This 3,200 sq. ft. DIY Home for Family of Three in USA is Given a Modern Cottage Makeover

This expansive haven is home to Nate and Bri Long, along with their daughter Daphne. With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, the space reflects the Longs' impressive design skills, featuring a blend of unique secondhand finds, DIY and affordable pieces.

Nate and Bri Long, a married couple with a daughter named Daphne, both hail from a small town in Minnesota. While they have careers outside of the design world, their passion for interior design and remodelling became evident when they purchased their first home.

The Longs' home, with its unaltered structure since it was first built in 2001, failed to capture the inviting charm they craved. The outdated elements, including dreary granite countertops, orange-toned maple floors, unconventional paint choices, and lackluster cabinets, screamed for a much-needed makeover. Motivated by their desire to create a warm and captivating living space, the Longs enthusiastically embraced the mission of renovating their home themselves.

Now, two years later, the Longs have almost completely renovated each room in their home. Their main objective was to create a warm and inviting space. Harnessing their fondness for arches, they incorporated this feature into various aspects of the remodelling process. Beginning with the front entry, they replaced the existing door with a stunning antique oak arched door.

An arch was also introduced in the main living room, while a flexible space was converted into an office library, complete with oversized French doors. Moreover, they removed the old maple staircase and replaced it with a beautiful dark wood and iron spindle staircase that harmonises with the refinished maple floors. Herringbone flooring was added in the living room and office as well.

One prominent highlight of their home is the floor-to-ceiling fireplace, which underwent an over grout technique. This transformation injected warmth and cottage charm, ultimately rectifying the home's previous lack of character. Additionally, an arch was integrated into the kitchen doorway, maintaining the consistent arch theme. The master bedroom received a serene and calming aura through the inclusion of natural wood beams and a seagrass pendant.

Drawing inspiration from platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram and design magazines, the Longs gravitate towards a traditional style with contemporary touches. They typically adhere to neutral colours as the foundation of their rooms. BM Swiss Coffee is their preferred white shade and has been widely utilised throughout their home. They introduce warmth and texture through textiles, artwork, and wood finishes. This dedication to neutral colour schemes allows them the flexibility to modify their home's decor as their tastes and design preferences evolve over time.

Signature pieces peppered throughout their home include a Philip Reinisch arch curio cabinet procured from FBMP, which they expertly refinished. Black in colour and accentuated with antique brass hardware, the cabinet softens the aesthetic and pays homage to their love for arches. Additionally, they selected Janessa 1 lanterns from Breakwater Bay for their entry lights. These oversized lanterns exude an old English charm, effectively making a statement. The Longs also acquired a solid cherry Bob Timberlake Lexington desk secondhand and revived it by refinishing it in its raw and natural state. Lastly, the nursery light is an Egyptian Clay pendant sourced from CairoStoneandBrass. Handmade in Egypt, this pendant brings a natural and warm element to the space.

Photo: Nate and Bri Long

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