I keep a running list of my favorite house tours. I refer to them for inspiration or when I just need a good eye candy-induced pick-me-up. I thought you might enjoy seeing the online tours from the past year or so that made my it list. Here are 10 in no particular order.
1. Laurel Canyon Cottage – I absolutely love how an array of vintage items (textiles, furniture, accessories, art, etc.) gives this cottage a collected and cozy feel, yet careful editing keeps the space from feeling cluttered. I think I need some mudcloth in my life!
2. Midcentury Oasis – I’ve touted Commune before. One of the firm’s designers is the homeowner of this amazing abode. More than the decor (which is fabulous), I adore the backstory of the home. I’m a sucker for underdogs. I want to save them all! I’m also inspired by the use of built-ins in this midcentury gem.
3. Austin New Build – Ironically, I am equally inspired by this home which was built new from the ground up. I’m drawn to the open layout, warm wood tones, dark kitchen cabinetry and the abundance of natural light. My dream house has tons of natural light and comes with a lifetime window cleaning service ;) This home was actually featured twice last year. See more of it here.
4. Eclectic California Home – Amber Lewis knocked it out of the ballpark with this remodel. I could move right in and wouldn’t change a thing. I’m always amazed at how effortlessly Amber mixes patterns. She makes it look so easy! And the master bathroom design is stellar.
5. The House of Schoolhouse – The owner of Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co. calls this place home. If you look closely, you will notice many Schoolhouse products on display but this isn’t a showhouse. It isn’t too precious. It was designed for a family of five with durability in mind. I’m taking note of the planked walls & ceilings and all the family-friendly nooks like the built-in desk area and mudroom.
6. Casual Modern Loft – This small space feels homey thanks to lots of layering. I love all the natural touches & textures and how the owner worked with the builder grade cabinetry in the kitchen and bathroom. It’s a good reminder that not all kitchens and walls have to be white and / or custom to be great.
7. Global-Inspired Hideaway – Technically, this tour is from the tail end of 2013 but who’s keeping track? Again, lots of different textures and materials (sheepskins, Moroccan rugs, nubby linen, woven wall hangings, painted & unpainted brick, copper, concrete, wood, leather, etc.) work together to lend a cozy vibe. I also like how there isn’t a rigid color scheme and nothing “matches” yet everything goes together. This home was previously featured on Apartment Therapy before its Domino debut. See it here.
8. Little Cabin in the City – This 800 sq. ft. rental was originally featured in 2011 but it resurfaced this year and I’m glad it did so I could add it to my list. I have a soft spot for small spaces and this one does not disappoint. Every square inch is utilized. It has an imperfectly perfect, lived-in vibe that feels just right. Proof that bigger isn’t always better.
9. Comfortable and Stylish Family Home – This original Streng has Steve and me itching to find a midcentury gem with good bones. (FYI – Steve said this is his favorite online house tour to date.) I’m so happy the homeowners kept the original kitchen and cork floors while bringing in modern pieces and finds from their travels. Even without a bunch of kid paraphernalia lying around, you can tell it’s well suited for a young family. I love that it isn’t overly designed. The outdoor space is pretty amazing, too. See before-and-afters here.
10. Organic Modern Sweet Spot – What do you get when you mix an architect’s attention to detail with a floral designer’s natural touch? You get one pretty amazing house, that’s what. From the interior courtyard to the tidy built-ins to the material choices (love the repetition of the gray tile), this home is exemplary of good design that will stand the test of time. It’s unique and trend-free with a focus on quality. If I had to choose one favorite tour from the past year, this would be it. There’s nothing else like it.
Do you keep a list of inspiring home tours? What are some of your favorites? I’d love for you to share links in the comments section!
images: 1) Tessa Neustadt 2) Douglas Friedman 3) Michael A. Muller 4) Tessa Neustadt 5) Jeremy Bittermann 6) Kim Lucian 7) Brittany Ambridge 8) Marcia Prentice 9) Ashley Bruhn 10) Kim Lucian
inspiration, interior design, renovation