The CKD Blog
Where Sarah, and sometimes Steve, share design projects, renovation advice, and other project-related insights.
The Gulf Breeze Rental: Progress & Design Plan
I want to share what we have been working on since the last time you saw the Gulf Breeze rental property, along with the design plan I have put together for countertops, cabinets, hardware, and lighting…
Gulf Cottage Rental: History & Construction Plans
Well, we’ve done it again…we scooped up another property, the Gulf Breeze Cottage Rental, and we can’t wait to renovate it. Today, I’m walking you through the history of the project, the design, and our renovation goals. Come take a look…
The Coastal Reno: 5 Incredible, Built-In Kitchen Features
A couple of weeks ago, we revealed The Coastal Reno, our latest kitchen remodel with a coastal vibe. We completely renovated the kitchen from a dark, dated, and closed-off space to a beautiful open kitchen filled with natural light. Today, we’re sharing the 5 must-have kitchen features we included in our client’s home. If your kitchen is missing any of these, you may feel inspired to add them to your wish list!
The Coastal Reno: A Colorful Kitchen Remodel in Milton
Since moving to the Emerald Coast, Steve and I have taken on some dramatic kitchen remodels, and this coastal home transformation didn’t disappoint. This project required serious problem solving and creativity, which we took in stride. Stay tuned for the beautiful project reveal…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: New Kitchen, Bedrooms & Bathrooms
We’re back at the 1940s Fixer Upper and ready to take you inside this newly redesigned home, including the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Come take a peek…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: New Exterior, Backyard, and Sunroom
After over a year of construction, our 1940s Fixer Upper is finally complete! We took this home down to the studs, raised it back up again, and found a whole lot of joy along the way. Ready to see the finished exterior, backyard, and sunroom? Follow me…
1940s Fixer Upper: Patience & Progress in Pensacola
Wow…it’s been 6 months since we’ve updated you on our 1940s Fixer Upper! If you had told us last February (when we closed on the house) that this would be a 12-month remodel, I would have said, “No way.” Yes way. Progress has been slow, patience has been at an all-time high, but after many months, we are finally nearing the finish line. We couldn’t be happier. Here is what we have experienced and achieved since the last update…
The Story of Tile Installation Gone Wrong (With a Happy Ending)
One of the most significant line items for a bathroom renovation with a fully tiled shower is the cost of building the shower and installing the tile. It will be tempting to want to save money on the install by hiring an installer who will do the job for less and use less expensive materials… but is the savings worth it?
3 Myths About Renovating Your Home Before Listing
Steve and I always get asked, “Should I renovate my house before I sell it?” Our answer is: Proceed with caution when spending time and money fixing a house for the next owner. Today, I’m busting 3 myths about renovating before moving. I’m also sharing 5 tips to help you decide if renovating is worth the investment. Come take a look...
The 1940s Fixer Upper: Changing up the Floor Plan
Today, I’m sharing our process for creating a floor plan, along with the specific updates we will be making to create a family-friendly home…
The 1940s Fixer Upper: What Demo Day Looks Like in Real Life
Wondering what Demo Day looks like in real life? Grab your safety goggles, and come take a look...
The 1940s Fixer Upper: Creating the Design Plan
Since we are renovating this home for resale, ideally to a lovely young family, the strategy behind the design is different than it would be if we were renovating it for ourselves or for a client. That said, I still want to WOW people who see the final result… and I know that can be done with some thought and planning.