Mary Ila, Author at Spaces And Places • Page 2 of 4

“Good Coffee Shops to Work In Near Me”: SAP Style

Looking for the perfect spot to focus, create, or simply get things done? Our latest Spaces And Places blog highlights some of the best cafes and creative environments in Decatur, Huntsville, and Madison—each chosen for its ability to spark productivity and support good work. From cozy corners and sensory details to standout snacks and stylish vibes, these local favorites are more than just coffee shops—they’re where flow happens. Whether you’re working solo or meeting up to collaborate, you’ll want to check out this list!

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According to The Kids: New York City

New York, Places, United States

What do you do with just 10 hours in New York City? In the first post of our new series, “According to the Kids”, Sam, Andrew, and Paige share their favorite NYC moments—from skyline views to sweet treats and stylish stops. Spoiler: the grown-ups had a few favorites too. Check out our quick-hit adventure through the Big Apple and get inspired for your own kid-approved itinerary.

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One Family, Fifty States–Our New England Road Trip Itinerary

Places, Planning Travel

Our family’s mission to visit all 50 states continues—and this time, we’re heading to New England! From New York City energy to Maine’s peaceful coastlines, we’ve packed this trip with Ivy League campuses, legendary pizza, scenic drives, and seaside charm. Follow along as we explore seven states in twelve days, creating memories (and probably eating way too much ice cream) with our kids along the way. Want to see where we’re staying, what we’re doing, and what we’re eating? Come join the adventure!

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Greenwood House Update: From Vintage Bones to Modern Beauty

Remodel, Spaces

It’s been a journey, but the transformation of Greenwood House is well underway! From tearing down walls to let in more light, to installing custom cabinetry and bold bathroom tile, every inch of this 1960s home is getting a thoughtful upgrade. We’ve added a new roof, fresh paint, and curb appeal to match the stunning interior progress. Catch up on all the latest renovations—from the light and bright kitchen to the newly created primary suite—and see how this vintage gem is becoming a modern-day dream.

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The Best of Paris: Our Recommendations

International, Paris, Places, Planning Travel

Our trip to Paris celebrating our daughter was full of unforgettable moments. From amazing food to discovering hidden gems around the city, it was an experience we won’t forget. We had an absolute blast in a baking class, dined with incredible views of the Eiffel Tower, and found some local spots that became instant favorites. As for shopping and sightseeing, Paris didn’t disappoint. Want to know more? Click here to find out where we ate, shopped, and explored!

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Design Series: The Light and Bright Kitchen at Greenwood

Design, Remodel, Spaces

Everything in the Greenwood house kitchen was original to its 1960s build—right down to the appliances, floors, and cabinets. While the layout was surprisingly open for its time, the space lacked natural light and modern functionality. We’re reimagining this kitchen from the ground up, opening walls to create better flow, adding light, and incorporating custom design touches that blend classic charm with contemporary style. From custom shaker cabinets to a stunning granite island, this bright kitchen renovation is setting the tone for the entire open-concept living space.

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Trip Reveal: London and Paris with Paige

International, London, Paris, Places

Next month, we’re heading off on a special adventure with our middle child—London and Paris await! This trip is a mix of sightseeing, nostalgia, and celebration, with highlights like afternoon tea at The Ritz, a day in Oxford, shopping in Paris, and even a baking class. The grand finale? A magical 11th birthday in Paris, complete with a visit to the Eiffel Tower and a special milestone—ear piercing! From iconic landmarks to unforgettable meals, we can’t wait to make memories together. Let the countdown begin!

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7 Steps for Planning a Trip for Kids

Places, Planning Travel

Planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip for your child is both exciting and a bit daunting—especially when the destination is completely their choice! Inspired by Bob Goff’s tradition, we’ve committed to taking each of our kids on an adventure of their dreams to mark their transition into adolescence. Our oldest chose the Bahamas, and now it’s our middle child’s turn.

Where will we go? That’s still a surprise. But in this post, we’ll walk through the steps we took to plan this trip—from budgeting and timing to researching and booking. Stay tuned for the big reveal!

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How to Budget for a Kitchen Renovation

Remodel, Spaces

So, budgeting for a kitchen renovation? Expect to shell out around 25% more than you thought! Prioritize what matters most—like appliances and cabinets—and don’t hesitate to cut back where you can. Our final cost breakdown had appliances at 33% and cabinets at 26%. We scored some great deals by shopping around, especially for stone. DIYing labor saved us cash too, avoiding that 10-15% general contractor fee. Just a heads up, it took about three and a half months from demo to finish, so plan your time too! In the end, totally worth it!

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Flipping a 1960s Gem: Breathing New Life into a Family Home

Remodel, Spaces

The Greenwood House, a charming 1960s rancher, is poised for modernization while retaining its historical essence. It features three bedrooms, outdated systems, and compartmentalized spaces. Renovations aim to create a stylish and functional family home, including a primary suite, open living area, mudroom, and safety upgrades, preserving its legacy.

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