Houzz Interview: Susie Harris's Charming Louisiana Home

Susie Harris always lived in the same neighborhood in Louisiana, within a five mile radius of where she was born. When the time came, It was very natural for Susie and her husband to build their home on a family land. Susie's dad became their neighbor and the extended family stayed close as always.
Susie's passion is decorating her home on a budget and creating nice things to fill it. Her blog is full of great DIY projects and inexpensive decor ideas. In her blog, she tells her readers about their motto in life: "you're only company once when you visit, after that you become family".
We love that motto Susie!
We are very happy to have Susie Harris with us today to share her story.


Please tell us about your "first meeting" with your house to be

Growing up on family land made our decision to build an easy one. We found a contractor that would work with our needs and wants ,came up with a few plans and our journey began.

The first step of your remodeling process

Building from the ground up you would think I would not have any renovations in mind. Not so in my case. I feel you have to live and grow in your home. It changes and grows with you,hence the need to change things up a bit.

The biggest renovation challenge you faced

My biggest renovation project would have to be my kitchen cabinets and my cottage outside. Both labors of love~

Your favorite style and colors

Style and color. These two words just make me giggle. If you were to ask any family member or friend they would have to laugh. I am know for changing things...painting things..often! At the moment I love soft blue/grays and browns. My style plays fair from Ballard Designs to Pottery Barn never leaving out a touch of vintage.

A spot in your house that makes you very happy

My kitchen cabinets have to be my most challenging but yet most rewarding spot in my house. I love how just adding a piece of glass can open an entire room. Although that is at the top of my list I cannot leave out my hand painted monogram in my daughters bedroom and my sweet cottage (playhouse).

Your precious accessory/furniture/art

There is one thing that is special to all of us. It belongs to my Dad and I have it here for safe keeping...ha! It's the horse. My Dad found it years ago in New Orleans. It is an old wooden horse from the first carousel down in New Orleans. It looks to have been hand carved. We love this piece.

Your next house project

The next project on my list is to add transoms in my den/dinning room. I have very high ceilings and I think this will give our den some much needed light.

5 things that houzz readers need to know about you and your blog

1) Never let fear stand in your way of trying something new
2) Paint is cheap and makes such a big impact . If you mess up on the color ..try again. If you have read my blog for any amount of time you will know this one is close to my heart..smile~
3) Make your home your own. Put you into it!
4)I try to include a DIY with every project I do. If it can help just one reader than my job is done!
5) Live,love,grow...in your home. Don't be afraid to make a few holes in the walls from time to time.

Best tip for the remodeling beginner

My best tip for the remodeling beginner is to ask questions. Visit open houses in your area and keep a notebook close at hand...always.

Last but not least: as a houzz friend, Susie has chosen a Target giveaway gift card to one of the lucky readers that will share their thoughts about her house and interview..

Thank you for sharing your beautiful home Susie!

For your chance to win a $50 Target gift card, comment on this interview by Sunday, November 29, at 5pm EST.