Hello, wonderful readers!
Happy New Year and welcome to 2016! It’s the first Monday of what promises to be an exciting year, and we are officially off to new adventures. Looking back, 2015 was truly a landmark year for us – a period defined by significant firsts and profound transformations. It marked the first full year since we embarked on our downsizing journey, a decision that reshaped our lives in more ways than we could have imagined. Concurrently, it was also our inaugural full year of living and creating in our beloved bungalow. Before we dive into what’s next, I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to take a reflective peek back at some of the key happenings and memorable milestones in our home and personal lives over the past year. Join us as we recount the journey of turning a house into a home, piece by piece, and cherish the experiences that made 2015 so special.
Transforming Our Bungalow: A Year of Home Renovations and Design Updates
While we still envision a myriad of projects and improvements for our cherished bungalow, the progress we made last year was truly remarkable. Bit by bit, with dedication and a clear vision, we began to infuse our little old house with new life and our unique style. Each update, no matter how big or small, brought us closer to our dream home. The beauty of living in an older home lies in its character, but also the endless possibilities for customization and modern upgrades that respect its original charm. Our approach to home renovation focuses on mindful changes, budget-friendly solutions, and a deep appreciation for the journey of creating a space that genuinely feels like ‘us’.
A Grand Entrance: Our New Front Door
One of the very first and most impactful changes we made was getting a new front door. More than just an entry point, a front door is the welcoming embrace of a home, setting the tone for what lies within. Our previous door, while functional, lacked character and efficiency. Choosing a new one was an exciting process, focusing not just on aesthetics but also on enhancing curb appeal, improving security, and boosting our home’s energy efficiency. We spent considerable time selecting a design that complemented the bungalow’s architecture while offering a modern touch. The transformation was instant and delightful, instantly elevating the exterior of our home and making a bold, inviting statement to all who approach. It truly felt like we were giving our home a fresh, confident smile.
Revitalizing Outdoor Living: The Side Porch Makeover
Our side porch received a much-needed makeover, transforming it from an underutilized space into a vibrant and inviting outdoor sanctuary. Previously, it was a rather neglected area, but we saw immense potential for an outdoor retreat. The vision was clear: to create a “Boho Bungalow Porch” – a perfect blend of relaxed bohemian charm and cozy comfort, ideal for unwinding. We carefully selected weather-resistant furniture that encouraged lounging, added lush greenery and potted plants to bring nature closer, and layered textiles like outdoor rugs and cushions for warmth, texture, and a pop of color. This space quickly became an extension of our indoor living, a perfect spot for morning coffee, evening relaxation, or casual gatherings with friends under the open sky. It truly brought a new dimension to our outdoor living experience, proving that even small outdoor areas can become powerful statements of style and comfort with thoughtful design.
Illuminating Our Home: The Hallway Transformation
Just like the porch, our hallway underwent a significant transformation. Often overlooked, hallways are crucial arteries of a home, connecting different spaces and influencing the overall flow and mood. Our previous hallway was somewhat dark and lacked character, feeling more like a utilitarian passage than an integrated part of our home’s design. Our goal was to brighten the space, improve functionality, and integrate it seamlessly with the bungalow’s evolving aesthetic. We opted for lighter paint colors to enhance natural light, updated lighting fixtures for a more modern yet classic feel, and most notably, incorporated clever storage solutions. The addition of a custom built-in unit not only added much-needed storage for books and decorative items but also infused the hallway with architectural character, making it feel less like a passageway and more like an intentional, beautiful part of our home. This thoughtful renovation proved that even transitional spaces deserve careful design attention.
Crafting Comfort: Our Living Room’s Evolution with Thrifty Finds
The living room, often considered the heart of our home, truly started to come together last year. Furnishing a new space, especially after downsizing and adapting to a bungalow’s unique layout, can be a daunting task, but it also presents a wonderful opportunity for creativity and personalization. We found immense joy in the process, particularly through incorporating some absolutely fantastic and thrifty furniture finds. This approach allowed us to curate a space that felt collected, unique, and deeply personal, rather than something out of a catalog. Each piece tells a story, contributing to an eclectic yet cohesive aesthetic that perfectly reflects our style. From discovering vintage chairs with character to reupholstering sofas for a fresh look, these budget-friendly treasures helped us create a cozy, inviting, and stylish hub where we love to relax and entertain. It’s a testament to the idea that incredible design doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag; often, the most cherished pieces are those found with a little love and ingenuity.
The Culinary Core: Nearing Completion on Our Bungalow Kitchen Renovation
And of course, we got super close to crossing the finish line on our much-anticipated kitchen renovation! A kitchen remodel is often the most complex and disruptive home project, but the rewards are immeasurable. Throughout the year, we poured our energy into designing a functional, beautiful, and efficient space that would serve as the true culinary core of our bungalow. Our old kitchen, though charming in its own way, was no longer serving our needs effectively. We carefully considered every detail, from selecting durable and stylish cabinet styles and countertop materials to choosing energy-efficient appliance choices and modern lighting solutions that enhance both ambiance and utility. While there were certainly moments of challenge, unexpected setbacks, and decision-making fatigue, seeing our vision come to life, piece by piece, has been incredibly gratifying. The sheer excitement of almost having a fully finished, custom-designed kitchen is palpable. We can already envision countless meals cooked, conversations shared, and memories created in this transformed space, and we’re eager to share the final reveal with you all very soon. The new kitchen promises to be a hub of activity and a true reflection of our passion for good food and good company.
Adventures Beyond Our Walls: Travels and Inspirations in 2015
Beyond the exciting developments within our home, 2015 was also a year of incredible travel and enriching experiences that broadened our horizons and sparked new inspiration. Stepping away from renovation dust and the daily grind to explore new places is always a refreshing change of pace, and last year offered some truly unforgettable journeys that fed our souls and creative spirits.
Mexican Getaway: Our First Real Vacation to Sayulita
Naomi and I had the absolute pleasure of taking our first real vacation together to the vibrant and picturesque Sayulita, Mexico. This trip was a much-anticipated escape, a chance to truly unwind, explore, and create lasting memories without the pressures of everyday life. Sayulita, with its colorful streets, bustling artisan markets, stunning beaches, and laid-back surf town vibe, captivated us instantly. We immersed ourselves in the local culture, savored delicious authentic cuisine, relaxed by the ocean under swaying palm trees, and simply enjoyed each other’s company away from the daily grind. It was an experience that reminded us of the importance of disconnecting, embracing new cultures, and finding beauty in simplicity, providing a wellspring of inspiration that we brought back to our design ethos, particularly in our approach to color and texture.
Design Immersion: A Trip to Vermont with LeGrand
Another highlight was an incredible invitation from my wonderful friends at LeGrand, who hosted me for a trip out to beautiful Vermont. This wasn’t just any trip; it was a unique behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and innovation behind their Adorne line of electrical solutions. As someone deeply invested in home design, understanding the genesis of such sophisticated and stylish home products was truly invaluable. It was fascinating to witness the intricate design processes, the precision engineering, and the dedication that goes into creating functional yet beautiful elements for modern homes. Exploring the scenic landscapes of Vermont, combined with gaining insight into the world of high-quality design and manufacturing, was profoundly inspiring. It reinforced my appreciation for attention to detail and how even the smallest, often overlooked, elements can significantly impact a home’s functionality, aesthetic, and overall feel. The experience offered new perspectives on integrating smart and beautiful design into everyday living spaces, proving that form and function can beautifully coexist.
A Moment in the Spotlight: Our Home Featured in Glitter Guide
To cap off an already incredible year, I simply cannot forget the immense honor of having our home featured in the renowned Glitter Guide! This was a truly special moment, a wonderful validation of all the hard work, passion, and personal style we’ve poured into our bungalow. Glitter Guide is a platform I’ve long admired for its beautiful content and inspiring features, so to see our own spaces beautifully captured and shared on such a prestigious platform was both humbling and incredibly exciting. The feature highlighted the unique character of our downsizing journey, our practical yet stylish approach to small space living, and the vibrant, lived-in aesthetic we strive for in every corner of our home. It was a fantastic way to conclude the year, bringing a profound sense of accomplishment and a significant boost of motivation as we looked ahead to future projects, collaborations, and continued growth for our blog and brand. It truly underscored the idea that authentic design resonates and inspires.
Looking Ahead: Hopes and Dreams for 2016
Indeed, 2015 was a wonderfully transformative and fulfilling year for us, filled with both significant progress on our home and enriching personal experiences. From major renovations that brought our bungalow closer to our dream, to inspiring travels that broadened our perspectives, every moment contributed to our growth and deepened our appreciation for life’s adventures. We are so incredibly excited and optimistic to see what new adventures, creative projects, and cherished memories await us in the year ahead. The bungalow still holds so much potential, with a few more rooms eagerly awaiting their turn for a refresh, and we’re eager to continue our journey of making it an even more perfect reflection of our lives and style. Thank you for being a part of this journey, for your continuous support, engagement, and for sharing in our passion for design, travel, and creating a home that tells our story. Your encouragement means the world to us. Until next time, friends, stay inspired, keep creating, and embrace the beautiful journey of making your spaces truly your own!
Xo-Shavonda