Over the years I’ve found countless vintage and antique furniture pieces on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Recently, though, scams have become more common on classified sites. I still enjoy hunting there, but I increasingly prefer shopping for antiques through reputable online shops where transactions feel safer and I don’t have to meet strangers in person. … Read more

It took me about two months after building, painting, and adding an antique mirror to this IKEA Hemnes cabinet to turn it into a usable pantry for our small kitchen, but the project is finally finished: the pantry is organized. I’m honestly surprised at how big a difference a few thoughtful containers and systems made. … Read more

We’ve officially started our foyer, stairway, and hallway makeover — and I’m excited to share how we added classic wainscoting up the stairs. For years I wanted molding beneath the chair rail on our staircase but put it off because measuring angles seemed intimidating. Once we got started, it was easier than expected. Why We … Read more

A hands-on product test of the best flame light bulbs, ranked from most realistic to least realistic, and compared to real flame so you can get a convincing gas lantern look for your outdoor lighting. Since we installed a Charleston-style copper lantern on our newly finished front porch, I’ve been hunting for the most realistic … Read more

How to transform a dated brass fixture into a Restoration Hardware–inspired French sconce using paint samples and jewelry beads It seems like Opposite Day is a permanent fixture in my brain. When I was a kid I loved declaring Opposite Day and then arguing that the opposite of Opposite Day would be Not‑Opposite Day. Childhood … Read more

I admit it: I’m obsessed with books. From library card catalog coffee tables to card catalog cabinet pulls, books are everywhere in our house — even if the living room shelf only shows a few. I grew up with a librarian for a mom, so it’s in my blood. I’ll also confess another influence: I … Read more

Tips for organizing a pantry using dollar store containers, recycled boxes, and repurposed baskets and bins, plus a free pantry inventory checklist to make grocery shopping easier. Cheers to tackling New Year’s resolutions in the first week of January — small victories count! I won’t pretend the rest of the house is pristine. It’s not. … Read more

A foyer gets a classic, timeless yet modern update using a blend of traditional thrifted furnishings with clean lines and a neutral color palette. This makeover started as a small project and ended up transforming the whole entry. For over three years our foyer sat half-finished—largely because the adjacent room was a makeshift storage area … Read more

16 beautiful DIY fireplace ideas using electric inserts, faux mantels, or upgrades to existing fireplaces — options for every budget and skill level. We’ve been tackling a lot of overdue home projects lately — refinishing a side porch, replacing an exterior door, and now planning a fireplace for the back porch. When we first moved … Read more

A step-by-step guide to making cinnamon salt dough ornaments that look like gingerbread cookies, smell incredible, and can last for years. When I was in preschool, I made a salt dough handprint plaque for my mom and proudly gave it to her on Mother’s Day. I still remember that moment clearly, even though it was … Read more