Family Room and Kitchen

The heart of our house is certainly our open-concept family room and kitchen.  They are a nice size, they are comfortable, and they are homey.  When we designed our house, we chose to have the family room (and adjacent study) carpeted.  I'm sure some people would disagree with our decision, but I am so happy we opted for carpet in just that space.  It was the right decision for our young family. 

Another unusual (odd?) decision we made was to not put in a fireplace.  I do love a fireplace (and a mantel!), but I don't love gas fireplaces, and neither does Jim, and that was the only feasible option.  If it couldn't be wood burning, we knew we would never turn it on, and it wasn't worth the cost.  So... I got a photo collage wall instead! I've always wanted a wall of beautiful black and white photos.

The rooms are still very empty.  They needs drapes, another small lamp, something in the corners of the family room to fill in the space, and, don't tell Jim, but I secretly wish we could do board and batten on the walls.  (I think that would be way down on the project list.)  I also plan to redo some of the pillows in black and white to bring in black from the kitchen, and I plan to make a large chalkboard over the dresser.  We also want bar stools for the island.  I have so many projects to do in this house I'll be lucky to finish before my kids graduate from high school!

How happy am I that I painted our kitchen table??!!  Soooo happy.  It looks fantastic in this space!

The house is coming along, one room at a time.  I know it will never be done, but it is sure nice to not live in chaos!