COTE DE TEXAS: The Casita at the KW Ranch

The Casita at the KW Ranch

 

 

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The KW Ranch front gates.  The main house where Kirk and Shannon live is seen at the end of the gravel drive.

 

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And looking back on the front gates.  Across the street is the Southern Rose Ranch where we stayed this past Christmas.  Though we usually stay in the casita at Shannon’s ranch, it was booked up with other family members.

 

 

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The long gravel drive divides the front lawn into two sides, left and right.  Past the lawn  are the left and right pastures for the horses and donkeys and Bella the cow to roam on.  In back of the house is another large pasture for the animals.    Here is the right side lawn looking back towards the front gate.  This is the view that the casita bedrooms look onto.

 

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And looking the opposite way on the right front lawn, the casita is hidden behind the large Live Oak tree, right next to the red barn on the right.   Cutting the grass is a major event!!

 

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The left side of the front lawn with its red swing and chairs under the Live Oak tree is my favorite private spot.

 

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My niece and nephew on their horses.  I took this picture a few years ago, Caroline is so grown up now!  Here you can see part of the main house.  The casita is to its right – across the gravel drive.

 

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A BEFORE shot of the casita.  The prefab building was on the property when Shannon and Kirk bought it.   It was one room, which started out as Kirk’s office.  The other side of the building was used as a tool shed.  Connecting to the casita was a covered car port.   Once Kirk relocated his office downtown, the casita was turned into a guest bedroom.  Several years ago, the tool shed became a second bedroom and a weekend house for Shannon’s mom, Dottie Wills.   Shannon and her mother always had big plans for this humble building.  Since there was no bathroom, guests had to walk across the drive to go inside the main house.  Try doing that on a freezing Christmas night!  Not fun, I can assure you.  After living here for many years, the final renovation took place this past year. 

 

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BEFORE shot of the carport.   Now, all the bikes and lawnmowers, etc. are stored in the red barn.  Today, this carport is the living room, bathroom and kitchen of the casita. 

 

 

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Another BEFORE picture of the casita.  Shannon painted the walls gray and the doors, red.   A sign reads “Dottie’s Casita” in honor of Shannon’s mom.  In the renovation, this red door was removed.  Now the entrances are on each side where two porches were built.   The right side porch leads to the bedrooms and the left side porch leads to the living area.

 

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The new porch on the right side.  This porch looks onto the front lawn and the gate.  It was screened in the day I left.  The building remained gray to match the main house, but the doors are no longer red.  Shannon’s mother likes a much quieter décor palette than Shannon, as you will see.  Plus, she is not into Mexican folk art, rather she loves French antiques.

 

 

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This side porch has doors that lead into each bedroom.  All the porch furniture was recovered in new green Sunbrella fabric.  Dottie loves gray-green, it’s her favorite color.

 

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Sconces flank each door.  Here you can see the vintage iron porch furniture that is painted gray-green.  This side overlooks the pasture and barn where Kirk’s vintage red Coca-Cola truck is parked!  You can get a glimpse into Dottie’s bedroom here. 

 

 

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The new porch on the left side overlooks the back yard and the red barn.  The furniture here is more in keeping with the ranch theme.  This door leads to the new part of the casita, the living areas.

 

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The main living area.  The walls and ceilings are beadboard – there is no sheetrock in the new addition.  The floors are a bronze colored concrete.   The dining area and bathroom are seen on the back right. 

 

 

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Here you can see the tall vaulted ceiling.  There are two ceiling fans (this is Texas!) and the wood chandelier from Aidan Gray in between them.   The kitchen is located past the living room area along the back wall. 

 

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A night shot of the casita shows the slipcovered sofa and chairs – and the two French chairs that wear a yellow toile fabric.  Here you can see the stained glass window in the kitchen.  This window has traveled between Wills houses for the past 30 years.

 

 

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Above the TV are two urn prints with a deer head in between.

 

 

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The kitchen is an accumulation of furniture – not cupboards.  An oval shaped island separates the kitchen from the living area. 

 

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A rustic cabinet with a wood top and metal drawers acts as counter space.   The refrigerator and stove are not built in.  The dishes are stored in the corner pine cabinet.

 

 

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The oval island is topped with a thick stone slab.   It holds wine, pots and silverware.  Along the back wall is a wood cabinet that hold the sink.

 

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The nighttime view from the other side.

 

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One of the bedrooms is located of the kitchen area.

 

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This old, rustic piece holds the sink with its gorgeous nickel Perrin and Rowe faucet.

 

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On the opposite side of the addition from the kitchen, the bathroom is located through the double door.  The sink is located in a gray painted vintage piece with fleur de lis knobs.  That’s moi in the mirror!

 

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Another vintage wood piece holds the towels.

 

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The casita is really a home away from home for Shannon’s mother, Dottie.   It has everything she needs here and it is totally independent from the main house.   There’s even a washer/dryer located here behind these closet doors with glass knobs. 

 

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The shower was designed for wheelchair access if it might one day be needed.  The shower entrance is flat to the floor so that the chair could be easily wheeled in.   The shower is completely tiled in subway sized tiles.  A window looks onto the porch and the red barn.

 

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There also a hand held faucet outside the shower – for the future, if need be.

 

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This bedroom is the original office.  Over the years it became a guest room.   When the renovation happened, it was painted this dark brown with a light French blue ceiling.  Wall to wall seagrass was installed over the linoleum tiles that were once the office’s floor.

 

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Blue accents are found throughout the room.  Candlestick lamps came from Indulge.

 

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Across the rice bed is this antique French day bed for extra guests or for a sofa.   The windows have burlap shades.    Two French styled chairs are covered in light linen. 

 

 

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Taken at night, in the corner is an antique Oriental chest atop a wooden base.  The TV is located inside here.  This door leads to the front porch that faces the lawn and the gravel driveway. 

 

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Here you can see into the kitchen and living area.  All the space located past the bedroom door is new.  That is the space that was once the carport. 

 

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I love the day bed with its tall sides.  It looks so inviting!  The outside fabric is a damask while the interior fabric is a solid.  The lamps has a cute slipcovered shade.

 

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Dottie’s bedroom is located on the other side of the guest bedroom.  This was once the toolshed part of the original building.  It was converted into a bedroom several years ago.   The ceiling was raised to the rafters.  Outside the door is the front porch which faces the lawn and gate.  The walls and ceilings are beadboard, the floor is wall to wall seagrass.  The color of the room is a soft nude/peach.

 

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The bed and chairs are French.   Dottie loves Oriental accents and accessories.   The shades are also burlap, as in the guest room.

 

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I think this chandelier is so gorgeous and I love its medallion. 

 

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Dottie uses the French desk to put her make up on.   Through the door is the living area.  Again, everything past the door is new – it was added onto the two bedrooms just this past summer.

 

 

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Just like in the guest room, Dottie’s room has its own French day bed, ready for a grandchild or an afternoon nap.  I love that highboy.  I think it’s gorgeous.

 

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At the head of the daybed is a French armoire and a tiny French side table.

 

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Did you know that there is a connection between the KW Ranch and the White House? 

Shannon’s father and Dottie’s husband,  J. Anthony Wills, was a respected and very talented portrait artist who painted many notables from CEOs to politicians to Presidents of the United States.

 

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If you have visited the White House and used the grand staircase, you have probably seen two of Shannon’s father’s portraits that are hanging there.

 

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J. Anthony Wills’ portrait of  Dwight D. Eisenhower is part of the White House permanent art collection.  Notice his hands – they are so lifelike,  just incredible.  Wills was in total charge of the sitting, from choosing the backdrop and posing position, to even helping his subjects pick out their clothes for their portrait. 

 

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Besides Eisenhower, Wills’ portrait of Richard M. Nixon also hangs in the White House. 

 

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Here’s a photo of the young artist on the left – J. Anthony Wills – taken in 1945.  He had painted this portrait of Charles W. Nash – founder of  Nash cars.  You might be too young to know about Nash cars!

 

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Prints of Shannon’s father’s four most famous portraits hang in the red library of the main  house on the KW Ranch.

 

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Also hanging in the library is this portrait of Shannon – her father painted her and her sister Anthea as a surprise for their mother.  Who would have known looking at this young innocent teenager wearing three thin bracelets – that one day she would own hundreds more bracelets that she stored in a Mexican themed closet????

I’ll bet she still owns these three bracelets and ring.

Just kidding!!!  No more comments about the closet, please!!!!

 

I hope you enjoyed seeing the guest casita at the Webbs.  As of right now, it’s not a B&B, but I bet one day Shannon will decide to become an innkeeper and open its doors.  It’s so close to Round Top, it would make a perfect place to stay while antiquing at the fair.

 

 

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Pancho says adios from the KW Ranch. 

 

132 comments :

  1. thought I would be dreaming of those daybeds tonight....until I saw those portraits, gorgeous. What a wonderful legacy

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  2. really interesting and as usual filled with great info

    I love me some poncho!


    xoxkelley

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  3. I like seeing the nightstand in Dottie's room having a pair myself acquired in DC. Mine are currently in storage but I have been considering using them to flank a limestone fireplace in my library.

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  4. Ilove that chandy that you mentioned loving! The Casita, which is so filled with interesting pieces and accessories and Shannons closet remind me of the best line in the Out of Africa movie spoken by Meryl Streeps character..she was explaining to Robert Redfords character why she traveled to Africa with her silver and her china etc. She said calmly, "I like my things."

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  5. so homey and inviting and lovely. thanks for sharing with us, shannon.

    cammie churdar

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  6. THANKS FOR THE TOUR! this was really interesting, and wow- what a fabulous portrait painter her father was.... (what stories he could tell also,I'm sure.)

    Hopefully, one day Shannon will open this up as a B and B.... and my chance to go to Round top will co-incide... I could sleep very well in either of these lovely bedrooms.... and the scenery is lagniappe!
    Happy New Year, Joni!

    Alice A

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  7. Joni I love so much about the Casita I wouldn't know where to begin!

    The family history is wonderful and what a talented artist. I loved seeing the portrait of Shannon as well as the presidential portraits.

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

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  8. What a beautiful, unique, warm and delightful space! Thank you for the peek inside this personal environment - so very interesting!

    A true treat..

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  9. Love seeing the KW Ranch and would love staying in the Casita if Shannon ever decides to turn it into a B&B. The French antiques are beautiful. And I know you said not to comment on Shannon's closet again, but I could live very well in her closet - tequila and all those bracelets = Girly Heaven!

    ~ Victoria in Texas

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  10. Lucky Shannon! Thank you for an insider's tour! When can I make my reservation?!
    I'm a Southern California girl who loves her Round Top! ...always with a stop in Luckenbach...

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  11. Love this post. You really take great pictures. Will you share with us the kind of camera you use to take those great photo's?

    I've been enjoying your blog for years with my morning coffee, it's my first go-to blog in the morning.

    Sincerely,
    Debra from NC

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  12. Shannon's ranch is brimming with Texas warmth and style! Would love to be blessed with such a home and to share it so generously with my family and friends. Dottie is one lucky gal! Happy 2012 and thanks for sharing another great post.

    Caroline

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  13. ...absolutley charming...my favorite post joni...(and i have read them all)...

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  14. The casita has such warmth and grace. I like it so much more than the dressing room. Perhaps because it is simpler and more cozy but also perhaps because Shannon has designed it essentially for her mother and you can feel the love and warmth shared by mother and daughter. Also, what an amazingly talented family they are!

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  15. So charming and warm...love that old rustic piece used to house the sink and the chocolate brown on the walls in the bedrooms. Its wonderful!

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  16. this place is outrageously fabulous.
    thank you for the excellent tour.
    every single picture was fascinating.

    i want to run away to that very place.
    ...am i surprised the white house has connections....nope.

    xx happy new year

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  17. From someone so eager to disparage Lazy Boys, I find the exposed disposal utterly amusing.

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  18. Beautiful details and color scheme.

    Can you please tell me what green gray was used on the outside iron furniture. Was it a spray I can buy or a custom mix? Thanks

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  19. Hi Joni,
    Wish you a very Happy, Healthy and Successful New Year! Are you still at the ranch?
    I enjoyed the post a lot!! What a heavenly place!Reminded me on the Dallas series!!! Haha!!!
    And those portraits that man painted are fabulous!
    Hugs from Belgium!
    xx
    Greet

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  20. I love, love, love those sconces in the bathroom. Stunning! Thanks for sharing.

    Maureen

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  21. Joni,
    I love the casita...I've always been more drawn to "cottges/casitas" than larger homes. Your SIL did a great job with the furnishings and details. It would be fun to stay there, the grounds look so peaceful.
    Karen

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  22. Love the use of all the furniture instead of cabinets in the kitchen, makes it fun and warm! Thanks to you and Shannon for continuing to share with us!

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  23. joni,

    I really enjoyed this post. Have been dreaming of building a cottage next to our house for parents and future b&b. Love the layout and the way it's decorated.

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  24. Lovely! I think Shannon would be a neat friend to have judging by her style. Thank you both for sharing.

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  25. For a living space built to accommodate an aging parent, this space is awfully cluttered and convenience in the kitchen sacrificed for style (if you can call it that). What a beautiful faucet to place above such an ugly sink and base. Would a skirt at least to cover the disposal and rags not have been an obvious option. I assume that once the island is cleared of Christmas decor, one could use it as a work space. It seems that the kitchen was an after thought and a few work benches from the lower 40 were rounded up to act as storage pieces.

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  26. I planned on commenting on the sink even before I read this last comment.....LOVED it! I thought it was so cool to leave the disposal exposed and the dishcloths in plain sight. Shannon did a great job....she is every bit an artist herself!There is nothing uglier or more of a turn off to me than a kitchen with every inch designed and built- in.So, job well done !!!

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  27. Love all the antique pieces used throughout the house. The bathroom was a complete surprise after seeing the kitchen, LOVED the bath and bedrooms. The kitchen is her style and I get that, but doesn't look very functional to use. Maybe its just because I need more counter space when I'm cooking and I am also a mother that sees danger in that kitchen and germs that can collect on those old pieces used.

    Either way, they did a great job on the renovation! I bet the kids love hanging out there, looks like heaven!

    Belinda

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  28. Wow, this is just lovely, I could move in today! The kitchen island is just fantastic, I love it! Dottie is one lucky lady to have a daughter like Shannon!

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  29. So enjoyed seeing the casita. Thank you Joni and Shannon!

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  30. Loved those daybeds, the French armoire and escritoire, and the tall chest in the bedrooms, and the pine Chippendale china in the living area. Nice to see a shower planned for 'aging in place'. Shannon must be very proud of her father - what an amazing portraitist and wonderful legacy. Thanks to you both for sharing the casita with us.

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  31. A lovely and personal space . . . I love much of the furniture, esp. the daybeds. The kitchen sink is beautiful! (Though I do like the idea of a curtain underneath.) Thank you for opening up your doors to all of us!

    Amy - great idea to share the quote from "Out of Africa."

    Jennifer

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  32. p.s. Meant to comment on the portraits . . . what a legacy!

    J.

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  33. Holy Casitas...this is amazing.....I would love to stay there....would Dottie mind a live in chef? or housekeeper?....I also play the piano...sort of?

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  34. Beautiful built-in cabinetry doesn't have to be fabulous or expensive. It's hard to believe that one finds a crisp, uncluttered, beautifully functioning kitchen ugly but perhaps it's because one does not have such a kitchen in their own home. The beauty is in being able to hide your cooking tools, etc., and to use the space for spill over entertaining. It also helps when entertaining with a caterer. Yes, cabinets designed as pieces of furniture work beautifully as well because they accommodate both form and function. There is not much form or function to be seen here. For your information, many architects today, including Bobby McAlpine, are designing kitchens that are almost entirely hidden behind sliding doors so that when not in use, it appears as a beautiful paneled room. That obviously would not be the right style for a cottage, but with not much money, this kitchen space could have been more cleverly designed. If rough luxe was the objection, I say you scored on at least one element.

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  35. I am a lover of old style kitchens, so I love the vintage styling of this one. The guest bedroom looks so cozy. I could easily live there.

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  36. Every inch of the casita is delightful and would be a wonderful place to spend time. Thanks to Shannon and family for letting you share. The portraits are incredible. What talent in her family! I think the kitchen is perfect within the casita. Genius!

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  37. Joni, It's hard to believe these spaces were once a carport and tool shed. The Casita is decorated beautifully! I am sending these pictures to my children to let them know this is exactly what I expect when I get older. LOL! Love it.
    xo,
    Sherry

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  38. I love your sense of homour Joni! Yes! The once innocent teen becomes the maligned and terrible hoarder or BRACELETS! WHO would have thunk that sweet girl would turn out so terribly!

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  39. Fabulous tour. I didn't want it to end. I love everything about this post. It is so interesting to peek into a home that is so beautiful.
    Thanks for taking the time to show it to us.

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  40. I love a space that has character, whether I would decorate it like this or not, this space tells a story and too me that is how a home should be decorated. A room needs to tell a story, Thanks for sharing,
    Kathysue

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  41. The casita is quite charming. Love the color selections and textural play with fabric and rugs. I know there were a lot of negative comments about the main house, and I must say I agreed with them. However, the casita is the saving grace. I also think there is too much emphasis on clutter and gathering all that one can, but....so what? It's Shannon's home and her choice. What really matters is the joy and pleasure that a space brings to those that live in it. Thanks for sharing the photos and details.

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  42. Here we go again! Yes to the beautiful portrait of Shannon. I look in those eyes and see someone who knows exactly who she is. The jewelry is just icing. The character is in the face. And yes to Shannon creating a lovely space for her mother. Tells another story of love, family and character.

    As for those who don't like unfitted kitchens, don't look. I like Bobby McAlpine, but I seriously doubt he is a serious cook.

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  43. I love unfitted kitchens WHEN EXECUTED WELL with quality pieces.

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  44. Pretty, but the kitchen is too cluttered and busy, FOR MY TASTE. I am not trying to be nasty. I simply do not see anything charming about an exposed disposer. I missed the effect of the to die for sink because of the clutter below. could've hung the cute brass towel holder over a foot or two to hide the disposer. Ok, I am bracing for the attack because I don't love every inch of the space. lol

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  45. Joni - do us all a favor and delete unkind anonymous posts that are nothing more than mean spirited personal attacks. To leave snide remarks "live" is to encourage the sick ones to continue. I normally leave comments with my blog name, but am afraid I will become the target of this nasty person. And I will not read the nasty response to this comment that is no doubt on its way (hopefully it will be the first of your author deletions).

    The casita is charming, and so is the kind, daughter who went to so much trouble to pamper and welcome her family and friends. Very lovely guest quarters and very lucky guests!

    Signed: Too chicken to invite the viper(s) to my site --

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  46. Wow they did a great job with that and how cool with the portraits!

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  47. Anon. 1:35, if I visited your site, that would make two of us.

    Is that an open garbage can next to the stove? How convenient. Outside of the P&R faucet (lipstick on a pig) and the appliances, this kitchen looks like it was picked up off the side of Route 66.

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  48. Would you consider sharing the color & paint manufacturer for the dark brown walls and blue ceiling? Love the combo

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  49. Absolutely charming! Beautiful casita; thanks to Shannon for opening her home.

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  50. Wonderful post, as always! Thank you so much for sharing.....

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  51. I adored these pictures. Thanks for sharing. What a lucky MOM. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

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  52. I really enjoyed these visits to the ranch, so please thank your sister in law for me.

    I saved the photo of the shower, because that is exactly what I want to do in an upcoming renovation.

    And tell all the snarks to lay off. They are not amusing.

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  53. I love the dark brown guest room - so beautiful and atmospheric, it looked like it was in a 200 year old house.

    I find portraiture a bit hit and miss but love the two portraits here. Shannon's Dad was very talented, what a claim to fame!

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  54. A casita with personality is so much more fun than one with perfection. I would love having a friend let me stay in this; when people visit me they get a tiny guest room they can barely walk around the bed in. And thank you for posting places that are done by real people, and not by designers. It's fun to get ideas from others, and to see what they've done with the space they had.

    Joni, I agree that it belittles your site to display comments that are here only to stir up trouble. I enjoy conversation with varying opinions, but I don't enjoy people who spit vitriol for no reason. Show us all the respect we deserve as your readers and delete those, please.

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  55. Joni...what a wonderful "slice" of writing that was...I almost feel like I know your sister-in-law! You make it all "real"...from bracelets to bones! franki

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  56. Wow, what's not to love? It's fabulous!

    I love the stone topped kitchen island, the seagrass floors, the cozy seating, the front porch! Yes,
    I think I could be quite cozy there!

    ...dang, I need to find some relatives with charming guest houses......!

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  57. That is one of the most interesting kitchens I've ever seen. I question some sections of it, but I get the concept. Clutter seems to be king here, but there's also strong personal expression that comes through, so who am I to pass judgment? Personal expression, if pros and cons have been evaluated, should be on equal footing with function and sometimes it trumps it (for the homeowner.) Their home, their kitchen, their money...they are entitled :)

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  58. what an amazing and informative post, a really beautiful property. Love that dark bedroom, the bed looks wonderful
    Thank you
    Sharon

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  59. Life is all about imperfection. I find this casita charming to the nth degree. To me a space is a personal thing and you should work with what you have. Shannon is obviously a sophisticated and smart shopper who cares little for formulas on how a kitchen should look. Thank God for free thinkers and pooh to jealous detractors. The casita works with style and love. I hate the McMansion idea of perfection with matching cabinetry and glossy surfaces. A little surprise is what makes a kitchen special. Bless Shannon and you Joni.

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  60. Shannon is obviously NOT smart nor sophisticated otherwise we would not see exposed disposal and a rag tag display of "rags" and other kitchen essentials stored in open view of the reader/guest. That is not sophistication by any stretch of the imagination. It is sloppy, anything goes, design by a rank amateur who wants to get her humble little abode on the internet posted by what she assumes to be a sister in law who is an expert in design, antiques, etc. (let's all cough a loud one).

    Get real people. If this is all you can come up with in design for a guest quarters based on budget then say so and we understand. However, if this is what you believe aspires to the ranks of excellence, get ready to be challenged as to where you have been and what you have seen in your lives. This is not good design compared to what "good designers" would have visualized for a "cottage". It is what Henrietta Homemaker decided what she was willing to do to make a relatively comfortable space for friends and family to stay on a ranch for heavens sake. If she truly aspired to make this a wonderful and livable space for an aging mother, you would have seen a bit more comfort exhibited. It truly cries to heaven when a bathroom is ultimately the best room in a house/cottage. Wake up and do some research on your own and stop castigating those who see it for what it is - mediocre at best. And this was suppose to be a design blog - SERIOUSLY???

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  61. This post should have been entitled:

    TCHOTCHKE OVERLOAD

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  62. Love the casita tour! I also loved the closet and was sorry there were so many negative opinions about a wonderfully clever and colorful closet.

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  63. Is the long window in the shower the same one on that looks out on the front porch? Does she have some sort of privacy screen for showering? Also, I am interested in the door handle to the shower, as it appears to disappear into the glass -

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  64. Yes, the window on shower overlooks the barn, it's too high to look into unless you are really tall. But this a private home and Kirk isn't tall, haha!

    Thanks for the kind comments,

    Anon, no one ever said this was anything but a guest house for a mil. They did have a very limited budget. Molly a few pieces of furniture were bought, for the bathroom and kitchen, everything else came from Shannon's and her mothers house.

    You seem hung up on the sink area. I suppose she could put a drape over it, and who knows, maybe she does have plans for that. Or maybe, they are just enjoying what they have without regards to what someone else might think.

    The renovation cost a lot, so the finishing touches are going to be addressed in time. For instance, the porch is just now being screened. There are plans for landscaping in the future. Not everything could be done at once.

    I must say, though, it is a very nice place, Especially compared to when it was an office. The paint colors are so pretty and I love the choice of the bead board. I also love all the French chairs and beds.

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  65. Dear Snark,
    If all you can see is disposals and dish cloths, you are woefully unqualified to comment on design. You must not have much to do if you have all this time and need to hang out and put everything/everyone down.

    You are also missing out on community and sisterhood with a great group of people who comment.

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  66. Joni,

    Thank you for sharing this lovely casita. It speaks of love and family and good times shared. Lots of talent in this family.

    ~Pat

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  67. Anon. 10:30pm, considering that you have no clue what my credentials are, I doubt you would know whether or not I am qualified to speak about what is obvious in these pictures.

    Joni, who prides herself in being the "eagle eye" of design mags took these pictures. It is quite obvious that there was no staging done here. At least for the sake of neatness one would have organized the area under the sink so that the contents didn't look like they were pitched in by a 6 year old. Some things, like this helter skelter kitchen in view of a nicely arranged living room area, would be hard for anyone with a modicum of taste to overlook. A more apt title to the post should have been Everything But the Kitchen Sink.

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  68. And no one cares what your credentials are, or who you are. You must just be amusing yourself. Everyone who reads this blog has decided to ignore you, because its quite obvious you are just obnoxious and a mean stalker of Cote de Texas. since your so anxious to rename hers all the time, go start your own and leave this blog alone.

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  69. I loved the stained glass window and would like to know the history of it.

    Shannon's father was certainly a very gifted artist indeed. To have one's artwork in the White House is as good as it gets!

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  70. Anon. 8:38, So you are ignoring Anon? Did you just slip up at 8:38?

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  71. That dark brown bedroom is gorgeous! And the chandelier with the medallion -- whoa! It all looks very friendly and inviting, which in my mind, is everything a home should be.

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  72. How you see, feel about, think about , treat and
    behave toward OTHERS is a direct reflection of
    how you see, feel about, think about, treat and
    behave towards YOURSELF........

    If you can be gentle and compassionate and kind and loving with
    yourself, you will be that way towards others......if we feel good about ourselves,
    then we want to affirm the good in others.......and people who are nasty and make hostile, rude remarks are to be pitied
    because they so obviously do NOT feel good about themselves.....the ones who post negative & obnoxious remarks anonymously on blogs must be especially lacking in self-esteem.......

    ReplyDelete
  73. So now our resident psychologist, shell, has come up with the theory that if you have an opinion about a design space that doesn't provide the needed "oos and ahhs" for the owner of the space and/or blog author, one is somehow unhappy and walking around the world with low self-esteem. Shell, please go back to school. You need to finish your degree before you start doing case work. Take a moment or two to do a little research as to why these little exhibitionist pop up on design blogs to have their egos and low self esteem propped up? That research should keep you busy for a long time.

    ReplyDelete
  74. By the way shell, the woman who owns this rag tag kitchen is the same person who inserted the assumption that if one did not fall over one's self lusting after her closet, one must be sitting in Lazy Boy recliners. Now that really is a hoot!

    ReplyDelete
  75. GO SHELL GO YOU ARE CORRECT!

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  76. @11:17 anonymous--no I'm not saying we all have to "ooohh and ahhh" about all things posted - I see plenty of stuff on blogs that does not appeal to me but I do not go out of my way to make snarky comments. And yes anony 11:23 the owner of the closet did make some remark about lazy boy recliners but it was AFTER several nasty comments popped up about her closet.
    see the difference? one was a kick and the other was a kick BACK.

    ReplyDelete
  77. There should be a need for further information regarding web development services in your blog I think so far.
    So please provide some information on this topic also.
    Web Development Service Texas

    ReplyDelete
  78. People upset about the kitchen.. relax! It's a little guest house! For when her Mom or family and friends visit. They aren't going to prepare a 10 course meal. They'll eat with the family. All they would need a kitchen for would be snacks and coffee etc. No need to go overboard with an over designed kitchen.

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  79. Hey ANON 11:17 and 11:23 -

    SHOW US YOUR STUFF!!

    ReplyDelete
  80. Yes I would like to see how the two lovely and wonderful anonymous posters at 11:17 & 11:23 live-!!

    I bet it is one nasty person posting at both those
    times ? In any case - let's see some photos of your lovely abode? And include your closets too..ok?

    send them to joni and perhaps she will post for us all to see? ha ha ha ha--!

    ReplyDelete
  81. So I see the game has now turned into "show me your stuff". Well, isn't that just like those who believe that it is only what one possesses that gives one the clout to see through poor taste.

    I could send you or anyone else pictures every day of the week as I have many that I could show you. I think you might even be amazed that I actually not only have design knowledge, but a home to prove it. I don't need to prove anything to you shell, or any other readers of this blog. I am not attempting to create materialistic envy as happened in the closet post, nor would my home be in the same design category as the little guest quarters on the ranch. My home, to my good fortune, was designed by one of the best known architects in my area. It is classic French with slate, iron, limestone, copper and other natural materials. For starters my foyer alone is 20 x 40. It together with my living room creates a grand salon as you come into my entry way. My home exceeds 10,000 sq. feet. My laundry room is nearly as big as two of the rooms of this guest house put together and I actually do keep my rags organized. I don't need to tell you more except you don't deserve answers based on your impudence and ignorant responses on this blog. I have credentials, believe it or not. Your only frustration is that you don't. Tally Ho

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  82. I think I'm going to vomit now. That last post was quite enough for me-blech--! limestone, copper & classic French! BARF-! I BET! you are full of it.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Not "full of it", shell. You can't handle the truth because your level of envy at the overstocked closet and the ill conceived and executed kitchen is what you believe to be good design. You simply don't know better. Yes, you do indeed need to barf for having exhibited such ignorance. As to the copper, limestone, etc., most authentic French designs will have these elements. That is not unique. It appears that you didn't know that either. I couldn't care less if you believe it or not. You posed the question, my answer doesn't satisfy you. That's tough!

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  84. Why would the Anonymous poster want to post anything here? And why would he or she care what anyone commenting HERE thinks about his or her home design? I think this blog has captured the attention of a varied audience: those with taste and design experience and those who don't get it and never will. I read this blog for a few ideas here or there that are interesting. But, it is certainly not, in my opinion, a place I would go to learn about new trends or other design principles. I read it for fun, because that is ALL that it is. That, and a source for the occasional paint color or fun giveaway. Sorry to disappoint, but the anonymous posters are many different people. Shell, what is your blog address? I would love to visit it one day to see what you have going on. I am guessing that you are a very, very young person, new to the design world.

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  85. im dying to see the 20x40 foyer show us something worth looking at

    ReplyDelete
  86. This blog has turned into The Real Housewives of Whatever I can not believe any one would want to be involved with this obsurdity. It is impossible to argue if you are not acknowledged. just don't acknowledge Anons comments.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Anon. 9:40, well said.

    This blog actually use to be a place to read for ideas and inspiration just as you said, but it has strayed from those objectives a long time ago with mediocre post of DIY or kitchen make overs, houses for sale in the Houston area, etc. It's unfortunate that the author put her family out in the public domain as collectors and designers. She simply made them a laughing stock. No matter how cute one might think this guest house is, there is absolutely nothing to learn here.

    ReplyDelete
  88. Valerie Hart of Visual Vamp fame works wonders with sandpaper and paint. I would love to see what she could have done with this kitchen. She has the ability to take very humble items and turn them into eye appealing and useful pieces in spaces where people like a vintage look.

    ReplyDelete
  89. anon- 7:00
    thanks, i appreciate your "Kind" comments. why DO you come here?

    I've been writing this blog for almost five years now. I've talked about what I've wanted to, and what people have asked me to. I've tried to present different topics - I talked about the Queen of England's portraits and about curtains. I've talked about historic houses in England as well as houses built on a budget. I've tried to appeal to a wide range of people, wealthy and DIYs.

    Yes, it's hard to keep it all fresh. I try to make it humorous and personal, while showing what I think is good design. Sometimes I show houses that people have asked me to show that aren't exactly my taste - but those houses have proved popular, so what do I know?

    Personally, I don't care for big houses - I prefer cozy houses that aren't dressy or overly designed. That's personal - many people love those kinds of homes - my own family included (not talking about Ben's family, here.)

    I never intended to be writing this as long as I have, I never thought I would get readers. But here we are. I am not ready to give it up, I still enjoy seeing things that interest me and then writing about them.

    Since you obviously don't like my taste, or my blog, why not just step away from it? Just don't read it. It seems to drive you crazy, so I am at a loss trying to understand why you stil come around. I would prefer you didn't actually.

    When I showed a rental apartmenet in Paris with a small kitchen, you hated it and so upset the owners that they emailed me wanting to know who you were.

    I can't tell you the number of people you have insulted. One person started crying when she read what you wrote about her house and her husband. Yes, that was you.

    You insulted my mother in law's flannel pjs and went on other blogs talking about those pjs as if it was so awful that she was pictured in her pjs on the morning after Christmas.

    You've insulted every client I've ever shown here. Yet, you won't go away, why?

    I could go on and on with the people you have insulted, hiding behind the Anon label. Sometimes I wonder how you sleep at night, and how you treat your pets. You don't seem like a very nice person, but I might be wrong.

    I've asked you to email me personally, so we could talk and perhaps reach an agreement or compromise, but you never have.

    People beg me to moderate my comments, but I won't and I really can't. It does help others to be able to talk honestly with the anon shield, plus honest disagreement is healthy. Meanness isn't. You just don't seem to know the difference between the two.

    Whatever. I know it's like talking to brick wall with you. I knew the stories about Ben's family would drive you nuts. I warned them about you. But what the readers don't realize is it is ME you hate so much, and by default my family.

    I'm a lot of things, but stupid, I'm not.

    ReplyDelete
  90. Yes, many of us wish to be anonymous because we don't want to be victims of the few who are behind the tsunamis of vitriol and superiority (usually an indicator of some deep seated inferiority or psychological problem).

    In any case these people totally miss the point - the casita is a loving collaboration between daughter and mother. It is not meant to be a piece of cutting edge design by minimalist architects/designers - but a warm and happy environment which suits their interests. They don't need a kitchen that a caterer can use as this is not the main house. Nor does it have to be a kitchen the mother will use into extreme old age, other than to make tea and toast or similar, as she is only a few steps from the main house where her daughter lives. Some love clutter some hate it, but just because some hate it doesn't make them superior in any way. It's just a personality thing. Often the warmest and most interesting people enjoy a bit of clutter as the objects bring back memories of the people who might have given them, happy travelling holidays etc. Has anyone seen Julia Child's kitchen and all its kitchen paraphernalia?! I rest my case. Let's celebrate diversity and not criticise anyone who doesn't conform to our own personal taste preferences.

    ReplyDelete
  91. I love blogs. I really enjoy this blog. I have NEVER, EVER, EVER, felt compelled to comment on one until tonight. The rants of Anon are borderline personality at it's finest. Unbridled narcissism in all it's glory, with a smidge of plain jack ass thrown in for good measure. If all of this is just so very vulgar and upsetting to you? DON"T LET THE DOOR HIT YA, WHERE THE GOOD LORD SPLIT YA. Va moos,ciao, buh bye. I am sorry to be vulgar but ENOUGH. I'm new here, and I'm not only uber sick of you, but more importantly you are boring the living daylights out of me. So move on, hit the road, seek help. And leave the rest of us in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Joni, are you referring to the French Perfect Apartment owned by the couple from Atlanta with the spittoon size sink, or the apartment with the ability to cook and use your oven for a clothes dryer or perhaps it was the other way around and spit in your sink at the same time. All this of course after you have banged your head on the wall trying to get out of bed in the 2x4 closet they call a bedroom?

    ReplyDelete
  93. Two Houses, Two Additions, Same Architect dated November 17, 2009 -

    May I suggest that you research this post and read the last two Anon. comments, clearly coming from two different people both of whom appear from their posts to have had some personal and unpleasant experience with Kurt Aichler. If the comments about the lack of seamless transition from the old to the new, the fact that the back of the house was left with vinyl siding and aluminum windows while using steel casements in other parts of the house and the interior upset the owner/husband/wife, then so be it. The pictures spoke for themselves.

    I hope you will read the comments of the two Anons posted on Dec. 7 and Dec. 10, 2011. I think they speak volumes and come from persons having not just an opinion gleaned from photographs, but personal experience.

    We're all waiting for your Louisiana lap dog to make one of her yapping appearances and take these poor saps on.

    ReplyDelete
  94. I am really curious why you have brought up the aichler's? that just astounds me. what made you bring them into this conversation? they are NOT the couple I was talking about, but it sounds like you might have a guilty conscious? wow. that was in 2009 and you just pulled that story out of your memory bank? that really does make my point that it might be time for you to just move on.

    But, anyway, no. I wasn't referring to them - I had actually forgotten all the horrid things you said about him, one of the better architects in Houston. btw, that house sold immediately, no thanks to you.

    no. i was talking about another house that you maligned. the wife was quite upset, thus the husband wasn't pleased. maybe you didn't realize they were a team.

    ReplyDelete
  95. Joni

    This is your blog and you have the power to stop all of this. Just delete this person. It is unnecessary to continue to hurt people. It would be different if people ask you to print their homes but when homes are taken from real estate,web sites or other blogs it is unfair to allow such mean comments to stay posted.

    Why do you allow such negativity to stay posted? Many of these people do not even realize their homes will appear on your blog and when it does some are viciously maligned and do not understand why.

    Maybe your readers should read this and re-think their postings.

    ReplyDelete
  96. Joni, I have to agree...you have the power and the right to remove the venomous comments. When I read your wonderful blog, I also read the comments to find out what readers have to add to the story. Sadly, the story and lovely casita have gotten lost in the personal attacks. You stated that you "can't" remove comments; perhaps you could get a computer person to show you how. Every blog has the ability to delete comments. Remove the power from this hater and stop sparring with him/her in public. Please. Let's get back to design. And since s/he has such a strong need to be right no matter what, let's just all get together and declare him/her "right" so they'll feel ok about themselves, and then we can move on.

    ReplyDelete
  97. This negative person we are all so concerned about continues to demonstrate serious psychological problems, probably of long standing. If it's you, then get professional psychiatric help. Don't just dismiss this advice - as your deep seated anger and need to put people down borders on obsession and is evidence of serious personality disorders. Get help before you act out these angers in ways beyond vitriolic comments on blogs. Really, get help now! And as a next step towards your cure stop tormenting Joni and upsetting followers of her blog.

    ReplyDelete
  98. Joni, people who post their homes, particularly those who do so who have given permission, would have to be totally ignorant if they thought there would not be someone who for whatever reason wasn't in complete awe over the space. For those homes you have posted without the owners' permission, I can understand that they would be upset; however, their anger should be at you for the violation, not at someone who made a negative comment. No, I don't feel guilty about the Aichler comment having reread the post last night because I thought this was the couple in question. I did find it interesting that two people who had actually worked with him and therefore had first hand knowledge had seriously negative comments to make - much more damaging than anything I observed about the unseamless renovation.

    I would suggest that wives and their husbands grow a spine if they want to exhibit their personal spaces on the internet. Whoever, these people are - whether the Aichlers, the Atlanta couple with the "baby sink", or the Georgia couple who had their house for sale need to grow up or ask themselves why they put their homes in the public domain.

    Perhaps you are the one that should be asking yourself just what legal right you have to lift real estate listings and put them on your blog for comment. I would suspect the homeowners have misplaced anger.

    ReplyDelete
  99. I agree, as someone above said, the tsunamis of vitriol and superiority are usually an indicator of some deep seated inferiority or psychological problem.

    Joni, I also agree with the ones who say you should delete these hateful & nasty comments. Like someone mentioned, being critical is fine - but
    being insulting and mean is just way out line and so not necessary. I see plenty of things on various blogs that have zero appeal for me but I make no
    nasty comments. Even if I don't like something, I learn what NOT to do and that helps me. Joni, please rethink your decision and delete these
    hateful comments. Life is short and, like Traci says, the negative crappy comments are now totally boring us ! Enough-!

    ReplyDelete
  100. Joni, this person is a snob and just needs to get a life. Obviously this person is close-minded and sad. We all enjoy your posts showing different styles and taste. Please don't let this obnoxious person bother you, you can't please everyone. I loved your sister-in-laws closet and casita. Could you find out what kind of tile was used in the main house's bathroom floor. It is what I've been looking for. I live in The Woodlands, so Chappel Hill isn't too far. Thanks for sharing good taste with each of us!

    ReplyDelete
  101. Joni, I have never felt the need to comment before. I usually don't read comment threads, but have read enough of Cote de Texas to be familiar with the spiteful comments that seem to be free flowing from one individual. Clearly, this is not going to stop. While I understand your recluctance to moderate, I, too, think it is time you put a stop to this. This person clearly has a problem, and as you have said yourself, it may be with you. I really enjoy your blog and especially enjoy the fact that your posts seem to have more and larger pictures than most others. Please do yourself and your readers a favour--get rid! Thanks for listening to my "two cents" Wendy

    ReplyDelete
  102. Joni, I have very, very often wondered why you not only do not delete the posts from your anon stalker (and you seem to KNOW it is one person . .I don't know how blogs work, but I am sure you have access to info about who visits you, and it sounds like you feel they have been stalking you for YEARS) but you RESPOND to these comments! Over and over again. I just don't get it. AT ALL!

    I hate to say it, but I have finally come to wonder if you actually enjoy these "debates" yourself?? I mean EVERYONE (but you it seems) knows that the best way to deal with this kind of thing is to IGNORE! Or I now even wonder if you wonder if these comments and the dialogue you have add some kind of drama to your blog that people like to follow along with? Honestly, I have a hard time believing you would think that way, but I just CANNOT come up with a rational reason why you do not delete the comments of the anon who stalks you and why you RESPOND????

    You seem like a lady, maybe I am old fashioned, but it is beneath you to respond, you lower yourself everytime that you do. I know you have been told this before, do you not agree or not see it that way? You must not . . .

    Especially now that you have shared that this person has REALLY hurt some feelings in the past? I would have thought them pretty powerless and am surprised that this person would have the power to upset people so (come on, he or she is an ANON BLOG COMMENTER, enormous foyer or not):) and personally I would think people would just find him/her petty and sort of sad and move on to the next comment, but you say this person has made people CRY??

    Delete for goodness sake, I really think the time has come (a while ago) but if you feel that you cannot do this for SOME REASON please, please do not respond, it gives the anon power, or as much power as they can get through being an anon blog stalker!

    ReplyDelete
  103. Crying and deleting and power, oh my! Why does anyone even care about the opinions and comments of STRANGERS? Sheesh.

    ReplyDelete
  104. I actually do not CARE about what any stranger posts - especially one who appears to have an untreated mental disorder. It just gets tiresomely boring to read long-winded gas-bag pompous remarks like this:

    "For starters my foyer alone is 20 x 40. It together with my living room creates a grand salon as you come into my entry way. My home exceeds 10,000 sq. feet. My laundry room is nearly as big as two of the rooms of this guest house put together and I actually do keep my rags. . . . [ blah..blah...blah..] ..."

    ReplyDelete
  105. Shell, you have become part of the problem. You continue to engage with this person, or these people, who post inflammatory comments hoping to insight mayhem.

    I am against censorship, especially when the intent is to stop disagreement. I think, however, the author of this blog would be wise to rethink her policy of not removing comments when they so obviously are meant to do nothing but enflame.

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  106. shell, you don't have to read the comment section once you have penned your comments. Obviously, this person really makes your hair stand on end. Perhaps you should ask yourself why. Why do you even care what some stranger thinks of you, a blog post, a comment or the content of a blog. Why is this even relevant? I think I see a bit of "green" in your responses. Actually, why should anyone really care. Perhaps a bit more confidence in yourself and the opinions you express here would be a better approach than castigating the opinions of others. The old saying, if you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen seems to come to mind.

    ReplyDelete
  107. I agree. Shell, if this bothers and bores you so much, why not practice what you preach and quit responding. Kudos to anon 12:55.
    Joni is a big girl, with years of blogging experience and will handle this her own way. Joni, what do you think of the paint trends for 2012?

    ReplyDelete
  108. 12:55 I thought I already explained I do not CARE what the mentally disordered gasbag says-? Dd you not understand ? You can think whatever you want to about me and I also do not care. 1:24 - i quit "engaging" with the gas bag awhile back. I am now posting and agreeing with what others are saying.....

    ReplyDelete
  109. So as not to be confused with other anonymous postings, this is my first comment ever. I choose to be anonymous in part because of the derisive comments here. Yikes!

    I discovered your lovely blog in the recent past, and have so enjoyed reading it and look forward to your postings. Having rarely read the comments, I regrettably looked in on the remarks from the closet and casita posts. It’s very unfortunate that some chose to express their distaste of the style in a manner the homeowner construed as hurtful. It is equally unfortunate that others chose to retort in similar manner. It IS possible to relate differences of opinion and design style in a considerate, constructive manner. These are real people’s feelings that are so callously being trampled upon. Whether from a stranger or not, words do have the ability to cut if one allows it.

    I too encourage the blogger not to continue to permit the nasty discourse to contaminate your charming blog. It would be simple enough not to allow the disruptive, vitriolic comments to be posted, and thereby cause the commenter to “go away” as you have requested. Many sites do monitor and block/delete inappropriate comments. Such comments are not in the spirit of “honest disagreement” and serve no purpose other than to cause upset, demean your blog, and perhaps increase blog traffic (of the negative kind.) It would behoove you at this point to delete the entire comment sections of the casita and closet posts and to block future unsuitable comments. It seems it would be an indignity to the homeowners if the mean-spirited, disdainful comments stood to be viewed in perpetuity.

    Regarding the blog posts, one may find things to appreciate about any style, whether or not that style correlates with one’s own taste. A great deal of creativity, personality, love, and hard work must have gone into the design of the closet and the casita. The homeowner should be comforted by the fact that her personal style brings happiness to her and her family. Love the colorful little mirror!

    ReplyDelete
  110. Hey Joni - WHEN will we get a fresh, fun new blog to read?? Please start a new post about trends for 2012, or how to "undecorate" from the holidays and make it fun, or what you're going to put in your garden this spring. Or how to put together a vignette for those spaces that have been holding holiday decorations and look bare!

    It's snowing in the Northeast so I NEED warm Gulf Coast French inspiration!!! PLEEEZ Joni :)

    ReplyDelete
  111. Out of respect for the nice folks being maligned and attacked by ANON, and also because some of the posts are almost "stalks" and are getting downright scary (does this person know where you live - tell me no), please monitor and delete inappropriate comments that take away from the enjoyment and spirit of blogging. That is one sad pitiful voice that should be silenced, whether it has a big house or not.

    ReplyDelete
  112. The casita is wonderful. So much warmth and personality. I wish I had a place like that for my mom..
    The portraits are absolutely amazing.

    ReplyDelete
  113. shell, despite your words to the contrary, you DO continue to engage with the anon you disagree with. All of your references refer to comments which either offend you or comments you disagree with. It seems that you have not come to grips with a couple of issues yourself. In light of this, do some self evaluation and ask yourself why this is so important to you. What is your skin in the game so to speak. I for one find it almost a joke or perhaps a gross exaggeration that men and women cry over blog comments. How is this possible? Have we raised a bunch of spineless morons who need constant affirmation that whatever they do, say, create or project onto the public must be lauded as excellent less they have a nervous breakdown. This is what should be disturbing to you, not that someone has a negative response to a design scheme. This is a design blog remember? This isn't about lofty issues that really matter in life. I think the negative comments have proved that there are far more people in this world who depend on the affirmation of others than one would have previously thought. That is what you should find disturbing. I think this blog and its comment forum would be a perfect study for a student of 21st century psychology. Researchers would no doubt need to verify that husband and wives truly do cry at negative comments about their personal home fashion choices. Suspect as it is, that small detail would be truly important in the verification process. Best of luck figuring this out. See you in grad school.

    ReplyDelete
  114. holy cow - all i am saying is It just gets tiresomely boring to read long-winded gas-bag pompous remarks - and i was not saying that
    TO the mentally disordered gas bag poster- I was stating my opinion for general purposes - just as several other posters on here are stating their opinions and
    by chiming in, I'm hoping Joni will realize there are several of us reading on here who want the nasty gasbag stuff deleted.

    yes Joni - please delete the gasbag's posts-!!

    I'm flabberghasted --but I'm laughing about it --hah-hah--that just today I've been accused of being part of the problem, of being "green" of needing to
    "practice what I preach" and "do some self evaluation" - & all sorts of other nonsense. maybe some of you need to get a life...?..what the hell do you care about ME
    and what I have to say ? find something more creative to do with your free time.

    ReplyDelete
  115. Joni, please quit fueling the fire. And as for "shell", I find her posts more disturbing than any anom post on this blog.
    I'm just saying...

    ReplyDelete
  116. shell, take a deep breath and gather your thoughts. Your last post appears as if you are hyperventilating somewhat.

    The "green" reference does not apply to the environment, but to your incessant reference to the anon. post about the width, length, etc. of his/her foyer, size of laundry room, etc. Green refers to envy and your "gas bag" comeback only makes you look smaller by comparison. Your therapist would tell you to tone it down.

    I pass over boring comments or ones that don't appeal to me as a matter of content. Perhaps you should also or come to your computer monitor with a cocktail to get you through the process.

    You are going over the edge just like the crying wives and husbands over comments that don't have any affect on your daily life whatsoever. You are spending an enormous amounts of time addressing them.

    I am actually involved in an internet study of how the population uses this medium, both as an outlet for communication, desire for more expression,both positive and negative, etc. and most importantly and what most certainly applies to a design blog, the desire for acceptance. The study is far too complex to explain here, but I believe you exemplify someone who has an over reactive response to commentary absent a real and intelligent evaluation of the paradigm of the person commenting. The long and short of it for you is that it truly is not important. Don't waste your energy on a phantom when you could be spending that energy on something truly productive.

    I haven't mentioned this study or my observations as a put down, but do give you some insight into how your responses reveal your inner strengths.

    For those wanting to shut down negative comments, I would have to say they exhibit a great deal of weakness in that they cannot deal with ideas they are uncomfortable with.

    As to Joni's response, I have to say she has exhibited an immense amount of character and yet has stood her ground, often with negativity of her own, but understandably so. She shows that she has the stuff, the bones as it were to validate her own beliefs. I have to give her credit for that
    and so much more. She sound like a lady I would love to go shopping with.

    The internet is a complex array of communication and interaction between strangers. You should try working the political blogs and see how people respond.

    My study has been fulfilling, both in content and in forging the unchartered waters of non face to face communication. It is not complete as of yet, but for my purposes here, I have quite a file compiled that show how people respond when challenged on personal taste. The political ones tend to be more on core beliefs.

    I rest my case by only saying that in the grand scheme of life, nothing here (no insult intended), nor on any other blog, is truly life changing and worth the amount of time that one invest beyond reading for content and evaluating whether that content is applicable in a positive way to one's life. Political discussions are inherently different in that they evolve more rapidly than what the latest trend in paint color may be. Political blogs also give one the opportunity to truly have a discussion, design blogs do not. The DIY blogs are all about information sharing as are the medical blogs.

    I could write forever about this mysterious society out there in blog land, but will leave it here for now.

    My best advice, not as a scholar, but as a fellow traveler is "don't sweat the small stuff".

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  117. Joni

    Further to my earlier post appealing to your stalker to seek professional psychological help, I agree with those who ask you to delete her/his comments and block future entries. Normally I would not support censorship but this person has a serious personality disorder. In addition to the deep seated anger revealed on many occasions and the need to put people down, the individual exhibits serious sociopathic indicators, a very obvious one is a total lack of empathy. It would appear that the individual has developed an unhealthy obsession with your site and your personality and feels a constant need to deride and scorn your entries. A normal person who did not like what you write would tune out and stop following your blog, but this person is obsessed and returns again and again (have done a bit of looking back over your blog as I am concerned where this may lead) to find more opportunities to put you down. By allowing the person to keep doing this you are feeding their obsession. Please put an end to it by deleting entries and blocking the person's comments. This won't help the invidual as, unless treated, she/he will move on to something/someone else, but it will relieve you and your readers of a very troublesome ongoing interchange.

    ReplyDelete
  118. From Cote de Texas to Cote de Psychology. I have never seen so many armchair psychologist congregated in one spot in a long time. There is something fundamentally sad that those who disagree are now deemed to be in need of psychiatric treatment. Some of your comments border on paranoia. Do you take your children to doctors each and every time they challenge you? Probably so!

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  119. Cote de Texas

    Since this is your response to a well-meant attempt to provide you with professional advice in what is potentially a serious situation, I will not suggest any further steps you might take. I have better things to do with my time since my retirement.

    ReplyDelete
  120. What a great house! Spacious, simply perfect!Love the kitchen table!

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  121. Hi, my name is Heather! Please email me when you can, I have a question about your blog!

    HeatherVonSJ[at]gmail[dot]com

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  122. Whoa! I was going to comment but after reading all the others....I will say this, compared to what it was this was a delightful redo and I had seen it several times before in person.. This was a nice gesture for Dottie to have a pretty and comfortable place to herself when she visited the ranch.
    And that was accomplished in style.
    Maryanne

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  123. Is it summer yet.. the knats seem to be swarming early!...

    Yet another interesting post Joni.. as always. I really enjoy the fact that you share with us a cultural assortment of design and styles... not just the mega rich. Your text is as entertaining as your post subject too! Keep it up girl.

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  124. Enjoyed this post and can't wait for the next one!
    Barbara

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  125. Love it!!!!! It's real life. Do you have any clue what the square footage is?

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  126. That place really rocks my urban lifestyle and makes me think of staying at a place like that. Every detail on that house screams of comfort and total relaxation. Refreshing.
    buy diablo 3 account

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  127. Charming, elegant, inviting. I want to be a guest in this wonderful guest house - I might never depart. Love it! laurie

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  128. Thank you very much for this nice post, I will visit your page again in future for reference purpose.

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  129. Oh I love that shower!!! What a great idea. If you don't have little children, get rid of that old tub!!

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  130. Your niece and nephew look so adorable on horseback. :P I find the rooms simple, but they have this touch of classic and class on them, esepcially Dottie’s bedroom. It's really quite elegant. Nowadays it's rare to find ranch houses like that as is as most people prefer to simply renovate.

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