Sometimes projects come along that defy words, and this is one of them. My family of origin, just like anyone else's, has had its fair share of heartache. Despite many things looking pretty good on the outside, we've had to fight some major dragons. While these stories aren't all mine to tell, I've been a sister, niece, and human in close … Read More »
The Flood Remodel
Hey everyone! I'm excited to share the first of four (possibly five) projects that I've worked on over the last few years. It's been a ride getting through COVID and going through the chain supply shortages/inflation journey with clients. It's an honor to get to this point, and and inestimable amount of man-hours and patience have are behind … Read More »
How Much Does it Cost to Build in Wyoming?
If you look online or talk to a friend, this is the question that pops up more often than not. It's not an easy one to answer. As always, it's helpful to look at the time the article was written and the area you are considering building. I am writing this in June 2022, and we live and work an hour south of Jackson Hole, which has long been … Read More »
How to Pick a Range Hood
I'm deep into a few kitchens right now, and as I've been working on their ranges and ventilation, I thought it'd be a good topic to cover on the blog. There's a lot to think about (I can't cover it all in this post), but at least I can help you get started. Always, always ask your local appliance expert for the latest recommendations, especially … Read More »
Respect What Is
Remodeling is a different animal than new construction, at least in the beginning. There are two wild cards to deal with: the surprises and the restraints. Sometimes they are one in the same. The surprises are self-explanatory. Case in point: in our last home, we ripped off a wood wainscot and there was no sheetrock behind it. It's never fun … Read More »
Project Babbling Brook
Building a custom home isn't for everyone. Initially the idea sound fantastic, right? We imagine the joy we'll feel each time you walk through our dream kitchen and how wonderful it will be to finally have "x". Out of the gate, however, you realize that your budget requires adjustments to the dream. That's disappointing, and by the end of … Read More »
How to Pick the Right Light Bulbs
As we move to more energy efficient light, are you confused about which bulbs to pick? Today I want to direct you toward the best solution, although one size doesn't fit all and you may still want to experiment. First of all, stay away from bulbs labeled "Daylight". While that label sounds beautiful and natural, it is NOT! Let's dig into … Read More »
The Future of Kitchens
I love living in the least populated state in the Union, but it does present some challenges as a designer. Sometimes I have to drive great distances to find the product that I need. Yesterday I spent eight hours in the car. The road from my house to Salt Lake City winds through many places even radio is hard to receive, so that meant lots … Read More »
Why Your “Do-It-Yourself” Mentality is Making You Poor
Did you know that millionaires, or those likely to become wealthy, are NOT do-it-yourselfers? They are very frugal. They clip coupons and live below their means. They stay out of debt. But what they DON'T do is just as important. Millionaires and those who are likely to become wealthy are not penny-wise and pound-foolish*. They are … Read More »
Light Fixtures for Our Farmhouse
On my last blog post, so many of you commented on which light fixture I should choose for my dining room. Thank you! I had the hardest time deciding. I've finally committed to this one: Decisions never come lightly, for myself or for the work I do for clients. They are scrutinized in every way possible before I commit or present, and I'll … Read More »
