Wednesday, June 12, 2013

the barn room


































































































































To read the "details" about this room click HERE.

217 comments:

  1. Absolutely beautiful,just like the rest of your home, and well worth waiting for!

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  2. AMAZING! Well worth the wait. I can't wait for the details!

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  3. This is such a stunning room. I absolutey love everything. Great decor and the feeling is so inviting. Fabulous inspiration too. Thanks for the tour, gorgeous. Hugs, Marty

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  4. Oh my good god!!!!! My jaw is STILL on the floor. The details of that room are so spectacular I can't get over it. Not breathing. Someone call 911. (I changed my signature, even tho my new blog isn't up yet - Carol from 6 Wilson) :-)

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    1. Carol,

      EMS will be to your house as soon as they leave mine. I'm still trying to catch my breath. Seriously. Oh, my goodness...have you ever seen something so beautiful...so comfortable?

      Tina

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  5. Wow! So beautiful and warm. You guys have done a wonderful job transforming your "barn" into a gracious part of your home.

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  6. It's stunning! Every inch is so beautiful and thought out. I could look at these pictures all day!

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  7. BEAUTIFUL!!! The way you layered the subtle colors and different textures reminds me of John Saladino's work :) Thank you for sharing with us!

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  8. LOVE EVERYTHING! Thanks for the inspiration!

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  9. Have mercy. I fainted. Beautiful, stunning, 1000 other words of adoration. I'll see you tomorrow, bags packed. :)

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  10. FOR THE LOVE OF A BARNROOMqqq

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  11. Oh WOW, it is just amazing. Where does one even begin, I am loving that botanical wall, so gorgeous. I know that every little detail must have a story and I look forward to reading about each and every one. I particularly love the fireplace with the stone hearth, the faux(?) fur throw is a nice touch, your bar area, I am LOVING that piece of furniture. Oh my, do you feel the love? This was a room worth the wait, definitely and I had not realized or maybe had not remembered that it looks like it is so close to the kitchen. What a great room for just enjoying or entertaining.

    Carolyn

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  12. And now, my life is complete!!

    I'm at work, and actually yelled, "OH MY GOD, THE BARN ROOM!" out loud. You may gain more followers now. :)

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    1. I'm actually grateful to be on leave otherwise my scream would have caused a few heart attacks at work - luckily we work in a hospital so the casualties would have been minimal. ;)

      Joan, if you are looking for a maid, I volunteer!

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  13. Oh my it turned out great ! Now the tv is awesome your husband was the cause of that wasn't he ? It's such a great room ! Have a wonderful day

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  14. Joan! Cannot believe this day is finally here ;) The barn room is amazing!!! Thank you for sharing your lovely farmhouse with all of us.
    - Rachel Knowlton

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  15. In the words of Ricky Ricardo..."Girl, you got some 'splainin' to do!"
    I can't wait to read all about it! Thank you for sharing this beauty.
    ~Diane in Rhode Island

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  16. much older sister SusanJune 12, 2013 at 12:51 PM

    Joanie, So beautiful! So welcoming! So lovely! So YOU! I love all the comments and Dawn's adorable comment had me laughing out loud and reading it to Doug.

    love you three

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  17. You will live in this room! It has warmth, fabulous light, space, and plenty of seating space. Well done!

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  18. Oh....Lucky lucky us! What a beautiful space! What is up those four or five steps? your bedrooms?

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  19. expertly curated. The details...the birds on the mantle, antlers etc....even the TV looks good. What a warm and welcoming room

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  20. So soothing, so welcoming, with so many lovely details.
    So well done!

    julie in CT

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  21. lol...I too am at work, and saw this post, and stopped working! OMG! I adore this room! I love the rest of your house also, but this is a room I would have a hard time not wanting to be in all the time. SOOOO WORTH THE WAIT! Can't wait to hear the details.

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  22. Gorgeous, love every detail. Just lovely! So happy happy to finally see it! :-)

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  23. How luvly!!!Luving all the details!
    Happy Wednesday.
    Hugs, Gee

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  24. One of the most beautiful rooms I have ever seen. Definitely saved the best for last! I would love to live in a room like that.

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  25. Ab.so.lute.ly fab.u.lous!!!!! Not that I expected less, you understand. :)

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  26. Worth the wait, as already stated! I was expecting a darker room, but I love the lightness along with the warmth of the furnishings. The barn doors look great...love every detail actually. Will await the details with bated breath!

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  27. Warm, lovely, peaceful, comfortable.... I could definitely lose myself in a book there, maybe even with my eyes closed! ;)

    And btw, I've lost my battle with marble counter tops in my kitchen. Sigh!

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  28. Stunning! It is absolute perfection - it truly is! I love every detail and the colors look beautiful. The chandelier is absolutely gorgeous and I love your choice of paint colors. Thank-you for sharing your home and being such a design inspiration.

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  29. stunning. absolutely stunning. thank you so much for sharing this! you are such a talented, talented visionaire and bring it to life - i truly admire what you have done. amazing. i cannot wait to hear the stories of how it all came together. i am now going to pore over every detail ...
    Jamie

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  30. Dear Joan,
    Having the honor of actually standing in this stunning room, I can say with complete awe and adoration - IT IS MAGNIFICENT! I am utterly speechless by your photographs as they have captured every beautiful detail of what makes this room so amazing. And to think of what you started with...Once again, it's another example your (and Dan's too) vision and hard work. I can't wait to visit again dear friend. Much love, Catherine xoxoxoxxoxo

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  31. much older sister SusanJune 12, 2013 at 1:21 PM

    P.S. Be sure to tell the shell story and the story of the painting over fireplace!

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  32. It must be just spectacular to sit and watch a NH snow storm through the french doors. Blazing fire ,a beverage of choice in your hand. Thank you for showing the photos. I have to look again so much to see.

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  33. This is the prettiest room I have ever seen anywhere. It's perfection in detail, scale, color, balance. I will continue to stare holes in the pictures, hoping I can learn some of the secrets to this beauty and comfort.

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  34. Magnificent! I am very curious about your firebox opening. Is it stucco (or similar) over cinderblock or brick? Terrific "Old World" opening and profile!

    Cheers,
    John

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  35. Dear Joan,
    This is absolutely incredible!! Incredibly beautiful, sophisticated and liveable. From the barn doors to the coffee tables to the wall of herbaria, I love it all. Now I know what you and Dan have been up to these past few months. Congratulations!!
    Cheers,
    Loi

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  36. Swooning! Absolutely and utterly gorgeous. So many elements are incredible, and my eye first noticed those beautiful slipcovers. I can't wait to hear the details and stories behind this room and all the special pieces. Love, love, love XXOO Andrea

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  37. Well, finally the long wait is over!! Absolutely breathtaking and now I must clean up the drool off my keyboard. Love the gorgeous wall color and every tiny detail. More exquisite than I could have imagined.

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  38. Joan,

    The room is breathtaking to say the least, what a cozy, comfortable place to relax and enjoy all the hard work you and Dan have put into your home. I'm sure Ella loves those sofas! I just have one question, I recall you purchasing many yards of linen (say 50 or so) if I recall correctly for slipcovers and curtains, did you change your mind on the curtains?

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  39. So so beautiful! You and Dan have done a fantastic job on this 'barn' room. I really like the wall of flowers. I counted 50 of them! They reflect the light without a mirror. Are they vintage as the date says on the close up? This room belongs in a magazine. I expect it will be one day. Pamela

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    1. I agree, but they better do the entire house and it's going to take take an entire issue to do it justice. Oh, oh, even better, a special edition...

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  40. I am in absolute awe. What a perfect room! I bet it is amazing in person. Well done!

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  41. ...perfect... perfect in every way...my favorite...the old barn doors of course...but then i do love the coffee table...and the sweet birds on the mantel...and then there is the wall of herb aria...and the unexpected shell on the floor...and the colors...the colors are just exactly right...cannot wait for your words to magnify the pictures...blessings laney

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  42. Wow, wow, wow! It's been worth the wait! You've done an amazing job pulling all the pieces together. Wish we could all come for a visit :)

    Hugs & Blessings ...
    Lani
    Simply Fresh Vintage

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  43. I agree with Pamela. I hear Traditional Home calling your name. Wonderful.

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  44. Spectacular!!! Just like Mary Poppins, practically perfect in every way! :)
    Laura

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  45. To Stunning for words, all I know is that I will look at this room over and over again for inspiration! Well done you two, Congrats.
    Sandy and Gord

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  46. O.M.G.! I had to go make a cup of tea so I could look at the pictures over and over again. Worth the wait, for sure! Can't wait for all the explanations. One question though, did you buy the couch or have one slipcovered? It is lovely....and just what I am looking for. Thanks!

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  47. Perfection! You continue to amaze with all you have done to create such a warm and wonderful home. Thanks so much for sharing.

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  48. This room is absolutely beautiful. The floors are gorgeous--what are they?

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  49. Joan,
    This is stunning and may rival some of the other rooms in your home that I count as my "favorites"! Some of the pieces of furniture are spectacular and I hope you'll share some of the stories that undoubtedly exist, knowing you and Dan! :D Beautiful.
    Karen

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  50. I'm so excited to see the pictures of this room, Joan, and to be able to share a little secret for anyone else who reads the comment section. I've experienced this room first hand, and while your photos always capture the essence of your rooms, the totality of that first-hand experience will be something that sticks with me, and inspires me for a life-time.

    This room, and all the parts of it make it, to date, the most beautiful room I've ever seen. (And you know I've seen a lot of rooms!)

    Not only is it comfortable and personal, it's romantic!! It has an incredible charisma that is indescribable, and probably only comes from actually experiencing the space and the rooms that lead to it from the front porch of your awe inspiring farm house.

    The flicker of the candles in those darling mercury glass candle cups, the roar of the fireplace, and it's incredibly welcoming oversized hearth, the softness of linen and velvet pairing, the hotel silver filled with a secret recipe of the most delicious and addicting "hot" rosemary cashews, or Ella and her sweet disposition sitting next to you as you laugh the night away like old friends, after a delicious dinner.

    The whole house is so gorgeous, without a doubt; but the barn room - with it's sophisticated by relaxed, casual but refined, personal but not at all private has a feeling that has taken me from loving your house, to being in love with your home. BRAVO!!

    Thank you for being a constant inspiration, and a great friend!!

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    1. Artie, I am so jealous you got to see this room -- and the rest of Joan's beautiful home -- first hand.
      XO, Victoria

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    2. Victoria,
      I have to tell you that it was so gorgeous in person. Seeing the spaces in real life was like seeing a movie star on the street - you've seen them in pictures, but in real life they're more beautiful and it's so thrilling that you almost forget for a moment where you are!
      And Joan, Dan, and Ella are probably the most beautiful and down to earth people, (and pup people) you'll ever meet. We were greeted with champagne, and puppy kisses from Ella; and Joan let me roam around the house and ask the all the questions that I wanted ... she gave me advice on some things I bought the day before at Brimfield Antique Show, all while throwing together the most delicious beef bourguignon (she even wrote it on the beautiful chalk board in the breakfast room)! I got to throw the ball with Ella, shop with Joan at this beautiful little store in town, (bought my client a rug next door) and spent the rest of the evening laughing and sharing stories in the barn room, which I can assure you - is 100%, HANDS DOWN, the most gorgeous space I've ever seen!
      Joan should totally think about doing tours like Bunny Williams! Lunch with Joan! :) I'd make the 9 hour trek again ... FOR SURE!!
      Oh ... and, yes, her kitchen really looks like that in person ... I know you didn't ask but I'm sure everyone wonders ... Joan really is superwoman! :)

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  51. P.S., Your photos of this space are AWESOME!

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  52. Beautiful! I don't know why, but I was expecting something darker too. Should have known better!

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  53. P.S.S, I just scrolled back through the photos, which I'm sure I'll spend the next hour or so doing, until I get home and start cataloging this to memory! You have to show us, at some point, the stunning vignettes and story behind the bar table; the soapstone and iron, the basket and blue and white collection ... it's magnificent! Of course, if you showed too much of a good thing, I suspect you'd lose a lot of readers due to cardiac arrest! :) Take a bow Joan, take a bow!

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  54. So, so beautiful! This is my favorite room of all, you have done the most wonderful job!
    Layne

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  55. "Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world,..."

    No, wait, what I meant was, Of all the homes in all of blogland, yours is the one that seduces in subtle ways, nothing screaming at me but still tugging at me, making me want to linger, study details and soak in the calm beauty. Nothing is by chance but yet nothing looks forced, like a ballerina who makes her movements look effortless.

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  56. Worth the wait!! Looking forward to hearing all the details. :)

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  57. Can't wait to read all the details! I love seeing so many of the pieces you have found here and there restored and brought together. One thing I don't see that I was curious about was the Victorian sofa that you found in someone's barn (I think). What happened to it?

    Can't wait for the next post... and the next.... and the next... as I'm sure it will take several to cover all the pieces and their stories!

    Thanks,
    Catherine

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  58. Love love love everything! Thank you so much for sharing!
    The blue-gray color on the walls does it for me! What is it?

    Thanks,
    Inga

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  59. I just noticed something...... are the baseboards wall color or is that an illusion?

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  60. Thank you for the beautiful reminder to stay true to my style and what I love....the furnishings mix is wonderful and the browns and blues are lovely. I don't have a barn room but, I can get plenty of ideas out of your room... making my small space charming as well. Thanks.

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  61. I have just received a present! Your absence was sorely missed but it was worth the wait. The barn room is spectacular; your descriptive details will deliver the next gift to your readers.
    Thank you.
    Betsy (a former New Hampshire 'gal')

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  62. Wow!!! The barn room turned out amazing!!! I hate to say that I'd expect no less after seeing your eye for design and how perfect the rest of how your house is. Please keep the eye candy coming!!! I've missed reading your blog and I'm so happy your technical difficulties are fixed. ;)

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  63. Awe inspiring. You know how to decorate. Your entire home is tre magnifique!!!!!This room is worthy of being on the cover of Traditional Home.

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  64. Every time you post a room, I think it is more beautiful than the last. The barn room is no exception. I love every element of it and can't wait to hear the stories behind each item.

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  65. So, I am new to reading this blog. What is it you all do for a living that allows for the creation of such beautiful interiors? I need to work on that piece first, before I can then do the creative part, I think.

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    1. Nancy, I always wonder the same thing when I see incredible homes like these! Isn't this such a special room?

      I don't know about you, buy my current income doesn't match my lofty design aspirations. So until the two align (and I know they will someday!), I'm taking copious notes and forever training my eye to discern exactly what makes a room like this one so beautiful. ~ Amy C.

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    2. Nancy, Like you I always wonder the same. I do know that no matter what the source of income I love stalking such a beautiful home. I am green with envy.

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    3. Pam, Nancy and Amy,

      While I don't speak for Joan, you'll read from many of her details posts that she incorporates frugal elements into her designs. She's apparently a fan of IKEA and Costco, for example; and she and Dan have designed and built many pieces in their interiors and exteriors.

      You can do this, too! I'm of limited means, and last winter decided I wanted an herbarium display. Since spring, I've collected about 2 dozen leaf and flower collections from my yard, and they are pressing in books waiting to be framed in a collage for my dining room wall. The collections were free... the frames (I wanted thin = cheap) are about $4 each from my local grocer, and I'll write in pencil the species of each. I'll complete this project for less than $75. Last year, I admired Restoration Hardware's French Industrial shelves, which were about $1400 each. I sourced a local welder for the metal frames and some wood shelving from Menards, and now I have 3 of them for less than $500.

      While there are some items that cannot be replicated--I'm pretty sure I couldn't quarry Joan's lovely soapstone countertops!--there are many elements of decor that can be created and/or sourced for much less than you'd expect if you search the Internet and apply some DIY. Joan's a great inspiration, not just for what she presents, but because she's not afraid of some elbow grease along the way.

      Warm wishes!
      Angela

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    4. Nancy, I have been on limited income for decor forever but I am resourceful and creative. You can still have a beautiful home on a budget. It will just take time, so you cannot be in a rush, but you must be diligent in picking up things when the opportunity is there and sticking to your goal. Buying antiques is having an appreciation for used items, so sometimes you can buy used reproductions and refinish them to look even better. First rule is you must know what your style is and plan the changes your are going to make. Then research, save, and take action, but most of all enjoy the process of the transformation.

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  66. Nothing else was expected other than this perfection! An absolutely beautiful room. I would love to slowly walk around and take it all in. Thanks so much for finally sharing the room. It looks finished...why were you waiting to share. Glad you did. The herbariums are stunning!

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  67. That is one of the most beautiful rooms I have ever seen.

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  68. A room that is 100% ME! Every. Last. Detail. Is. Perfection! I have never seen a space as close to my heart as this one! ~Kim

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  69. It is absolutely beautiful, Joan. I love the wall color. Are the walls plastered? The coffee table and the little tripod table are unique and beautiful. I love the herbaria wall and the overall comfy, inviting look of the room. The list could go on because there isn't anything in this room I don't love. Kudos to you my dear.
    XO, Victoria

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  70. I'm truly speechless, Joan... what an amazing space, full of layers and texture, beauty and interest. I'm going to have to look at these photos over and over again to soak in all its wonder.
    xo Heidi

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  71. Wow! I could stay here "till the cows come home"--a local saying. Absolutely stunning.

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  72. Swoon! Perfect! Gorgeous! I am at work, and I screamed out loud, "finally!" The pictures of your house make me so very happy. Inspiration overload. I love, love that huge clam shell on the floor. The barn room belongs in a magazine! Totally worth the wait! Robyn C.

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  73. Absolutely positively magnificent, Joan! Every single little detail is perfection!

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  74. Joan,

    It would take a herd of horses to drag me out of that room!!! My absolute favorite is the view looking up toward the kitchen and that AMAZING barn door...heaven right here on New England earth!!

    Sister Mary, Ruth's happy sister!

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  75. Gorgeous! Looking forward to finding out the details - the synchronistic find, the clever adaptation, Dan's ingenuity, the piece you've had just waiting for the perfect spot, the antique with a story of its own. I'm sure there's a great story here.

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  76. So real and so beautiful!!!!! You make me miss New England!!!!
    You are talented beyond words - great work!!!

    Nancy
    North Carolina, previously Boston

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  77. Is that blue or grey on your walls? Lovely choice!

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  78. Dear Joan,
    What can I say that hasen't already been said? Perfection, attention to detail, the perfect mix, casual but oh so elegant, words don't do it justice. Your entire home is a constant source of inspiration. Please keep doing what you do best.
    Thanks for making my day!
    Dawn R.

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  79. Joan,

    Your sneak peak was like seeing the gifts all wrapped and under the tree, and anxiously awaiting Christmas morning. But now that the gifts are open, I want to continue savoring them all day (week, month,...).

    Beautiful choices for a livable space. I keep scrolling back to note more details! I can't wait to read the stories behind it all.

    Thank you for taking the time to document and share your home! I've been rereading your previous posts as I settle in to my house, seeking and finding) inspiration.

    Your NH friend,
    Granite Meg (the 'meginvt' has to go!)

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  80. So cosy! A good book, glass of wine and that open fire. Perfect.

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  81. Are you kidding me!! You are amazing!! Just beautiful.

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  82. No seriously, your barn room is amazing! So inviting and cozy. I want to live there! To die for! ~Delores

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  83. Stunning - words were not necessary!!! I love it!!!

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  84. This is one of the most gorgeous rooms I've ever seen. So serene and comfortable. And the first glimpse was just breathtaking. As much as I love the rest of your house, I do think you and Dan have outdone yourselves with this beautiful room. Can't wait to see it in a magazine. Thank you for sharing from a big fan who has followed you from the very beginning. So glad you're back. And hugs to Ella!

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  85. Wow Joan is that ever gorgeous. I love how inviting and warm it is, large but not overwhelming and so elegant. I can see it being as beautiful when the snow is falling as when the sun is shining and its 80 degrees! You must be so thrilled.....love the art collection, fabulous....every inch!

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  86. Soon I'm going to be classified as a stalker because I have looked at the photos of this room at least 10 different times today! I can't get enough.

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  87. Breathtaking! It's perfect! Can't wait for the "details" post.

    xoxo,
    Lauren Ashley

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  88. This is just beautiful!! Love everything about the barn room.
    You are so talented.
    Thank you for sharing,
    Julie

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  89. Oh. my. goodness. Are you even kidding me? This space is perfection! I love every nook and cranny. Fan-freaking-tastic! I'm blown away!

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  90. Wow!! Absolutely beautiful! Thank you for the beautiful picture tour. :)

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  91. Joan, The barn room is Gorgeous!! Beautifully decorated and I love the fireplace and the wood walls & ceiling.
    xx,
    Sherry

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  92. Absolutely LOVE everything about it!!! Looking forward to all the details and stories behind your fabulous finds. So worth the wait! And so happy to have you back!

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  93. Such a beautiful space -- would you be willing to give us the source for the her biers?
    Thanks so much,
    Lauren

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  94. I guess I'm late to the party. The room is just as I expected. It's a wonderful extension of the rest of house. Sophisticated but more relaxed. I love the lamps behind the sofa. And for some reason I thought the barn door was on the wall that went out to the room with the staircase, where the herbaria are. I'm looking forward to reading about the details!

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  95. Perfection as expected! I love the proportions of the room and how you were able to lay out the furniture. I definitely like the color of the walls and every other detail in the room!

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  96. Kerplunk...the sound of me falling over onto the floor. It's just too good. Cannot wait for the details! :)

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  97. well now that I am done hyperventilating from the sheer mesmerizing beauty of this room
    all I can utter is well done Joan and AD eat your heart out.

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  98. It is absolutely, positively stunning! Well worth the wait! I hope there is more info coming...especially about that coffee table! ;)

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  99. Wow. I wish I could be more eloquent, but the room is simple exquisite. I never happen upon homes where I would like to incorporate each and every element into my own home....until yours. Each room, hallway, bath, etc is so beautiful & homey. I see why the wait, and well worth it.
    Kathleen

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  100. Holy moly Joan!!!! Every detail blew me away - I love love love this room!!

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  101. I don't say this often, and I've seen a lot of houses in my career as a writer, but I wouldn't change a thing...not ONE thing! Enjoy that beautiful room, or consider subletting it to me! ;)

    Congratulations on finally having it finished, and on a job very well done!

    Kat

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  102. Where's Ella? I'm sure she loves to hang out in the barn room! When I was a young girl, I ran across one of those albums of pressed flowers and herbs. I spent hours looking at it. So wonderful to see something similar on your wall, and I can't wait to hear the story behind it.

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  103. WOW! I have to get real with you…that room reflects a woman who is absolutely sure of her style and has good taste. You go girl! It is magnificent! I love every well thought out detail.

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  104. Really gorgeous! So much inspiration in every detail. Love every bit of it!

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  105. My first comment! I've spent the past few weeks reading backwards learning of your story and house. It has been like a book I just couldn't put down. What an eye you have. Your ability to merge all these subtle natural colours is a talent. Keep writing, keep showing. We love you x

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  106. So fun to see this after your little "break". I love everything...the colors, the warmth, the light, the symmetry, the balance of textures, etc. Just delightful! Do you throw many parties? This room begs to be danced in!

    Hugs,
    Gail

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  107. Wow, this room deserves a promo like an old epic movie. "Five years in the making". Have been expecting something "epic" and you did not disappoint. It's just as thoughtfully and beautifully decorated as the rest of your house. Wonderful job!

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  108. Love, love, love every nook and cranny! Can't wait for the details. Thanks so much for sharing - this is better than any book I would pay $$ for.
    Big Fan,
    Carin from Pennsylvania

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  109. How grateful I am that you share. Breathtaking!

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  110. What a magnificent room! You have taken this room beyond perfection! Incredible vision, I must say. I can only imagine what it will be like come fall (I know I am jumping the season) but it is my favorite time of year and I would love to join you by the fire, with Ella at my feet. Again, fantastic room! Thank you for sharing.

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  111. Well dear Lady - the verdict is in. The room is outstanding.

    You and Dan have incredible talent putting things together to look special and subtle at the same time. This room, like the whole house, evokes a warmth and comfort that truly makes a house a 'home'.

    Hugs
    Katherine

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  112. The barn room has been worth the wait!! Stunning and beautiful. Thank you for sharing! I'm anxiously awaiting the wall color! With love, From CA

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  113. Absolute perfection Joan - could not find a more suitably decorated "barn", what a warm, welcoming, inviting, cosy and stylish space. You're such a talent!

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  114. I have thought about those pressed flowers in the fab Ikea frames ever since Prissy took me to see your beautiful home in Dallas. I remember you telling me that there were even more...and what a thrill to see them all hanging together in your wonderful new barn room. Perfection! Now I will think of them even more!! :) Katy
    P.S. How in the world did you hang them all so perfectly? I believe my husband and I would be divorced by the end of a project like that! Ha!!

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  115. You and your husband are so talented...it looks wonderful!

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  116. Hello Joan, I loved the pictures, but missed the commentary about the background stories of the objects and how you two designed and put everything together.
    Road to Parnassus

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  117. All I can say, Joan, is "WOW!!!" You have a talent for incorporating items from nature, and soothing textures & palettes in home décor. I LOVE this room! (But then, I love every room of your home.) I wish I had each room of your home detailed and compiled in a book for further study. Thanks for graciously sharing your beautiful home with us.

    Karen T.

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  118. Second only to your kitchen. The fireplace surprised me. What was the inspiration? Please don't make us wait too long for the details.

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  119. I will always remember June 12th as the day the barn room was revealed!

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  120. WOW! Just WOW! Every single thing WOW!

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  121. Your barn room is beautiful...and that barn door is to die for! There are so many lovely details- I've gone through the photos numerous times and something new catches my eye each time. Absolutely lovely!!

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  122. I think I have said this before, I want MY house to look like yours, when it grows up. Perfect placement as always...and... holy clamshell!!!! Beautiful, beautiful room, didn't expect anything less! Rosie

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  123. You have a wonderful way with texture. It is an amazing room, worth the wait. There are so many favorites in the room. I like how you handled having a large tv in the room. That barn door, it is a centerpiece. Perfect. Alaina

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  124. Hi Joan
    There I was wondering if you were going to blog again. But your back and it's wonderful to have you back. All the comments have said what I wanted to say. Then I thought I need to say this is a beautiful room it's not the latest fashion, it's not contrived it's just one really exquisite room. A room that looks comfortable, friendly, cosy and collected. Just so BEAUTIFUL.
    Kind Regards
    Karen

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  125. Ok, after reading all of the positive, over-the-top comments, I'm going to have to insert a negative one. I hate to be critical, but here goes. Oh wait....there's not one thing I can think of to criticize. The barn room is PERFECTION! I love it all, especially the sliding barn door. A splendid room!

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  126. Absolutely beautiful and worth the wait!! It's just gorgeous.

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  127. Joan, just so excited with you to see the vision a reality! I love the light and the coziness!!

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  128. Perfection in every last detail. Please don't be offended by this question - do your leather chairs recline? If they do, my hat is off to you for expertly combining great style and comfort with a timeless leather chair. I can't think of a more lovely room in which to relax and put your feet up! I know you and Dan must be "over the moon" in love with your barn room!

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  129. Breathtaking and beyond inspiring!!! You are one talented, patient and detailed woman!

    Thanks for sharing and all the inspiration. I am in love.

    Looking forward to all the juicy details.

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  130. Perfection in every way! I love every detail!!!

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  131. Every angle is filled with a treasure to behold! I think that this might be my favorite room of all in your home. So well done! Call the magazines!
    Bravo!
    Barbara

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  132. Absolutely breathtaking!!!!!!!!!! Worth the wait. Can anyone ever leave that room. I know it would be hard for me to leave. Thank you for letting us take a look at your lovely house. Lori

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  133. Gorgeous, just gorgeous. I love the painting, and the color on the wall. Well, everything is perfect, but those and the botanicals are my favorite...

    Cindy

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  134. I love this room! Gentle,relaxing, elegant, cozy, gorgeous!!!! Joan you sure know how to wow!! Love the barn door and all your vignettes!!

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  135. So warm, inviting, and comfortable Joan! Thank you for always putting a smile on my face as I admire your lovely home!

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  136. Fabulous! Love! Love! Love!

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  137. There is absolutely nothing about this room that I don't like. It is spectacular. Please, please, do a post on your wonderful gallery wall. Type of frames and how did you get them so straight? Love it and your taste! Judy Morano

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  138. Your house is like a great wine - it truly gets better with each reveal. thank you for sharing this beautiful space!

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  139. Joan...I hear the thunderous applause and the standing ovation is well deserved. When can I come for a visit? Thank you for sharing your talent and your home with me. Vikki in VA

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  140. It's absolutely gorgeous....the textures, the patterns.......love the console/bar against the bar door. there is nothing I don't love about your barn room.

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  141. Perfect!! as we all knew it would be! Your house is one of my absolute favorites in blogland!! Thank you for sharing your talent with us ,,,.. Beautiful!!

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  142. I don't even have the words. the comments expressed say far better than i ever could. your farmhouse is by far the most beautiful of anything i've every seen. i'm so very jealous of the people that get to see it in person. that would truly be a dream come true. best regards, wenda

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  143. I'm at a loss of words....I can think of only one A. M. A. Z. I. N. G.!!!
    Betsy

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  144. I love everything about this room. I can feel the warmth radiating from my computer screen. I am obsessed with the botanicals. I could probably only afford one but I have to ask where they are from.

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  145. Hi Joan - Your barn room is just gorgeous! So cozy, warm, and inviting. You and Dan must love spending time there. Happy Weekend!

    -Deborah

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  146. Wow. Like the rest of your home, Joan, the barn room is amazing and beautifully decorated. When I saw that fabulous sliding barn door on the wall, my heart skipped a beat! By the way, how is Ella? Our Ella (the beagle) is doing great.
    Claudia

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  147. This takes your breath away. Stunning, wish I could move in. Kathy

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  148. So worth the wait. So glad you're back.

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  149. Looks perfectly lovely! Every single detail! Enjoy! ENjoy!!ENJOY!!!
    I especially admire the warmth and comfortable coziness offered.
    Beautiful beyond words!

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  150. It is not often I am speachless and I must say, I AM S.P.E.A.C.H.L.E.S.S.!
    Simply beautiful Joan.
    Thank you so much for sharing this lovely room with your readers.
    Fondly-Lisa

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  151. Magnificent!!!....every detail in the room is perfection....and I am hearting those lamps on the sofa table...I can look at those pictures over and over again!!!

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  152. Beautiful Joan... serene and lovely... what a perfect place to relax... :) Happy weekend... xv

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  153. One word "perfection" I love every detail Joan !!!!

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    1. Hi Joan,
      Not certain if my first comment was received or not... didn't want to not leave a comment. What a beautiful, soulful room. I am so impressed with your ability to create your home using collected items that speak a language that is thoughtful, creative and obviously generous. Thank you for sharing. No doubt the magazines will be calling to do a followup story.

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  154. Worth the wait! This room is inviting and through your photos, one feels right at home in a very special place. Bravo! NB in Ontario, Canada

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  155. Oh my goodness. I love that while looking through the pictures I kept saying oh there is that piece and that is where she put that find! Ghe fireplace is stunning, the chandelier is gorgeous, and the floors are beautiful! It has been so fun following you on this remodel. It looks absolutely fabulous! Great job, now to sit back and enjoy it!!

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  156. Lovely, as we knew it would be. And it looks as if it has been here as long as your house. I love the little iron birds on the mantel...
    -Revi

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  157. Joan, what a glorious job you have done with this room! It is incredibly unique but coordinates seamlessly with the rest of your house. Genius! Congratulations! N.G.

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  158. Beautiful! Can. Not. Wait. To. Read. The. Details.!!!

    Judy :)

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  159. Hi Joan,
    I've returned numerous times to look at the pics. One of my favorite rooms in your house...also the kitchen, dining room, living room,....Is the finished room the same as your vision for the room? Love the lighter colored leather. I chose a darker leather not thinking of how dark it would turn with age, body oils, etc. But still love it. Such a good job! Sara, Ohio

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  160. Joan, Dan, and Ella: Every positive adjective is what I think of when I looking at these pictures. Cindy

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  161. I love everything about this room!

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  162. I LOVE this room! Beautiful, unexpected, cozy...once again...you've outdone yourself... :-)

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  163. Joan, Dan, and Ella: I keep coming back to this entry to view the pictures and read about them. Speechless, Cindy

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  164. Hi Joan,

    I so enjoyed reading about all of the great finds that you and Dan have unearthed over the years. The room is fabulous!

    I hope you're having a great summer.

    -Deborah

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  165. Reading the details made the pictures come to life. Your home is already very beautiful, but the completion of the barn room really made my jaw drop. I love the fact that you insist on every inch of your home being detailed and well thought out, because I am the same way and for years have had friends tease me about it. Some really are just jealous, but I have ignored it for many years. You have shown me that paying attention to details and showing ones history in personal interior choices and items that have been collected over years makes sense. A home should reflect a personas life, taste, and growth. Well done!

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  166. Joan, the room is fab-u-lous! It was definitely worth the wait :) Question about your rugs - If I am correct, you have sea grass in the kitchen, boucle sisal in the living and dining rooms, and jute in the barn room. Which do you like best in terms of ease of cleaning and pet friendliness? I have a darling elderly cat who is allowed to go everywhere - I am wondering which would be best with her. Thank you so much for sharing! Your home is, as always, a delight for the eyes and soul. Pam

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    1. Honestly Pam, I love them all and don't have a favorite. I think they all work for a pet-friendly home.

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  167. Gosh, this is what I aspire to! Well, aspiration for my house anyway! We recently bought an 1820 colonial with attached barn in MA and I was having such difficulty finding inspiration for layered, classic spaces that don't feel "old" or "country". Beautiful spaces but also very warm and "homey". It can be a tall order! I am now obsessed with your home and blog. Thank you for the inspiration. You have such a wonderful eye. I would just love to pick your brain! Maybe you can point me to some of your favorite architectural salvage shops in the area or just antique spots? we go up to Maine a lot. I'll try and stop by that York shop if I can convince my husband and 2.5 year old. ;)
    Thanks, Joan.

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  168. I loved the barn room just from the sneak peak, but hearing all the stories makes everything even more special! I loved the herbarium, and the leather chair, and LOVE those little birds on the mantle. What fun!
    You have such a great design style, and this room is so cozy and comfortable. Just wonderful!

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  169. Joan, you are one talented lady! WOW!! I love love love your style! I just finished a study and I used sea haze...love it! You are such an inspiration! Have a great summer! Ami

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  170. Joan, the barn room looks absolutely amazing! Well done!

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  171. As always, you knocked it out of the park! Your decor is totally inspiring Joan! Since we have similar homes and decorating taste, I would REALLY LOVE(desperately need,lol!) to get your input on a DIY project I'm working on. I'm currently in the process of installing a planked wall treatment. It's on the longest wall in the back entry hallway of my old farmhouse. Beyond installation, I'm completely stumped with the follow-on process. I'm not sure whether I should paint the planks the same color as the rest of the surrounding walls, or the color of the trim work? I also considered a white-wash application, but I'm still unsure in which direction to go with this. Any thoughts you may want to share on my dilemma would be very appreciated. Thanks in advance!

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  172. Love it!!!! The rugs are so gorgeous! Each room is totally amazing and inviting. Happy to have found your site!

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  173. PERFECTION in every detail. I am lost for words. Oh, oh, oh:-)

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  174. Joan, I'm wondering if Dan used the clips on the frames to hang, or if he used another method. I'm getting ready to hang mine and could use some direction. About how much space between each one? I'm willing to cook Thanksgiving dinner if Dan will hang mine:)

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Welcome! Thank you for leaving a comment; you have no idea how much your comments inspire me to keep writing- I appreciate each and every one. Comments are moderated by me prior to publishing on the blog, so if you don't see your comment post immediately it will be posted as soon as I receive and read it. joan