Between the Layers | Design Guide Series
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Transforming Small Bedrooms with Limited Storage

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Between the Layers: A Look at How We Design

Between the Layers is kicking off with our Design Series — a closer look at how a home actually comes together.

Beyond the moodboards, this is where we break down the decisions behind the spaces (from materials and layout to sourcing and balance) so you can understand not just what works, but why.

If you want to create a home that feels cohesive, intentional, and truly lived in, this is for you.

Inside, we share:
— How to approach your home with clarity from the start
— Ways to layer materials and finishes so everything works together
— Real project insights and behind-the-scenes decisions
— CH design principles you can apply to any aesthetic
— Practical guidance for designing with confidence

Now live on Substack — subscribe to follow along.

Life is short. Make it beautiful!


Well, our first couple of weeks up here at Tumalo have been absolutely magical. I can’t express how much I missed having all our things and being able to relax and enjoy a space that is truly meant for us. The comfort and joy of being in a place that feels like home is unparalleled! From our beautiful kitchen to cozy bedrooms to a breathtaking outdoor space, I’m very excited to share it all with you.

Transforming Small Bedrooms with Limited Storage

In this post, I will show you two of the bedrooms’ transformations. For those of you who are new here, originally there were two bedrooms with essentially the exact same size and layout. These rooms are for two of our children who are already out of the house. But, they will also serve as guest rooms when friends and family come to visit.

If you remember the original plans for the bedrooms, we didn’t have bed nooks drawn up. As we were renovating, I was really struggling to figure out how I could fit queen beds in these bedrooms. That was a must for us. And, this is why I absolutely rave about Pinterest — there’s so much inspiration for how you can get clever with any small space solutions! I came across some photos of bed nooks, and knew immediately that we could make this happen.

Derrick was able to build a bed frame (which really didn’t take too much work). We laid plywood across the top to act as a mattress support for the bed. And, we made sure to carve out room to incorporate two large pullout drawers underneath the bed. We did this because the rest of the room doesn’t have any extra space for a dresser (besides in the closets, which don’t have much space either).

Additionally, we included built-in shelves on the outside of the frames for dĆ©cor, as well as a catchall for things like wallets and glasses. We did the same on the insides of the nook: a shelf along the headboard and, on the opposite side, a little insert for a wall-mounted TV. What I love about the layout of this room is that you don’t see the TVs when you’re standing in the doorway. That was super intentional!

These nooks feel cozy, like their own little cocoons. And, what better way to make them feel even more inviting than by painting them a fun color? We color-drenched the nooks in each of the bedrooms, one in a mocha brown and the other in a warm, earthy green. The colors are moody but still fresh and transitional, adding to the overall charm and comfort of the spaces.

Bed Nook Design #1

 

Bed Nook Design #2

I’m so happy with how these spaces came together. Now, I just need to perfect them with styling touches. There are many different routes to go, and I know I’ll be rearranging and repurposing for a little while. Can’t wait to show you the final look once everything is in place!

***

Stay tuned for more updates and, as always, thank you for following along on our journey!

In case you missed it … here are additional posts regarding space optimization

“What To Do When An Island Just Won’t Fit”

“How To Make A Small Bathroom Feel Bigger”

“Tumalo Entryway: Space Optimization & Solutions”

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@clouz_houz
This is one of those things I feel very strongly about.
Scale is one of the fastest ways to elevate a room... and one of the easiest to get wrong. I see it all the time: a space has beautiful pieces, but something still feels off. More often than not, it’s because everything is too small.

Our coffee table is a good example. It’s intentionally larger because it helps the whole seating area read as one zone. It visually connects the sofa and chairs, gives everyone an actual surface within reach, and creates one strong focal point in the middle of the room.

If it were smaller, we’d need extra little tables to make the layout function, and all of those pieces would start competing with each other.

One larger piece often creates more calm than several smaller ones.

Save this for your next room refresh, and share it with someone who’s trying to figure out why their space feels off.
Finally using our kitchen... and it feels so good 🄹

We don’t take this for granted for a second! Having a fully working kitchen again truly feels like such a gift. It’s always been the heart of our home, and after so many months without it, being back in this space feels extra special.

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know Derrick and I are major foodies.

And over the years, he’s become such an incredible cook... his recipes just keep getting better and better (lucky me ā˜ŗļø).

There’s something about cooking at home, slowing down, and gathering around a meal that just feels like us again.

Would you guys want to see more of what we’re cooking, like we used to share?
5 stars. I wanted to make our guests feel comfortable and welcome and a hotel inspired bed seemed like the perfect idea.

All of this bedding is from @onequince , comment ā€˜BED’ and we’ll send you everything that’s linked on our LTK.

This look isn’t for the ā€œanti-pillowsā€ person - in fact it’s all about the layering for that plush, all-white and cozy hotel inspired look.

Here’s how to get this look in your home:
- Start with smooth, wrinkle-free sheets (a quick steam makes all the difference) I love the classic embroidered trim on these I used.
- Tuck your sheets tightly (especially the corners) for that tailored finish
- Layer in a plush duvet or comforter for that full, cloud-like feel (I like to stuff a duvet cover with an insert thats one size larger)
- And don’t skip the pillow layer technique (this is key!): I stacked four total for sleeping, two euro shams for structure, two decorative shams, and an oversized accent lumbar pillow (ours measures 18 x 42 in @LeeJofa fabric) to finish it off

Save for the next time you want a bed refresh!
Here’s how to bring everything you love together. Without the chaos!

Comment ā€˜LOVE’ and I’ll send you exactly how we define your base, choose your lead style, and mix in the rest so it actually works.

Most people think they have to choose one style... but that’s usually not the problem. The issue is trying to make everything feel equally important.

If you want your home to feel collected (not confusing), you need a clear lead... and then layer in the rest.
The difference between a home that looks good... and one that feels good?
It’s what your hands touch every day.

Plumbing fixtures.
Cabinet hardware.
Upholstery.

These aren’t always the most exciting decisions, but they’re the ones you interact with constantly. And trust me, you notice the difference. If you’re going to invest anywhere, start here.

Save this + pass it along to someone designing a space right now!