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Houzz Tour: Pretty Patterns Bedeck a Barn House
Sun-kissed interiors showcase handmade patterned creations and thrifted decor in this colorful, cozy Central California home
DIY blogger and maker Bonnie Forkner and her husband consider it a small miracle that they found their light-filled cottage nestled in California's Santa Ynez mountains. The house, a converted barn that once sheltered rescued animals, sits on property overlooking gorgeous vineyards and mountains — in an area that initially seemed way beyond their budget. But through luck and the magic of the Internet, the couple found their dream barn house complete with views of breathtaking sunsets, rolling hills and lush vines.
"We have plenty of windows; a yard for our dog, Toaster; and a place to garden," says Forkner. "To say that we're blessed is an understatement."
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here: Bonnie Forkner, her husband and their pup, Toaster
Location: Santa Ynez, California
Size: 1,000 square feet; 1 bedroom, 1 bath, loft for storage and guests
"We have plenty of windows; a yard for our dog, Toaster; and a place to garden," says Forkner. "To say that we're blessed is an understatement."
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here: Bonnie Forkner, her husband and their pup, Toaster
Location: Santa Ynez, California
Size: 1,000 square feet; 1 bedroom, 1 bath, loft for storage and guests
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| High ceilings, plenty of south-facing windows and white walls allow Forkner to layer in her handmade patchwork quilts with various patterns and colors in the living room. Vines crawling up and around the exterior are visible from the living room thanks to its unadorned windows. The stunning view of neighboring vineyards means there's no need for landscape paintings on the walls. Quilts: Handmade by Bonnie Forkner |
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| The vine-covered cottage used to shelter rescued animals and was converted into a home 20 years ago. Forkner, an animal lover, appreciates their home's compassionate history. |
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On the opposite side of the room is Forkner's painting table, salvaged from a thrift store.
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Not one to keep inspiration too far away, Forkner strategically placed her reading nook close to her desk. The corner brings together the different textures of the shag rug, the pink throw, the woven basket and the quilted pillow covering. Despite the decor's eclectic mix, nothing overwhelms or feels out of place.
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| The living room is "also our dining room, home office, painting studio and part of our kitchen," she says. "I totally don't mind the open floor plan and actually love that one space spills into the other." |
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| A square opening connects the dining table to the pantry and the dedicated cooking area. Forkner and her husband are vegans and often eat food from their garden. |
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| Exposed shelves, hanging fruit and playful color reflect the laid-back cottage spirit of the converted barn house. |
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| A doorway connects the great room to the master bedroom. "I carved out a little sewing corner for myself here," says Forkner, who writes about all things crafty, inspiring, homegrown and organic for her blog, Going Home to Roost. |
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Forkner repurposed a silverware tray and a drawer into an open shelving unit with a printed paper back. A maker by trade, she constructs most of her home decor with salvaged finds; she also supports other makers and artists by writing about their work.
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| Wisteria draped over a backyard arbor frames the mountain views. Hammocks invite guests to stay awhile on lazy afternoons. |
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| Mismatched pillowcases, organic wood elements and a handmade quilt provide just the right amount of pattern play and eye candy without overwhelming the master bedroom. |
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| "We live in Central California, where sunlight is almost guaranteed daily and we're surrounded by beautiful gardens and vineyards," Forkner says. "Life is good." |
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Here, Toaster awaits the arrival of guests in a bright spot by the entry.
Ideabook updated on Aug. 22, 2012.
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Bonnie, I wanted to ask you the name of your draping, fern-like indoor plants. Feel free to share here or shoot me an email? Thank you! And thanks again for sharing your gorgeous home with us.
Thank you for sharing!
P.S. - Love "Toaster" too. Cute name :)
@cathy: you did such an outstanding job on this write up- i almost forgot it was my house! haha.
both of those plants are succulents, my favorite one is the 'pearl' succulent!