Our Not So Big House

There has been much hustle and bustle going on in the Green family lately. We have finally moved into our new home (hopefully our last home!) in Decorah, IA. I’ve hinted at this in previous posts and on Facebook, but I haven’t been able to bring myself to blog about our house, because I didn’t want to jinx it!

I’ve had my eyes on this house for many months – even before we knew if moving to Decorah would become a reality… I fell in love with it online and once we got to peek inside, it was over. It was love at first sight.

I’m a big fan of the “Not So Big House” books by Sarah Susanka and although I decided not to build my own (reusing is good!), this house definitely has some of the qualities of the “Not So Big House.” Take this appliance garage for example (and notice the amazing cabinetry!):

My Kitchen Aid mixer and blender can’t wait to move in!

This is not a minimalist house by any means, but it isn’t ridiculously large either. In fact, it’s just right. There are just enough rooms, including an office for me (right at the top of the stairs!) and the family room will double as our guest room (think futon and air mattress). We want to have an open home where college students drop by for dessert & conversation and neighborly parties can take place. So we opted for a house with an open floor plan where living/dining/kitchen areas all flow together. There isn’t a shred of carpet in the house, which is awesome for easy maintenance (especially with a dog!).

The front door is mostly glass, which creates a welcoming feeling. Sophie loves to peek out the door and take in the neighborhood activities. Of course, we’ll have to be a little careful about the activities in which we engage in the living room.

Here is a slightly crooked picture of the window above the kitchen sink. I’m thinking this will be a great place to start a little herb garden. Also notice the nifty bamboo fence. Sustainable materials rock! Speaking of sustainable, the house is built to be super efficient and sky lights in the kitchen let in lots of natural light during the day. Once we’ve been here a month, I’m planning to ask the Winneshiek Energy District to conduct a “Home Energy Checkup.” I can’t wait to find out what else we can do to make our home even more sustainable.

If you happen to be in the Driftless Area, send me a note, and come over for some Swedish meatballs and potato casserole. Or perhaps we’ll visit one of the (few) amazing local restaurants and spend the evening chatting over a seasonal menu and cheap wine. Just wait until after March 19, when we move our furniture from Wisconsin. Unless you don’t mind sleeping on the floor…

All are welcome!

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