From Raunchy to Ranchy in 10 Easy Steps

I didn’t set out to become a ranch expert, but after redoing a few rooms and projects for friends, my husband entrusted me with a 1970s ranch house that he insisted was beyond saving. Initially, it was an investment for its land, and the house was supposed to be demolished. But with a $150 per-square-foot budget, I knew I had my work cut out for me, so I began to draw up a plan with both purpose and repurpose—the first to create functionality and the second to upcycle items that would help save on the budget. Three years later, we quadrupled our investment, and I’ve learned a thing or two that I’m already applying to our latest ranch renovation.

September 3, 2015April 7, 2016

DIY Ranch Design Series: The Mudroom

It’s time for Part VIII of my DIY Ranch Design Series, and I’ll be talking about the most important room in every ranch—the mudroom. As you can imagine, it gets a little dirty being out in the elements, and the last thing anybody wants is to track mud throughout the house. So, it came as a surprise when I realized our 1970s ranch house was lacking one.

Nothing bugs me more than people coming inside and tossing their keys, shoes, and whatnot on the kitchen counter. It’s a hot button for me. I need my counter space to be clean and clutter-free while cooking, and a good-sized mudroom is the answer. In my opinion, you don’t have to have a ranch to have a mudroom.

August 6, 2015April 7, 2016

DIY Ranch Design Series: Kids Room

It seems like yesterday we were beginning this series, so I can’t believe how far we’ve come in such a short amount of time. This month is Part VII, and after giving birth about eight weeks ago, I have a new appreciation for this room in particular—the kids room.

July 30, 2015April 7, 2016

DIY Ranch Design Series: The Master Bathroom

Welcome to Part VI of the DIY Ranch Design Series. Now that you’ve explored much of our open-concept living space, it’s time to get a little intimate and discover some of the spaces where most of our time is spent—the master bathroom. If you can’t find me in the kitchen, you’ll surely find me in the bathtub. And there’s no place that I like better than the master bathroom, where I can soak and relax while also taking in the serene views and wildlife.

June 23, 2015April 7, 2016

DIY Ranch Design Series: Dine & Entertain

It’s time for Part V of the DIY Ranch Design Series! This month I’m talking about function and entertainment. Though it may not seem like these two concepts relate, I assure you that they do. And when done correctly, even more entertainment possibilities can be imagined.