fire. Or have made us laugh.
OK, enough chit chat. Let's take a look at the house already! But one last thing. As much as we love our home and I love to organize, our home is NOT always picture perfect. This blog is my place to share our stories and our home highs and lows, and if you click through to the projects you will notice that most of them will show our everyday messes. You can also find my thoughts on perfection in this post here. Before I took these photos of our home, I cleaned and scrubbed and cleaned some more. Inviting the world wide web of strangers to tour your home is far more intimidating than having your neighbor over for coffee or even hosting a cocktail party with 20 of your closest friends.
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The front of our home boasts a narrow porch, which for the longest time, the kiddos used as a garage for their bikes and scooters. I decided it was time to reclaim the space, so I painted the ceiling, updated some outdoor planters, painted the front door and added some furniture. Now it is the perfect spot for a cup of coffee or to read a magazine while watching the boys play out front.
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Colors: Front Door - Behr's Harbor, Planters - Behr's Ozone Sources: Planters (similar), Lights, Chairs, Pillows (similar), Mirror |
I really wanted the front of our home to reflect the interior. We consider ourselves fairly fun and youthful, and we try not to take ourselves or our decor too seriously. In fact, we really love color and have made sure to splash it all over our walls and furnishings.
Let's step inside.
I really love before and after pictures, so you get to see a few shots of our home shortly after we moved in. This blog definitely shows us finding our way and our style over the years. The above was a rag wall treatment gone wrong, and a layout that didn't maximize our home's potential. Today it tells a different story.
As I mentioned above, when we initially approved the blueprints to our home we were a little clueless. The entry is the first example of one of our biggest mistakes/regrets. We made some alterations to the building plans and swapped the location of our stairs, which ultimately took away an entryway coat closet. That required us to get creative with our furnishings in order to make the most of a really small space. We added a narrow shoe cabinet as well as a credenza that our boys use as their school cubbies. The goal was to keep everything super simple to access and put away, while concealing daily clutter.
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Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone |
Although our landing is small, the entryway flows into a much bigger space; our living room! Which really is not that big, coming in at approximately 12 feet wide.
Majority of the changes in our living room have been simply cosmetic. We installed a new floating laminate floor a year or two after we moved in. The walls have been painted about five different colors, and the lighter we went, the bigger it felt.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone Projects: Built-In Bookcase Part 1 & Part 2, Craft Store Storage, Craft Cabinet Organization Sources: Sunburst Mirror (similar), Lamps (similar), Blue Boxes, Floral Boxes, Lanterns (similar), Bookends, Blue Chair, Sectional, Coffee Table, Gallery Wall Frames (similar), White Tray, Blue Pillows, Coral Pillows, Black/White Pillow, Black White Stripe Throw |
As our family grew, we slowly changed out our furnishings. And the media cabinet was one of our favorite DIY projects to date, simply created out of off-the-shelf white bookcases.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone Projects: DIY Curtain Panels Sources: Gold Vase, White End Table, Gold End Table, Gold Storage Box, White Lace Basket, Rug |
A view that stops me in my tracks each day is looking from our living room back towards our dining room. Hello beautiful blue storage hutch!
The dining area was another blank canvas I couldn't wait to personalize. It is where we come together as a family each evening, and I really wanted the space to be special.
Stripes, curtains, a little Craigslist shopping and mixing and matching pieces for our new dining table and the space truly smiles for us now.
The hutch wasn't always the beauty she is today. Purchased second hand from a stranger, I couldn't wait to liven it up with paint. I know I shouldn't play favorites, but this piece tops my list.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone & Martha Stewart's Picket Fence Hutch - Sherwin William's Reflecting Pool Projects: Painted Dining Room Hutch, DIY Curtain Panels Sources: Chandelier, Antlers, Dining Table, White Chairs, Tufted Bench, Vase, Cake Stand |
The dining room acts as a bit of a connector of the entryway/living room and the kitchen. And why does everyone in the Midwest have a love affair with oak? I think some oak can actually be quite lovely, but the oak that we put in our home - not so much and waaaay too much. (I was initially outvoted on white cabinets, trim and doors.)
After living with the oak for a few years, I finally convinced my husband that everything would feel much lighter and brighter with the help of a few coats of paint.
We have giant plans for our kitchen, but the paint was a nice temporary fix until that day comes.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone, Cabinets - Behr's Navajo White Projects: Painted Cabinets & Trim, Organized Pantry, Kitchen Cabinet Tour, Organized Fridge Sources: Frames (similar), Barstools, Pendant Lights, Vase, Toaster, Utensil Holder (similar) |
Just inside our garage entrance and tucked behind our fridge, we installed a little wall message center. LOVE doesn't begin to describe it.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone Projects: Organized Mail Bins Sources: Mail Bins |
Heading back towards the hall now, there are a few bedrooms and our main bathroom.
The first door on the right is our main bathroom. Three little guys share this space each day and it also has to suite our guests. Although, I apparently tried to claim it as mine when we first moved in... sigh... that is a lot of purple.
The bathroom received quite a few mini updates courtesy of paint, but nothing more than that until 2014. After 12 years of full time use, both the vanity and toilet were no longer fully functioning. So we updated the floors, vanity, lighting, mirror, toilet and walls. The room instantly felt bigger, which was no easy task considering it is only a five foot box.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Burnished Metal, Glidden's Misty Moonstone Projects: Bathroom Refresh Reveal, Stained Step Stool Sources: Vanity, Sconce, Mirror, Faucet, Elephant Art, Hooks (found on eBay), Hand Towel, Wall Numbers, Bath Towels |
This past year we added some life to our hallway with playful dipped frames filled with some of our favorite memories.
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| Colors: Walls - Glidden's Smooth Stone Projects: Dipped Frame Gallery Wall, Hall Light Update Sources: Picture Frames |
He is growing faster than I like to admit, and suddenly his room needs to be tailored to a teenager! I don't have the first clue how to design a teenage boy's room, and he really is content with just about anything which means he doesn't provide me with much direction.
So for now I just let him do his thing and the room is nice and livable , it just needs a few finishing touches. Fingers crossed we have those done before he heads off to college!
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| Colors: Walls - Behr's Cayman Bay (lower), Behr's Burnished Metal (upper & closet) Projects: Striped Curtains, DIY Chalkboard Calendar, Closet Study Nook Sources: Bedframe (thrifted), Nightstand (similar), Bedding, Dresser (hand-me-down), Docking Station, Closet Shelving, Task Light |
Our other boy's bedroom is a different story. This one was much easier for us to update and although it has already been a few years since we finished it, we still love it oh-so-much. Decorating for younger kidlets is stree-free - can't go wrong - get to play with colors and patterns - kind of fun!
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| Colors: Walls - Behr's Windsurf, Pittsburgh Paint's Cityscape Projects: Wall Map, Painted Stripes, DIY Upholstered Headboards Sources: Wire Airplane, Pouf, Bedding, Sheets, Throw Pillows, Airplane Posters, Cabinet - Frame/Door, Sconces |
Although we have one more bedroom on the main level, our younger two boys enjoy sharing a room for now. The majority of the room was DIY'd, and our boys provided us with a lot of their own visions and input. Because we don't store too many toys in the space, we didn't have many storage issues in the main sleeping area. However, when it came to two little guys sharing a single small closet, it required me to get creative with the storage plan.
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| Colors: Walls - Behr's Windsurf, Pittsburgh Paint's Cityscape Projects: Rail of Hooks, Kid's Closet Sources: Closet Bookcase, Bins (similar), Hooks, Airplane Art, Wall Bookshelves |
We divided the closet with an inexpensive bookshelf and paired it with two sets of closet rods on either side. It has been functioning big for the boys (and us!). We also added an additional rail of hooks behind their door to add extra hanging storage.
Across the hall is the guest room, however, it initially started out as the master bedroom when we first moved in.
Another project that I have always adored and now wish wasn't tucked so far away in our home, is our guest room desk nook. That wallpaper gives me giant heart eyes!
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| Colors: Walls - Behr's Burnished Metal Projects: Closet Desk Reveal Sources: Bedding, Duvet, Mirror, Lamp, Side Table (x2), Headboard (DIY), Wallpaper, Pen Cups, Swing Arm Lamp, Craft Drawers, Craft Paper Slots, Clear Chair |
The guest room has an attached bath, which once again started falling apart, even before the main bathroom did! Here is a before of the finishes we selected when the home was first built.
We lived with it broken down for awhile, but when we found out we would be hosting a guest, it was time to get it fully functional again. A week long makeover happened with a mad dash to the finish line.
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| Colors: Walls - Behr's Quietude, Vanity - Martha Stewart's Wrought Iron Projects: Bathroom Makeover Reveal Sources: Counter/Sink, Faucet, Mirror, Sconces, Wood Vase, Soap Pump, Grace Print, Soap Dish (thrifted), Towel Hooks |
Now, let's head downstairs.
We have finished our lower level twice now, due to an unfortunate flooding that took place a few years back. The second time around we installed a waterproof vinyl laminate flooring and moisture resistant trim. We hope those updates will safeguard us in the future should our sump pump fail during a power outage again.
Before we finished our lower level, our laundry room was originally just framed out and carpeted with scraps from the original living room flooring:
There are some spaces I enjoy making over more than others. Kid's rooms and laundry rooms rank at the top of the list. Home Offices are typically right up there as well.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Light French Grey Projects: Floating Shelves Sources: White Baskets, Cleaning Caddy (tin utensil caddy), Laundry Detergent Bin, Green Boxes |
Being a short gal, I was excited to upgrade to front loading HE machines. I have never once felt regret. We also finished the walls, installed flooring and hung floating shelves (with decorative corbels) to make the most of our vertical space.
The functionality of the room has been evolving over the years, and recently also turned into the room where we store all of our paint supplies. That required some special storage, so we built ourselves a pretty fabulous cabinet.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Light French Grey Projects: DIY Storage Cabinet, Paint Organization Sources: Woven Baskets, Stain Removal Prints, Frames (similar) |
And do you also see that wall to wall storage to the right? We also built that completely from scratch. Definitely one of our biggest building projects to date, but we gained some pretty fabulous storage as a result. It now acts as a cleaning closet, beach gear storage, a place to sort, dry and fold laundry!
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Light French Grey Projects: DIY Built-In Folding Station, Cleaning Cabinet Organization, Temporary Paper Backing, Easy Pegboard Storage Sources: Paper (garden trellis), Stool (spray painted), Iron Board Holder (similar) |
Not only do I really like to make laundry rooms look pretty because so many chores take place there, it is also the room I sit and look at all day while I work in my nearby studio.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: DIY Farmhouse Desk (and finishing it), Studio Chair, DIY Bench Sources: Lamp, Glass Box, Pen Holder, Chair Fabric, Pink Pillow, Dot Pillow, Silver Frames |
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Installing Cabinets, Craft Storage, Craft Cart Organization Sources: Cookie Jar, White Box, Rails (similar), White Hanging Cups, Gold Terrarium, Cloche, Craft Cart, Rug |
Not only have we built in a lot of cabinet storage, we also finished the closet under the stairs with flooring and walls, and now it is a storage haven.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Under the Stairs Closet |
Another completely untouched room in our home is our family room. We are talking complete blank slate to play with! And I have big plans for this space someday! (Can you hear my evil, scheming laughter?)
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Faux Marble Coffee Table Sources: Floor Lamp, Coffee Table, Gold Tray, Sectional, Stripe Throw, Blue Pillows, Pink Pillow, Black/White Pillow, Rug |
Our lower level is a simple horseshoe shape; the family room marries the studio and our playroom.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Painted Entertainment Center, Book Storage, Toy Word Art Sources: Entertainment Center (craigslist), Green Poofs, Rug |
This space is by far the happiest of them all. Bold color, a lot of pattern, and endless days filled building legos, playing games and entertaining lots of little pals. Without investing a lot of money in expensive furniture, we have pieced together a few IKEA pieces and Craigslist finds to create storage for a variety of playroom toys, games and crafts.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Lego Build Bins, Art Caddy Sources: Art Caddy (tin utensil caddy), Art Storage Boxes |
A bench pieced together from two narrow bookcases now has the room to seat many little bottoms. And the best part is all of the easy-to-access toy storage below!
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool, Stencil - Behr's Seven Seas Projects: Bench Seating (part 1 & part 2), Chalkboard Table, Labeled Toy Bins, Stenciled Wall, Playroom Reveal Sources: Pouf (similar), Red Chair, Green Pillow, Corner Pillow, Light, Bench Fabric |
Our three boys have received Legos as gifts since they were tiny tots. And they also inherited bins of Legos from both mom and dad (yes, I loooooved building Lego houses as a kid as well). They helped devise a storage plan and even sorted them down with me.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Reflecting Pool Projects: Organizing Legos Sources: Lego Storage, Blue Boxes, White Shelves |
I get asked all of the time if we still love the Lego storage and the answer is YES! The key is to be super flexible about it and have a large bin to hold in-progress builds and random pieces. We only tend to re-sort that holding bin every few months.
One last bathroom which located directly off of the playroom and extremely close to the master bedroom.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Gulf Winds Sources: Mirror (similar), Faucet, Sink (similar), Linen Cabinet (similar), Nail Caddy, Hamper, Stool, Bucket Basket, Toiletry Baskets (similar) |
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Last but not least, let's take a peek at the master bedroom.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Frozen Pond Projects: Master Bedroom Refresh Sources: Headboard, Bedding, Pink Pillow, Floral Pillows, Blue Pillows, Mr & Mrs Art (DIY), Chandelier (similar), Task Lamp, Nightstand, Rug |
Our master bedroom, although in the lower level, receives an abundance of amazing natural light. It feels soothing yet still has a little personality at the same time.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Frozen Pond Projects: Master Bedroom Refresh Sources: Dresser (hand-me-down), Chair, Mirror, Roman Shade (updated with black ribbon), Navy Lamps  |
When we initially built our home, we dug out a large portion of our front yard to fit appropriate sized windows and allow us to create livable space in the basement. Therefore, all of the lighting is in the front of our home, the back half is all under ground. That meant that we had to get a little creative with the layout. Our master bedroom was divided into a bedroom and a dressing room, as by code we were not allowed to add another bedroom without a proper window. Say what? A dressing room?! At first I was frustrated about the loss of a functional bedroom, but now I believe it was a blessing in disguise. It makes me feel so very spoiled and I am so grateful for the space now that it is done.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Frozen Pond Sources: Armoires , Desk (similar), Mirror, Lamp, Chair, Stools, Rug |
Someday we may install a dream closet system, but knowing the major expense it would have been we decided to find ways to make the space feel super glamorous and luxurious, on our budget. That meant dividing the space and storing all of our clothing behind closed amoire doors. I love that I don't have to worry how organized Bryan's closet is, because I don't have to look at it.
Once again, a lot of Target and IKEA paired with pretty decorative hardware. Oh! And another stencil that makes a wow statement!
To organize my accessories, I covered a simple cork board with linen and DIY'd some Kate Spade inspired storage boxes. We also added a few Closetmaid towers to hold boots, handbags, accessories and travel sized toiletries.
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Frozen Pond Projects: Dressing Room DIY Projects, DIY Bracelet Display Sources: Necklace Board (DIY), Sconce, Dresser, Closetmaid Storage Unit |
And the last little corner of our home is where all of our clothes land until put-away laundry day. I mean it is where we run our little hearts out. Once a year. Shucks... I really gotta start using this spot!
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Colors: Walls - Behr's Frozen Pond Projects: Exercise Nook Organization |
When the DIY and organizing slows down for the day and we need a place to relax, grill and spend time together as a family, we head out back to our patio.
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| Our Patio Reveal |
And since we are outside, let's finish the entire tour with one last project that we are extremely proud of, the garage.
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| Garage Before & After |
Looking back on our 13+ year home adventure, there have been times we have felt frustrated, burnt out, overwhelmed and even have tried to sell a few times... But at the end of the day, there is no where we would rather be and feel like it is just meant to be our little happy spot. It has been so exciting problem solving ways to maximize our 2200 square foot abode, and I have especially loved having y'all along for the ride this past 5 years of blogging.
Hold on to your britches my friends, because we are about to take on one of our biggest DIY adventures yet. The kitchen!
A special "Thank You" goes out to my father-in-law, who is always there to help answer questions and lend a DIY hand. This house wouldn't be the home it is without him.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't find a comment box so I hit a reply button instead. Anyways OMG your home is BEAUTIFUL! Soo much inspiration! I'm 19 and just got my first apartment and it has so much potential but I'm a full time college student so I'm on a super tight budget. Anyways so I have been having problems choosing a color for my bedroom and the color in your guest bedroom and your master bedroom are perfect! Thank you so much for all the awesome ideas!
DeleteYour husband and kids are very lucky to have such a creative wife and mom :D
-Leslie
I found your blog when I saw photos of your house on another site. I just wanted to say that your home is stunning. I love every room. You did an amazing job and have impeccable taste!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog too!
Thanks so much for taking a moment to share your thoughts Lou, I totally appreciate that!! I am glad you are a visitor to the blog! I took a peak at yours as well, it's fun to meet other individuals with similar passions! And 4 boys must definitely keep you busy!! Props to you for keeping it together with such a big fam! xoxo, Jen
ReplyDeleteI stumbled across your blog and am IN LOVE! You did such an amazing job on your home, every single room is stunning. I would never guess you were on a budget of any kind! I am beyond impressed. Congratulations on your 3 beautiful boys~ everything looks so perfect!!!
ReplyDeletethanks for all the inspiration... I have 2 boys and a busy life... but realized that I can do everything that I had hoped to do... you have inspired me to just do it! thanks! I even decided to convert an empty closet into an office for myself! you can appreciate this... it is pink all over, very girlie, and no boys things are allowed! thanks again!
ReplyDeleteWhat brand/color did you use in your living room area? I am looking for a green like that.
ReplyDeleteHi Shell!!
ReplyDeleteI actually used a green satin color by Behr, Grape Leaves! It's a great color, I actually also used it in my bathroom and didn't realize that I picked the exact same color twice, so I must have really hearted it! :)
Best wishes with your painting!
xoxo,
Jen
looks wonderful, thanks for sharing your adventure with us.
ReplyDeleteHi your home is beautiful.Your very talented,Im wondering about your kichen cabs,what type of paint did you use?
ReplyDeleteHi there did you use a special kind of paint for your washroom cab?I have same wood and was thinking of using gel varnish in dark brown?
ReplyDeleteI love it. The room for the boys that says Brother, How wide dod ypu paint the yellow orange color from the ceiling? I want to try that. Please write back soon.
ReplyDeleteHello!
ReplyDeleteMany thanks again for the flattering comments, you are all making me blush!
When I did our kitchen cabinets, I lightly sanded them, wiped them clean with a damp rag and then used a primer under the paint. If you are using an oil-based paint, an interior oil based primer is recommended. I used Behr Navajo White Satin Enamel, and they turned out amazing!
I followed the same process when I did our bathroom vanity, I used Behr Kitchen & Bath Sateen Lustre Enamel in Volcanic Island. However, I am now seeing some chipping, I believe {although I have never braved it yet} that staining would have been a better option with the three boys sharing the bathroom and the higher traffic. I have not had any issues with chipping in the kitchen to date and it's been over 3 years!
Here is the link that I referred to when I did my project: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/paintkitchencabinets
As far as the boys bedroom, we placed the brown molding about 20 inches below the ceiling line. We actually didn't measure at first, we just eye balled it and marked where we thought it was pleasing to us. Then we used a laser level and blue tape to mark the line around the perimeter of the room. Once we painted above and below the tape, we removed the tape and nailed the trim over the bare tape line. Pretty simple and quick project!
Best wishes in your home updating adventures! And if you do decided to try the trim in the kid's room idea, send over some before and after pics and share the process!! I would heart to see the outcome!
Thanks again!
xoxo,
Jen
Hello Jen,
ReplyDeleteI was searching the internet for ideas for my 2 boys room. I found pictures of your 2 boys room on another site and it was very similar to what I am thinking of doing. I also want to use lots of colors and make it fun and bright. I then found your blog and I really love what you did with your house! We will be moving into a new house soon and I hope to make it look as great as your! I heart organizing as well and again, I love your ideas!
Wow! It looks fantastic!
ReplyDeleteI love your house and decorating style!! You've done such a great job.
ReplyDeleteI'm really impressed with the kitchen cabinets. We have 80's oak in our kitchen and I'd love to paint them.
www.ourlifeinaclick.blogspot.com
-heather
Absolutely Gorgeous!!! Home is stunning! Love every room!
ReplyDeleteNew follower via YHL! Love your blog and home. You've done an amazing job!
ReplyDeletewww.untiltomorrowval.blogspot.com
Found your blog through YHL --wow you have done an amazing job of making your home inviting and functional. -beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI also found you through YHL, and I adore your blog! Can't wait to see what's to come. Your home is just beautiful...lots of inspiring ideas!
ReplyDeleteI too found you via YHL and am trying to catch up on all of your previous posts. So many great ideas - please keep them coming. Question for you: I love the rug in your boy's room (the striped one); do you recall where you got it? It's just what I've been looking for! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi Melanie!
ReplyDeleteI actually had my eye on that rug for awhile, and when it finally went on clearance at Target, I snagged it up! Keep an eye on their rugs in the children's decor isles {not in their rug isles}, they often have adorable and striped ones!
Happy hunting!
xoxo,
Jen
They actually still have it online! http://www.target.com/Circo-Stripe-Rug-48x70/dp/B001D72O4Y/ref=sr_1_36?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=0&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=1038576|1287991011&node=1038576|1287991011&sr=1-36&searchRank=price&keywords=circo%20rug&searchPage=1&searchSize=150&id=Circo%20Stripe%20Rug%2048x70&qid=1272582292
ReplyDeleteI actually paid about half that so I would check out the store to see if yours has any left in stock!
Oh perfect - thanks for sharing and finding the link. I have seen that one online, but what a difference it makes to actually see it in a room. I think I'll have to check it out in person for myself!
ReplyDeleteHi, I found your blog through younghouselove and I'm so glad I did!! I love all the colors that you've used throughout your home especially the green in the living room. And the organization/storage in your laundry area makes my heart go pitter-patter =) We too have a basement that we are working on, it has cinder block walls and is in desperate need of some updating. So I would be completely happy for our basement to one day look something like yours! I also love your home office makeover! And one question, where did the paisley bedding come from in the master? So, to sum up, I love your style and your passion for organizing. Can't wait to see what's next!
ReplyDeleteHi Jmckay!
ReplyDeleteYou make my heart go pitter patter with your amazing words of sweetness! Thanks for such a sweet comment!
The bedding is from Pottery Barn: http://www.potterybarn.com/products/paisley-400-thread-count-duvet-cover-sham-porcelain-blue/?pkey=x|4|1||10|paisly||0&cm_src=SCH
However, I have seen a ton of really amazing sets at Target recently as well, that are less costly.
Like this one: http://www.target.com/DwellStudio-Target-Algiers-Comforter-Set/dp/B002W8DAKA/ref=br_1_85?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=404152011&node=404152011&sr=1-85&searchRank=price&searchPage=1&searchSize=150&id=DwellStudio%20Target%20Algiers%20Comforter%20Set&qid=1272751568
and this one:
http://www.target.com/DwellStudio-Target-Kapali-Comforter-Set/dp/B002W8955E/ref=br_1_91?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=404152011&node=404152011&sr=1-91&searchRank=price&searchPage=1&searchSize=150&id=DwellStudio%20Target%20Kapali%20Comforter%20Set&qid=1272751568
and this one:
http://www.target.com/DwellStudio-Target-Casablanca-Bedding-Collection/dp/B002W8GIT0/ref=br_1_97?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=404152011&node=404152011&sr=1-97&searchRank=price&searchPage=1&searchSize=150&id=DwellStudio%20Target%20Casablanca%20Bedding%20Collection&qid=1272751568
Happy updating and thanks again!
xoxo,
Jen
Hello,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say you have an amazing talent. I love how everything is so organized. I wish you would come and redo my whole house. I love organization but find myself in total loss of where to start or what to do.
OH well. I just wanted to say you have a beautiful home. Just wonderful.
Sincerely,
Marian G
Aww, thanks so much Marian! Glad you found the blog!
ReplyDeleteWhere did you find the pencil holder that's over your desk? I think it's awesome and would like to have one for my home office.
ReplyDeleteHi Anonymous!
ReplyDeleteThe pencil cups were: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/70105659 and the rod was: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50072645
I hope that helps!
xoxo,
Jen
LOVE what you have done with your home! We've been in our "stock" home about 4 years now - I wanted painted trim but the builder said we'd have to paint it ourselves before the install if we wanted it - and I was 9 mo. pregnant! Yeah, that didn't happen. We went with a cinnamon stain color but, as expected, it's starting to look grimey (like all stained trim does eventually)... Changing it would be a big job - but I am so encouraged by your FABULOUS "after" photos! I LOVE the cabinets! I just found your blog today and I am subscribing to it because you ROCK!
ReplyDeleteHi, I love the paint color that you chose for your master bedroom. I'm planning on using similar colors from PB, too. What color did you paint your walls? Everything is soooo beautiful... you did a great job! :)
ReplyDeleteHello Anonymous!
ReplyDeleteThe paint color I used in our Master Bedroom was Behr's Premium Ultra Paint/Primer combo in Frozen Pond. It is such a soothing color, I really like it!
You can find a list of all paint colors I used around the homestead here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/04/you-asked-paint-colors.html
Thanks so much and best wishes with your bedroom transformation!
xoxo,
Jen
Thanks so much, Jen! :) Sarah
ReplyDeleteYour home is beautiful. I think the amount of changes you've been able to make in 10 years is amazing! Great job!
ReplyDeleteLove love love your blog!! Your home is beautiful and I you've got some amazing ideas! Thank you for sharing!! I was wondering where you purchased the picture frame holder you have behind the chair in your game/lounge area? (the one that holds 16 pics in one frame) I've been looking for something like that for awhile now & have had no luck finding one. Thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Kristin,
ReplyDeleteI actually found it at Target a few years back. I am not sure if they have them anymore, however, they may have something similar?
Best wishes in your search!
xoxo,
Jen
Your home is beautiful! I love all your color and details! I was wondering where your orange rug is from in your family room? I absolutely love it and have been searching for something similar for a while!! Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteWill you just come to my house and do it for me!?
ReplyDeleteTarget!! I should've guessed! I just LOVE that store! I'll def take a look!! Thanks SO much for getting back to me :) xo, Kristin
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteAnother fan of your decorating style here! I love the throw pillows that you have...the ones with the green and orange. Did you purchase those already made or did you make them yourself ? The colors are exactly what I am looking for in my living room. Keep up the great work...you have some fabulous ideas!
Andrea
Hi Andrea!
ReplyDeleteOh how I wish I knew how to make my own pillows... I could save oodles of dollars! :)
The pillows I believe you are referring too are actually outdoor pillows from Pottery Barn. I don't see the same ones listed any longer, however these ones are similar {http://www.potterybarn.com/products/chloe-outdoor-pillow/?pkey=cpillows-outdoor}
I totally dig using outdoor pillows inside when you have kids and pets because they are so much more durable than typical throw pillows. I have had the floral throw pillows for over a year and have been able to move them around the house {because of all of their colors} and they still look great, even after my kids have been using them as trampolines on a daily basis!
xoxo,
Jen
Hi Jen! I am brand new to your blog (and blogs in general) as of today! I am a stay at home mother of three boys as well...4, 3, and 5 months. I just saw your boys room and was very interested in where you bought your big square storage unit? I would LOVE to get it...it looks sturdy and PERFECT for organizing the boys toys. Just signed on to receive your posts...looking forward to reading more of what you've done. I am a TERRIBLE organizer, but would secretly love to be. :)
ReplyDeleteKelley
P.S. You're free to come organize my entire house if you're ever in the Virginia area! :)
Hi Kelley!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited you found the blog!! I hope life with three boys is treating you well! So much fun right?!
I found the unit at Ikea {actually, we have a couple, love them!}
Here is the link: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80071357
xoxo,
Jen
Hi Jen! Great blog! We have a house from the 80's with all oak trim... and I want to paint it. How did you guys do your? Thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteHi Mandy!
ReplyDeleteI actually just started painting the trim white, and I have been using the Behr Ultra Paint/Primer combo paint to avoid priming and then painting. It works pretty well, however, I still have had to do two coats in each room. A good quality angle brush is very helpful as well, and I do tape it off since I am not always the most careful painter.
Best of luck to you! Let me know if you have any other questions!
xoxo,
Jen
Soon to be a mom of three boys too!
ReplyDeleteLove the house, love the organization!
Do your boys have closets in their rooms? Or are the dressers, expedit shelving all they have?
Hi BT!
ReplyDeleteThey have closets, but oddly enough, we don't use them for clothes. The oldest uses his closet as a study space and a dresser for clothing, and the younger two have two sets of drawers in their room for their clothing, and use their closet for toy storage.
xoxo,
Jen
Where did you get the unit you have in the playroom with the sliding bins? Love that!
ReplyDeleteThe playroom shelving is two toy storage shelving units with pull out bins {from Ikea}, that we bridged together with some shelving and crown molding, which gave the two single pieces a more unified look. Here is a link to our playroom post: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/03/march-featured-space-kids-perfect-play.html
ReplyDeleteThanks!!
xo,
Jen
Hi. I love the little boy rooms and am wondering where you got the red wire hanging airplane? I love the office nook also, thanks for inspiring all of us!
ReplyDeleteI found you through MSM.com! You however have made me want to get busy organizing and finishing up our 507 projects we always have going. With our 2 year old twins, not much gets done! Please tell me where you found your white shower curtains. They are SOOOO chic looking. I would love to get one. It seems most of your stuff comes from IKEA or Target. I love Target, but unfortunately, IKEA doesn't have a store in my state. BOO! I want your pencil holders so bad! Anywho, hopefully the shower curtains will be available online! Thanks so much. You have a gorgeous home, and 3 gorgeous boys!
ReplyDeleteHi Brad and Alison!
ReplyDeleteI found the wire airplane from Pottery Barn Kids when it went on clearance! Love it! They put hanging airplanes in their stock frequently, it's just a matter of stalking it until it goes on clearance! {like these: http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/vintage-hanging-plane/?pkey=e|airplane|18|best|0|1|24||10&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules-_-}
xoxo,
Jen
Hi Erica!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment! Here are the links, one is from Target, the other is from PB Teen.
Target: http://www.target.com/Ruffles-Shower-Curtain/dp/B000HPTSE2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&keywords=ruffles%20curtain&searchSize=90&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=1038576|1287991011&searchPage=1&fromGsearch=true&sr=1-1&qid=1294365469&rh=&searchBinNameList=subjectbin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=target104545&frombrowse=0
PBTeen: http://www.pbteen.com/products/ruffle-shower-curtain/?pkey=cbathroom-shower-curtains
Go for the Target brand. It is more translucent than the PBTeen one, but not much {you can't see through it by any means}, and it's cheaper! :)
xoxo,
Jen
I found your blog through Moneysavingmom. Your blog is AMAZING! Every room is beautifully done. The colors are calming. The organization is something I dream of! I love the flowers on the wall in your bedroom above your desk/closet are. Where did you find them? I think it is awesome that you are willing to share your colors, stores, and tips. It helps to be able to know where to find all these great things.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE your sideboard/buffet in your kitchen with the floating shelves. Could you share with me where you got them?
ReplyDeleteI love your blog! I'm a daily reader since your guest post on MSM.
Hi Anonymous! Here is a link to the white flowers: http://www.amazon.com/Umbra-Wallflower-Wall-D%C3%A9cor-White/dp/B0015TI1RE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1294553895&sr=8-1-spell
ReplyDeleteMary, the buffet was found from HomeDecorators.com They discontinued our model, however, here is a similar one: http://www.homedecorators.com/P/Harwick_42_Buffet/210/
We just switched out the hardware on it to match our other kitchen cabinets to create a more unified look in the space.
Hope that helps a little!
xoxo,
Jen
Thanks! We have a a few home decorators collection stores here in Kansas City, maybe I should go see if there's still one hanging around. :-)I appreciate your quick response!
ReplyDeleteYou have a beautiful House!
ReplyDeleteI love your blog. Your house is beautiful! Did you make (or even design) your headboard? You are so crafty that I bet you did. :) In the last picture on your before and after page, is that an egg carton you are storing stuff in? Cool idea although I wonder how often you would have to replace the egg carton.
ReplyDeleteErin
Hi Erin!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by! We did make a headboard out of some plywood, batting, fabric and trim. And the egg crate is actually porcelain so it never needs replacing! :)
xoxo,
Jen
Where did you get the light fixture that hangs above your kitchen table? I've been looking everywhere for something similar.
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteHere are the light pendant details:
http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/03/kitchen-lights-delight.html
http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/03/inspiring-to-be-bright-kitchen-pendant.html
Thanks!!
xoxo,
Jen
you have the most practical and helpful blog I have ever found! Wow!! Gone are the days of reading exercise and food blogs, I want my life organized. And really, from what Ive read so far, you would have a heart attack at the state of my life. I like in constant and total chaos.
ReplyDeleteI cannot wait to read more and to back read everything you've already posted. I will be saved years if what you say is true- a minute of organizing saves an hour of time.
:)
A friend of mine sent me to your blog. I am in love with it! I am so excited to read more posts!!
ReplyDeleteHi there.. lol I have absolutely no idea how I ended up here.. lol Strangely enough though.. I too love organizing. I actually do it as a side job for some of my friends from church. I love all of your ideas. You decorate REALLY CUTE!! I didn't think I was going to like the green in the one room...but it looks amazing. Everything ties together really well.
ReplyDeleteI am a single mom with 5 children. 3 boys are in 1 room.. I am always looking for a way for all of us to fit into a 3 bedroom 2 bath.. You have helped many of us with cool easy economical ideas.
So God bless, happy day, and thanks for sharing the talent God has blessed you with....with us!
BTW.. what kind of blue is that in the boys room..? and you are very blessed to have a hubby to help and support you!
<3, Teen =D
I just happened upon your blog today- linked from another organizing blog, that was probably linked from another blog, of someone who visited my own organizing site at some point. How's that for 3 degrees of separation? Anyway, I'm obsessed with your home, it's so beautiful, and in every way an organizer's dream. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeletewww.cleansmartsimple.blogspot.com
Love, Love, Love your blog! I am obsessed with organizing. I hope that someday my home looks half as organized as yours. Thanks for sharing your tips. You have great taste. Keep up the amazing work!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE Your home- you are my inspiration to what i am trying to achieve in my home- not getting very far though. I just started my very first blog check out my room and offer some wise insight. THANKS Tracie not sure if i posted it correctly where it says comment as ??? www.doubletroubletwice@blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteWhere did you buy the beautiful white shower curtain that makes my heart stop?
ReplyDeleteThere are actually two white shower curtains shown above...not sure which one you adore, but hereare the links, one is from Target, the other is from PB Teen.
ReplyDeleteTarget: http://www.target.com/Ruffles-Shower-Curtain/dp/B000HPTSE2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&keywords=ruffles%20curtain&searchSize=90&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=1038576|1287991011&searchPage=1&fromGsearch=true&sr=1-1&qid=1294365469&rh=&searchBinNameList=subjectbin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=target104545&frombrowse=0
PBTeen: http://www.pbteen.com/products/ruffle-shower-curtain/?pkey=cbathroom-shower-curtains
xoxo,
Jen
Hi Jen! I LOVE the leather sectional in the family room. Can you tell me where it came from? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteRachel
I love your blog so much!!! I've recently been working on organzing my entire house & come to your site often for inspiration. One of my favorite things you've done is your laundry room. I'm totally inspired to do mine now. The clothes pin wall art is too cute! Can I ask where you got that from? Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteJen-You are too cute! I love your decorating & organizing style. With 3 boys (2 of which are twins) Lord knows I need organizing help! We just bought a 30+ year old home and our renovating it one room at a time & I recently started my own blog to document it. Stop by sometime as some of your ideas just may come shining through! LOL
ReplyDeleteiheartthishome.blogspot.com
Kelly, tried the link and it didn't work. Is it correct?
DeleteHi Misti! Here is the link regarding the laundry room decals: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/07/june-featured-space-laundry-room-super.html
ReplyDeleteThey were an Etsy find!
xoxo,
Jen
IHeart your home! IHeart it so much that I did a page on my blog called home sweet home, that has the same idea. My house is lacking color and has a lot of work that is needed to be done to it, but by looking at these photos, I have been organizing like crazy and finding new projects. Thanks for the inspiration. I seriously Heart your blog!
ReplyDeleteYou've done such a wonderful job with your home. I look forward to seeing more of your ideas. Continued blessings...
ReplyDeleteI love your blog... and I'm totally stealing your laundry room! Is the shelf from Ikea? How sturdy is it? I'm worried that the hidden hardware will make it a little flimsy.
ReplyDeleteThe shelf is from Ikea and it's actually much more sturdy that I would have thought, I put heavy objects {like large detergent boxes/jugs} on it all the time and it's been just fine!
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Jen
ok so i just have to be yet another among the masses that LOVES your blog! i am NOT a blog follower, who has time? but my friend told me i would love you and i do!! your ideas and decorating are right up my alley and sooooo inspiring!! when i feel overwhelmed with the clutter that builds up (in my tiny 790 sq ft house that holds a family of 5!), a "quick" trip to your blog for ideas, then my local thrift shop and target clearance isles make my house humm! i can't believe how much better it runs and looks! your blog is totally on my favorites bar, and when i do get to steal those few moments to sit and "surf", this is where i come!(i too am a working mom of three; ages 7,6, and 3)thank you so much jen!!
ReplyDeleteSadie
Hi there Jen
ReplyDeleteI found this blog through a link on a friend's blog. Your house is AMAZING! I love the little details you have throughout, I think my favourite is the clothes pegs painted in the laundry room :)
I am now following so I can keep up to date with your ideas and perhaps "borrow" some for my own house!
God bless
Lauren x
I LOVE YOUR HOME! I want to be a copy cat. I feel like I have NO decorating sense. I know what I like and what I want it to look like, but it NEVER turns out that way. I'm a SAHM with 2 sons under 2 (22 months and 12 weeks) so I don't have lots of time to decorate but I need it to be functional, organized and welcoming. I wish it could be as beautiful as yours. My budget is very very tight, but I waste money on things I like that I think will look good and never have a place for them. We have lots of cute nick nacks with no specific place for them. Cluttered but bare at the same time. I just still can't believe you did all this on a small budget. Tips please. How did you get started? Have you always had an eye for this? Is there any hope for a challenged mom? Where have you found your best deals? lots of questions I know but I'm desperate. Once again, I LOVE your home and Thank you so much for sharing!!! I wish I could do half of what you've done.
ReplyDeleteINM! Thanks for the kind comment!
ReplyDeleteI started slowing, we have been making this house a home for 10 years and it's still evolving! I however, have always loved playing with colors and decor, and learning as I go! I would say I find a lot of items at Target and Ikea since I can mimic some of the more expensive home stores that way. I also love utilizing craigslist for furniture finds and updating them with a quick coat of paint. Always freshens things up!
Sometimes is worth investing in some key pieces and then building the room around those pieces on a budget. We have done that in our bedroom {our bed}, and in some rooms through rugs or other furniture pieces.
Hope that helps a little!
xoxo,
Jen
new follower!
ReplyDeleteUm, can you come to my house?!?!
:)
OMG I just pinned to Pinterest almost every photo - LOVE your house. Love seeing the before/afters. We just bought our first house and you've totally inspired me!
ReplyDeleteOk, so when can I move in?! :) Love your house! I think i've looked up every link in the comments! :) Would love to know where you got the hanging folder unit next to your fridge and what do you keep in the little jars? Also, what is that piece next to your front door and what do you keep in that! Thanks so much for all your ideas! Luv it!
ReplyDeleteHi Michelle!
ReplyDeleteHere is the link to the bins: http://www.potterybarn.com/products/daily-system-white/?pkey=e|daily%2Bsystem|4|best|0|1|24||1&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-Sku_Top_Marketing..._Rule-_-
And here is the post I had done on the system itself: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2010/08/you-asked-whats-memo.html
The jars are actually spice jars with things like paperclips and butterfly clips.
The white cabinet by the front door is for shoes, I will be whipping up a post on that soon so stay tuned!
Thanks!! xoxo!
Hi Jen,
ReplyDeleteLove your blog, love your house!
Where did you find those beautiful light fixtures in the master bedroom and office? And, what color paint is that in your office?
Thank you!
Olivia,
ReplyDeleteThe capiz shell can be found here: http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100670319/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053
And the tear drop chandelier can be found here: http://www.amazon.com/AF-Lighting-Crystal-Mini-Pendant/dp/B001G8FH3A
Thanks so much!
xoxo,
Jen
I love the photo you took of your Love keychain above your new white shoe cabinet! I can't wait for that post!
ReplyDeleteWow - I wish my home were as beautiful as your "before" photos, let alone the "after" shots!
ReplyDeleteHi Jen - we are getting ready to update our office area in our home and I was wondering where you find the office chairs in your home and where you found the white storage shelves under your desk in your closet. Thanks! I look forward to your updates in your downstairs. How exciting for you!
ReplyDeleteyou have the most beautiful home :) i love your deocrating style... we are getting ready to close on our very first home & i will definately be using some of your great ideas! thanks so much for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteHi! Love your blog! just found it today and I am hooked! I was wondering where you got the egg crate jewelry holder? I love it! thanks!
ReplyDeletehi Jen, i love your style. your home is stunning! i love every single room! Thanks so much for sharing your ideas!
ReplyDeleteYour House is amazing~!!
ReplyDeleteI was wondering if you could tell me what Bookcases you used to make your entertainment center :)
@Anonymous: Here is a link to the original post I had done regarding the bookshelves: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/03/built-in-beauty.html
ReplyDeleteThey are Billy Bookcases from Ikea.
Thanks so much!
xoxo,
Jen
new to your blog and i cannot believe i have never been here before! so in love, your home is beautiful and your style is exactly what i hope to bring to my home. thank you for sharing your wonderful home with us, definitely got a new follower out of me :)
ReplyDeletekatie@little things bring smiles
New to your blog and I love it! You may have mentioned this before and I just missed it, but where did you get the happy rug for your laundry room? Love it.
ReplyDeletenice! scary 90's to fab
ReplyDeleteYou're house is beautiful!! Where is your laundry room rug from?? Thanks so much!!
ReplyDeleteCan please let me know where you got your laundry room rug? snugbugATteamhadjesDOTcom
ReplyDelete@Sarah:
ReplyDeleteHere is the link to the rug: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?itemdescription=true&itemCount=80&startValue=1&selectedProductColor=&sortby=&id=18491175&parentid=A_FURN_RUGS&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,+product.marketingPriority&navCount=520&navAction=poppushpush&color=&pushId=A_FURN_RUGS&popId=A_DECORATE&prepushId=&selectedProductSize=
xoxo,
Jen
Happened upon your blog thru Pinterest...your laundry room drew me in!
ReplyDeleteI love what you did with the stripes in your youngest son's room. Where did you get the red book storage shelves? I almost purchased similar ones from either PBK or Land of Nod....but didn't want to spend that much.
Thanks for sharing all of your fabulous ideas! I will be following you in the future!
Kristen
Wondering if your kitchen rug was also from urban outfitters? ??? LOVE YOUR BLOG!
ReplyDeleteThanks
@Kristen: The red book shelves are actually $4 spice racks from IKEA painted out in red. :)
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Jen
@Anonymous, here is a link to the kitchen rug: http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=478674&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Jen
You've inspired me - your home is truly amazing {decorated, but liveable} and what mine aspires to be, but usually falls short. Thanks for the many great ideas!
ReplyDeleteI love the rug in your laundry room! I have been looking for one with those same colors. Where did you get it???
ReplyDelete@Libby,
ReplyDeleteHere is the link to the rug: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?itemdescription=true&itemCount=80&startValue=1&selectedProductColor=&sortby=&id=18491175&parentid=A_FURN_RUGS&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,+product.marketingPriority&navCount=520&navAction=poppushpush&color=&pushId=A_FURN_RUGS&popId=A_DECORATE&prepushId=&selectedProductSize=
xoxo,
Jen
I saw you on Nates show:) Great job! I love all your rooms and your kitchen is giving me inspiration to redo mine. I really want to paint my cabinets..there exatcly like your original ones! I hope you have a great day!
ReplyDeleteOh wow, I am in LOVE with your home. I, like most commenters, stumbled upon this site from a link..of a link....of a link. :)
ReplyDeleteYour style fits my likes to a T. I had to chuckle looking at the first pic and then looking around my living room. I have the same exact large orchid picture (Kohls I believe), almost identical lamps, and the same style chunky couches. It's screams traditional, but I am craving more modern and bright styles! It was so nice to see the transformation of everything so I can help my hubby visualize what I am thinking. He is definitely more traditional, but I tend to get my way with style decisions. Can't wait to check out the rest of your blog now!
Your home is so beautiful and I could spend hours on your blog!! I suddenly have the organizing bug:) BEAUTIFUL!!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE YOUR HOME!!! I'm definitely stealing some, ok...most haha if your wall colors HA!
ReplyDeleteMy goodness what a beautiful home you have! Just stumbled across your blog and I love all your great ideas. You have made a wonderful home for your family and you have a great style.
ReplyDeleteHello - I stumbled across your blog from Pinterest and LOVE your home. I've seen the white chairs you have your office/desk area before but, never looked into where they were from. Can I ask where you purchased yours? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the transformation of the the kitchen cabinets! Would you be so kind as to give me an idea of how this was accomplished? I have similar, standard oak cabinets and would love to paint them! Thank you so very much! Toni inotfulton@gmail.com
ReplyDelete@Toni - Here is the post I did on the subject: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/08/finally-how-to-paint-cabinets-trim.html
ReplyDeleteHope that helps you! xoxo!
Jen
@Winks and Daisies, the white chairs are White Stacking Chairs from Target: http://www.target.com/p/Modern-Stacking-Chair-White-Set-of-2/-/A-11240325
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Jen
I love all your wonderful ideas and style! Amazing!!! Way to go! There's no place like home!
ReplyDeleteYour home is beautiful, I'm loving all of the before and afters-great inspiration here. New follower!
ReplyDeleteAmazing!!!! I wish I had time like you did!!!
ReplyDeleteWOW! You have done an amazing job. Your eye for detail is very good!
ReplyDeleteStumbled on to your blog from Pinterest.
Sona
All the way from India
Your home is stunning!
ReplyDeleteWhat size pictures are above your couch? And how many? I'm trying to get some picture arrangement ideas for above my couch! I love yours!
ReplyDeleteHi Shannon - IKEA discontinued the size/style of frame that we used. However, this one is almost identical: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30174777/
Deletexoxo!
Jen
I came across your blog while looking on Pinterest. Your house is absolutely beautiful! I hope you don't mind, but I had a couple of questions for you. My 7 year old son is a Lego fanatic and I love how you organize and store them. Did you get the shelves and drawers for the Lego's at Ikea? Sadly, there isn't one near me in upstate New York, but it's worth the trip every now and again. I was also wondering where you bought the beautiful rug in your laundry room. Thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteJen
Hi Jen!
DeleteThe storage unit for the Legos is the TROFRAST system from IKEA. You can find the details here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/10/organizing-legos-part-3-creating.html
The rug is from Urban Outfitters: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=18491175&color=000&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=A_FURN_RUGS
Thanks so much!
Jen
Love your rugs in kitchen and laundry room where are they from? Saw them on Pinterest:)
DeleteYour house looks amazing! Would love another house tour since 2011 has come and gone :)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE your laundry room!! I saw it on Pinterest and was wondering where you purchased the floral rug from!
ReplyDeleteThe rug is from Urban Outfitters: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=18491175&color=000&itemdescription=true&navAction=jump&search=true&isProduct=true&parentid=A_FURN_RUGS
DeleteThanks so much!
Jen
I could spend all day drooling over your incredibly adorable home. My husband and I have been in our first home now for two years and have welcomed a little boy (LOVE LOVE LOVE this kid) 11 months ago! I spend his naps dreaming of exactly what you've done but I can't seem to find whatever it is I'm thinking of, so I put it off and move on. You've inspired me to start dreaming again and with they help of your links, I can actually move forward with my projects! The buffet table (I know you said it was from Home Decorators)..is it sturdy? Will it last a while? Thanks
ReplyDeleteIt's lasted us about four or five years now and looks just like new! Seems to be a pretty good piece!
Deletexoxo,
Jen
Jen, you did an AMAZING job putting this section of your blog together. I've been following you for over a year and have gained so much inspiration from you. As a fellow lover of organizing, you've always got such great ideas and pretty taste. Love you you can click on an item to see where you got it, or which DIY project it references. Fantastic - keep up the great work!!
ReplyDeleteI only got the bubbles on a few pics. Maybe it's just my computer.
ReplyDeleteThe white pillow on your guest bed...Is that from Target? I found it, but yours seems bigger and more cozy!!
ReplyDeleteIt's actually just a pillow "insert" waiting for a cover, I just haven't found it yet. It isn't quite the size of a body pillow {it's a bit smaller}
Deletexoxo,
Jen
Oh WOW!I love the updated pictures and I super duper love the ThinkLink feature! Genius and so easy to use! So great!
ReplyDeleteLove the update! Very convenient!
ReplyDeleteHi, I love your blog and it will serve as inspiration for me when I move to a new house in a few weeks! I'm very curious as to wear you got the beautiful bed in your master bedroom. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLove, Love, Love. I found your blog through Pinterest and love getting your emails and updates. You inspire me. Thank you so much for helping me kick start my inner organizer!
ReplyDeleteJen, I love how clean and tidy it all is! Can I ask how you paired down all the toys for the kids and also where you keep all the craft supplies for them? I feel like Playdoh and Tangled dolls and DVDs might cause our second floor to collapse one day! It seems like your little ones only have a tiny fraction of the junk.. ahem treasures... that my girls have.
ReplyDeleteGreat question!
DeleteOnce we lost the lower level to a flood and some of the storage that came with it, we really took a good look at the toys we had. We had a garage sale and sold/donated anything that didn't fit in our boy's age group any longer, along with things they didn't seem to play with much {or at all}, and things they were ok saying goodbye to. I really like to only keep toys that are play with in sets. For example, they kept all of their Legos, Duplos, Lincoln Logs, Train Tracks, Potato Head, etc... I always asked family to expand upon their current favorite sets vs. starting new ones. This means that the number of categorized toys that I have to store and sort is minimal, and they have more fun playing with the sets and toys they love.
xoxo,
Jen
Jen, love the new home tour! I haven't looked at it since I first started following your blog almost a year ago.I'm 24y/o and My husband and I are in the process of buying our first home so looking back at how your house was and where it is now almost is like peace of mind for me because we are on a very tight budget and have all these ideas and forget that we just need to step back and take things slowly one room at at time. As long as I continue to follow your blog I think I can accomplish making our new house a home on a budget =) Thanks for all you do!!
ReplyDeleteLOVE this new home tour as well! LOVE! I'm going to go home and show my hubs all of your house and that I can do many of these things inexpensively! I love how you can click on the items and see where to get them. So cool!!! Thank you so much for sharing your awesome house!
ReplyDeleteWhat a job that must have been putting this page all together - looks great! Well done!! :)
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! I loved each and every color you used for paint. I wrote them all down so when we no longer live in a rental, I can get those colors! I also love the boys' rooms. So many great ideas from there! Thanks for letting us into your home.
ReplyDeleteJen, I love your bed in the Master bedroom, I tried looking at Ashley Furniture's website but couldn't find it. Do you know if it is still around? Do you remember what it's called?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Lori
Hmmm... I don't, it was a couple of years back, it is most likely discontinued as I didn't see it on their site either.
Deletexoxo,
Jen
Hi there! I'm a new follower, thanks to your Erin Condren contest...thanx btw :-D. Your home is stunning! It looks like HGTV had a field day! I hope you don't mind, when my husband and I buy our first home I'm using yours as a decorating template! Just stunning!
ReplyDeleteMonnique
What a wonderful tour! So much inspiration! I was wondering what kind of waterproof flooring you used. We would love to put a floor down in our basement, but have had to rip up our last one due to water damage. I tried to look for a dot to hover over, but didn't find one! Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteThe flooring is Allure Ultra from Home Depot: http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-202352552/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=allure%20flooring&storeId=10051
DeleteThank you so much!
xoxo,
Jen
I just came her from a Pinterest of your guest bedroom and I think your home is just BEAUTIFUL!!! Thank you so much for adding links to where you bought some items, that is really sweet of you to share that information! I will definitely be back!
ReplyDeleteYour home is SO adorable! Do you, by chance, remember where you got the white-framed mirror that is resting on top of the dresser in your guest bedroom? Thank you!!! Keep doing amazing things! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Mandy.May!
DeleteI had found it at HomeGoods, I believe some stores still stock it.
xoxo!
Jen
I love your sense of style in your home, and that you try to do things without spending tons and tons of money. Have you done a post about where you get inspiration? My mother helped me develop a sense of personal fashion, but was not an interior decorator and so I'm trying to teach myself home style. Where do you get ideas from (besides your own brilliant creativity)? Magazines, blogs, shows, etc.?
ReplyDeleteThank you and GREAT question!
DeleteI read a lot of magazines and have been for years. And then came the blog world and pinterest and I started gaining even more ideas, inspiration and realizing what my personal style is. It's always evolving, so now I am trying to learn to make the best decisions I can knowing that my tastes seem to keep growing and changing.
xoxo!
Jen
Beautiful Blog. I can't believe that I have never come across it before. I just saw a picture of your laundry room today on Traci's "Beneath My Heart" so I thought I'd check it out. Great work. Looking forward to following you.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love your house! I especially love the laundry room. Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteHi Jen, I was just wondering what software you use to create your floor plans?
ReplyDeleteHoly cow!!! come do my house PUHLEASE!!!!! I don't have a creative bone in my body. Took me 6 months just to choose a paint color!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI just found your website today as I was playing around on pinterest and you are such an inspiration! I love organizing but often get overwhelmed with it, but seeing your great ideas gives me hope! I also LOVE the decore in your home. My husband and I bought our first home last year and it was the first time for me to decorate a house myself and while I am happy with the decor I'm not in LOVE with it if that makes any sense lol. Having looked at your decor I now know that light, airy and simple is what I love. I have a big task ahead but it's going to be fun. One question I have is did you do one room at a time until it was completely finished or did you do a room then add to it as you saw things you liked? I'm so excited I found your website and I know I will be visiting it every day!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kind words! It absolutely has been built over time. I am always moving things around until they find their "home" in our home, and it's always evolving.
Deletexoxo!
Jen
Stunning home!! Very inspirational and I love your style. So glad I found your site.
ReplyDeleteBlessing to you!
Connie
You have an amazing home! I love all of the rooms that you did. The colors look great together. I am a very disorganized person and finding your site has given me so many ideas and tons of inspiration. Your site is exactly what I've been looking for. Just this week I have been slowly starting to organize my home. I'm taking it one step at a time. I know that getting my home and family organized would relieve a lot of stress and allow me to be a better mother and wife. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home and all of your great ideas. ~ Jessica
ReplyDeleteCan I come live with you?? Your house is amazing!
ReplyDeleteOh this is so inspiring!! Thank you somuchfor taking the time to share your home and compile such a great way of referencing where to find the products! I stumbled across your blog on Pinterest and I'm already hooked!
ReplyDeleteOhmygoodnessgracioussakesalive. Thank you for this fabulous tour. Now I feel simply horrible about our house...or maybe I'm just going to straight copy yours! ;)
ReplyDeleteSeriously, GORGEOUS. Love it!
lovely home! how do you keep it tidy with 3 boys (+1 hubby :P)?
ReplyDeleteWOW!! I'm just blown away by the creativity, resourcefulness, neatness, and FUN! You've created a wonderful home for your family. I'm inspired...THANKS!!
ReplyDeleteLove your site! Where did you purchase your shoe cabinet??
ReplyDeleteHello! The shoe cabinet is from IKEA: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20169559/
Deletexoxo!
Jen
I just stumbled upon your blog today and I'm in OCD heaven!!! I love the simplicity and beauty in every room in your house. I'd love to have your style to go with the organizational skills! Want to come do my house for me?! ;-)
ReplyDeletefor the built in looking desk with the iMac on top, is the desk with the wallpaper a desk top, or a shelf, or an actual desk? I want that whole thing for my room. Great idea. Also, where did you get the molding in the top of it? thanks! :-)
ReplyDeleteHi there!
DeleteHere is the entire scoop {with links back to the beginning} on the desk project: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/02/basement-progress-studio-desk-part-5.html
It was pieced together using IKEA furniture, an old bifold door {which is the desk piece} and crown moulding from Home Depot.
Hope that helps!
xoxo,
Jen
I am in awe of your house! I am working on a dressing room right now and was wondering where you bought the wardrobes? They would be perfect for my room!!!
ReplyDeleteHello!
DeleteThe wardrobes are from IKEA: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80157214/
Have fun with the dressing room! They are such a nice bonus space!
xoxo,
Jen
Thank you for the inspiration! We are in the process of remodeling our 3 bedroom 1970s style home. It is a lot of work but so worth it doing the work ourselves. You have made some great changes and have really given me some good ideas.
ReplyDeleteHow fun to tour such a beautifully decorated house! TFS - I picked up some ideas -- which is why you do this anyway correct? LOVE the dots showing where you purchased the products - so fun!
ReplyDeleteHi Jen,
ReplyDeleteI have recently found your blog from Pintrest and have honestly visited it multiple times daily since! To say I heart your blog is an understatement!! Your home tour is my favorite and your laundry is my favorite of the home tour. Its so inspirational!! I have a large storage area that is also our laundry. Sadly it isn't finished out even with drywall and may never be. Even though, I'm hoping you may have some wonderful ideas of how I could make it look and function better. Our storage area has laundry machines, a dog kennel, large food storage, party supplies, holiday decor, memory boxes, sporting gear etc. Am I lost or what?? Do you have any posts of large mixed storage areas? Help, please :)
I am IN LOVE with your rug in your laundry room. Good news is that urban outfitters still has it! Hooray! And I'm only 2 years late from when you posted this. LOVE your ideas. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteWhat kind of curtains would you put with that master bedding? I have the same ones and finding it difficult to match it!
ReplyDeleteJen, I've looked at this post before and the sources worked. For some reason it isn't working for me today. Anyone else having problems??
ReplyDeleteWhere did you get the white wire baskets that are hanging on the wall of your coat closet.
ReplyDeleteTara
hupaelota@siast.skc.ca
What is the brand and color of your laminate flooring?
ReplyDeleteHi jen i just found your blog today an its one of the best i have ever visited . Your home is fab you should be very proud. I am so inspired . Could you please tell me the name of the wallpaper in the closet office in your guest bedroom. Its beautiful. I live in australia and we dont have some of the stores you have but i was thinking i might be able to buy it online. Keep up the great blogging . Xf
ReplyDeleteHi jen i just found your blog today an its one of the best i have ever visited . Your home is fab you should be very proud. I am so inspired . Could you please tell me the name of the wallpaper in the closet office in your guest bedroom. Its beautiful. I live in australia and we dont have some of the stores you have but i was thinking i might be able to buy it online. Keep up the great blogging . Xf
ReplyDeleteI too just found your blog today from a Pinterest pin. You have wonderful taste and your photo's are very inspiring. Your kitchen is great. We too had outdated honey oak cabinets. Although we didn't do all the work ourselves, like you, we added beadboard panels on the outside of cabinets. Added crown trim on top of cabinets, raised the small cabinet that was above the exhaust fan but replaced fan with over-the-stove microwave. Had cabinets prof. painted in a creamy white. Added cubbies above fridge (just need the new fridge now). Installed glass/stone backsplash. Finally, found black granite from a granite remnant sale and new counters installed. Island painted black and different (but complimentary) granite installed. Anyway, my style is so similar to yours but haven't had $ to complete as much. I'm hoping your cost saving idea's get me motivated. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to ask... are you happy with your glass table purchased at Walmart? Normally, I wouldn't think furniture from Walmart would be good quality. It would be for our busiest room, the family room. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHi Peggy!
DeleteThe table has held up for at least two years now and I have only had to tighten it once. The glass is quite thick and durable {it has survived my days as a daycare mom and my three boys!}.
xoxo!
Jen
I've been looking for floating shelves for a while and I want the ikea ones but they are either too long or too short for my laundry room (six feet long) How did you get yours to fit so perfectly? Have you ever cut them?
ReplyDeleteNope, have never cut the floating ones, we are just lucky they fit well in our spaces. I have cut down the Ekby IKEA shelves to fit, since they slide into mounting brackets.
DeleteI have seen a couple of DIY floating shelves around blogworld maybe you could just build/paint some?
xoxo,
Jen
Hi Jen -
ReplyDeleteRecently found your site through a Pinterest post and thank goodness for that. You've given me so many ideas on how to control my overwhelming desire to be organized but lack of knowhow. I loved your portion of the Clean Freaks special on HGTV as well - love Sabrina and that initially drew me to it. I do have a question though....how did you go about painting your kitchen cabinets? I desperately need to do this with our 70's dark cabinets since I can't afford to replace them. Thanks and keep up the great work you do!
Lisa Yelichek
Massillon, Ohio
Thank you so much Lisa!
DeleteHere is a post on the subject, hopefully that helps you out a bit: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/08/finally-how-to-paint-cabinets-trim.html
I would also recommend talking with a paint specialist at your local home improvement store to be sure you feel super ready. :)
xoxo,
Jen
Jen,
ReplyDeleteLove your home!! My upstairs is the exact same floor plan as yours and I am so stealing your dining room and kitchen colors! Hope this doesn't sound like a strange question, but what color is your hallway? Just wondered if you use the living room color, dining room color or something completely different.
Marsha
Hi Marsha!
DeleteThe hall ended up being the lighter of the two browns.
xoxo!
Jen
Jen I stumbled across your blog via www.circleofmoms.com and I'm finding so much inspiration already!
ReplyDeleteI love the difference your new flooring made. Do you recall what brand/style of laminate you used? Did you install it yourselves or have it done? If DIY, was it easy to do? I'm researching choices for our home right now and could use some help narrowing down the options.