A New Look

Welcome to the blog today, friends! I’m so happy to have you here as I share a peek into one of the most beloved spots in our home. The bonus room has always been a bit of a chameleon—playing the part of a guest room, a hobby space, and, yes, a spot for storage when I didn’t know where else to put things! But now, it’s truly becoming a little haven all my own.

I’ve infused the room with touches that feel both welcoming and cozy—a blend of soft colors, vintage details, and a hint of whimsy. It’s a space where I can curl up with a book, get in a workout, or simply let my mind wander and dream. There’s something so special about having a little corner that reflects your personality and brings you a sense of peace.

So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s take a closer look around. I can’t wait to show you!

In the photo above, you can see that the foundation of the room’s cozy feel is a lovely flowered, circular carpet in soft, soothing pastel colors. It really sets the tone for this little retreat. The focal point is the daybed, which I created using an antique Victorian-style iron bed that we found as part of a twin set several years ago. After a bit of elbow grease—stripping and repainting the metal frame—it’s now a charming piece that adds character and history to the room.

Next to the bed is a solid cherry side table that holds a special place in my heart. My husband refinished it beautifully, and its rich cherry tones complement the soft hues in the carpet, tying the room together with a warm, cohesive feel. Perched on top is a delicate antique lamp with a bright white shade that adds just the right amount of light for cozy evenings spent reading or reflecting.

Above the bed is a charming gallery wall that my husband made. It’s filled with some of our favorite snapshots from a magical trip to Ireland a few years ago—a reminder of cherished memories and places that make us smile every time we look at it.

The finishing touch in the room is the set of lined draperies, which I stumbled upon at a nearby thrift store. Made by Waverly fabrics, they feature a soft white and mauve check pattern that gently filters in light. I love how they add a soft, cottage-like charm to the space, making it feel peaceful and inviting—a room that’s all about comfort, reflection, and a touch of nostalgia.

Along one wall stands a beautiful bow-shaped antique dresser with a matching mirror—a piece that brings a touch of timeless elegance to the space. The softly curved lines of the dresser add just the right amount of femininity, creating a gentle contrast to the sharper lines found elsewhere in the room. It’s one of those special pieces that effortlessly elevates the entire room, giving it a sense of grace and warmth.

The back wall is home to wooden bookcases, lovingly finished by my husband. I use these shelves to display and store dishes, glasses, and all sorts of decorative pieces that I incorporate into my home and seasonal tablescapes. It’s like having a little curated gallery at my fingertips! There’s something so satisfying about being able to see what you have and thoughtfully select pieces that complement each other. Every item on these shelves holds a story or memory, making it easy to find inspiration for my next creation.

I added another shelving unit on the wall opposite the dresser to accommodate some additional china. Things are tucked away nicely but you can still see everything that is available.

An antique bookcase found its way onto that wall as well, and it’s one of my favorite pieces in the room. The soft green paint has aged beautifully over time, with a delicate crackle that gives it a wonderful patina and texture—almost like a piece that whispers stories from years gone by. The solid wooden shelves inside are perfect for holding my overflow crystal pieces, keeping them safe yet beautifully visible.

I’ve topped the bookcase with a few of my beloved pottery pieces, each one unique and thoughtfully placed. It’s amazing how something so simple as a perfectly aged bookcase can add so much charm and character to a space. It makes me smile every time I pass by, reminding me that even the smallest details can create a room filled with warmth and personality.

A nice chair for relaxing is diagonal to the day bed. It’s in a soft yellow color and reclines for napping or reading. It’s a favorite spot on a rainy day.

The window wall is a true highlight of the room, with three large windows that let in an abundance of natural light. On a chilly winter’s day, it’s wonderful to curl up in the sunshine and soak up every golden ray that streams through. It makes the entire room feel like a bright, welcoming haven, no matter how cold it might be outside. And during the warmer summer months, the shades are lowered to keep things comfortably cool, transforming the space into a tranquil, restful retreat.

With all that room, it’s the perfect spot to unroll your yoga mat and spend a quiet hour stretching and unwinding. There’s something so restorative about deep breathing while the light filters in—every breath seems to bring a sense of calm to your entire being. It’s a space where you can really let go, allowing both mind and body to find a little peace.

Thank you so much for joining me as I’ve shared this special space with you! It’s been a joy putting this room together, and it’s become so much more than just the “dish room.” It’s a place that feels uniquely mine—filled with cherished pieces, sunny spots, and a sense of calm that I look forward to each day.

And, of course, almost everything in here was a thrifted find. There’s something so rewarding about giving these pieces a new life and creating a space that feels collected and full of stories. Each item, from the antique bookcase to the delicate crystal, has found its place here, and I love how it’s all come together. I hope it’s inspired you to create your own special corner, filled with the things that make you smile. See you next time, friends!