4 rules for nightstand decorating ideas to keep it pretty, functional, and clutter-free for all home decor styles. Decorating is enjoyable, but I always start by asking why I’m adding each item. The best styling pays attention to how you and your family actually live, so a nightstand should be both attractive and genuinely useful. … Read more

When I was planning our bathroom remodel, I knew some compromises would be necessary. Our primary bathroom is modest in size, and for years I accepted that meant doing my makeup standing at the sink, balancing brushes next to a toothpaste tube like a circus act. Still, I’d always wanted a small sit-down makeup spot … Read more

34-Week Bumpdate: Final Month of Pregnancy We’re officially in the final month of this pregnancy — how did that happen so quickly? I haven’t done a regular bumpdate this time around for a couple of reasons: 1. Second-baby syndrome — the weekly bump photos somehow fell off my radar. 2. We’ve been nonstop with projects … Read more

48 of the best ready-made wood bathroom vanities—from about $420 and up—for a classic bathroom renovation that stands the test of time. Robert and I are in the early stages of refreshing our powder room, and I’m so excited by how the plans are shaping up. We still have the old vanity that we painted … Read more

How to build a box to hide an electric projector screen between built-in IKEA shelves for the ultimate home media room. This is one of the most exciting DIY projects we’ve completed: a motorized projector screen that hides inside a custom-built box between built-in shelves. With the push of a button the screen appears for … Read more

10 Home Décor Finds You Can Easily Score at Thrift Stores — Ideas and DIY Projects for a Designer Look A month ago I made a grand declaration: “I’m getting a gym membership and finally getting into amazing shape.” I did sign up, and progress is happening. There’s one small complication: my gym is right … Read more

A candid, unbiased review of the Pottery Barn Tyler recliner: pros and cons, whether it’s worth the price, and why it may not suit everyone. Two years ago we added Pottery Barn recliners to our living room, and I’m glad I lost that furniture argument with my husband. We’ve lived with these chairs for a … Read more

Stunning backyard lighting ideas you can install yourself without the need of an electrician for a magical outdoor space. Pure magic! That’s what a backyard feels like after adding well-placed, beautiful lighting. String lights, fairy lights, solar fixtures, and portable lanterns have an almost magical ability to transform a tired yard into an inviting outdoor … Read more

The holiday gift-shopping season has officially begun at our house. With presents arriving early, I’m debating whether to hide gifts for the next six weeks or just put the tree up now. Since many stores still face shipping delays, I started compiling gift ideas earlier than usual—more time to shop now means a more relaxed … Read more

3 modern classic living room mood board designs using decor and furniture from Walmart for a designer look for less. This post is sponsored by Walmart. I’m writing this while sitting at my parents’ kitchen table because our house sprang a leak over the weekend. If you own an older home and want a steady … Read more