Small houses are more than just compact spaces—they’re a celebration of smart design, affordability, and charm. Whether you’re drawn to their cozy aesthetics, minimal environmental footprint, or budget-friendly appeal, small houses offer a big opportunity to live efficiently without sacrificing style. Proving that less can be more, enjoy today’s collection of small house exteriors. A…
Who doesn’t love the intricate beauty of a Victorian home? There’s nothing quite like it, although I imagine there are a few minimalists that aren’t smitten with this era of architecture. Victorian houses originated in the UK in the 19th century and are named after Queen Victoria. The architecture spread into the U.S. and lasted…
Historic homes. I fell in love with them back when I was 18 years young. They have soul, quirks, and oddities that you just won’t find anywhere else. And when you walk along historic streets, no two house exteriors are alike. My own house is over 150 years old and I take a bit of…
Typically we look to our walls and floors when choosing basic decorating details to define a room’s character, space, and vibe. But what about the ceiling? Not every home has an architectural ceiling, but you can give it a little pizazz with faux beams, paint – even wallpaper. See today’s collection of ceiling treatment ideas…
Older homes get a lot of attention here at Town and Country Living, but new homes can be equally charming and unique if they’re custom built. Today I’m featuring a new house porch collection that proves you can add character to new construction. Each porch and home has its own unique details that create interesting…
Pink is such a fun, cheery color. Some people love it, some people – not so much. One thing I have to say, anytime I see a pink house while driving around, I always smile. When I was in college, there was an Indiana farm where all the outbuildings were painted pink. Not a red…
Snow has a way of slowing everything down, and in Wheaton, Illinois, it brings out the quiet beauty of the town’s historic homes. From stately Victorians to charming bungalows, fresh snowfall highlights architectural details, softens the landscape, and gives these beloved houses an almost storybook charm during the winter months. (Note: at the end of…
Fresh snow has a magical way of transforming neighborhoods into a real-life Christmas postcard. Charming homes become even more enchanting as wreaths dress up front doors, and evergreens are wrapped beneath snowy blankets. I was in Wheaton, Illinois this week and couldn’t leave without capturing some of the beautiful Christmas homes. Not all are decorated,…
Unique windows have a remarkable way of shaping the character of a room and the soul of a home. They’re more than simple openings in a wall; they frame the landscape, usher in shifting daylight, and create a sense of connection between indoors and out. Whether they’re tall and architectural, charmingly paned, or quietly tucked…
Tucked within the tree-lined streets of Hinsdale, Illinois, the Robbins Park Historic District is a treasure trove of architectural charm and local history. Established in the late 1800s, this picturesque neighborhood showcases an array of well-preserved homes reflecting styles such as Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and Prairie School. Each home tells a story of…
Tucked along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, the charming town of St. Joseph is home to an array of beautifully preserved historic homes that tell the story of its past. From stately Victorians with ornate details to cozy cottages full of character, these dwellings reflect the craftsmanship and architectural styles of bygone eras. The first…
What was once a sacred gathering place is now a renovated church home filled with warmth, comfort, and beauty for everyday living. The 1892 St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church was deconsecrated and lovingly transformed by Foster Design Farm into a three-bedroom retreat that feels both extraordinary and familiar. Photo by foster design farm Exposed…
One of the main reasons I’m such a huge fan of older homes is the architectural details that you just don’t find in most houses built today. Bulls-eye trim, room pillars, arched doorways, and all those wonderful things that add character to a home. Yes, you can certainly have them in a new home, but…
Cape Cod porches capture the easygoing charm of coastal New England living, where salt-tinged breezes mingle with the scent of blooming hydrangeas. These inviting spaces, often adorned with weathered Adirondack chairs or wicker seating, offer the perfect perch for watching fishing boats set out at dawn or savoring a golden summer sunset. Whether modest and…
Tucked away at the eastern tip of Nantucket Island, Siasconset, affectionately known as ‘Sconset, is a village of timeless charm, architectural heritage, and captivating coastal beauty. When planning my recent trip to Cape Cod, the main thing on my bucket list was to visit this charming location that appears to be a little lost in…
The journey from Hyannis to Nantucket is a must-experience New England adventure. The salt air, sweeping ocean views, and the promise of stepping into a place where time slows down is an attraction I didn’t want to miss during our recent trip to Cape Cod. While the ferry ride is a memorable part of the…
