Houzz TV: An American Farmer's House Explodes With Colour
Kristin Nicholas and Mark Duprey’s 1751 home was a blank canvas, painted in simple whites and pastels, but Nicholas has spent the past 14 years layering on brushstrokes in vivid colours. A working artist known for her knit, crochet and stitchery designs, Nicholas has made their home a true reflection of her talent and spirit. “There isn’t a room left that’s how we found it,” she says.
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here: Kristin Nicholas and Mark Duprey, their daughter, Julia
Location: Franklin County,
Size: 3,500 square feet; 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
That’s interesting: The couple tends to more than 300 sheep
Keep Watching:
no beige here!
I colored my wall with orange color, it was looking beautiful during the day, but during the night the reddish reflection really made us feel very uncomfortable, so I had to change the color, with a heavy heart. I really loved the orange color.
I have seen rooms painted from ceiling to all the walls painted brightest orange and they looked alright in the pictures, but living with that color during the night is something i wonder how they can tolerate it.
Anything and everything goes together so beautifully.
Nice to see some folks can really think outside the box when it comes to interior design.
I have been deciding on wall colors for a house we're moving into in another month and decided to "try" to go more subdued. However I know I won't go nuetral dominant. i'm aiming for restful in some spots but color will be the rule.
The photo of the sideboard could be made into a print with the balance of complementary colors, along with the weight being balanced by the artwork of the pig. Oh geez, and the art in the dining room is spectacular. There's not a designer wallpaper that can outdo this work. The balance is beautiful. As for the negative comments, to each their own. But you really do have to have an appreciation of color/art and the way they work together to get this house. It isn't, per se, a "designed house" but more of an art piece with sections that are incredibly well done. Hats off to Kristin Nichols.
WILD COLORED WALLS - HAH - "YOU" ARE FEARLESS AND I LOVE IT. LAYTE
I happen to love the lively red-painted sideboard: it looks a whole lot snazzier than the original drab oaks and walnuts.
The owner's colours are a refreshing change from the current fad for walls painted in either feeble whites and beiges, or depressing blacks.
And a big thank you to everyone who really appreciates the artistry that Kristin put into her home, even if it's not your personal preference! Her talent is beyond amazing!
I was able to go into her ideabook and there is a lovely page with marmoleum flooring in different colored squares....but I don't know what the visual listings are???
It's ironic that such a happy, fun-looking house should evoke such incredibly negative comments from some. Why do people take it so personally when total strangers choose to decorate their homes to suit themselves?
What I personally don't like is chaos in any form....by pattern, by color combination, or by an excess of 'stuff'. But that's just me. I didn't wish to be this way, I didn't work to become this way, it's just what I find makes me happy. I am a professional organizer for a living and I see over and over the paralysis, and mental chaos, that a cluttered environment creates for SOME PEOPLE. I also see people who live in chaos without feeling anxiety...and for those people I say it is only a problem if it is affecting you in a negative way. I can respect either type of person, and that relates to this site as well.
I don't think the people who support color are manic...anymore than I think the beige people are boring. I think it comes down to the emotion that our environment evokes in each of us.....there is no right or wrong...just different.
I don't believe there is anything wrong with having a good debate about this home, but I think we should express our opinions in a way that celebrates our differences. I'm fascinated, rather than offended, by how others feel. If we were all the same the world would be boring.
but the finger paint effect on the white tub makes me crazy.....I just want to grab a sponge and wipe it clean.
- Albert Eintein
Carpe diem,carpe articulus and oblatum occasionem tene are suggestions we've all been urged to do at some time in our lives and Kristin has done all!
I found that some images were very appealing, particularly those that had a little more white space, or neutrals, to frame the intense colors (kitchen, hallway with window seat, new addition), while others I needed to pass over quickly because they made me feel uncomfortable (bedroom, living room library).
It is truly amazing how our brains are all wired so differently. Just as an aside, I wonder if most of the folks who love the many patterns and bright colors are high energy people, while the ones who need a little more neutrality (like myself) tend to be more laid back. It might make an interesting psych study :).
Nonetheless, the homeowner is obviously a talented artist and was very generous in choosing to share her home.
For me, the faux-Tuscan McMansion, the relentless 'nautical' theme or the tailored greige padded cell are far more offensive and impersonal trends which will never look great because they have no soul. 'Taste' in the Victorian age meant displaying your stuff; now it means concealing it. Fair enough.
But à chacun son goût, eh?
Kudos to the family! Live for today, enjoy YOUR home, follow your bliss, isn't your home supposed to be YOUR castle? What is the point of living in a white box if it doesn't float your boat? Deal with the resale issue when and if the time comes. Life is too short to live in the "fear of resale" mentality unless you clearly are in the home with the intent of flipping it or selling it within a short time...just my humble opinion.
I prefer things a little more neutral but, like others who have commented, found myself loving the use of colour in this home; the creativity and the way it has been put together is wonderful to see. It made me smile. Thank you.
Kristan, you have a huge client base just waiting, from what we see here. It is an expression of your "Genes" is my guess.....
OK Houz...bring on the next one that gets this many comments....
We also must realize that because the homeowners are in touch with the outdoors with the farm, they are not always surrounded by stimulation of the pure hues. They get peace of mind by working outside and hearing, touching, smelling /refreshing outdoor things.
Also,whole cultures are known by color palettes. In general, the Europeans like cackies and subdued nuetral and hispanics like complements and bright purer hues.
I looked again and again, about the house with all the comments, and have gone outside the box to say...love lives there. Did you have someone come in before the photo shoots to kind of get it ready? As a Stager, I see alot of preparation in these photos.... High Five Kristan. Just one last question... The lavendar and white striped chair looks really dirty, especially on the arms, and this home is a dusting/cleaning nightmare..How do you handle that part of life?
You don't often see this many comments on a variation-on-the-theme-of-white-and-beige home.
Or such passion!
The spaces I enjoyed most in the Nicholas house -- the kitchen, the bathroom, the window seat, and the lovely grape arbour -- reminded me of the joyous use of color in Monet's home at Giverny. For those who haven't seen Monet's home, I recommend a look at his use of color in the yellow dining room and blue and white kitchen.
Thanks for sharing these images -- really enjoyed the view.
I grew up on a farm, and since I know the hard work involved in such close proximity to nature, I can only assume this joy is genuine and that when she walks through her doors she finds her whole being relaxing into a smile! Not everyone has to like her style, and though I might use color differently, I am personally charmed by her use of it...and as an artist, I'm in awe (and not a little envious) of her talent. Thank you, Ms. Nicholas, for gracing the world by sharing it!
And by the way...some of the once beautiful 200/+year old antiques in my beloved Grandmother's home...which have succumbed to weathering and neglect...could benefit from some color. Not every antique, no matter the quality or craftsmanship originally involved, has survived in a form that makes it desirable or even possible to preserve it in its original state.
Whats going on?
Get some calm suding colour and start painting.This place is too much.
Why don't you start art and get canvenses and pait on those?!
There is nothing wrong with colours but You have gone over bord!
You need to call a House DR ;) and the funny thing is that there is no colour in your big garden!
There is such thing as colour trepehy and i have nothing aginst colours !NO.
Infact i once painted one room each wall in diffrent colour and it was a guss bedroom.So i did get feed backs all the time.
Before putting theses colours together i had to read on what colour plays and works with what part of our emotions.But i did make sure that there were not too many items in the room.Like things on the wall ,on the floor ...........................!
I mean look at the way Mexicans ues colours....................!
Wish you happy life in your home!
Liked the joke about the DOG LOL!
We really could do without the insulting comments on houzz.
To all you who have commented negatively about this house. Let me say this. Do you know who Rufus Porter is or Moses Eaton? If not look them up. Two very important wall artist in New England History. People back in the 1800's thought then they were Eclectic. Kristin Nicholas, is not just anyone. If you the "know it all's" had looked her up, you would have found out that she herself is not only an artist, but has been on TV, One you will know, " Martha Stewart", others (PBS) with up coming shows to be on, also a Famous knitter, with several books published, several paintings sold (I own one). With that said I would love to own her home, But I bet we could not afford it, The art work alone would be worth more than the house....Her house has been featured in the Boston Globe, Country Living Magazine....So Please....If you know so much about Art, are you making a living doing what you love to do?..SHE IS... And I am.... Art comes in many forms.....So wake up you jealous people, stop being whiners, put some color in your life....Go to a store and buy yourself a bright colored pillow and throw it on your sofa.....I DARE YOU...do it! Just maybe that dark cloud following you will be lifted and the sun can shine in !!!!!!!
When did we start caring more about what the walls look like instead of what the walls contain? This home contains some amazing people, and a whole lotta love. Funny too how it is the beige lovers who have the intense reactions to the colours used and the ones who love it or it makes happy, have posted such kind and happy remarks.
Thank you for sharing your home and inspiring others to live joyously Kristen and Mark!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50185661@N03/8072334305/in/photostream
Chris
I get the same comments to about painting family antiques, but, oh, well, my cousins don't have to paint the ones they inherited!
I don't have anything against neutral color & minimalist decor, but I wouldn't want to live in that surrounding.
I am an artist, a farmer, color consultant, & other "hats" fit too. Life is too short to fear living it your way. Home is a haven, should never have been touted as a financial investment. the real investment in a house is time, energy, & love making it a hub of living!
Would love to find her Blog . Do you have a link for it.
I also agree on resale. We flipped houses for 25 years.This is the first time we have had a house I do not care about resale and I am making it mine. The house and everything in it goes to Best Friends Animal Rescue in Utah. Let them deal with it. And I do not think people will paint over my glass but it is totally their choice if they feel the need to. Every one that comes in here say they love it. We are the ones that live here not Mr.. & Mrs Resale.
Thinking I will be painting some more furniture if I do not mosaic it first.. LOL
Chris
Yes, anything here is in danger of either paint or being mosaiced too!
Thanks Again Chris
Of the few pics of your work I peeked at so far, I love the deer! It could almost be a goat!
sorry to send so personal a reply via Houzz.
I used to have goats cows horses mules. I understand the trimming thing. My hands are aching just from a few minutes slicing glass.I ruined them milking for years. :^(
Nap time.
chris
eharley - don't be rude.
I am Kristin, the homeowner of this colorful home. It is located in Franklin County, Massachusetts which is in western Mass - not Cape Cod. It is a "cape style" home built in 1751. I thank everyone for their comments - both complimentary and those thinking I am a bit of a nut job. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
For those of you who were worried about my sanity, thanks for your concerns. I am about the most normal, stable person you could ever meet. I do have a passion for color and decoration as many textile lovers also do. Our life may be a bit non-traditional, living on a sheep farm and selling our lamb at farmers markets but once again, everyone is entitled to their own choice in professions.
For those of you worried about the resale of our farmhouse, my family and I do not plan on ever moving from our house. I have never decorated worrying about resale. My feeling is whoever buys a home changes it to make it their own. I live in a home and make it happy and joyous.
Thanks to many of you, our home was # 6 in popularity in all of 2012 on this Houzz website.
I have some big news for all of you. If you were in love with my dining room mural, you can have it in your own home. I have partnered with Casart Wall Coverings and painted a mural called Garden of Family Farm Life. You can now purchase my mural as removable wallpaper for your own home. It is available with 10 different background colors. If you want your own background color, Casart can customize the mural with your own choice of background colors.
Here is the link to their website:
http://www.casartcoverings.com/kristinnicholas.html
Have a colorful day everyone!
I like to dream, yes, yes
Right between the sound machine
On a cloud of sound I drift in the night
Any place it goes is right
Goes far, flies near
To the stars away from here
Well, you don't know what
We can find
Why don't you come with me little girl
On a magic carpet ride
Well, you don't know what
We can see
Why don't you tell your dreams to me
Fantasy will set you free
Close your eyes girl
Look inside girl
Let the sound take you away
Although I'm not as fearless as you in decorating my home, my friends still think I'm out there when it comes to my use of color! I just purchased these wonderful prints of local Maryland icons from artist Joe Barsin (barsinart.com) which were a perfect addition to my quite red kitchen walls. Congrats to you, Rikki, and Casart Coverings for making such a "splash" on Houzz. And thank you Houzz for providing us with such a valuable and enjoyable resource.
Just the other day in the comments section of a Houzz poll, I described my dream home as a quirky farmhouse that didn't follow the rules and low and behold I come across Kristin and her sister Laurie's Houzz tour. This certainly fits this description I would say. One caveat being I would have never thought to use this much bold color and pattern, but this is sublime; not simply because of the colors but because it's so personal and was a real labor of love, which is what truly makes this home something to be admired and cheered on.
Hopefully this will inspire others to really make their home a reflection of them, whatever that may be. When/If God willing I'm able to get my farmhouse one day, may this encourage me to create a home of my true desires, not living in fear of what others will say or the "resale".
One last thing. I wanted to comment on how blessed these owners are to have so many precious family belongings passed down to them. Thanks to Kristin and her family for allowing us into her home via Houzz.
Hers is as colorful as ours is but different. Lots of hand painted walls and beautiful textiles.
The really interesting thing about their home is it was bought with their disabled daughter Elloise in mind. Everything they fixed up (and I saw it from the beginning and it was a complete mess) had in mind Elloise's safety and needs. Check it out. A very interesting and beautiful family home full of love.
By the way, I am literally thrilled with this house. It is Joyful.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50185661@N03/12326637615/
http://getting-stitched-on-the-farm.blogspot.com/2014/03/colorwashing-our-farmhouse-stairs.html
The colors support the folk life of the area. I love it 120%!
Buy from me for $27.95 and I will sign it. Also offering free shipping and a gouache painted bookplate.
I thank everyone who was so passionate about our home and my colorful style of decoration. Who would have imagined that an on-line article on Houzz.com would morph into a book in print. Without all your comments - both good and bad, Crafting a Colorful Home would not have happened. Spread the word! if you will.
I was able to get the photographer Rikki Snyder who took these Houzz photos the job of photographing the book too. Another bit of serendipity!
Colorfully yours,
Kristin Nicholas (Homeowner)
Best houzz article ever.
I absolutely adore this house! Kristin Nicholas is very talented as a designer and is endearingly self-deprecating. I love lots of color in interior design and have a similar self-styled way of decorating with layers. I love pattern, art, design and color way more than beige or white interiors. I believe in breaking molds and infusing myself into our interiors. My husband always says he loves how I feather our nest.
Our plan for the kitchen redesign is Ikea birch cabinetry, white quartz countertops and existing bamboo flooring adding the va-va-voom factor with iridescent cobalt blue backsplashes accented by vivid teal; while ceiling and wall paint will be a vibrant teal and a shelf over the windows will have a few blue and white porcelain jars/bottles. We'll probably reupholster the chair cushions to reflect these colors. We also need pendant lighting but haven't found any that echoes those colors, so we're going to create our own! What kind of saw cuts through glass? Does anyone know?
Love, love, love!!! This house makes me smile.
I just love color myself, not necessarily the ones chosen here, but the exuberance is exciting. I have a lot of color in my home. People who are artists are different from most people (great writings about this in Rollo May's books). His idea is (loosely) that artists are the only people who understand the right now/zeitgeist and see the immediate future. That is what they express in their art. The artists need the excitement and stimulation. They forecast the next big thing.
We are all so different. Frequently, people who have demanding, stressful jobs truly need the white, beige, and minimal.
I am no artist, but cannot stand white walls. I have a lot of traditional furniture, but go bold and intense with paint on the walls and Persian carpets everywhere. To me, it's the easiest and least expensive decorating change to make. Some cans of paint, new pillows, maybe new window treatments...and you have a different room.
many of us are a Kristin Nicholas suffocated by the kmart beige that surrounds us! many kudos to her husband who cannot relate but who loves enough to offer his wife the freedom to be who she is!!!! thank you houzz...
Kristin, after all this time and the business relationship we formed when Rikki's article first came out to offer your designs on our reusable wallcovering, it is so wonderful to see the video Houzz has produced! It is beautifully done and adds extra life and energy to your work that we so admire. Kudos to all involved!
What a beautiful family!!!! Love their down home life & attitude,,wish I lived next door!!!!
Lovely story! I wish I had an aunt Kristy. Her personality shows through in that beautiful house. I love it!
scarbowcow - great handle there ..
the issue the last time this was posted wasn't whether it was okay to say if you liked it or not or why. The issue went so far as to have people question the sanity of someone who would enjoy living with this much color, and others who were petty in their criticisms. Others said - not my taste, but I appreciate the artistry. That approach was perfectly welcome and engendered no concern.
Again, this is not a design dilemma. Of course you may express your opinion, but the posters above were pointing out that discussing the relative merits of the psychological well being of the artist had probably gone too far beyond the purpose of a design discussion.
Art is subjective. Beauty in the eye of the beholder . .. the question of the naked emperor was a different question . .. does someone have so much power that no one will speak . .
Folk art is a long tradition and this house is a home to a folk artist of our time. She did it for her own family. They live there, she inspires a lot of people who do like this, and she makes a living from art and teaching others some crafts. A creative life alone is a pretty enviable thing these days.
There is no emperor to that . . so you would have to be saying that this isn't art. You can say that this art isn't your cup of tea - clearly, this is a unique home that most do not emulate - however, to say that it isn't art, which is the only analogy I can take away from "naked emperor" is subjective and therefore, beyond a discussion of likes and dislikes, descending into mean spirited.
just like if i closed up with . . . .mooo
This video is so lovely all around! I love your art!
I love it! There have been so many dull, drab, boring gray themed rooms pictured on Houzz lately. I love the colors and designs in this house. As others have commented, it is happy, interesting, and has soul. Watching the video, though, I tuned out for a bit worrying about the fate of Pinky the pig. I love her painting, but where is Pinky?
I love color! Their house is amazing. I love the Pinky painting. Its too sweet!
Enough about the house, already! It's Kristy that I'm love with. She's inspired and she's a steam roller. I love her fierce inhibitions, and her neo-liberal-impressionism!! No, I take that back. She is a great example of totalism in its prime. The house is the effect, not the cause!
Why do the "design police" dictate to us what our homes should look like? When I first bought my house in the late 1990's, everything was white with a bit of taupe to make houses look empty and BIG. I was starved for color, and used wallpaper in the entry, and dared to use light green in the entry way and peach in one bedroom and very subtle, pale purple in another. Pretty soon everyone was starved for color in the early 2000's, and my "experiment" paled by comparison. Now, once again everything is white, cream, and grey, grey, grey, and when I sell my house, I will be pressured by realtors to sterilize it. Why is everyone forced to conform to the tyranny of the drab, dull, and sterile? And why do we all go along with it? Obviously, it's about profits so that millions of Americans will rip out their "dated" natural cherry cabinets and replace them with cheap-looking white kitchens that all look the same.
Congratulations to Kristin for resisting the "design police"--if more people followed her example, the "design police" wouldn't have so much power!
There's nothing bad to say about this house,I love it.
I think you're doing something very important with this website. Thanks so very much.
I love the colors in this house and like this house ours does not have a white wall in it. My kitchen is mocha. even the ceilings have color. Here in Maine the winters are very long and gray so color gives our house life
Aside from the subject of color, which looks great, your way of living is beautiful! I love the home and green pastures with farm animals. Your very lucky!!
GORGEOUS HOUSE_ I ABSOLUTELY L:OVED EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU< YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR HOME
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am not crazy....we are kindred spirits.
Wow - this explosion of color woke me up this morning! I'm getting ready to buy a house that's done in shades of browns = really! I shall find Kristy's book for the inspiration I need . . . Thanks!
You and your home are SO charming. I envy your talent and determination-
from your Beige Admirer
A beautiful presentation of an inspiring family and home. Creativity is the expression of the soul. It delights me to see "real people" in "real homes". Followers of this website are from a wide geographic, cultural and socioeconomic ban. We come here for inspiration. Some homes are far beyond what many could ever reach or achieve and yet we are still inspired, taking away fragments of ideas that could possibly fit our lives and homes. I have lived in different areas of the country, both urban and rural. My roots are primarily rural and agricultural. I can't express how filled with awe I was by this woman, her home, and family. Not everyone gets to see rural life. Not everyone understands how it is to have nothing and reach into ones self and make "life happen" and truly appreciate their life and creation. This woman embraces it and shines her light on all !!! She is blessed and has blessed us all by sharing her world with the rest of the world. Thank you !! Loretta, Geneva, NY
so pretty....love everything about it!....I would love to have those wool pom pom strands! :)
What a lovely story :-) Thank you for sharing.
I'll come for Thanksgiving! What a lovely piece.
The paintings are brilliant. Happy feelings come out of the canvas :)
would love to study painting with you! you guys are awesome and your house expresses just that! in this crazy world that is so geared to new new new, you hold fast to the beauty that came before us and embellish it in ways that reflect your soul!
Love it. I visited someone's and she had clay colored walls and I was smitten. I knew my husband wouldn't go for it so when he went to work one morning I painted the room clay that day and did a perfect job. Made valence etc. with a black background with man eating flowers. Ralph Lauren sheets. I will never forget the look on my husband's face when he walked in that night. lol. Well that was ten years ago. We are still married and the room is still clay and love it.
My name is Estelle Bruwer and I live in Cape Town, South Africa. I just love your colourfull house and enjoyed watching the video. I love colours too and can never live without it in my life.
Wow, love your creativity and boldness....this is ART!!!! I use all my antiques in my home....and you live in your ART!!!....love it...thanks for sharing , I am inspired!!!
thank you for sharing !
Thanks for sharing your fantastic home with us but, most of all, thanks for sharing your beautiful outlook on life.
Wonderful. This house has so much charm and character. Don't be afraid of color! You are my hero Kristen!
Congrats Kristin for creating a home over the years with passion that you enjoy. I love people who don't bow down to the decorating trends and have the confidence to do their own thing. You are very talented. Your extended family will surely have great Thanksgiving memories and I have no doubt you have influenced the young family members creativity. You should open your home to school tours for all ages.
Your daughter is a lucky girl and she knows it. What a great way to grow up with thoughtful parents and a beautiful homestead. I truly enjoyed this video, well done.
You're my sister's REAL sister, not me. You're sisters by another mister. She'd love everything about your house; I like that you've kept everything in balance and harmony....
I admire and appreciate your connection to family/ friends, bold sense of color in your home, and your spirit & strength to share it w everyone. It has given me the drive to paint some furniture that is wonderful in style but ugly/ drab brown. A friend had given these pieces to me knowing that I would save them in some way, so now I will have some fun and paint away, I might even have some friends over to paint some of their own furniture as well as we've had this discussion. Thank you sharing your wonderful space !!!
You are brilliant, Kristen! You are also a very modest person. I don't know you but I like you a lot!
I love your home. I like colors too, I lived in Guatemala and my home is colorful too. My sister went to visit me (her home was always white), you should see it now....she painted different colors too.
I adore this home, it's very much like my own - rather nondescript white Cape Cod style home on the outside, a bright and colorful "art party" inside!!
I absolutely love this! Thank you for the inspiration.
So wonderful to listen to you and the joy you exude.
Love your home. No one could ever enter your home without smiling. You didn't just dream you executed!!!!!!!!
Absolutely love this house. What a happy place to come home to!
nogafisher: "I think you're doing something very important with this website. Thanks so very much."
I totally agree. The value of Houzz is so much more than house design. It's about people, about life, about love.
For example, this video with Kristin made me tear up.... and I'm not even sure why .... :-)
Thanks, Houzz team!
I would love to live in this home. What a great eye you have for color and design. It works wonderfully and is so warm and inviting. I'm inspired!
Wow! I so enjoyed this story. Keep coloring.
What a creative force this woman is! I've seen the photos on Houzz before, but I loved seeing and hearing the details from her on the video. She's not pretentious, like so many of today's designers. Thank you for sharing, and for the inspiration.
I Love your skills and ability to live in the moment .thank you for the encouragement . through Color. I wish I had you close to me . I am right now in a stage of change . I needed your video .our home is 54 years young . and Pray I will do justice to his /her face lift. Sincerely Joyce . In Christ Love .
Love this woman, love her art...absolutely love her joyful house !
Make Pinky, the pig, into a giclee so we can all have her on our walls.... you place is fabulous..... and your dogs are too.
Congratulations Kristin & Mark! What a beautiful HOME!! Living life at it's fullest with nature..I'm so in love with your style and all the beautiful old things you have preserved. Thank you and the Houzz team for sharing such a BEAUTY!!
Best Houzz Video and story EVER! I love Kristin Nicholas! I've knit several of her patterns, I have a bunch of her yarn, and I think I own all of her books. She is inspiring in every way, and her house makes me SO happy! Thank you for repeating this story, since I wasn't around the first time.
What a great story. Beautiful family story and beautiful home. Great art and color.
OMG! I'm in love with this place! It's busy and there is a lot to dust, but it would be worth it to have all those beautiful colours everywhere. So entirely cheerful! I adore it!
So wonderful to see so many good things and creative endeavors come out of your passion for color and design. Love the old home and the layers of life within it. The idea of snow and a sheep farm sounds amazing as well. What a wonderful life. Good on ya for being yourself and letting the world see it. Color is slowly making its way more and more into our own house as well. Very inspiring.
a kindred soul .... LOVE - LOVE -LOVE!
LOVE the color in your house. I have a lot of color in my house but not even close to this. Inspires me to keep going with other rooms! Thanks so much for sharing!!!
I have always loved this house with it's happy and fun bright colors. It has been saved in my Favorites for a long time. It is a great inspiration to ''go for it'' when I choose colors for my own home. Life is SO much more fun with color! I live in a mid century home and went super modern/monochromatic for several years. While it was beautiful, it was ''lifeless'' So, now all those mid century and modern furniture pieces are surrounded by lots of prints and colors... and it looks awesome. I get lots of compliments on the interior now. People should never be afraid to surround themselves with colors that make them happy. It's just paint! Every time I have encouraged someone to do something a bit wild for them, they have been thrilled with the results. So, go for it! Have fun! HAPPY decorating!
This was awesome. I am so bored by the white and beige and bring that color on. I am not quite as brave as Kristin with color, but she rocks it in a great way. Embrace what you love and live it. (p.s. I often refer to my house decorated in Easter egg colors...so perfectly my style.)
Best HOUZZ ever! What a happy house! Loved everything about it. 2 years ago I painted my kitchen a bright lime green (BEHR Beach Grass) and have never looked back. Everything looks great on the walls. It's the happiest room in my house.
I love the lamp shades!
More colour, more colour please. I wonder how I lost the nerve to put colour up on my walls. We need to see more homes done with colour done right. My rooms are off white but the art work is bold.
It's so refreshing to see a home not afraid of color. It's beautiful and inspiring! Thank you for sharing.
I grew up in a predominately Mexican community, and have lived in Mexico for awhile. I fell in love with the bold and fearless way that people would colorize their homes, their offices, even the most mundane building structures would be painted in shades of purple or orange. It definitely shaped how I like to have my home look, especially now that I live in the Pacific northwest, where every color has some gray in it. I happened upon this video and got so excited to see the bright pops of color and I can tell that a lot of love went into shaping your home. Thank you for sharing and inspiring..., now I want to leave work and start a color project somewhere in my house!
I don't usually watch videos and this one took twice to load for me but it just about brought me to tears. Very beautifully done. Love the orange Hoosier cabinet and the lampshades. Thanks for bringing some color to our lives!
Great story and portrayal of life with love expressed in color.
I want an Aunt Kristin!
Lovely! I'm a stained glass artisan and absolutely love color. I usually try to have my clients use color, sometimes I succeed. Color makes me happy.
I love color and this home thrills me!
What a joy that was to watch! Thank you for bringing your imagination to life and allowing us a glimpse into your creative mind! I'm going to watch again right now!
loved the whole vid, the wife and her courage to paint the way she feels, and she is a beautiful colorful person :), and I love her husband's attitude: "why would you ever want to do that?" lol then he just accepts that is who she is, so sweet! And having grown up on a farm myself, that little girl is exceptionally lucky! Awesome all the way around! Thank you for sharing :)
Because I am so eclectic, this video just spoke to me. It gives me even more ideas on how to "color outside the lines". Love this video. Houzz has one of the best websites out there. Thank you.
This is just the happiest place that I have ever visited on Houzz.... I could move in here in a heartbeat!
Thank you for this amazing visual feast.
I believe it all starts in about Grade two. Kids and babies are naturally attracted to high contrast and colour, but when they get to school their spontaneity is frequently squelched by comparison to other kids drawings; by parents "what's that supposed to be?"; by teacher pre-requisites and (UN-intentioned) judgements. "oh Janie that's beautiful/ oh Bobby why did you make the sky red, shouldn't it be blue?" School boards and parents promote music instruction; which is great, but not many kids carry on with trombone after Grade 12. Few educators promote art training. The general belief SEEMS to be that drawing ability in innate; that Michelangelo was born with a paint brush in his little fist. Drawing and painting are skills that can be taught and are really much easier to acquire than musical skills. The wonderful thing is that you can draw anywhere--on a plane or a boat; you can colour anything -- a paper bag, a chair, a wall or a canvas and you can fill your life with a joy that is not only completely self generated, but also need not impact anyone else (like drumming or clarinet playing). How many older folks take up painting in community centers with 60 years of thinking "i can't draw" or I'm no good" behind them, only to discover that it is not only relaxing but also wonderfully fulfilling and my gosh: "I'm pretty good, I wish someone had showed me this years ago"; "who knew that the eyes were in the center of your face?" And on and on. This wonderful woman has danced to her own tune in her artistic expression of art and colour. She has acquired the confidence and self-possession to let her creativity explode into her home and world. it's fabulous!!! I wish we had the art programs in schools to develop the skills that would give free rein to all kids natural instincts. I think we'd have a happier world. Lecture over with love for pencil and brush
!!!!!!!
A beautiful home that reflects the joy of the owners. A good reminder to embrace what makes you happy.
I LOVE THIS WOMAN and her loving and supportive family (especially her husband who won't stifle her creativity) ... what a joyous home - beautifully done. Congratulations!
Best article ever!!! Love this lady and her bold approach to life and art. I am going to paint my old oak bookcases immediately...and people think I'm wild too!!! It's a good thing. How inspiring you are, my darling woman. Rock on!!!
she is great, good for her
i'm all about the color but when it makes sense it's a good thing some of the spaces are a little out there mainly a few of the rooms at top and there's just alot of stuff everywhere a little overwhelming to look at but i can tell this house is a fun environment
Once again, soulful living. The orange Hoosier cabinet is my favorite too, not in part to the Hoosier reference as I am one of them.
Love.
A house after my own heart! But then again what artist isn't afraid of color! Lots of soul in the house...that's what I look for in art work. When we lived in PA, my walls were bright colors with brightly colored art work. But now that we have lived in Costa Rica for over 16 years, the bright colors and sunlight are outside and with us all year. Now my walls are white with the brightly colored art work.
I too love color!! Kristin I think we are long lost sisters.
I do pottery and want to make all sorts of architectural ceramics.
My hub and I have been married 31 years. Both of my kids grew up and left home.
We just bought a house that has been painted WHITE. The entire thing. Thanks for the inspiration, seriously.
Different colors on the walls... great idea! YAY I am all excited!!
Beth
Loved visiting your beautiful home on Houzz. All the colors are so beautiful and bright , it makes your home come alive! Looks so comfortable and cozy- a place that you want to be. Now I want to go out and buy your book. I love the fact that you are a self taught artist. It makes all your art even that much more special. It comes from your heart!. I live in CT. in an old farm house and I like do paintings now and then too. I haven't in awhile unfortunetly. But after seeing this article and your video, I feel inspired again. I see that you teach classes. Can you possibly email me back and let me know your hours and how much they cost. I don't live that far from you and I would love to take a class? Thank you, Jan Grainger(Tess).....tess1919@yahoo.com
I love decorating with white but I have to admit there is a warmth to all that colour. Loved her home and love for life -- it made me happy.
I absolutely think this family and their crazy mixed-up colored house is amazing. It reminds me of an antique shop I ventured into once that was filled with art glass, carnival glass and depression glass. The burst of color everywhere was awesome. Fearless with color, perfectly cool and they have a Great Pyrenees - love these folks!
I am one of those people that's afraid of colour, but looking at her house, I just loved it. It's just so happy and full of life.
I just shared this on my social media pages- LOVE this house and the people in it! I'm giving myself permission to be creative in my home and not care what anyone else thinks! I LOVE stories like this. Thanks for the inspiration! I wish you were my Aunt! :)
Loli Corzo . I absolutely loved the house, the owner's personality & creativity is fabulous. Color gives you happiness.
fabulous ! I love colour and you have mastered the look without becoming tacky or cutesy. Your artistic abilities shine through. I completely relate for the need to have a jolt of colour in the long winter. Will be looking for your book! Keep doing what you do!!
How wonderful your life is, To be surrounded by the beauty of nature, love of family and color is a blessing from God. Your positive creative spirit reaches out through your video. Thanks for being real.
Enfin des couleurs!!!!
HAPPY! HAPPY! HAPPY! :-))))))
I love it! And I love it more, because the owner loves it, not too many people are really happy with their home. I think an artist could live there.
Sometimes goodness, kindness, integrity seep out of stories and articles about "just folks." I've watched Kristen on knitting shows and feel encouraged by her, inspired, good about myself in her enthusiasm. So it goes with this story about her home. Kudos, Kristen and Houzz, for presenting a home created by folks who invite us by the fire to enjoy the warmth of creating just what suits us with things at hand!
Such a lovely story. I think you have a great talent, for painting.
That oil painting of Pinkie is awesome! And those painted lamp shades are pretty amazing too!
This is an absolute inspiration!!! Just bought my first home - and would love if when I am done, it is as beautiful, happy, original, eclectic, joyous and personalized as this. I feel as though Kristin is my design soul mate <g>. Thank you for sharing a view into your masterpiece!!
Beautiful work! Excellent color matching. The paintings are well done. You've mastered the way to fill your home with color without feeling overwhelming. That's quite a feat.
Lovely video, too.
My maiden name is also Duprey, and spelled the same. You don't usually see it spelled that way. It sure caught my attention. Wish I knew the connection.
Watching this video and going through your house was like a 'Wow'. A lovely house, a warm family and beautiful farm. Kudos. :)
My home is very similar to Kristin's. I live in Costa Rica, and it is always interesting to see the reactions from the locals when they enter our home and see all the color and eclectic furnishings. Kristin's house is just beautiful, and has given me even more inspiration for my own!
Wow!
I really enjoyed this "article". What sweet people!!!! God bless you and your family Kristin! I really want to come for Thanksgiving! LOL! I love your farm!
What an amazing woman with a wonderful outlook on life. I have no family other than my husband and I always thought I would love to have these experiences of large family gatherings. You three are SO lucky.
Love the house and all the color! So warm and inviting. Hope I can be brave enough to use that much color in my home.
Totally love the piece about you, your family, and your fabulous house!! I used to beg my parents for a baby pet pig (who I had planned to name Pinky!!) I said I'd tie a pink ribbon on its neck and keep it very clean!! Never got the pig...but do get tons of inspiration from you and your colorful life!! I guess I'm living vicariously through you, Kristin...though I've been slowly changed my muted world to lots and lots of color!! Thank you so much!!! Cheryl
Thank you for sharing your slice of life! What an inspiration and day brightener
Absolutely so much beautifull that I am speechless!
Delightful, sweet fun gal, creative unique fun, and in all the color, I see kindness, now that is art!
Kristin, I love all the color and your spirit!
great dear. designing ur home urself gives u the happiness that even a big professional designer cant give. well done.
my style generally speaking is more or less monochromatic .... but i do think this lovely article has pushed me over the edge to paint my antique secretary/bookcase a "color" .... i may move out of my comfort zone and go bold(ish) .... thanks for the inspiration ... you have a warm and inviting home ...
Thank you so much! What an inspiration!!
Kristin,
Thanks for sharing your wonderful home and family with us. I love everything you've done, but love the history and hospitality behind it even more. You mentioned the paint you used on the lampshades (Jacquard?), but could you be more specific as they have multiple kinds of fabric paints. Thanks!
Hi Barbv - You want these paints:
http://www.jacquardproducts.com/textile-color.html
They are not opaque. Make sure you order the colorless extender too. Do not add white to the paints or they become opaque and not good for lampshades.
I have directions in my book for painting the lampshades - Crafting a Colorful Home - Signed copies available on my website
http://www.kristinnicholas.com/ProductDetail.cfm?index=128
I order mine from Dick Blick:
http://www.dickblick.com/products/jacquard-textile-colors/
Good luck. Kristin
This woman is fantastic....great attitude, great skill, so inspiring. Wonderful family. LOVE the house outside and in - and please put me on the list for buying Pinky :-)
OK I watch it for the 3rd time, for some reason I really like them, real salt of the earth people.
GORGEOUS!!!!!!
Kristin you have an amazing home and family. Living your dreams makes the warmth and glow. Beautiful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing
Love your love of color! We could be from the same mold. I giggled at your husbands comment as that is what my husband goes through living with me almost daily. Our house is full of color like yours because I love color and I'm an artist as well. When we first moved in it was winter and your comment about everything white and the cold was exactly what I was thinking when I painted the kitchen an intense bright yellow! So everyday is sunny no matter what is happening outside. I always say "It's only Paint" if you don't like it try something else! No beige in my house either! I don't know why people are so afraid of color. I think you have inspired some to give it a whirl.
Waverly could do a wallpaper book based on your designs, I would buy it for our 1833 house in a minute. Fame is comin your way, wow!
What a creative artist you are! But even more so, such a family inspiration who knows exactly what is important to her and in life. I can imagine that your family looks forward to Thanksgiving at your home even when they can't be there. Thank you for a lovely story and for sharing it with all of us.
Way to go Mark, Kristin, and Julia! I shed a few tears with the Thanksgiving section. You are doing what so many other people would love to do but fail to do and I salute you.
I'm one of those people who is intimidated by color, but a wild fan of it. What makes Kristin a brilliant artist is that she has an unmistakable natural gift for not only color but design, an honest and distinctive style, elan. An amazing gift. Something worth great success.
I just feel 'joy'....
What a beautiful home. Not only is it filled with color, it is filled with love. A perfect combination!
Kristin, congratulations! Your home is so beautiful ~ filled with color & love. Just makes me happy :-)
Whether or not one is in love with this lady's taste, one cannot help but love this lady and be inspired by her warmth, creativity, spirit of generosity and love. Lady - and this comes from a conservative guy who has never written a comment on any website before - you rock! God's blessings!
Simply steeped in color!
I am a knitter and embroiderer and own every one of Kristin's books. Her ideas about color and design are just extraordinary--and apparently her farm house is extraordinary too!
Different strokes for different folks....literally. But definitely love certain elements in this home.
What a happy place! Looking at your home from the outside you'd never guess there was such an explosion of color on the inside. It must make the New England winters so much more bearable. Thanks for sharing.
So wonderful to see love for your home expressed through the use of colour. That is really what you've done here, is love your home. Thank you so much for sharing your talents! All the best for a colourful future! http://herstoryhome.com
Oh my! Beautiful!
For those inspired to paint a piece of furniture, I found this site. I have an old bonnet dresser that is in need of a face lift. I haven't screwed up my courage to do anything yet, but if the results are as good as this chest of drawers, I have nothing to lose. Now, just need to make the time for it!
http://www.mypassionfordecor.com/2012/06/white-and-neglected-craigslist-dresser.html
Just beautiful you three! I feel the love! <3
A home full of color, love, talent and gratitude. What's not to like? Now to find some of Kristin's knitting patterns!
Dear Kristin:
What a wonderful home with a true, brave, very alive heart and soul. Like you, I am a lover of colour, textiles, and curvilinear, organic-based patterns, just to name a few style elements with the ability to expand the mind and make the heart sing.
I am simultaneously deeply touched by your unbounding creativity, talent, and passion, and by your husband Mark's resounding support of your artistic sensibilities. What a man! Additionally, it is genuinely heartwarming to see just how much your daughter Julie appreciates her folks, and the home environment that nurtures and inspires each of you. What a breathtakingly special upbringing! No doubt your daughter is very creative and artistic (whether in the design and/or farming realms) in her own right.
Watching your Houzz video brought tears to my eyes. Quite a few, actually! The love and passion that characterize each of you and your uniquely imprinted home are nothing short of tremendous! I adored listening and watching you talk about your kitchen table, the reverence you have for its familial history. I thought I could "hear" the tears in your voice, which of course, encouraged me to become so moved that I cried, seemingly along with you. :)
Thank you for sharing, for being such an inspiration. In my work as an Interior Designer and Residential Builder (with long held aspirations to be a crafty, creative artisan!) I have typically witnessed people's deep fear of colour, of being bold. Sometimes you simply have to lend them some courage; akin giving them permission to express themselves! I laughed, when during the video you stated, "There is no beige in my house." Here, here! Colour is one of the ways in which we feed the soul.
I will definitely be buying your book in the future! I actually cannot wait to get it in my grubby little hands and experience what is surely a feast for the eyes!
Here's to life well spent. To thinking and doing outside the box. If your design sense is the path to psychosis, I am on it with you, sister!
Once again, thank you for the love, laughs, and life-affirming inspiration!
Wishing you and your vibrant family the very best always. :)
Slainte,
Sharon Black (Paradise Point, Repairs, Renovations and Design)
Kristi I love what you'e done with all the color in your house. It looks warm, fun and happy. There is something to be said about living in the country and raising children, sheep and dogs. I too like to paint everything especially furniture so I appreciate your talent. Not only did your artistry get my attention so did your border collie and great pyrenese. We have a cross between the two breeds and he looked like a panda bear when he was a pup so hence the name Panda. We also live in the country and it certainly is inspiring. Thank-you for sharing.
Thank you everyone for the continuing interest in our colorful home. Being featured on Houzz has been one of the highlights of my creative life. Thank you for all the kind and honest comments that have come from your hearts.
I have listed some 4 new oil paintings and 5 new hand painted lampshades in my Etsy shop. A couple photos below.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ColorfulPottery?ref=hdr
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me through my website www.kristinnicholas.com
Love it!!
I know you from Knit and Crochet Now/Today and boy o boy you have more skills than colors exist. I LOVLOV YOUR HOUSE. What a fantastic display of love from you and yours. I am a bigger fan than before. WOW!
This house makes me smile and inspires me to use more color and have fun w/decorating instead of worrying about making mistakes. Thank you for sharing this exuberant and cheery home!
love the colors!
love the way you were able to transform your furniture and house to come alive :)
your story is inspiring and i was moved and touched.
wish you many more years of creativity and creating family memories
Ayelet Mendelovich
The most amazingly beautiful house in the U.S. Kristin would you please give the name of the pinkish orange color in the bedroom.
You are a special beautiful woman inside and out! And your home has a lovely colorful soul! Thank you for sharing your creativity!
Organized, artistic, hoarding. GENIUS!
It's a little too much color and stuff for my own personal taste but I always admire people who make their own home a vision of what they like.
I came home this evening completely exhausted, getting over traffic and the last bit of a horrid cold, and watching this video brought me so much joy and perked me up. I love the house, love the sheep, love the people, love the color and the attitude. I gotta get that book ASAP. Another great find by Rikki!
Really, really fun and creative. I love the relaxed vibe and the homespun touches. Some of the rooms are a tad too cluttered for my taste, but the whole thing has such a fairy tale quality to it that I'm willing to overlook that. ;-) Great job!
Love the colors, the dining room wall with the black wash furniture, reminds me of William Morris wall paper!
Absolutely LOVE all the color - every little bit of it! Love your artwork and creativity - what a gift!!
Get Kristin's art for your walls! Kristin's art is available on high quality self-adhesive wall covering that goes up easily--
For more info
So whimsical, what fun!
I love all the color esp. That granny smith green. It's a happy shade. The patterns on the walls are beautiful. Nothing cookie cutter about this house. Personally, if it had less clutter it would appeal more to me. But it is a very special place, inside and out.
What a Wonderful Life!! Family!!!!! Beautiful!!!
Finally! Someone who knows how to use color! For years I had what my sister in law called a skittle home, because every room in the house was a different bright color. It really works if you only use only one wall against the remaining white walls also. But we went full on, the whole room. People's faces really light up when they walk into a house that has happy colors!
I absolutely love this house with all the color and all the creativity everywhere you look. Beautiful!
Kristin does know how to use colour and that is the key. What sets this house apart is the handmade touch and a lot of love. It is such a personal home that speaks to the family that inhabit it. What a lovely life they live.
Love the color in their home. I am an antique collector and would never paint any of them but I like what she did to hers.
This home is not for me, too busy but I can say I love it. I love color and almost no one really uses it or uses it boldly. Color makes things alive versus afterlife white rooms that are popular. I applaud Kristen and her husband for making a home that is a statement of the people who live there. It is warm, alive and inviting.
A happy colorful house. I love it!
Enough of minimalism, sleek, sharp shiny interior decorator houses.
i love stuff..personalized homes, fun homes.
great work to the family who made this happen !
Absolutely love this! It feels alive, happy and fun.
Love love love!!!!!
Kristin and Mark, THANK YOU for sharing your home! I could look at these pictures all day! Franklin County is beautiful. I used to live in Sunderland 42 years ago! Your house made me nostalgic. It is so lived in and so tended with love. Beautiful!!!!
Oh, this is a wonderful house and farm. I love, love bright colors as they are so uplifting. You remind me of Mary Engelbreit, Laurel Burch, and Mary Rose Young all of whom I love their work. I wish you would write an illustrated book with lots of pictures of your work.
Thanks for sharing. Hope to see more of your work.
Leona
@watsonleona...Kristin does indeed have several books out...check for them at your local bookstore or on Amazon. Her work is also featured in numerous magazines, particularly ones devoted to Fiber Arts. I've never been able to get enough of her delicious color and pattern work!
Haha! I love it! All those color-phobic people out there must be cringing. Most homes on Houzz are white, beige or grey-yuck!!!! Mine is bright yellow. Very warm and sunny. When people have the nerve to call gray/grey warm, that's when I lose it. Seriously? Happy holidays to you!
I was awestruck by this video - first time I've seen it. Had to watch it 3 times..... My eyes couldn't get enough of the whimsical, yet wonderful, lovable art everywhere. Although I don't think I could have my cottage in the woods done like your house, it will have colours on the walls done in a 1800s - early 1900s sorta way with texture (venetian plaster). None of my current lampshades are solid - some are metal and one is painted silk.
Your artistry plus some things I've seen on the internet has me thinking. If you were to paint a telephone/electric wood pole, what type of paints would you use. Yes, for my cottage in the woods (a 5 year project), I have to put some wee folk and flora on those ugly looking brown poles. Will your wallpaper stick to wood? :)
If not, maybe @Dana Veach can mosey on down to my neck of SE Texas and do some pole painting for the cottage in 2-3 years! :)
Merry Merry and Happy Happy ...................and to all a joyful Winter Solstice!
love the pig painting and the orange cabinet!
Wow! Very beautiful and refreshing room.
It's a lovely and loving home!
Keep me posted on progress, Celestina...I'd love being a part of your creation in some small way! Heck...I'm just looking forward to seeing what you do!! Have a wonderful upcoming year!
I LOVE your home, but most of all I LOVE your attitude! Color is my life, too. But I am not so talented as you. I love doing jigsaw puzzles and I mount them when I finish assembling them. They hang or are propped up all over my house. They're not your oil paintings, but they bring me joy, so in that we are alike. Thank you for sharing your home and your philisophy.
Kristen, I saved this story when it came out years ago. It continues to give me a happy lift. Covid shut-ins? .....just crank up this video and you'll be fine. :-) Thank you so much for sharing your home.
I see this article is about a decade old. I wonder if she still has that boring old black-and-white dog, or if she every got around to doing it up in neon colors.