My first goal when we moved into this house was to someday stone the fireplace. I could just picture how much of a focal point it would be with stone from floor to ceiling and a pretty wooden mantel. This project wasn’t done for several years, but was definitely one of the easier projects we have done with the most impact. The stone is prefabricated stack and stick using simply mortar and some imagination on how to place each individual piece. I wish we had done it way sooner.

I have in recent years been decorating with neutral colors as far as paint and furnishings – that way I can incorporate my favorite seasonal colors and decor seemlessly. I use a very light gray and some beige on the walls, creamy whites and bright whites in my kitchen, add various wood tones throughout to add warmth, and various vintage pieces from our collection to add character.

I love the oranges, golds, and greens of fall, and greens and country reds of Christmas. I love washed out reds, whites, and blues in the summer, and hints of mauve in the winter. As our home has an open floor plan, it is important to me that everything coordinate – it eases my busy mind and just flat out makes me feel calmer and put together. Carrying this feeling from being home out into this crazy world keeps me centered, which is important to me.

The small details make a big impact in every room.