Journal

We move frequently. In our short seven years of marriage we’ve moved a total of nine times. I wouldn't say it’s an ideal situation but, for us, it’s been a necessary part of the journey. An endless quest to capture timeless design.  Nowadays, our adventures in homebuilding are shared with our three boys, whose constant energy and sheer physicality put our design ideas through their paces. To work for everyday life, our home needs to... Read More

Soon after the beginning of this TV adventure, an overseas furniture manufacturer reached out to us about creating a Scotsman Co. furniture line. The offer was more money than we ever could have imagined in our lifetime, more than our families could ever imagine. We said “thank you, but no thank you” without hesitation. Because here’s the thing. If we are going to be serious about revitalizing small town America, we have to be serious... Read More

Jana and I both go for the same feeling with our bedrooms...dreamy! Both of us created bedrooms that we love without breaking the bank and we'd love to share how! Here are a few tips on how to transform your bedroom into a dreamy sanctuary: Choose your focal points and colors wisely. For that "dreamy" look, light tones...whites...are best. Don't bring in too many colors or your dreamy feeling will quickly become more "fun" and... Read More

 In the season finale of HGTV Home Town, Anne and Russ Griffin, were looking for a place to call home for little awhile. What they didn’t expect was the dream, craftsman home that they will cherish forever.  What we’ve always loved about Erin and Ben is their unmatched ability to uncover the home owner’s taste and stay true to the intent of how they will live and use the space. With an “open door policy," Anne... Read More

When I look back at all the works of literature that have had a major impact on my life, they all have one thing in common -  a setting that acts as an additional main character. What would Harry Potter have been without Hogwarts? Lucy without Narnia? Peter without Neverland?   Looking back, I think I’ve always projected that idea into my own life. In college, I lived in a matchbox efficiency apartment that was... Read More

“He wondered whether home was a thing that happened to a place after a while, or if it was something that you found in the end, if you simply walked and waited and willed it long enough.” ― Neil Gaiman, American Gods Used to be, that when I thought of ‘home’, the first thing that came to mind was the place I grew up.  I was raised in the county, outside Laurel proper, on a hundred acres... Read More

Every house has its downfalls. The renovation money takes years to save, the priorities fall elsewhere; inevitably something keeps you and I from calling it “finished”. Discontentment would suggest that we focus solely on all that’s left to do, whispering in our ear, “You could make it perfect if you only had a few more dollars.” But enjoyment? Enjoyment would pull us to the present, gently nudging us to focus on the here and now.... Read More

To whomever was watching last week’s episode of Home Town, we can all agree that it was impossible to not fall in love the bubbly and strong woman that is Miss Pearl. Originally from Laurel, Ms, she moved away to venture and live life elsewhere. Years later, she found herself longing for home (as most do!) Pearl is a blossoming, 70-something, charismatic entertainer and divine cook who runs The Pearl Diner, along with her two... Read More

Last week’s episode of Home Town was one for those who yearn to restore what is forgotten and value family and tradition. Robyn and Cassidy, a newly wed couple, were the epitome of sentimental, when they came to Erin and Ben with a daring request that made moving a mountain look easy.      Robyn’s ninety year old farmhouse, built by her great grandparents, was passed down to her but is in desperate need of... Read More

Erin and Ben are undoubtedly the most thoughtful people when it comes to design and staying true to the homeowner’s practical needs and individualistic taste— last night’s episode of Home Town proved to be no exception!  Luke Ponder, a local minister in Laurel, expressed how his biggest inspirations are his love for hiking, fly fishing and baseball. He even has an amazing collection of vintage vinyl and an impressive library of books that had never... Read More