Good Character
Design with Intention to Reveal Your Home's Personality
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- $16.99
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- $16.99
Publisher Description
Any house can become a home with character.
For David and Stephen St. Russell, aka the Renovation Husbands, a home with character does not need to be historic, but it must be crafted with intention. Join them on a room-by-room journey as they break down the process behind every design decision, from structural to decorative, and explain how each element can contribute to building character in your home.
Discover the power of architectural millwork to add interest and depth; experiment with color to create bold, impactful spaces; and learn how to expertly mix vintage and modern furniture (at every price point) for a contemporary yet timeless feel. Whether you live in an older home or a new build, this accessible guide provides a blueprint for making the most of your existing space, removes the illusion of complexity from home renovation, and empowers you to transform any room in your house into something unique.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Married designers David and Stephen St. Russell, who post on social media as the Renovation Husbands, debut with an accessible guide to designing homes full of character. While often associated with old homes, character, the authors argue, doesn't come from age but from "the thought, care, and craftsmanship behind every decision." They share lessons learned from buying and renovating their Boston Queen Anne Victorian in 2017 and their Maine cabin in 2023, encouraging readers to "listen to your home"—something they learned the hard way. After creating a trendy kitchen in their 1893 home, they realized they hated it, went back to the drawing board, and brought in Victorian elements that matched the rest of the space. Elsewhere, they walk readers through how to bring depth to a home by adding crown molding, wall paneling, and built-in bookcases. They also discuss how a cohesive color palette creates harmony, how thrifted objects and furniture bring a sense of history into a home, and how putting one's interests on display adds personality (Stephen's childhood rock collection is used as decoration in their Maine cabin). Gorgeous photographs reveal their penchant for bold colors and patterns, and helpful "Questions to Consider" sections prompt readers to reflect on what design choices are right for them. The result is an inspiring manual for developing an intentional style.
