Just Launched: KATHY KUO HOME’S JOURNEY TO ANDALUSIA

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Let’s bring that sun-soaked, slow-living Mediterranean vibe to your patio, because your outdoor space deserves just as much soul (and style) as your living room.

My Design Blog

Want to create a coastal-inspired oasis but don’t know where to start? Check out my latest blog post for tips on choosing the perfect color palette, incorporating natural textures, and adding those finishing touches that will make your bedroom feel like a seaside escape.

Simple Decor Swaps That Will Instantly Brighten Your Home
14Mar

Simple Decor Swaps That Will Instantly Brighten Your Home

Feeling dim? Discover easy decor swaps to brighten your home instantly. From mirror magic to color pops, learn how to maximize light and create a sunny vibe.

My Pool Home Reno: Taking my Entryway/Foyer from Meh to Uh-Mazing
03Mar

My Pool Home Reno: Taking my Entryway/Foyer from Meh to Uh-Mazing

My entryway renovation journey transformed a cramped foyer into a welcoming space. From hidden storage to a bold rattan pendant light, every choice elevated the space, creating a stylish, functional…

My Pool Home Reno: A Garage Renovation Story
28Feb

My Pool Home Reno: A Garage Renovation Story

Learn how I renovated our small pool home garage with a professional floor coating and added smart storage solutions. See the stunning before-and-after transformation!

My Pool Home Reno: A Mediterranean-Inspired Exterior Makeover (With a Rustic Twist)
27Feb

My Pool Home Reno: A Mediterranean-Inspired Exterior Makeover (With a Rustic Twist)

Transform a tired exterior with paint and lighting! This rustic Mediterranean home got a makeover, blending creamy tones with earthy stone. See my color choices and lighting secrets!

Yes, You Can Use Dark Colors in a Beach House—Here’s How
27Feb

Yes, You Can Use Dark Colors in a Beach House—Here’s How

Transform your beach house with bold, dark hues paired with bright accents. Create contrast, add texture, and maintain a coastal vibe that feels fresh and modern—perfectly balancing style and comfort…

10 Genius Hacks to Transform Your Builder-Grade Living Room (On a Budget!)
31Jan

10 Genius Hacks to Transform Your Builder-Grade Living Room (On a Budget!)

Upgrade your builder-grade living room with these 10 genius hacks! From color drenching to layered lighting, learn how to create a stylish and personalized space on a budget.

Celebrate Your BFFs with a Galentine’s Happy Hour
31Jan

Celebrate Your BFFs with a Galentine’s Happy Hour

Cocktails, food, and friends! Celebrate Galentine's Day with a festive happy hour. Get inspired with these ideas. Cheers to your besties!

Budget-Friendly Hacks to Transform Your Builder-Grade Bedroom into a Dreamy Retreat
31Jan

Budget-Friendly Hacks to Transform Your Builder-Grade Bedroom into a Dreamy Retreat

Transform your builder-grade bedroom into a dreamy retreat with these budget-friendly hacks. We'll show you how to paint, add accent walls, upgrade lighting, and incorporate cozy accessories to create a…

Creating a Home Gym Space for Any Fitness Level
14Jan

Creating a Home Gym Space for Any Fitness Level

Who says workouts have to be a chore? Transform your home gym into a stylish and motivating space with our expert design tips. Get ready to embrace your fitness journey…

How to Transform a Builder Grade Bathroom Under a Budget
17Dec

How to Transform a Builder Grade Bathroom Under a Budget

Say goodbye to bland builder-grade bathrooms! Learn easy, budget-friendly updates—like painting, swapping fixtures, and adding trim or a backsplash—to create a space that’s fresh, stylish, and uniquely yours.

7 Pro Tips to Elevate your Builder-Grade Kitchen
23Nov

7 Pro Tips to Elevate your Builder-Grade Kitchen

Tired of your builder-grade kitchen? These expert tips will help you transform it into a timeless and stylish space. Discover design secrets for countertops, backsplashes, cabinets, and more!

How to Set Up the Perfect Holiday Cocktail Bar
21Nov

How to Set Up the Perfect Holiday Cocktail Bar

Impress your guests this holiday season with a perfectly stocked cocktail bar. Our guide covers essential spirits, mixers, tools, glassware, and festive decor tips for a memorable celebration.

Setting a Timeless Table: Holiday Entertaining Tips
20Nov

Setting a Timeless Table: Holiday Entertaining Tips

Ditch the stress of holiday entertaining with our easy-to-follow guide to setting a timeless table. Discover creative centerpiece ideas, proper etiquette, and free downloadable resources for place cards and menu…

6 Tips for Designing Amazing Pet-Friendly Spaces in Your Home
17Nov

6 Tips for Designing Amazing Pet-Friendly Spaces in Your Home

Create a pet-friendly home that's both stylish and functional! Discover expert tips on choosing durable fabrics, creating pet zones, and finding chic furniture that both you and your furry friends…

Neutrals That Actually Work: My Go-To Paint Colors!
13Nov

Neutrals That Actually Work: My Go-To Paint Colors!

Choosing the right neutral paint can be tricky. It's more than just picking a shade; it's about understanding undertones. Learn how to select neutrals that complement your home's décor and…

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee: Cozy Coffee Nook Inspiration
09Nov

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee: Cozy Coffee Nook Inspiration

Design a cozy coffee nook with these inspiring ideas. From furniture and lighting to décor and personal touches, create a haven for your coffee ritual. Discover rustic, modern, minimalist, and…

Holiday Baking Essentials for the Perfect Kitchen
07Nov

Holiday Baking Essentials for the Perfect Kitchen

Get your kitchen holiday-ready with this comprehensive guide to holiday baking! Discover must-have tools, festive decorating tips, and delicious recipes for a stress-free and joyful baking experience. Let's make this…

Unexpected Color Combinations for a Minimalist Aesthetic
05Nov

Unexpected Color Combinations for a Minimalist Aesthetic

Transform minimalist spaces with curated color pairings like earthy tones with jewel accents. Add depth, mood, and personality to your design with hues that enhance simplicity without overwhelming the aesthetic.

Eco-Friendly Renovation Ideas for a Greener Home
01Nov

Eco-Friendly Renovation Ideas for a Greener Home

Looking to renovate your home with the environment in mind? You're in the right place! This article explores eco-friendly renovation ideas that reduce your carbon footprint and save money in…

Don’t Despair, Decorate! Budget-Friendly Post-Hurricane Style Guide
21Oct

Don’t Despair, Decorate! Budget-Friendly Post-Hurricane Style Guide

Facing a hurricane's aftermath can be emotionally and financially taxing. Handling property damage, power outages, and displacement is challenging. However, once the storm passes, it's important to start refreshing and…

Apartment Renovation 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Upgrading Your Space
15Oct

Apartment Renovation 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Upgrading Your Space

Small space got you feeling cramped? This apartment renovation guide is your key to unlocking hidden potential. Discover expert tips, budget-friendly ideas, & renter-approved solutions for a stylish and functional…

5 Genius Home Reno Hacks for a Happy Multigenerational Family
14Oct

5 Genius Home Reno Hacks for a Happy Multigenerational Family

Multigenerational living feeling more like a juggling act than a joyful experience? These 5 genius reno hacks will bring back the harmony and create a space where every generation can…

Renovation or Remodel: Which is Right for Your Project?
24Sep

Renovation or Remodel: Which is Right for Your Project?

Renovation vs remodel - which one should you choose for your home improvement project? While both renovation and remodel involve making changes to your home, these terms are often used…

10 Viral Kitchen Renovation Ideas That Will Leave You Inspired
23Sep

10 Viral Kitchen Renovation Ideas That Will Leave You Inspired

Kitchen renovation on your mind? Don't miss these 10 inspiring ideas to create a space you'll love. From budget-friendly hacks to expert tips, we've got everything you need.

How to Vet a Contractor: Red Flags, Tips, and Essential Questions
21Sep

How to Vet a Contractor: Red Flags, Tips, and Essential Questions

Hiring a contractor? Learn how to vet a contractor with this guide that reveals the secrets to finding the perfect match for your project and ensuring a smooth, stress-free renovation.

S’mores and Hot Chocolate Happy Hour
21Sep

S’mores and Hot Chocolate Happy Hour

Ready to level up your happy hour? Indulge in the warmth and deliciousness of gourmet s'mores and hot chocolate. Get inspired with creative recipes and tips for hosting an unforgettable…

Small Living Room Ideas: 10 Ways to Make Your Space Feel Bigger
12Sep

Small Living Room Ideas: 10 Ways to Make Your Space Feel Bigger

Small space, big dreams? These 10 design secrets will make your living room feel twice its size!

8 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Kitchen Remodel (2024)
11Sep

8 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Kitchen Remodel (2024)

Kitchen remodel got you stressed? Avoid these 8 common design blunders and create a space that's both stunning and timeless.

How Much Does it Cost to Renovate a House in 2024?
10Sep

How Much Does it Cost to Renovate a House in 2024?

Don't let the fear of renovation costs hold you back. This in-depth guide reveals the secrets to budgeting like a pro, making smart design choices, and achieving your dream home…

How to Gauge Furniture Quality for Your Home, Reno, or New Build
16Aug

How to Gauge Furniture Quality for Your Home, Reno, or New Build

Hello, Design Enthusiasts. It’s time for a furniture quality check. Do you know what makes a quality piece of furniture? Today, I’m taking you into the furniture world, exploring how…

10 Small Powder Bathroom Ideas That Make a Big Impact in a Tiny Space
02Aug

10 Small Powder Bathroom Ideas That Make a Big Impact in a Tiny Space

Small powder bathroom ideas focus on maximizing tiny spaces. Whether it's a half bath or a compact full bathroom, there are many ways to create a stylish and functional powder…

7 Reasons Why You Should Use Concrete Gravel Boards for Your Fence
24Jul

7 Reasons Why You Should Use Concrete Gravel Boards for Your Fence

Concrete gravel boards are your fence's stylish, sturdy, and strong shield, protecting it from moisture damage, rot, and pesky critters, ensuring your fence stays beautiful and strong for years to…

These 5 Design Mistakes Are Ruining Your Home’s Potential
22Jul

These 5 Design Mistakes Are Ruining Your Home’s Potential

5 design mistakes are secretly ruining your Florida home's vibe. Learn how to fix them and transform your space from drab to fab!

How to Use Brown and Green Color Combinations in Your Home Decor
11Jul

How to Use Brown and Green Color Combinations in Your Home Decor

Transform your home with the classic brown and green color combination. Learn how to use these earthy tones to create a space that's both stylish and serene.

You Need These 4 Coastal Home Features for the Ultimate Beach House!
10Jul

You Need These 4 Coastal Home Features for the Ultimate Beach House!

Discover the secrets of coastal design and create a Florida home that exudes beachy elegance and relaxed luxury. This guide covers everything from natural light to color palettes and more.

These 5 Genius Interior Design Hacks Will Blow Your Mind! (Pt. 1)
02Jul

These 5 Genius Interior Design Hacks Will Blow Your Mind! (Pt. 1)

Grab a sweet tea and join me as I spill my secrets to a stylish coastal home! Learn how to layer rugs, work mirror magic, fake more space, and more…

Sizzling Summer Happy Hour Recipes: Perfect for Every Cookout
14Jun

Sizzling Summer Happy Hour Recipes: Perfect for Every Cookout

Get ready for the ultimate summer cookout with our collection of sizzling summer happy hour recipes. From refreshing drinks to mouthwatering bites, find everything you need to make your gatherings…

10 Simple Steps to Declutter Your Home
12Jun

10 Simple Steps to Declutter Your Home

Overwhelmed by clutter? Our guide to decluttering your home offers 10 simple and fun steps to transform your space. From creating designated zones to daily tidying tips, achieve a stress-free…

Aging in Place: Making Your Bathroom Safer with Grab Bars
05Jun

Aging in Place: Making Your Bathroom Safer with Grab Bars

Transform your bathroom into a safe haven with stylish grab bars. Learn where to place them, how to install them, and why they're essential for aging in place.

Why Your Dream Kitchen Needs an Island with a Sink
30May

Why Your Dream Kitchen Needs an Island with a Sink

Discover why a kitchen island with a sink is a must-have! Learn about style choices, functionality, and design tips from an interior designer.

The Quintessential Quartz: A Love Affair with Kitchen Countertops
22May

The Quintessential Quartz: A Love Affair with Kitchen Countertops

Quartz countertops are gorgeous and tough, but are they safe? Explore the benefits, health risks, and alternative countertop choices.

10 Must-Try BBQ Sauces: Fire Up Your Grill with These Flavorful Recipes!
17May

10 Must-Try BBQ Sauces: Fire Up Your Grill with These Flavorful Recipes!

Discover 10 essential BBQ sauces with a brief history and cookout tips, plus detailed recipes to fire up your grill!

Kitchen Light Fixtures: Your Guide to a Brighter, More Beautiful Cooking Space
15May

Kitchen Light Fixtures: Your Guide to a Brighter, More Beautiful Cooking Space

Elevate your kitchen's style early on with new kitchen light fixtures! Explore fixture trends, layering tips, and design inspiration for any aesthetic.

My Ultimate Guide: Design the Perfect Mudroom to Banish Beach Chaos
01May

My Ultimate Guide: Design the Perfect Mudroom to Banish Beach Chaos

Get beach house mudroom ideas for a stylish and functional entryway. Find design tips, storage solutions, and inspiration for your home.

Orange Happy Hour: Hosting Friends with Zest and Carotenoids
26Apr

Orange Happy Hour: Hosting Friends with Zest and Carotenoids

Explore the magic of hosting friends with a unique happy hour featuring vibrant orange foods. Discover recipes, health benefits, and more!

How Much to Replace Windows in a House in 2024?
17Apr

How Much to Replace Windows in a House in 2024?

Got a window project on your mind? Here's a guide on how much it costs to have windows replaced and other tips you need to know!

Shrimp-tastic Happy Hour Recipes to Celebrate Amelia Island’s Shrimp Festival
12Apr

Shrimp-tastic Happy Hour Recipes to Celebrate Amelia Island’s Shrimp Festival

Spice up your next happy hour with irresistible shrimp appetizers inspired by Amelia Island's famed Shrimp Festival.

What is a Garden Window and Why Your Kitchen Needs It
10Apr

What is a Garden Window and Why Your Kitchen Needs It

Check out the world of garden windows! Discover how this chic upgrade can transform your kitchen into a sunlit space of joy and greenery.

20 Surprising Walk In Shower Ideas for Your Bathroom Renovation
08Apr

20 Surprising Walk In Shower Ideas for Your Bathroom Renovation

From dreamy designs to practical tips, get all you need to know about sprucing up your space with a stunning walk-in shower.

Saving Money on Your Bathroom Remodel: Tips and Tricks
05Apr

Saving Money on Your Bathroom Remodel: Tips and Tricks

The ultimate guide for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly bathroom remodel.

10 Tub Shower Combo Ideas for 2024
01Apr

10 Tub Shower Combo Ideas for 2024

Tub shower combos are the modern homeowner's secret to blending style, function, and a dash of sass into the bathroom. Here are some ideas you can use for your own…

From Soft to Hard: A Goat Cheese Journey for Your Next Happy Hour
29Mar

From Soft to Hard: A Goat Cheese Journey for Your Next Happy Hour

Join me on a gourmet journey with my guide to the perfect goat cheese happy hour. From expert cheese and wine pairings to crafting the ultimate cheese board, get ready…

How To Work With Orange Floors – 4 Cool Tips
20Mar

How To Work With Orange Floors – 4 Cool Tips

Discover how to make orange hardwood floors a stylish asset in your home with 4 essential tips. Transform rooms effortlessly!

Spring Celebration Happy Hour – Savor the Flavors
15Mar

Spring Celebration Happy Hour – Savor the Flavors

Kick off your Spring Happy Hour with flair! Explore vibrant cocktails and delectable appetizers that are sure to elevate any spring gathering.

Decorative Pillows: A Mini Guide to Chicness
13Mar

Decorative Pillows: A Mini Guide to Chicness

Discover how to transform your home with the perfect decorative pillows. Learn styling tips to make your living spaces oh-so-chic!

How to Style Doorless Showers to Free Up Floor Space in Your Bathroom
06Mar

How to Style Doorless Showers to Free Up Floor Space in Your Bathroom

Explore doorless shower designs that free up floor space, offering a modern, spacious feel. Perfect for any bathroom size, enhancing style and functionality.

Italian-Inspired Book Club Happy Hour: 8 Recipes
01Mar

Italian-Inspired Book Club Happy Hour: 8 Recipes

Discover 8 Italian-inspired recipes perfect for your next book club happy hour. From savory bites to sweet treats, elevate your gathering with these delightful dishes.

Seaside Chic: 6 Time-Tested Kitchen Design Elements for Beach Homes
21Feb

Seaside Chic: 6 Time-Tested Kitchen Design Elements for Beach Homes

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info on Amazon & other Affiliates, go here. Seaside Chic: In my world, it’s a beach house with a timeless design…

Cozy Girls’ Night In: Beat the Winter Doldrums Happy Hour
16Feb

Cozy Girls’ Night In: Beat the Winter Doldrums Happy Hour

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info on Amazon & other Affiliates, go here. Winter’s here, bringing those pesky winter doldrums along for the ride. You…

Top Tips  for Planning Your Bathroom Renovation
08Feb

Top Tips  for Planning Your Bathroom Renovation

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  For more info on Amazon & other Affiliates, go here. Are you gearing up for a bathroom renovation? Every homeowner daydreams of…

 The Science of Lighting Design: Understanding Natural vs. Artificial Light
17Jan

 The Science of Lighting Design: Understanding Natural vs. Artificial Light

Get ready…this one’s a doozy! Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt calm, energized, or even transported to another world? Chances are, the lighting played a huge…

Winter’s Embrace: Wine Down with Irresistible Comfort Food
12Jan

Winter’s Embrace: Wine Down with Irresistible Comfort Food

It’s winter, and leaving the house on chilly days? Well, that’s an adventure of its own. But fear not because Wine Down is here to turn your cold-weather blues into…

Designing 2024: 5 Tips for Stylish Home Organization
31Dec

Designing 2024: 5 Tips for Stylish Home Organization

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Welcome to a year of design, purpose, and boundless possibilities! As we step into the canvas of 2024, let’s start by…

Cookie Swap Countdown: A Dozen Delicious Reasons to Celebrate Happy Hour
16Dec

Cookie Swap Countdown: A Dozen Delicious Reasons to Celebrate Happy Hour

Get ready to take the traditional Christmas cookie swap to new heights. This isn’t just a gathering; it’s a festive rendezvous with friends, a celebration of the season, and a…

Coffee Bar Chic: Nailing the Latest Trends for Home Brews
08Dec

Coffee Bar Chic: Nailing the Latest Trends for Home Brews

Discover how to create your own home coffee bar and become your own barista. Save money and impress guests with stylish, functional setups and tips. Join me on this caffeinated…

Chili Cook-Off: Where Flavor Takes Center Stage
01Dec

Chili Cook-Off: Where Flavor Takes Center Stage

Hey fellow foodies, recently, my neighborhood buzzed with excitement as amateur chefs showcased their chili recipes in our first Chili Cook-Off. The event was a flavor-filled extravaganza, with neighbors eagerly…

The Power of a Comprehensive Color Consultation
21Nov

The Power of a Comprehensive Color Consultation

Do you need a color intervention? A color transformation? Think of this blog post as your backstage pass into the behind-the-scenes magic of a True Color Expert™. I’m spilling the…

Bolster Pillows for Effortless Bed Styling
30Oct

Bolster Pillows for Effortless Bed Styling

The bolster pillow is one of my favorite accessories because it’s so versatile – it can be used as a finishing touch on a sofa, a bench, a chair, or…

Savoring Chiarello’s Legacy: A Napa Style Happy Hour
27Oct

Savoring Chiarello’s Legacy: A Napa Style Happy Hour

When I think of Mediterranean-Rustic design and gourmet indulgence, the first name that comes to mind is Chef Michael Chiarello. Known for his exquisite taste and culinary expertise, Chiarello brought…

How to Infuse West Coast Cool into Your Kitchen
24Oct

How to Infuse West Coast Cool into Your Kitchen

When it comes to coastal interior design, the West Coast Cool style is a beacon of light. It brings a unique blend of elements that embody the relaxed, airy vibe…

Fall Happy Hour with Delicious Fall Flavors
20Oct

Fall Happy Hour with Delicious Fall Flavors

Hey there, fellow flavor enthusiasts! As we sail through October, I’ve crafted a Fall-inspired happy hour menu that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Picture this: a symphony…

Elevate Your Space with a Coastal Color Palette!
16Oct

Elevate Your Space with a Coastal Color Palette!

Hey there, fellow beach lovers and interior design enthusiasts! Today, I’m spilling the sandy secrets of infusing that blissful coastal vibe into your home using a few coastal color palettes.…

Fall Harvest: Sip, Snack, and Savor at Your Next Happy Hour
13Oct

Fall Harvest: Sip, Snack, and Savor at Your Next Happy Hour

Hey there, fabulous foodies! We’re diving headfirst into the Fall Harvest season with a collection of recipes that’ll leave you swooning. From smoky sips to sweet treats, we’ve got it…

12 Space-Saving Hacks for Small Bathrooms: Making the Most of Limited Square Footage
09Oct

12 Space-Saving Hacks for Small Bathrooms: Making the Most of Limited Square Footage

Are you a space-challenged bathroom owner? The smallest full bathroom allowed is 5′ x 8′; that’s a mere 40 square feet! I know the struggle of trying to fit everything…

Hosting a Tailgate Happy Hour at Home: The Ultimate Tailgate Party
05Oct

Hosting a Tailgate Happy Hour at Home: The Ultimate Tailgate Party

Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with a Tailgate Happy Hour at home? This casual, fun, and sophisticated gathering brings the spirit of the…

Winning Wallpaper: A Guide to Wallpaper Designs and Wall Covering Options
02Oct

Winning Wallpaper: A Guide to Wallpaper Designs and Wall Covering Options

Do you dread wallpaper? I bet it’s not because you think it’s “old fashioned” or out of style or ugly; I bet it’s because you think it’s a giant pain…

Eastern Shore Wine Down: Flavors of the Chesapeake
28Sep

Eastern Shore Wine Down: Flavors of the Chesapeake

I'm smitten with the Chesapeake Bay's flavors! Oysters, Maryland crab dip, and those adorable little soft-shell crabs... Oh my! And let's not forget the Berger Cookies - they're simply irresistible.

Colorful Home Interiors: Beat Back the All-Gray
25Sep

Colorful Home Interiors: Beat Back the All-Gray

Transform your dull gray rooms into vibrant, joyful spaces with these colorful interior design tips. Say goodbye to monotony and hello to a home that makes you smile every day!

8 Recipes for the Ultimate Late Summer Party in the Hamptons
19Sep

8 Recipes for the Ultimate Late Summer Party in the Hamptons

Entertain Hamptons style with 8 delicious late summer recipes. Discover how to throw the ultimate Hamptons-inspired happy hour with seasonal foods.

Shiplap Walls: A Guide to Using Horizontal and Vertical Planks
18Sep

Shiplap Walls: A Guide to Using Horizontal and Vertical Planks

Uncover the real story behind shiplap walls and explore stunning inspiration for using horizontal, vertical, and beadboard designs in your home.

Big Fat Greek Menu
15Sep

Big Fat Greek Menu

Experience a Greek staycation with our Big Fat Greek Menu! Discover delicious Greek foods, recipes, and happy hour ideas that bring the taste of Greece to your home."

Designer Backsplash: What Your Kitchen Reno Needs
14Sep

Designer Backsplash: What Your Kitchen Reno Needs

Discover how to achieve a flawless designer backsplash by hiding kitchen electrical outlets. Learn practical tips and design solutions to keep your kitchen looking stunning and functional.

Birthday Happy Hour
08Sep

Birthday Happy Hour

Celebrate my birthday with me. I've got the best happy hour recipes and loads of champs!