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Tumalo Entryway: Space Optimization & Solutions

Let’s talk entryways, shall we? It’s funny – we’ve shared all sorts of updates about our home renovation journey, but we haven’t touched on the entryway yet. And … there’s a reason for that. With just two weeks until move-in day, things are getting pretty hectic around here. We’ve got electrical work happening, appliances being installed, and the final touches of paint going up on the walls. Oh, and did I mention that the entryway isn’t exactly spacious? 

Nope, it’s just a cozy little welcome area right off the living room, all part of one big open space.

But, despite its size, this entryway has got me excited. Why? Because it’s a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into something special. It’s a space that’s going to set the tone for the rest of our home, so you better believe I want to get it just right. So here’s where things get interesting. I’ve been going back and forth on how to approach this, deciding whether it should it be a practical spot for family and friends to kick off their shoes and hang their jackets, or whether it should be more about the aesthetic. Honestly, it has to be a bit of both.

When you step through the front door into the entryway …

… there’s this one little wall that’s just begging to be the focal point! And, I’ve got big plans for it! I’m talking a stylish bench (or maybe a console table) adorned with art, and stools stashed underneath for extra seating by the fire. Or, why not a combination of both? 

The possibilities are endless, but one thing’s for sure – I want it to feel intentional and functional. In reality, a true reflection of our style and how we envision ourselves using the space. So, join me on this journey as we dive into the world of entryway design. We want to turn this little corner into a welcoming oasis that sets the perfect tone for our home.

I’ve been mulling over a couple of ideas, and have whipped up two mood boards to help visualize what I’m thinking. Let’s see what we’ve got!


I’ve been eyeing this first option for a while now. We used this Rush House rug for one of our clients, and it’s still in the running. The woven pattern brings nice texture to a space, and I love its neutrality. It goes with anything! It’s a large-scale art piece that would set the tone perfectly. All I would need to do is find a farmhouse-style console table to tie it all together.

What’s got me really excited are these adorable camel-colored stools with fringe detailing. They add a playful touch, and really capture the rustic charm of Tumalo. Plus, picture this: two sconces flanking the art, casting a warm glow — it’s a wall that’s as beautiful as it is inviting.


Just as much function as Option 1. But, instead of a tabletop for dropping things, I’m wondering if a bench is a better option here? I have a vintage bench I purchased years ago that may fit perfectly on the wall, with a great piece of art above it. You gotta love benches for entryways, especially if you don’t have a coat closet. They’re a great landing pad for bags, coats, hats etc.

Well, which do you think? Knowing me, I won’t be able to decide until we get our things moved in. And, they’ve been in storage for the last eight months! I almost forget what all we have …

***

That being said, I’m thinking of hosting a yard sale the same weekend we move in. Crazy? Maybe a little. Truth be told, I’m not entirely sure where we’ll fit all our stuff. This house is a significant downsizing for us, but it’s a shift we’ve embraced as the kids have grown. We’ve come to realize that functionality is key when it comes to home design, and we don’t necessarily need a sprawling house anymore. With the kids becoming more independent, it’s mostly just D and me these days. ?

But, here’s the catch: this house is seriously lacking in storage space. We’ve already got two storage units bursting at the seams, so it’s high time we clear out the clutter and pass along the things that no longer serve us. So, mark your calendars for the weekend of May 18/19 – if you’re in town, swing by and say hello! Who knows, you might just find a treasure or two.

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Came across this old video from one of our campaign shoots at the #High DesertTumaloRanch and it made me a little 🥹

We’re enjoying our family vacation in Sunriver, and I’ve actually been back in Oregon for the past month—catching up with clients, squeezing in site visits and consults, and honestly just loving being here again.

There really is nothing quite like an Oregon summer. Even with the wildfires, which has been heartbreaking to watch become such a normal part of summers here, this place still holds so many special memories for our family and has always felt like a bit of a retreat.

We spent so many good evenings out on this patio, usually with those killer mountain views in the background. Seeing this again brought me right back. Had to share.🤎

It’s never too late to dial in your patio. IMO early fall is still some of the best time to spend outdoors (and let’s be honest, you can find some pretty amazing sales- save now and enjoy later). Let us help you design your outdoor space for any season!

Videography: @bozemanmediadesign
Hiring a designer is a funny thing. You’re essentially handing someone your home your budget, years of saved inspiration, and a pretty intimate look at how your family actually lives-and trusting them to get it right.

That’s not a small thing.

And a good designer’s job is so much more than making your home beautiful. It’s listening closely enough to know when to push you toward something you wouldn’t have chosen on Your ow? when to wark with what you already love, and when to say, Nope, that doesn’t feel You should still recognize yourself in your home when we’re done. Just maybe a version you couldn’t quite figure out how to get to on your own.

That trust takes time, which is why we start every project with a conversation.

If you’ve been thinking about getting some help with your home but aren’t quite sure what that looks like yet, that’s okay. Tell us what you’re working on. We’ll start there.

Discovery calls are always the first step — link in bio or shoot us a DM.
Maybe someone in your life needs to hear this right now. Someone whose life looks completely different than they thought it would. Who’s feeling stuck in their career. 

Starting over. Watching their kids grow up and wondering what’s next for them. Or just feeling that little nudge that maybe it’s time for something different.

I’ve been there. And if I’m being truthful, I still have moments where I’m there.

There were seasons of my life I never would have chosen, but they pushed me toward things I’m not sure I ever would have been brave enough to choose on my own. This business. Moving. Starting over. Taking risks when I definitely didn’t have all the answers.

I think we put so much pressure on ourselves to have life figured out when really, we’re supposed to evolve. You’re allowed to change your mind. You’re allowed to want something different. You’re allowed to start the thing you’ve been quietly thinking about for years—even if the timing feels weird or the path there looks nothing like you imagined.

Sometimes you just have to trust the nudge and see where it takes you. 🤎

And while I’m feeling sentimental, thank you for being here and following along through all the different chapters. I’ve loved the support, conversations, and little community that’s grown here more than you know.
Send this to a friend who might need that reminder today.
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