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You guys asked for it, so I’m finally sharing all the details of my recent garage project!  When we moved into our home two years ago after a major renovation, our budget was completely stretched, and the garage was left as a blank canvas — just drywall and concrete floors. Our “storage solution”? Piling everything up against the walls.

I’m someone who really hates clutter, so every time I walked into that garage, I cringed. But now? I smile every time I step inside! 😄 Here’s how I turned one side of my garage into a multifunctional storage and hangout space.

Why I cringed (and this is after I moved out a lot of our clutter so we could start the project!):

Bikes and Tools/Paint Side

On one side, we created a dedicated space for our bikes, tools, and other gear. My bikes are still a little disorganized (I bought a  bike rack from amazon and made a DIY shelf system) but it works for now.   We built custom cabinetry around our fridge and installed a counter and drawers for my “tool area.” I’m still considering adding some wall pegs for more tools, but that’s TBD!

Storage + Hangout Side

The other side is all about functionality and fun! I designed 17 feet of custom cabinetry to hold all our storage bins and made sure there was a space for a TV. Why a TV? Well, when my son has friends over, the noise level at home can get pretty high.  Now they have their own space to hang out without disrupting the whole house.  Even the TV box was designed to maximize storage.  The shelves extend behind the tv box!   I am thrilled about all our new storage!

The Plan & Cost Breakdown

When I first got quotes for this project, they came in at over $20,000.  That was WAY out of my budget, so I got creative. A lot of the cabinetry is actually framed out with 2x4s and sturdy ¾-inch plywood (to ensure it can hold the weight of all our garage gear). I wasn’t concerned with making the inside look perfect since it’s a garage, and I knew it would take some wear and tear with skis, camping gear, and Christmas decorations coming in and out. I had him make the door fronts out of plywood, which  also helped me save a lot of money.

End cost? About $5,000 for all the cabinetry, labor and paint. I saved money by designing it myself, problem-solving along the way (like working with our sloped garage floors), and working with a contractor who offered me a deal in exchange for future referrals.   His name is Luis Jovel – text/call him at 310.344.6457

Takeaway: You don’t need to break the bank to create a functional, organized, and even fun space in your garage. With a little creativity, planning, and hands-on work, I transformed a cluttered mess into a storage powerhouse and a cozy hangout spot.  Next on my list in here is to epoxy the floors – I will try to tackle that DIY in 2025.

Hope this helps if you’re thinking about tackling your own garage transformation! I am happy to refer out the person who made mine and I am also available for hire if you need help with a design plan.   Drop me any questions you have below.

Here are some links to hardware, rug and bean bags.  The pillows are available on my website diondecor.com.

xx,
Kristin

When it comes to home renovations, few projects are as exciting—and challenging—as remodeling the kitchen, especially in a historic home. My sister recently undertook this journey, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Like seriously – so dang good.  In this post, I’ll share all the details about her kitchen remodel, from the stunning cabinets to the carefully selected appliances.  If curious about sources, please scroll to the end.  

A Blend of Old and New

The kitchen is the heart of any home, and in a historic house, it serves as a unique canvas that blends the charm of the past with modern functionality. My sister’s home is over a century old, with rich architectural details that we aimed to honor while creating a space that meets today’s standards.  This was particularly challenging, as they decided to open the kitchen to the formal living and dining space.    Besides all of the choices explained below, one of the single most important decision was the flooring.  With vision and an expert in historic floors,  the historic floors and charm were skillfully integrated into the kitchen design, creating a seamless look that made it feel as though the kitchen had always been a part of the original space.

Cabinet Details: A Timeless Choice

One of the standout features of the remodel is the cabinetry. We opted for custom-made white oak cabinets that reflect the original style of the house while offering modern storage solutions. The wood chosen was a beautiful, warm white oak with a matte finish, allowing the natural grain to shine through.  The struggle was real to get the perfect stain color –  the cabinet maker made many many samples before getting it just right.  To add some modern, yet timeless flare, we went with slim shaker cabinet details.   

The top of the cabinets are adorned with the same intricate historic moldings that are original in much of the home.  My sister designed the inside of the cabinets to meet her family’s needs – complete with a coffee bar, pull out storage, outlets and many other modern amenities.    

Open Shelving: Maximizing Space and Light

To further enhance the kitchen’s charm and functionality, we opted for open shelving on one side spanning from the wall to the end of the range. This decision was strategic; the shelves beautifully showcase the stunning marble countertops and allow natural light from the window and door to flow freely, creating an illusion of a larger space. The open shelves display carefully selected dishware and decorative items, adding a personal touch that makes the kitchen feel warm, curated and inviting.

Hardware That Makes a Statement

Choosing the right hardware was crucial to achieving the desired look. We selected antique brass knobs and pulls, which not only complement the oak cabinetry but also add a touch of elegance. The warm metallic tones contrast beautifully with the wood and help tie the entire kitchen together.

Appliances: Modern Convenience with Vintage Appeal

While we aimed to preserve the home’s historic charm, we also wanted to incorporate modern appliances that make everyday cooking a breeze. My sister selected a professional-grade gas range, which provides both high performance and a classic look with its gorgeous brushed brass knobs.   I love GE’s Cafe Appliance line.   They are sleek, classic and beautiful.   

While I usually advise clients to purchase panel ready refrigerators to blend seamlessly with the cabinetry, a deeper fridge was a more practical choice for her family of 5.  They decided to go with the same brand for the refrigerator to match their other appliances.   The black is gorgeous and blends in well with the rest of the kitchen.   

The Showstopper: Marble Countertops

Perhaps the most breathtaking aspect of the remodel is the stunning marble countertops, that run up as the backsplash behind the counters and the range.  My sister and bro in-law went to a local stone yard and found a marble that spoke to them.   Marble is like art – I strongly advise each client to choose what they love.  To avoid staining on the marble, they keep a large cutting board near the sink to use for anything messy and cutting citrus.   

The countertops extend into a large island, providing additional workspace and seating. This is where the family gathers, making it the perfect spot for both casual meals and entertaining guests. 

Final Touches: Lighting and Decor

To complete the remodel, we carefully selected lighting fixtures that blend seamlessly with the historical vibe of the home. A pair of antique-inspired pendant lights hangs above the island, casting a warm glow that enhances the kitchen’s inviting atmosphere.

For decor, we chose a mix of vintage finds and modern accents. Open shelves display beautiful dishware and plants, adding both style and warmth to the space.   For links and more information about styling, you can visit this blog post with all the details.  

Conclusion

The kitchen remodel in my sister’s historic home is a perfect example of how to honor the past while embracing the present. With careful attention to detail—from the custom cabinetry to the stunning marble countertops—this kitchen has become a beautiful and functional centerpiece for family gatherings and culinary adventures.

If you’re considering a remodel in a historic home, remember to balance modern needs with the character of the space. It’s all about creating a kitchen that feels both timeless and functional, and my sister’s kitchen is a shining example of just that!

xx,

Kristin

Credits:

Photographer:
Kate Wichlinski
Architectural Photography
www.katewichlinski.com

Stone/Marble Work:
R Bratti Associates
https://rbratti.com/

Architect:
Hoffland Architects
http://hofflandarchitects.com/

Cabinetry:
Custom Millwork Design Group
https://www.facebook.com/custommillworkdesigngroup

Appliances:

Range: link

Dishwasher: link

Pendant Lights:  link

Rug: Etsy (vintage).  Here is one from the same seller that is very similar:  link 

Hardware: https://rstyle.me/+p137LdYhes3XzjN-9wFqyQ

Design:  Kristin Dion + my sister/homeowner, Megan Conway 

Decor:  Styled by designer Kristin Dion (see this blog for links) 

Hi!  This blog post provides all of the sources and the background behind this gorgeous primary bathroom remodel.   Scroll to the bottom for the sources + for lots of beautiful pictures.

I have to start with the back story of this gorgeous historic home . .  . When my sister and her husband (my bro in law) bought a historic fixer-upper in Washington DC, it was clear that this was going to be a labor of love. The house, divided into several apartments by a previous owner, was dilapidated and just waiting to be restored to its former glory. My sister, with excellent design sense and a keen eye for detail, has an impressive track record refreshing spaces for her real estate clients. But when it came to her own home, she wanted help my help with the design.  Working alongside her incredibly talented architect, Erik Hoffland, we set out to bring the house back to its historic splendor, infusing it with charm, original details, and a modern feel. The result?  You tell us but I think it is truly stunning.

A Historic Canvas with a Modern Twist
One of the first challenges we tackled was transforming the primary bathroom into a serene sanctuary while honoring the home’s historic roots. With the house’s original layout having been fragmented with addition that was clearly approved and built without any attention to the historic detail of the original home, we had the unique opportunity to reimagine this space from scratch.  Our goal was to honor the historic elements and overall look and feel of the house while creating a bathroom that feels both timeless and modern.   It was previously one of the apartment’s living area:

Embracing Natural Light
A key feature of our design was the introduction of abundant natural light.  It was already light filled but we added more windows and relocated existing windows to be more cohesive with the overall look and feel of the house.  This room was a previous addition that did not match the historic details of the home.  The play of natural light against the marble tiles and gorgeous fixtures adds a sense of openness and airiness, making the bathroom feel like a true retreat.

Custom Double Wall-to-Wall Vanity

One of the standout features of the bathroom is the custom double wall-to-wall vanity. We chose white oak cabinets, finished with a perfect light brown stain that complements the historic vibe of the home. The marble countertops add a touch of timeless elegance, honoring the home’s heritage. To further nod to history, we incorporated vintage brass knobs that not only serve a functional purpose but also act as a charming design detail.  My sister opted for single handle modern faucets and we found them in the perfect finish to match the historic, yet modern, vibe.  For added convenience and a streamlined look, we included built-in frameless medicine cabinets. The frameless design ensures that the focus remains on the gorgeous windows rather than the mirrors, enhancing the room’s light and airy feel.  For lighting, we chose vintage brass double lights that seamlessly blend into the design.

Marble Herringbone Floors

The floors are another highlight, featuring marble tiles laid in a herringbone pattern. This classic design choice not only adds historical value but also creates a sophisticated and cohesive look throughout the space. The herringbone pattern brings a sense of movement and texture to the floor, tying together the modern and historic elements of the room.

Freestanding Tub with Skylight

The freestanding tub is a focal point that truly elevates the space. Positioned beneath a skylight, it adds a serene, spa-like vibe to the bathroom. The tub’s sleek, modern design complements the overall aesthetic while providing ample room to walk around it. We selected an affordable solid surface tub that achieves an expensive look without the hefty price tag, proving that style and value can go hand in hand.

The Enormous Walk-In Shower

No bathroom remodel would be complete without a luxurious shower, and this one certainly delivers. The enormous walk-in shower features two shower heads and a steam shower system, offering an indulgent, high-end experience. The marble herringbone floor continues seamlessly into the shower, while the walls are adorned with classic subway tiles from Bedrosians. The Bedrosian cloe tile is slightly varied in color adding a warmer effect, creating a perfect contrast to the cool marble and enhancing the overall ambiance of the space.

Conclusion

The finished result is nothing short of heavenly. This primary bathroom combines historic charm with modern luxury, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary. From the custom double vanity and marble herringbone floors to the freestanding tub and expansive walk-in shower, every detail was meticulously curated to ensure that the space is as functional as it is beautiful.  An added bonus?  The toilet room is seamlessly tucked away and doesn’t interfere with the design at all.

Designing this bathroom with my sister was an incredible experience, blending our creative visions to craft a space that truly reflects both her personal style and the historic elegance of her new home. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful design can transform a fixer-upper into a luxurious haven, proving that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, even the most modest spaces can become something truly extraordinary.

Sources/credits:

Photos: Kate Wichlinski
Architect: Erik Hoffland
Stone/Marble Work: R Bratti Associates
Custom cabinetry: Custom Millwork Design Group
Design: Kristin Dion Design + my sister/homeowner Megan Conway 

Products/Sources:
* the rug is vintage but I linked a similar one from the same Etsy store

xx,

Kristin

I recently transformed my laundry space by building a DIY wood countertop over my side-by-side laundry machines.  I have been wanted to do this for years!   I paid someone to do it in our last home but this go-around I took the plunge and did it myself.  This project is not only budget-friendly but also adds beauty and practicality to your space. It provides extra storage and a convenient surface for folding clothes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a high-end looking (on a budget) countertop.  Scroll to the end for links for everything I used to complete this project.   And in case you are wondering, my mismatching machines is not on purpose.  I replaced my broken washer and decided to go with white and don’t want to replace the dryer until I have to.  So until then, it is what it is.  Here is the before/after:

Step 1: Plan and Measure

Before heading to the lumber yard, precise measurements are key. Since my project involved creating a countertop that spanned wall to wall, I measured:

Length: The total length of the space from wall to wall. If you don’t have walls on either side, you could buy the same type of plywood for the side panels, which would create a frame that you could install to the back wall.
Depth: How deep you want the countertop to be.  I measured 32.”
Height: The height at which you want the countertop to sit (I chose 41 inches from the ground).
These measurements will guide your material purchases and ideally ensure a perfect fit.  Mine did not end up fitting perfectly because my walls are not perfectly straight, so I had to make some minor adjustments at home using my circular saw and sander.

Step 2: Purchase Materials
With your measurements in hand, go to your local lumber yard and buy the following materials (and have them cut them down to size):

Birch Plywood: One sheet of 3/4” birch plywood ($44).  I had it cut to 69” long by 32” deep.  (Home Depot has plywood but it is more expensive and was not as nice IMO.  Try a local lumbar yard if you have one nearby).
2x4s: I purchased 12 feet of 2x4s for the frame ($5.32). I had them cut into: 1 back piece (69”), 2 side pieces (28” each)
Exterior Plywood: Half a sheet of 3/4” exterior plywood ($20) for the middle frame between the machines. Have it cut into two pieces to glue together for added strength.  This plywood does not show so I bought the cheaper (but still strong) plywood.
Trim: 2” trim for the front edge of the counter for a thicker appearance.  1/5″ trim to cover the 1.5″ of plywood edge in the center frame.

Step 3: Build the Frame
To create a solid base for your countertop:

Create the Middle Frame: Use wood glue to double up the exterior plywood pieces. This will form a frame measuring 41” high by 28” deep. Allow the glue to dry thoroughly.  Then place this directly on the floor in between the 2 machines.  I pushed my machines together to hold it in place.

Attach the Wall Frame: Find the wall studs with a stud finder and mark them. Use a brad nailer and a level to attach the 2x4s around the wall, forming the frame for the countertop.  The brad nailer does not secure the frame but holds it in place for you to then screw the frame into the studs.  Use a drill bit first and then drill the 2×4 into each stud using a 2 1/2″ wood screw (linked below).  The top of the frame should measure 41” from the ground.

Step 4: Prepare and Stain the Wood
Stain the Countertop: Apply a layer of Minwax White Wash as a base, quickly wipe it off, and let it dry. Next, apply Minwax Early American stain. Finish with two coats of polyurethane for a durable, glossy finish.

Stain the Trim: After trial and error, I ended up using Aged Oak gel stain for the trim pieces to match the countertop color.   Remember, different types of wood absorb stain differently, so always test on a scrap piece first.  (I linked all of these stains below).

Step 5: Install the Countertop
Position the Countertop: Place the stained birch plywood onto the frame.  My son helped me with this.  It was heavy and did not fit perfectly the first go-around.  I had to saw off a tiny bit (and then sanded the edge with my circular sander).

Secure the Countertop: Use your brad nailer to attach the countertop by nailing once on each side, in the back, and in the center. Given the weight of the plywood, this should hold it securely while allowing easy removal if needed.

Step 6: Attach the Trim
Attach the 2” Ribbed Trim: Align and nail the 2” trim piece along the front edge of the countertop.  You can have this cut down to size at Home Depot (or wherever you purchase it).  But I highly recommend buying a $12 miter saw to have at home for easy cuts like trim.   Also linked below.

Install the 1.5” Trim: Affix the 1.5” trim piece to the center frame using your brad nailer.

Tools and Supplies: (all linked below)
Measuring Tape
Level
Stud Finder
Drill
Brad Nailer
Sander
Circular Saw (for any adjustments)
Wood Glue
Stains and Finishes

LINKS TO EVERYTHING 🙂 

Final Touches:
Ensure all nail holes are filled and sanded smooth. Clean any excess stain and polyurethane. Your new wood countertop should now be a beautiful and functional addition to your laundry space!  I ended up making a shelf with the plywood extras.  It measures 3′ long and 11″ deep.  I glued 2 pieces together and used 1.5″ trim for the exposed edge.   And then of course, I styled it pretty.  🙂

If you end up trying this, please feel free to reach out with any questions!   I look at my DMs on Instagram.

xx,

Kristin

If you want to refresh your outdoor patio, a few simple additions can make a world of difference.  I wanted our upstairs patio to be used more — cozier for morning coffee and more appealing to hang out on — and plants and textiles did the trick! Here’s how you can easily transform your patio into a stylish and inviting haven:

The exterior of a house is often the first impression it makes on visitors and passersby.  It sets the tone for what lies inside.  In our quest to create a welcoming and  “organic modern” exterior for our home, we embarked on what felt like one million decisions.  Stucco, windows, roofing, tile, landscaping, and the list goes on!  In doing so, we have completely transformed our house into a place we’re proud to call home.  Here is the story of our exterior home remodel.

It started like this.  We bought the least expensive house on the market in our coveted neighborhood/community.

We lived in it for 1.5 years.  I did several DIY projects to make it reflect our style while living there but as soon as we received our permits from our City, we started construction.   We remodeled instead of building from scratch.  We thought it would be faster and cheaper that way.  It probably was not.  With rising material costs and the complications of this remodel, it ended up being way more expensive than we had budgeted for.  (Another story for another day).  It was a large remodel with an addition upstairs.   We used Ballentine Architect Studio and were happy with their work.  They understood my vision and made it happen.   We kept a lot of the footprint of the home but added a garage in the front and built above it.   We had tons of decisions to make about everything, the exterior too!

1. Choosing the Exterior Finish

One of the first and most significant decisions we made for our exterior remodel was selecting the exterior finish. We chose smooth trowel stucco.   Stucco is a versatile and durable material that can dramatically impact the appearance of a home. After careful consideration, we chose a beautiful, warm white, smooth trowel stucco finish that complements our home’s architectural style. Its earthy color provides a modern yet inviting feel, and the smooth plaster texture adds depth and character to the façade. Stucco not only looks fantastic but also offers excellent protection against the elements, making it a practical choice for our home’s exterior.

2. Tile Selection for the Perfect Accent

To add more texture and sophistication, we decided to incorporate decorative tiles into our remodel.  When I laid eyes on Arto’s Newport Brick, it was love at first site.  Newport Brick Veneer is a long-form, modern looking brick with a limestone textured surface and crisp edges.  The concrete composition is durable enough for freeze thaw climates and can be used for walls and floors. These tiles are strategically placed around the entry and the entire garage exterior wall, creating a captivating visual focal point. The tiles infuse an organic vibe into the overall look, while remaining modern.   This may be controversial, but I did not grout the tile.  I love the non-grouted look of this tile and we have all the necessary water proofing behind the tiles.

The front patio tile is Bone and Early Gray concrete pavers (also from Arto tile) laid in a custom pattern.

3. Windows

To grid or not to grid.  That was a question I debated forever!   Ultimately, we decided against grids and we went with Milgard fiberglass casement windows (with no grid pattern).   Fiberglass is more expensive than Aluminum but at the time, it was the only way I could affordably get white on the inside and black on the exterior of the windows.   They also have many benefits.  Fiberglass windows are low-maintenance and resist swelling, rotting, warping and corrosion. They do not require repainting like wood, but the material is paintable, which is awesome because you know I like to paint!   We painted our library window dark green to match the rest of the room (for example).

I did, however, find the most amazing front door that does have grids to mix it up.  It is also a dutch door!  It is customizable for your exact dimensions and as far as front doors go, reasonable in price.

4. Roofing

Given the extensive nature of our remodel, we had to add an entirely new roof. We chose GAF Timberline Reflector Series in charcoal.

5. Landscaping: Bringing Nature to Life

No exterior home remodel is complete without landscaping.  Yardzen came to the rescue!   We told them everything we wanted and they made it come to life in a rendering.  We used the rendering to implement the design ourselves.  We opted for a mix of real (front yard) and fake grass (backyard) and a mix of plants, some drought-tolerant plants, thoughtfully arranged to create a harmonious balance of greenery and hardscape.  Specifically, in the front, we used olive bushes and white roses.   The climbing vine is star Jasmine.  The addition of a the small stone sections in our walkway leading up to the front door  adds an element of charm to our home’s exterior.  We did the same pattern in our driveway to break up the large amount of concrete.

Here is the rendering we received from Yardzen.

6. Coordinating Colors and Materials

One of the key elements of a successful exterior remodel is ensuring that all the materials and colors work together harmoniously. We made sure that the stucco, tiles, and landscaping elements complemented each other. The earthy stucco and tiles are complimented by the lush landscaping, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In addition, we painted the garage door black and stained the wood elements black to complement the overall design, tying all the elements together.  For those wondering about our garage door, we used Colima Garage Doors and Repairs and showed him this design and he made it happen.

7. House Numbers, Lighting and Final Touches

I was gifted gorgeous house numbers by Dropcap Studio.  We chose the Forza Light in black. We LOVE them!

I wanted to keep the lighting simple (and inexpensive) so opted for these lights from Wayfair.   They work great and look great AND the price is awesome!

For front porch decor, I added these affordable and comfortable rocking chairs.  We love sitting on the front porch to catch good morning and afternoon sun and people watching.  🙂

I found our mailbox on Etsy.   I love it!

Our exterior home remodel has been a labor of love, resulting in quite the transformation that reflects our style and personality. The choice of stucco, tiles, landscaping, and other design elements has come together to create an inviting and beautiful exterior that we’re proud to call our own.   Feel free to send me a DM on Instagram if you have ANY questions at all.

xoxo,

Kristin
Photo Credit:  James Ogg