Imagine stepping into a home that feels like a warm hug—filled with laughter, creativity, and a dash of chaos from three adorable cats. That’s exactly what you get when you visit Emma and Art’s charming row house in Philly. After a five-year renovation journey, this colorful abode reflects their personalities and the love they share. Ready for a virtual tour? Let’s dive in! 💛🏡
Living Room: A Cozy Retreat
Okay, but can we talk about the magic of house hunting? Emma remembers those early days back in 2015, where she was working with a tight budget but had one dream: to find a place with character. “This house was a fixer-upper, but I instantly fell for its front window, the mantle, and the staircase,” she shares. Beneath layers of worn-out vinyl tiles, stunning hardwood parquet floors awaited, and a child’s poem, written in purple crayon in an upstairs closet? Talk about character! 🖊️✨
Fast forward to when Art moved in, and things got real—like, sofa wars real. “I had this sad little couch, and it was a constant battle to see who could stretch out more, especially with our three cats getting in on the action,” Emma laughs. It was clear: an upgrade was essential. Enter their stunning Joybird sectional in performance velvet—perfect for withstanding cat antics and providing ample lounging space for both of them.
In terms of decor, the walls are painted in a rich shade called ‘36 Hours in Marrakesh,’ creating a vibrant backdrop. Emma and Art love showcasing their friends’ artwork, including a cat portrait by Emma herself and various prints by their talented pals. Friday nights are sacred in their house, spent making guacamole and unwinding with comedy specials. “It’s our little ritual!” Emma adds. Who else has a Friday night tradition? 🍹😄
Dining Room: Where Friends Gather
As we move to the dining room, the ambiance shifts to a welcoming spot for gatherings. Art loves hosting hot pot nights, where everyone brings their favorite ingredients to share. “I’ll cook up a spicy broth on one side and a milder one on the other for those who can’t handle the heat!” he explains. It’s a community affair, and the most complicated part? The sauces! But he’s always ready to teach friends how to whip them up. 🍲👩🍳
Emma emphasizes the importance of storage in their narrow row house, noting how they incorporated custom shelves to display their eclectic trinkets. And let’s not forget the wedding memento hanging on the wall—a beautiful reminder of the love and support from their community. “It’s like a little hug every time I see it,” Art smiles. Who else finds comfort in their home decor? 💖🖼️
Kitchen and Beyond: A Creative Haven
In the kitchen, painted in a sunny ‘Pablo Honey,’ Art’s collection of teapots, including family heirlooms, takes center stage. “Tea is essential in our daily routine,” he shares. Each afternoon, they take a moment to recharge with a cup, and if friends are over for dinner, herbal tea rounds out the evening. Sounds cozy, right? 🍵🌼
Emma’s office is where the magic happens—her creative sanctuary, painted in the same vibrant hue as the living room. She believes in writing from the heart and encourages her students to explore topics that spark their curiosity. During the pandemic, she found solace in collage, transforming everyday materials into beautiful art pieces. Art and Emma’s home is a testament to their journey together, blending styles and creating a space that feels uniquely theirs. 🌈✍️
Finally, let’s not overlook the exterior! Emma initiated a Little Free Library in front of their home, a community project that brings joy to local kids and encourages reading. It’s just another reflection of their thoughtful approach to life and community. So, what do you think? Isn’t it inspiring how they’ve crafted such a loving space? 🌟📚