After over a decade in our Mediterranean-style home in Austin, I’ve documented much of our design evolution—from kitchen updates to new plaster walls and backyard renovations. It's been a rewarding journey, and I'm thrilled to finally present a comprehensive tour of our home. Join me as I share insights and details about each room, and don't forget to check out the video below for a visual walkthrough!
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of each area in our home…
Our Home’s Story
My husband Adam found this property 16 years ago while we were dating. An old 1950s home sat on a lot that was heavily overgrown, obscuring the views. We recognized its potential and finally acquired the property after a year of negotiation.
During our first year of marriage, we collaborated with architect Ryan Street to build a new home from scratch. This was my first major design project, and although I felt overwhelmed, the experience ignited a passion for design in both of us. We learned so much and still cherish the result after all these years.
After living here for 13 years, we continually look for ways to refresh our home, tackling one or two projects each year to keep it evolving.
Our Home's Aesthetic
When asked about our home's style, I often describe it as “warm minimalism.” While I draw inspiration from various sources, I aim for simplicity that doesn’t sacrifice warmth and comfort.
We also embrace a Mediterranean influence, inspired by our honeymoon in Italy. The architecture and outdoor spaces captivated us, leading us to incorporate materials like terra cotta and plaster, along with plants such as olive trees and jasmine.
Wall Treatments
Many ask about our wall color. Three years ago, we plastered our entire home, and I’ve been enchanted by the old-world character it brings. I had always wanted a matte, earthy finish, and discovered American Clay, a natural earth plaster from New Mexico that perfectly matched my vision. We used the shade Forté White downstairs, and I even left some walls bare to showcase the plaster's beauty.
Living Room Details
My living room highlights natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The standout feature is the large steel doors that open to the patio, creating a lovely connection to the backyard. Designed by Rehme Steel Windows & Doors, they enhance my mood significantly by letting sunlight pour in.
Shop my living room:
Healdsburg Small Wicker Swivel Chair
$1,295 at Casa Zuma$1,510 at Dear KeatonCarmel Wide Arm Return Bumper Sectional
$3,998 at Pottery BarnExplore more about the living room and our recent updates.
Kitchen and Dining Area
Our kitchen is the heart of our home, where we create meals and gather for family time. This space can be challenging due to limited natural light, but I use strategic colors and decor to brighten it up.
Initially, we installed a stainless steel vent hood that I later replaced with a custom plaster hood that dramatically improved the aesthetic. It features a hidden ventilation system covered in American Clay.
We upgraded our countertops to bright white Caesarstone in Cloudburst Concrete, known for its beauty and durability, adding a waterfall edge and a seamless sink.
Shop my kitchen:
$110 at Casa Zuma$72 at Casa Zuma$92 at Casa ZumaLearn more about our kitchen renovations here.
Backyard Bliss
Our backyard is my favorite spot, a space that has taken 12 years to develop into a beautiful oasis—truly a labor of love.
We enjoy our outdoor lounge area, often sharing meals around the coffee table while relaxing on cushions.
The infinity pool was designed to feel integrated into a cliff, giving a unique experience as if suspended among the trees. We swim from March to November, and the pool's deep blue color evokes Mediterranean waters.
Our home is elevated on a 30-foot retaining wall, and the lower backyard has undergone significant transformation. Once an unusable dirt slope, it is now a stunning space that has gained recognition online, including features in Architectural Digest. We typically tackle one or two major projects here each year and will likely continue to enhance this area.
Explore the complete backyard design, including plants and fire pit details.
Primary Bedroom Retreat
Our bedroom serves as a sanctuary from busy days. I love the corner window for morning coffee and often sit there to journal or read at night.
Many ask about our custom bed, crafted from unstained white oak with sconces integrated beside it, featuring hidden switches in the nightstand.
Discover more about the bed design in our bedroom tour.
Shop my bedroom:
Pascal Upholstered Swivel Barrel Chair
$1,558 at Wayfair$795 at Casa Zuma$3,798 at Lulu and Georgia
My Cozy Office Nook
This alcove office adjacent to the kitchen is where I usually work. A couple of years ago, I revamped it by replacing the old desk and cabinetry with a sleek, floating white oak desk. It’s the perfect spot to focus while still being close to my family during meals or activities.
Check out the full office tour.
Media Room
This space has served various purposes over the years—from home gym to office, and now it’s our media room for family movie nights and gaming sessions.
I kept the decor simple and budget-friendly, selecting items that match the overall vibe of our home but are also durable enough for kids. Get the Sourcebook ->
Shop the media room:
$329 at Pottery Barn Teen$30 at Etsy$999 at Castlery
The Studio Space
Welcome to my team's studio! We produce many recipes here, and since our kitchen lacks natural light, we transformed the back room from a guest bedroom into a bright studio for recipe and product shoots.
I documented the budget-friendly transformation from guest room to studio kitchen here. It’s a collaborative space that fuels creativity.
Get the Sourcebook ->
Family Office Area
This is our family office, where Adam typically works while I use my alcove. We strive to keep this space minimal and tidy as it often becomes cluttered with Casa Zuma prototypes and samples. A clear space is essential for a clear mind. Get the Sourcebook ->
Explore the full office tour here.
Shop the office space:
$1,498 at Lulu and Georgia$245 at Casa Zuma$699 at Pottery Barn
Meditation Room
This loft area has transformed from playroom to TV room and now serves as my meditation space. Here, I can relax, practice yoga, or escape to recharge in a serene environment.
Discover the complete meditation room tour here.
Shop this space:
Round Natural Pine Wood Coffee Table Center Table
$551 at Homary$79 at Urban Outfitters$195 at Jenni Kayne Home
Henry’s Space
I haven’t shared much of my kids’ rooms since they were nurseries! I believe in letting them express themselves, so their spaces reflect their personalities. Henry's room is simple and organized—he recently received a larger desk for his Legos and Star Wars collection. The poster above his bed features the lyrics to Hotel California, his favorite song, which I framed for him.
Shop Henry’s room:
Norre 2-Piece Modular Desk w/ Drawers
$699 at West ElmKeeva Modern Striped Fringe Area Rug
$324 at Target$2,298 at Serena and Lily
Phoebe’s Room
Phoebe is a bit more expressive than her brother—she adores beauty products, stuffed animals, and various collections. Both kids enjoy large windows overlooking trees, making their rooms feel like treehouses with stunning views of downtown Austin. Watching the skyline at night is truly magical.
Check out Phoebe’s previous toddler room (I miss it!)
Shop Phoebe’s room:
Nadia Moroccan-Style Leather Pouf
$329 at Pottery Barn$349 at Urban OutfittersBed Threads French Flax Linen Duvet Cover
$290 at Urban OutfittersThank you for joining this tour! Our home has been a cherished space that mirrors our journey and creativity, with every room telling a unique story. We welcome your questions in the comments of the video on YouTube, and feel free to sign up for the Sourcebook for links to everything featured!
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