Hook: Carla sent me the most stunning photos of her home
As I scrolled through the pictures Carla sent me, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. Her home was a symphony of colors, textures, and styles that seemed to come together in perfect harmony. But what struck me most was the sense of warmth and character that seeped from every corner of her space. It was as if I was being invited into a home that was truly lived-in, where memories were made every day.
The Large Table
One of the first things that caught my eye was the large table just behind the couch. At first glance, it looked like a simple sofa table, but as I looked closer, I realized that it was so much more than that. It was a workspace, a play area, and a hub of activity all rolled into one. I could imagine the countless projects and crafts that Carla’s kids, Evelyn and Wren, must have worked on at that very table.
The Floor-Length Tablecloth
Another detail that caught my eye was the floor-length tablecloth on the dining table. It was a beautiful shade of white, with intricate patterns woven throughout. Carla mentioned in her note that the kids enjoyed making instant forts out of it, and I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of two little girls giggling and creating together.
The Master Tub
And then there was the master tub. Ah, the master tub! It was a serene oasis in the midst of a bustling household, a place where Carla could relax and unwind after a long day. I can only imagine the countless baths she must have taken with her children, watching them splash and play in the water.
Living with Kids
As I looked through Carla’s photos, I couldn’t help but think about the joys and challenges of living with kids. It’s a unique experience that requires patience, creativity, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. But as Carla’s home tour so beautifully illustrates, it’s an experience that can also be incredibly rewarding.
Meet the Macklins
So, who are the Macklins? Carla’s husband, Craig, works for a thriving manufacturing company in Cleveland, where he sells industrial vibrators. He’s an avid Browns fan and loves to golf, but his true passion is solving puzzles. Carla, on the other hand, is a talented seamstress who runs an indie clothing pattern company called Clever Charlotte. She’s also a devoted mom to their two daughters, Evelyn and Wren, and a loving pet mom to their chocolate lab mix, Cali.
Their Home in Shaker Heights
The Macklins’ home in Shaker Heights is a beautiful century-old suburb of Cleveland where both Craig and Carla spent their childhoods. They moved there from a neighboring community last summer, seeking a more relaxed and open-concept home that would work for their kids. After scouring the market for the perfect property, they finally found their dream home – a charming 1959 bungalow that needed some cosmetic work.
Renovations and Refinishing
The Macklins’ renovations were a labor of love, involving a full gut of the master bath and the refinishing of all the floors on the first floor. They also painted, built cabinets, and laid carpets, creating a warm and inviting space that was perfect for their family. One of the most exciting moments during the renovation was uncovering original terrazzo flooring beneath disgusting pet-stained carpeting in their TV room. Craig convinced Carla to keep the terrazzo, and it’s now a stunning feature of their home.
A Home that Works for Them
For Carla and Craig, their home is more than just a place to live – it’s a reflection of their family’s values and lifestyle. They’ve created a space that is open, welcoming, and comfortable, with plenty of opportunities for creativity and play. Whether they’re working on puzzles, playing games, or simply hanging out together, the Macklins’ home is the perfect setting for making memories and having fun.
Conclusion
As I look through Carla’s photos, I’m reminded of the importance of creating a home that works for our families. It’s not just about the physical space, but about the memories and experiences we create together. The Macklins’ home tour is a beautiful illustration of this, and I hope it inspires you to think about your own home and how you can make it more family-friendly.
Meet the Macklins
- Craig: industrial salesman, Browns fan, and puzzle enthusiast
- Carla: seamstress, mom, and owner of Clever Charlotte
- Evelyn: six-year-old Kindergarten student who loves ice skating, swimming, and crafts
- Wren: three-year-old who loves puzzles and is begging for gymnastic lessons
- Cali: chocolate lab mix and beloved family pet
The Macklins’ Home in Shaker Heights
- Located in a beautiful century-old suburb of Cleveland
- Built in 1959 and renovated to create a more open and welcoming space
- Features original terrazzo flooring, refinished floors, and a cozy TV room
Renovations and Refinishing
- Full gut of the master bath
- Refinishing of all the floors on the first floor
- Painting, building cabinets, and laying carpets
- Uncovering original terrazzo flooring in the TV room
A Home that Works for Them
- Open and welcoming space perfect for family activities
- Plenty of opportunities for creativity and play
- A reflection of the Macklins’ values and lifestyle
- A place where memories are made and fun is had
