As the curtains closed on 2020, a year etched into our collective memory for its unprecedented challenges, the annual tradition of curating the “best of” posts from Dans le Lakehouse felt more significant than ever. While previous years might have focused solely on creative breakthroughs, 2020 presented a unique mandate: to remain a steadfast sanctuary, a calm harbor amidst life’s storms. Each day brought its share of unsettling news, and for many, the digital world, though a source of connection, often amplified the very stress we sought to escape. Scrolling through endless updates about global anxieties or witnessing elaborate, expensive renovations by some content creators – often at times when millions faced hardship and personal contact was discouraged – felt anything but comforting or relatable. It underscored the importance of creating content that truly resonated with the spirit of the times.
This realization guided my approach: to foster a space brimming with fun, light-hearted ideas that were both visually appealing and budget-friendly. More importantly, I aimed to weave in interesting, distracting stories, offering a much-needed mental respite for myself and my cherished readers. Dans le Lakehouse wasn’t just about DIY; it was about providing a dose of normalcy, a splash of joy, and a gentle reminder that creativity could be a powerful balm for the soul.
Cultivating Calm: How Dans le Lakehouse Became a Beacon of Support
My content strategy in 2020 was deeply intentional. With larger personal projects temporarily on hold due to the pervasive uncertainty, I deliberately shifted my focus. The goal was to champion smaller, more approachable, and undeniably affordable projects that anyone could undertake, transforming their immediate surroundings without significant investment. Throughout my own home, I embraced numerous budget-conscious endeavors, demonstrating that meaningful change doesn’t require a hefty price tag. Diving into the blog’s extensive archives, I meticulously compiled a comprehensive list of over 20 Budget-Friendly Renovation Projects. This resource was designed to empower readers, offering practical solutions for those aspiring to infuse their spaces with warmth and personality, even on the tightest of budgets.
Beyond home improvements, I committed to sharing more smaller-scale, stress-relieving activities that held appeal for both children and adults. Recognizing the widespread challenges many parents faced with homeschooling and keeping young minds engaged, I curated a collection of engaging ideas from past posts, making them readily accessible. This included 10+ DIY Art Tutorials to spark creativity, 15 Beautiful Handmade Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day, and 15+ Easy Crafts Kids Can Make That Adults Will Love Too. My unwavering belief in the therapeutic power of art and creation as a means of stress relief and emotional healing was profoundly validated by the overwhelming positive response. The flood of private messages from families who had eagerly embraced these projects, especially the alcohol ink crafts which became a runaway hit, was incredibly rewarding and deeply moving. This reinforced the idea that sometimes, the simplest creative acts can yield the most profound positive impact.
To further provide an escape, I made a conscious effort to share more personal anecdotes and light-hearted narratives that I hoped would offer engaging distractions. From humorous tales of my sailing misadventures to the ever-expanding saga of my backyard chickens and their adorable chick photos, these stories aimed to bring a smile, a laugh, and a momentary diversion from the everyday grind. They served as a reminder that even in challenging times, there’s always room for humor, joy, and the simple pleasures of life.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that I, too, navigated the complexities and struggles of 2020. My journey was not without its difficulties. However, while I often share personal aspects of my life on this platform, I felt a strong responsibility not to burden my audience with my personal anxieties. My role as a content creator, as I see it, is to deliver content that consistently uplifts, educates, inspires, and entertains. This mission was one I embraced with utmost seriousness throughout the year. I sincerely hope that your visits to Dans le Lakehouse offered you moments of respite and cheer. I cherish each and every one of you, and the meaningful conversations we share through emails, social media interactions, and comments are truly the lifeblood of this community.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Amazing Community
Thank you for continuing to be a part of the Dans le Lakehouse family. Your support, engagement, and shared passion for creativity make this space truly special. As we look forward, I extend my warmest wishes for your well-being and prosperity, not just in 2021, but for all the years to come. Your presence is deeply appreciated.
And now, without further ado, let’s journey back and revisit the most beloved and impactful posts from Dans le Lakehouse in 2020! It was genuinely challenging to select just a few, given the abundance of smaller projects and delightful crafts I had the pleasure of sharing throughout the year, each holding a special place in my heart.
Double the Delight: My Two Coveted Print Features!
The year 2020 kicked off with an incredible burst of exciting news: my home had the distinct honor of being featured in not one, but two prestigious national magazines! First, it graced the pages of Better Homes & Gardens, followed by an equally thrilling appearance in Good Housekeeping. These were truly milestone moments for Dans le Lakehouse. To celebrate these achievements, I’m taking a slight creative liberty with this list by combining these two magnificent features into a single, power-packed entry. You can delve into the full story of the Better Homes & Gardens feature here, and discover all the details about the Good Housekeeping spotlight by clicking here. These features were a testament to years of hard work and a wonderful validation of the unique charm and DIY spirit that defines our lakehouse home.
Maximizing Space: My Innovative Narrow Entryway Storage Solution
Sometimes, the most brilliant ideas are also the simplest. This particular project, while not a complex hack or an elaborate DIY, proved to be a game-changer for our home. Unlike my more involved DIY IKEA Fauxdenza, which involved adding a plywood top, this solution was refreshingly straightforward. The ingenious concept of lining our extremely narrow hallway with affordable plastic shoe storage cabinets was, without exaggeration, one of my absolute best organizational breakthroughs. We miraculously gained an immense amount of functional storage in a space I had previously deemed too restrictive for any practical use. Now, accessing essentials like hats, mitts, and scarves is effortless, transforming our winter routines and making those chilly months just that much more manageable. This project truly highlights how smart, budget-friendly choices can revolutionize even the most challenging areas of a home, offering both practical utility and a sense of calm order.
Mastering the Basics: A Comprehensive Guide to Sewing a Tea Towel with Mitered Corners
I take immense pride in sharing foundational sewing skills, and this detailed tutorial on how to sew a perfect mitered corner is a particular favorite. Crafted with an abundance of clear, step-by-step photographs, it offers an incredibly thorough guide for beginners. The beauty of mastering this technique lies in its versatility; it’s a fundamental skill applicable to a wide array of home linens, including tablecloths, placemats, and table runners, in addition to elegant tea towels. This post is designed to be an excellent starting point for anyone eager to embark on their sewing journey, providing not only precise instructions but also valuable tips to ensure a successful and rewarding experience. The satisfaction of creating something beautiful and functional with your own hands is truly unparalleled, and this tutorial aims to make that experience accessible to all.
A Touch of Craft: Easy DIY Wood Burned Spoons for Gifting
While Valentine’s Day content isn’t typically my primary focus – it’s rarely “my jam,” as they say – I found unexpected inspiration to create these delightful DIY wood burned spoons. Their simplicity and remarkable affordability made them an ideal project, and their presence on this ‘best of’ list is noteworthy precisely because a Valentine’s-themed craft is such an anomaly for me! These spoons make charming, personalized gifts, perfect for adding a touch of handmade warmth to any kitchen. In a similar vein of creative gift-giving, I also explored DIY alcohol ink Valentine’s Day cards, further showcasing that unique, heartfelt presents don’t require immense effort or expense. These projects serve as a wonderful reminder that a little creativity can go a long way in expressing care and appreciation, regardless of the occasion.
Artistic Flair: Discovering the Joy of Abstract Painted Eggs
Egg decorating is a craft I’ve only recently embraced, and I wouldn’t necessarily claim to be a seasoned expert. However, the unexpected elegance and modern appeal of these abstract painted eggs truly captivated me. It was incredibly exciting to see them gain recognition and even be featured by Elle Decor, a testament to their unique charm! This project proved that sometimes, breaking away from traditional methods can yield surprisingly stunning results. It’s about embracing imperfection and allowing creativity to flow. For those interested in alternative dyeing methods, last year I also explored naturally dyeing eggs with blueberries, which produced equally gorgeous, subtle hues. Both methods offer a creative and satisfying way to celebrate the spring season, adding a handmade touch to your holiday decor with minimal fuss.
Embracing Nature’s Beauty: My Liberating DIY Driftwood Wreath
For years, I had a tendency to hoard beautiful pieces of driftwood, always envisioning them for a grand, future project. 2020, however, sparked a different kind of inspiration, liberating me from that hoarding mindset. This year, I finally put my treasured collection to use, creating three distinct and equally charming DIY projects: this elegant DIY driftwood wreath, my serene DIY driftwood wall hanging, and the whimsical DIY driftwood wreath stands out as one of my favorite posts, not only for its natural beauty but also for the shift in perspective it represented. The delicate welcome plaque, crafted from leftover Lexan, perfectly complemented the organic textures of the driftwood, adding a personalized touch. This project beautifully illustrates how embracing natural elements and letting go of the fear of using precious materials can lead to truly unique and satisfying creations, bringing a piece of the outdoors gracefully into your home decor.
A Dose of Pure Joy: Two Batches of Adorable Baby Chick Photos
In a year that often felt heavy, the simple sight of baby chicks proved to be an unparalleled source of happiness and light for so many. Witnessing their tiny, fluffy forms and innocent curiosity brought immense joy, and I was thrilled to capture and share dozens of these heartwarming moments. You can revisit the cuteness with Baby Chicks Vol 1 and then delight in more adorable antics with Baby Chicks Vol 2. Beyond the initial photos, I also provided regular updates on the growth and development of the second batch of chicks through Instagram stories, allowing everyone to follow their charming progress from hatchlings to bustling adolescents. It’s my sincere hope that these glimpses into our backyard brought a bright spot to your day. I’m excited to announce that I’ve recently ordered another batch of chicks, and I can’t wait to share their journey with you once again! My plan is to capture a daily photo for six consecutive weeks, offering an incredibly detailed and accurate visual narrative of just how quickly these tiny bundles of fluff transform into magnificent chickens, bringing another wave of natural wonder and joy to our community.
A Labor of Love: Mom’s Stunning Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Makeover Reveal
One of the most fulfilling projects of the year was undoubtedly tackling my Mom’s dining room makeover. This endeavor was a beautiful blend of ingenuity and resourcefulness, especially after an unexpected turn of events. While most of my brand collaborations were successfully completed before the pandemic hit, one significant partnership for a dining room table and chairs unfortunately fell through. However, this setback paved the way for a truly remarkable find: a gorgeous vintage dining table and chair set, complete with a perfectly matched credenza, all acquired for an incredible $500. This discovery highlighted the enduring charm and quality of pre-loved furniture. I then embarked on the transformation, refreshing the table with a magical, no-sanding, no-stripping technique that brought its rich character back to life, and expertly recovering the chairs to give them a fresh, modern appeal. Click here to witness the incredible before-and-after transformation and access all the links to the various DIY projects involved, including a detailed tutorial on how to expertly hang wallpaper. This project stands as a testament to the fact that stunning design and impactful renovations can be achieved beautifully on a mindful budget, with a little creativity and a lot of heart.
A Pop of Color: Mom’s Dramatic Blue Fireplace Makeover
Never one to leave a creative stone unturned, Mom and I extended our makeover magic to the adjoining living room, ensuring a cohesive and refreshing update. The transformation began with a calming, creamy white wall paint, setting a serene backdrop. To tie the spaces together seamlessly, we carried a soft blue, grey, and green palette from the dining room into the living room ceiling. The true focal point, however, became the fireplace, which received a stunning and bold blue chalk paint application. This rich, inviting hue instantly infused the room with personality and depth. I’m incredibly pleased we dedicated time to refreshing the living room as well, as these thoughtful updates made decorating her apartment for the holidays an even more joyful and visually harmonious experience. It’s a prime example of how strategic color choices and simple DIY techniques can profoundly elevate a space’s aesthetic and overall ambiance.
Sew Much Fun: Your Guide to Crafting a Perfect Lumbar Pillow
Sewing, as many enthusiasts know, can be incredibly rewarding (pun intended!). With a passion for empowering others to embrace this creative skill, I’ve been dedicated to providing really in-depth, easy-to-follow tutorials to help beginners get started. This particular guide, detailing how to sew a stylish lumbar pillow, holds a special place because it showcases my own beautiful ice-dyed fabric. I was absolutely delighted with how both the comprehensive tutorial and the finished pillow turned out. The process breaks down each step, making complex techniques accessible and enjoyable for new sewers. Learning to create your own pillows allows for endless customization, adding personalized touches to your home decor with fabrics and patterns that truly reflect your style. This project is not just about making a pillow; it’s about building confidence in your sewing abilities and discovering the immense satisfaction of handmade home accents.
Dramatic Transformation: Mom’s Bold Stairwell Makeover
Not stopping at the living and dining rooms, we also embarked on a truly bold and impactful makeover for Mom’s stairwell. This project beautifully demonstrated the transformative power of paint and smart design choices on a budget. I shared an incredibly easy and effective trick for installing a stair runner, simplifying what can often seem like a daunting task. The core of the makeover, however, was vividly showcased in a mind-boggling before-and-after reveal of her rental apartment’s stairwell, highlighting just how much paint can alter a space. By cleverly utilizing existing items Mom already owned, combined with strategic color-blocked paint and a fresh new runner, we achieved a stunning, high-impact look without significant financial outlay. This project serves as an inspiring example of how thoughtful, budget-friendly design can elevate even the most overlooked areas of a home, turning a utilitarian space into a vibrant and welcoming feature.
A Gemstone Creation: DIY Concrete Bowl with Embedded Amethyst
The idea for this unique concrete and amethyst bowl had resided in my imagination for many years, so finally bringing it to fruition was an incredibly satisfying experience. This project was not just about the craft itself, but it also sparked a series of wonderful adventures: a couple of enjoyable visits to a local Amethyst mine, which proved to be a fantastic and educational outing. For those who missed those exciting excursions, you can find a recap of our gemstone hunts in two dedicated Story Highlights on my Instagram profile (titled ‘Amethyst 1’ & ‘Amethyst 2’). Additionally, I compiled this fun Instagram Reel, offering a dynamic glimpse into the process and the beauty of the amethyst. The finished bowl is a stunning fusion of raw, industrial concrete and the natural sparkle of the embedded amethyst, creating a piece that is both rustic and elegant, and a testament to the beauty that can arise from combining unexpected materials and long-held creative visions.
Productivity & Style: DIY Horizontal Slat Wall in the Office
Creating a refreshing and inspiring workspace became particularly important in 2020, and I was immensely pleased to update my home office with a stylish new horizontal slat wall. This project was completed just in time, as my husband soon transitioned to working from home full-time for many months. The updated office provided a more aesthetic and functional environment for both of us, and I was incredibly grateful for the shared space during that period. While he has since returned to working on-site, I often find myself missing the dynamic energy of sharing my office space with him. The slat wall not only added a modern, architectural element to the room but also created a visually engaging backdrop, proving that even functional spaces can be infused with thoughtful design. This relatively simple DIY project had a significant impact on our daily lives, highlighting the importance of a well-designed home environment, especially when it doubles as a professional workspace.
Growing Green: Constructing My Own DIY Cold Frame Garden Beds
Embarking on the creation of these DIY cold frame garden beds was a truly enjoyable project for me, not least because it involved my favorite hobby: burning wood! 2020 saw a resurgence of “victory gardens,” with countless individuals embracing homesteading activities like gardening and raising chickens, whether in sprawling backyards or compact balcony spaces. Having already ventured into keeping chickens, I decided it was time to try my hand at gardening. While the initial results were a delightful mix of successes and learning opportunities, I gained invaluable experience and am now incredibly excited to get a head start on the growing season with these very cold frame beds. They extend the growing period, allowing for earlier planting and later harvests, a crucial advantage in cooler climates. And for a unique visual treat, if you’ve never seen me in my full firefighter bunker gear, clicking over to this post is definitely worth it – it adds an unexpected and memorable dimension to the gardening narrative!
Beyond the Horizon: Recounting Our Unforgettable Sailing Misadventures
During a year marked by heightened stress, what I truly craved was engaging, bite-sized narratives. So, I decided to create the kind of content I longed to read: stories of magazine length, perfectly suited for a mind with a shortened attention span, yet rich with intriguing details. Sharing our sailing misadventures proved to be just that. Even now, the memories are vivid enough to inspire dreams – just the other night, I dreamt our neighbor was clearing snow off the lake, but the ice wasn’t frozen because our boat was still anchored there. As I rushed to warn him, the boat dramatically sank to the bottom of the lake! While our actual sailing escapades, including a memorable “Mayday” call, were undeniably scary, the process of documenting and sharing them with you was immensely enjoyable. There’s a particular freedom and satisfaction in writing so openly and authentically about these personal experiences, transforming moments of trepidation into engaging tales that resonate and entertain.
A Breath of Fresh Air: Unveiling the Beachy New Kitchen Cabinet Color
I still have a fantastic secret to reveal to you – my game-changing technique for effortlessly stripping paint off wood, so it quite literally glides right off! That tutorial is in the works and will be shared soon. However, in the meantime, I was delighted to at least share photographs of our kitchen’s stunning new cabinet color. This beautiful, airy hue, reminiscent of serene coastal waters, has completely transformed the heart of our home, infusing it with a fresh, beachy vibe. The full tutorials for this complete kitchen transformation are being meticulously prepared and will be released shortly. This initial reveal offers a tantalizing glimpse into the significant aesthetic shift, promising a brighter, more open, and inviting kitchen space that truly reflects a relaxed, lakehouse-inspired aesthetic. It’s a testament to how color alone can dramatically alter the perception and mood of a room.
Elegance and Ease: My Coastal Dining Room Makeover
Fresh off the success of my Mom’s dining room transformation, I had the wonderful opportunity to give my own dining room a much-desired makeover, thanks to generously gifted items from Article and Ruggable. Working with brands sometimes means timing isn’t always within my control; I had wished to align this project with Mom’s makeover. Candidly, I had actually been in discussions with Article to collaborate on Mom’s dining room after the initial brand partnership fell through. However, by the time arrangements were finalized, Mom’s makeover was already complete! Yet, as fate would have it, everything worked out perfectly. Mom absolutely adores the vintage furniture we sourced, and I was thrilled to incorporate the Article pieces into my own home. The result? I absolutely adore my new dining room, with its softer, more casual, and distinctly coastal ambiance. This project perfectly encapsulates the evolving direction of my personal style – a move towards more effortless decor, though my love for vintage and mid-century modern pieces will always remain. It’s about finding that beautiful balance between timeless charm and contemporary, relaxed living.
Vibrant Holiday Crafting: DIY Alcohol Ink Christmas Ornaments
The decision by my Mom to finally get a Christmas tree this year sparked a delightful flurry of holiday crafting, resulting in a wonderful collection of handmade Christmas tree ornaments. Among the many festive creations, choosing a favorite was incredibly difficult, but these DIY alcohol ink ornaments might just take the top spot. I have a genuine affection for alcohol ink projects; they consistently yield stunning, vibrant, and uniquely abstract results that are almost impossible to get wrong. The fluidity and intense pigmentation of alcohol inks make every ornament a one-of-a-kind miniature artwork, adding a truly personal and artistic touch to the holiday decor. This project not only brought a festive cheer but also highlighted the joy of simple, accessible crafting that produces beautiful, professional-looking outcomes every time, perfect for decking the halls with handmade charm.
A Different Kind of Connection: Why My Husband & I Embrace No-Gift Exchanges
In a moment of openness this year, I shared a deeply personal insight into our relationship: why my husband and I have chosen not to exchange gifts. The response to that post was truly heartwarming, with so many of you relating to our approach and sharing your own similar experiences. It was a powerful reminder of the diverse ways relationships can be celebrated and how breaking from traditional norms can often lead to deeper, more meaningful connections. The overwhelming feedback has encouraged me to share more personal stories like this in the future. So, if anything I’ve mentioned in passing has ever piqued your curiosity, or if there’s a particular aspect of our lives or my philosophy you’d like to delve deeper into, please don’t hesitate to ask. Your questions and engagement help shape the conversations we have here, fostering a community built on shared understanding and authentic connection.
Festive Finesse: Crafting Charming DIY Wood Trees
Last, but certainly not least, these DIY wood trees were an absolute standout project and a wonderful way to conclude our look back at 2020’s most loved content! I was incredibly excited and truly delighted to see that quite a few readers immediately set about making their own versions – there’s nothing I love more than receiving photos of your completed projects! The enthusiastic response confirms these charming wooden trees were definitely a hit, adding a touch of rustic elegance and handmade warmth to many homes during the holiday season. Their simplicity and customizable nature made them accessible to everyone, and the satisfaction of creating such a beautiful, festive decoration from scratch is truly unmatched. They represent the perfect blend of easy DIY and impactful holiday decor, proving that sometimes the most beloved items are those crafted with your own two hands.
P.S. Explore More: Relive Past Year-End Roundups by Clicking Here!
Thank you once again for joining me on this journey through Dans le Lakehouse’s most cherished moments of 2020. Your readership and unwavering support mean the world to me. Here’s to a brighter, more creative, and wonderfully inspiring New Year!