Behind the Studio Doors
A look at current projects, completed homes, and making time for what matters most.
Hi friends,
I thought I’d take a break from design tips this month and simply catch you up on what’s been happening around the studio.
I actually make it a point to keep my schedule a little lighter during the summer. While I’m still working on projects and meeting with clients, I try to leave enough room to spend more time with my husband, my boys, and Aurora, tend to the garden, and simply enjoy these longer days before the busy fall season begins. It’s something I look forward to every year and a reminder of why I work so hard the rest of the year.
That doesn’t mean the work stops.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve wrapped up several beautiful projects, presented new designs to clients, and watched renovations that have been months in the making finally come together. Seeing clients walk into their finished spaces for the first time is still one of the best parts of what I do.
I just presented a basement renovation that’s been especially fun to design. Instead of removing the existing cherry wood bar, we’re embracing it and creating a retro-inspired hangout that feels intentional rather than outdated. I love finding ways to work with a home’s character instead of against it, and I can’t wait to see this one come to life.
Lately I've also been catching up on project photography, organizing files, refreshing parts of my website, writing new blog posts, planning future content, and putting together ideas I've been collecting throughout the year.
One of the first things on my list? Finally updating my own website.
Like so many small business owners, my clients always come first, which means my own projects tend to fall to the bottom of the list. It felt so good to finally add several projects from last year that I’ve been waiting to share. If you haven’t visited the website in a while, there are quite a few new spaces to explore.
📷 Recently Added Portfolio Projects
Speaking of completed projects... if you missed my latest blog post, I recently shared another kitchen renovation that completely transformed the way this family uses their home. It walks through the layout changes, design decisions, and before-and-after photos that made such a difference.
👉 Read the latest kitchen renovation here.
While summer is a little quieter by design, I’m already thinking ahead to fall. Many of the projects I’ll be installing later this year are already deep in the design phase, which is a good reminder that most renovations begin months before construction ever starts.
Outside of work, I’ve been spending plenty of time in the garden... even if it isn’t exactly cooperating this year.
Between the weather and a late start, it’s definitely behind where I’d hoped it would be by now. But honestly, that’s okay. If anything, it’s given me a whole new appreciation for the space and a long list of ideas for how I want to redesign it next year. Sometimes the best inspiration comes from seeing what isn’t working.
As with each year, I’m trying to soak up summer a little more.
That means taking Aurora anywhere she’ll tolerate getting wet (she’s still deciding how she feels about the lake), and spending time with my boys before school schedules take over again. Those slower moments have become just as important as checking another task off the list.
As much as I love designing homes, I’ve learned that stepping away for a little while makes me a better designer when I come back. Fresh ideas don’t always happen while sitting behind a computer—they often come from living life, exploring new places, or simply taking a break.
I’m constantly learning that slowing down isn’t the same as standing still. It gives me the chance to recharge, reflect, and come back rejuvenated—for my clients, my business, and especially my own home.
Thank you, as always, for following along. Whether you’re planning a renovation, gathering ideas for your own home, or simply enjoy seeing what goes on behind the scenes, I’m so grateful you’re here.
I hope you’re enjoying your Summer and finding a little time to slow down, too.
Until next time,
Maria
If you're in the mood for a little more design inspiration, take a peek around my website. You'll find blog posts, shopping resources, completed projects, and plenty more to explore.