Surf Road

The brief was simple: five people, one kitchen, make it beautiful.

Simple briefs are the hardest ones.

We spent more time on this kitchen than almost any other room we’ve done. Not because it was complicated, but because every single choice had to earn its place. The quartzite over marble (gorgeous, but unforgiving with three kids). The cabinetry that reads clean even when the counters don’t.

The thing nobody tells you about designing a family kitchen is that the goal isn’t a kitchen that looks untouched. It’s one that looks considered, even after Taco Tuesday.

Swipe through to see every material choice and the reasoning behind it. Save this if you’re planning a kitchen renovation. The decisions we made here apply to almost any space.

📍 Project: Falmouth, ME · Design:

Clocked In: Dream Homes

Clocked Out: Dream Chasers

When we first sit down to talk budgets with new clients, most of them don’t have any idea what their furniture budget should be. While hiring a designer is an investment in and of itself, we like to think of it as money well spent. We often find we can get clients the look they want, knowing when to mix in a lower budget item with higher qaulity furnishings to stick to a reasonable budget.

Hiring a designer isn’t about picking pillows. It’s about avoiding expensive mistakes and creating a home that actually works for your life. 💕🏡💕

Think you can’t afford a designer? Think again! Designers are a “buy once, cry once” decision that ultimately helps you save money down the road. We are experts with years of experience which makes us the perfect partner for your project. We will help you plan every detail to avoid costly and time consuming corrections later in the process. We answer the questions from your contractor so you can focus on your day job, and we know how to give you the most beautiful home you desire, all while sticking to a budget.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So while hiring a designer might feel like an investment you can’t afford, the reality is, you can’t afford not to! Reach out today to see how we can help you with your next home project.

Most people think their good taste comes from Pinterest or Instagram (or just a “really good eye”).
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
In reality, good taste is shaped by something much more subtle...it’s about looking at how you move through your home, what stresses you out (open storage 😬), what helps you unwind (a comfy sofa ☁️), and what your family needs on an average Tuesday (takeout 😭).
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
That’s why copying someone else’s style rarely works.
Its not that it’s wrong, it just isn’t yours and it’s never going to feel quite like home.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
In the end, homes that we walk into and feel inspired aren’t necessarily the most styled (although, shelf decor helps 😜). They’re the ones that reflect real life, without announcing it.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Once you start seeing taste this way, you notice it everywhere. This is what we help our clients achieve 💕🏡

The 🗝️ to unlocking a timeless home aesthetic you’ll love for decades? It’s not complicated, it just takes time and a lot of mental energy for careful planning. Running low on both? That’s where we come in. If you want to enjoy the process, and the results, for years to come, reach out!

Most people building or renovating their home hire a designer AFTER the big decisions are made. That’s where regret sneaks in….If you’re in the planning phase for your new build or renovation, this is your sign to reach out today!

Daisy makes her debut. Check out my holiday decor in the latest issue! Link in bio

Save these design ideas to create a space in your home where not only everyone gathers, but they do so comfortably. What are the elements of a well designed space perfect for gathering all of your loved ones? Contrary to what you might think, you don’t need a huge open space to host a beautiful and comfortable gathering! Three elements we find to be “must haves” in any space designed for hosting are:

1. Open concept kitchen and dining. Even if you throw walls up in other areas of your first floor (and we think you should!), an open kitchen and dining space makes for a lovely gathering spot. Set up a buffet on the island or serve family-style in the center of a large dining table. Either way, the open concept kitchen and dining room allows for freedom of movement, cozy corners for quiet conversation and a spot for everyone at the table.

2. Add a wet or dry bar area. Whether you go all in with a sink, kegerator and all the appliances or simply add a beverage cooler and a countertop, a spot for making drinks and/or setting out snacks is a great addition to any gathering.

3. Cue the lights! Lots of natural lighting for daytime affairs and an abundance of layered lighting come sunset sets the perfect backdrop for your gathering. Add a roaring fireplace for a cozy winter aesthetic and people are sure to feel right at home.