Check out favorite space got to go things to do and places to go have a great day everybody!
alicesoneysmom on October 29, 2010 at 11:21 am
This one's going to take some real looking into, MARY. However, starting off at the top of the list with my freshest memories, the impressive 2010 New Mexico Dream Home, I'm going to tentatively say my favorite Dream Home space was its Entry Hall. It was unusually appealing and welcoming, with its light pinewood ceilings and Viga-style beams — opening to the Dining Room on the left, and to the right, the warmth of the turquoise tiled fireplace and sitting area with its most inviting armchairs — then drawing the eyes onward, the delightfully scenic views out through the glass-windowed wall of the Great Room to the mountains beyond. Now THAT was simple breathtaking.
My official vote will be coming soon — but it may take longer than expected as I get involved in browsing through all those great Dream Homes of the past!
DBCoop on October 29, 2010 at 11:26 am
Loved the 2008 master bedroom.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 11:38 am
Coop, you should work for HGTV. Absolutely love your descriptions.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 11:42 am
Tony Marino is the winner of the Blog Cabin! Check him and his beautiful family out at diynetwork.com,
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 12:10 pm
Guess my message from my phone didn't make it. My favorite is the 2008 Master Bedroom! Now that's a place I would love to go to bed as well as wake up. Oh the memories I'd make there!
If they are, I didn't see them. Just gave the first response that came to mind.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 12:34 pm
RJM, on the Main Dream Home webpage, in the center column, about the middle of the page, there's a section called about The Best of HGTV Dream Homes. When you click on that link, you'll be able to see photos of all the homes.
Too bad I didn't see the 2008 master bedroom photo overlooking the deck and the water. Still love it after all these years. Oh the memories I could have made…….
You're welcome, RJMstone. Glad to help a fellow blogger out.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Nope-they do this every time so that you go back and browse through all of the old photos
Our Army Family on November 5, 2010 at 3:26 pm
When you check out Tony Marino, please read his answers to our questions. He has a great perspective.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 12:34 pm
I can't believe we have a new blog topic so soon. You're going to spoil us, Mary! This was a tough choice. I loved the Winter Park Master Bedroom, but I think I have to vote for the Tyler, Texas, Kitchen. LOVE that stonework!
Wyo_Girl on October 29, 2010 at 1:22 pm
You can tell it is getting back into prime season!
Our Army Family on November 5, 2010 at 3:26 pm
After a quick photo refresher of Dream Homes past, I was really impressed with the 2007 Winter Park, CO Master Bedroom with its bold yet luxurious mountain cabin appeal, pine planked ceiling and exposed timber trusses. The Tyler, TX 2005 Dream Home Kitchen scored lots of points with me for its high planked ceiling and rustic-styled limestone facing, country cabinetry and stainless steel appliances.
In the end, I'm staying with my first-named favorite, the 2010 New Mexico Dream Home's Entry Hall. That space couldn't be topped in my book, so back to the voting booth I'll now go….
DBCoop on October 29, 2010 at 1:24 pm
FYI: Tony Marino, winner of the 2010 Blog Cabin, posted a comment at diynetwork.com/blogcabin.
Thanks Lessie, I guess I can cross DIY's surprise arrival at my house- off the calendar. Whew!! 1 down an unlimited amount of potential surprises to go. : )
Cami on October 29, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Love your attitude Cami. That's what I call a positive perspective.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 4:09 pm
I thought they were suppose to keep quiet until the T.V. show; and isn't Tony Marino the name of the character John Travolta played in Saturday Night Fever???
gremol on October 29, 2010 at 3:41 pm
Since I didn't enter the blog Cabin contest, I'm not sure about the reveal date. But I thought it was supposed to be yesterday.Oh well, maybe HGTV is trying to throw me off, especially if I'm the winner of the Urban Oasis. I won't complain.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 4:11 pm
Gremol, forgot to comment on your John Travolta comment. Tony Marino could have been John's character's name, but I'm sure Travolta's character isn't any happier than the real live Tony is at this point in his life. But the real live Tony Marino may be imitating some of those Saturday Night Fever moves about now.
Lessie on October 29, 2010 at 7:17 pm
When DIY announces the winner for one of their Blog Cabins they always do so on the diy website they don't have a special TV show like HGTV does. They show pics of the family and usually have a short article along with Q&A for them.
The rules had stated they would announce the winner on or about Nov. 1st. So it was done just a little before then.
well since a winner was chosen for the blog cabin i will go on and start dreaming of Vt. Wish Tony and family well ENJOY!!!
lmbarshaw on October 29, 2010 at 2:17 pm
That's a lot of pics to check out, so if I have to choose my all time fav. I'll need more time. My favorite Dream Home will always be 2005, so I was tempted to just pick the kitchen in the 2005 home. However we musn't be too hasty when deciding an "all-time favorite" Dream Home space. ; )
Cami on October 29, 2010 at 2:33 pm
I'm glad you're taking a professional approach to this all-time favorite Dream Home space poll, Cami.
Calm and deliberate is generally the wisest path to take, unless we're talking about desserts.
DBCoop on October 29, 2010 at 4:28 pm
This is just to comment Cams, that some of you guys/gals have been on for quite a long time. You have quite a researching long history with the HGTV family and should be commended for your efforts. I've been busy this weekend, but will follow suit, and check out the previous years "all time favorite spaces". Since this is my first year, the only comment I can make is from the perspective of watching these homes that I've seen grow before my eyes. I did love the second floor "crows nest" in the Plymouth GH. I am enthralled by the window seating in Urban Oasis at the W. Could sit there for hours at night. The hallway of the Sandia DH, set the stage entrance for the home, and I liked the flow of DIY kitchen to family area. The previous years offerings will have to be from an eyeball perspective. Let's see what the past homes special spaces offer.
Janzee on November 1, 2010 at 12:11 am
After reviewing all of the possibilities, I have to say the 2010 Entry Hall is my favorite — when I saw that seating area with fireplace again I knew it was the one for me! I had forgotten just how cosy that space was (but I am still partial to the sunrise room, which unfortunately was not one of our choices!). There were a lot of close contenders, though!
CplusE on October 29, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Ditto for me love on the sunrise room, as I am always looking for a curl up nesting space, a hide-out if you will wherever I am.
Janzee on November 1, 2010 at 12:17 am
Good evening everybloggie,
I have to be perfectly honest and say that this 15th Anniversary Dream Home 2011 really " Speaks to my soul". I absolutely love the exterior, the location, the view and the whole indoor / outdoorsy design concept.
I choose this as my all time favorite Dream Home
GoldieLocksBear
XO.
GoldieLocksBear on October 29, 2010 at 4:50 pm
So far, the views of the 2011 Dream Home takes the cake for us! Can't wait to see the completed Home!
davidanddiane on October 29, 2010 at 6:06 pm
Celebrate Halloween in Stowe with the Ghoulish Getaway package offered by the Green Mountain Inn!
A ghost tour, chocolates, and the pumpkin of your choice – what more could you ask for the perfect Halloween (except maybe the added treat of a peak at the Stowe Dream Home)!
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 7:09 am
Imagine living in a Halloween hot spot, where you can buy 15 bags of candy and still run out before the trick-or-treating is over! Maple Street in Stowe is one such place:
The Stowe Recreation Department even sponsors a candy drop where people can donate bags of candy to be handed out to Maple Street residents in an effort to keep up with demand!
For the past three decades we have lived in rather remote rural areas and have always bemoaned the fact that we never get any trick-or-treaters — maybe we should be counting our blessings instead! I would not like to get the reputation as one of the houses in the neighborhood that runs out of candy!
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 9:48 am
I have the same problem, a complete lack of trick-or-treaters — not a single one for years. I think the logistics of climbing gates seems to deter folks, especially those in costume. However, I never give up, and buy candy every Halloween. Needless to say, I have to eat whatever I haven't given out all by myself.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 11:21 am
LOL! I do the same thing, but this year I finally learned to outsmart myself — I bought the kind of candy I dislike but my husband loves, so he will have to finish it off!
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Wait a minute, CplusE, isn't that counter-intuitive, counter-productive, counter-culture, or counter-something or other? Shouldn't you be buying the kind of candy that YOU LIKE, but your husband doesn't? That way you won't have any competition…. ^_^
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 4:46 pm
Well, it does run counter to my inclinations, but I really shouldn't add any more candy to my diet, especially with Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas excesses coming up hot on the heels of Halloween!
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 5:32 pm
I do the same thing C+E. Coop never has to worry about how sugar and calories affect his diet, I'm guessing.. So far I haven't eaten any candy, but I have a bag of snickers (I didn't buy) about 5 ft. away from me as I'm writing this.. I think I need to head for higher ground, before I drown in temptation.
Cami on October 30, 2010 at 6:02 pm
Snickers? Did I hear snickers? And I'm not referring to snide laughter either. I'm talkin' 'bout the GOOD stuff, Snickers candybars. They are my absolute favorite! Interesting that I bought a large bag of Snickers to give out to all of my non-existent trick-or-treaters…. ^_^
Happy Halloween, my fellow bloggers. May the force (to resist all of those yummy candies) be with you.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 6:30 pm
Coop, anyone who loves Snickers is a good person. Welcome to the "Good People Club" Cami and Coop.
Looks like there may be more than frost on the pumpkins for Halloween in Stowe tonight — although the temps don't appear low enough to hold on to the snow, and the rains will melt any dusting off very quickly. I think we still have time to wait until awarding the next Stowe snow title. But just in case, keep those snowshoe-s ready, Cami.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 5:06 pm
Oh dear, I did pick Halloween as the next snow date but I really didn't want the little candy monsters to have to trudge through snow to get their haul!
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 5:34 pm
Thanks for the link Cami. Snow covered Stowe is beautiful. Winter wonderland. Can't wait to see how Stowers decorate for the holidays.
Lessie on October 30, 2010 at 10:41 pm
I love everything that we know so far about the 2011 Dream home! it has a warm, comfortable appeal to it!
azdolan on October 30, 2010 at 3:39 pm
With Super Fan Gail somewhere out in the wilderness pounding the pavement (or Scripps Networks Interactive's new 150,000 square foot home office in West Knox, TN) to get answers for her devoted bloggers, the 'Best of the Best" polls popping up everywhere, Blog Cabin winners announced, and hopes still riding high to be named the winner of the Urban Oasis, I'm not going to beat around the bush. Does it seem at times in the blogs that it's feast or famine? We begin to feel like we're swimming upstream, that we've been dropped like a hot potato, flat as a pancake, and then, bingo — MARY throws us a lifeline and here come's another round of blog threads that are a feast for sore eyes. Ain't that the way…just when you're ready to dig in for a long deep freeze, MARY hits the button at her desk marked "Caution — Warp Speed", and we are inundated with all kinds of great blog threads faster than the eyes can see and our nimble fingers can tap those keys and click that mouse.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 4:54 pm
2. When it rains it pours, as they always say. Turns out to be like some days when it's all or nothing — either all goes well, or everything just falls apart! The blogs can be slow as molasses one minute, and faster than a speeding bullet the next. We're left to wonder whether MARY's got a bee in her bonnet, or Coop's about to post another wry sonnet.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 4:56 pm
3. Oh well, better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick I guess. After all, MARY's blog threads are invariably the best thing since sliced bread. The moral of this story: if you're feeling like going out on a limb and betting the farm on a prolonged drought, guess again. You'll just end up holding out the olive branch, happy as a pig in mud or a duck in water.
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 4:57 pm
4. So if you ever wake up on the wrong side of bed, feeling like you've just fallen out of the grumpy tree and hit every branch on the way down, look on the bright side — instead of barking up the wrong tree, go to your nearest friendly computer, log on, and go the HGTV and DIY blogs. You'll be surprised what you can find if you just look for it…sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees. Each day is a whole new opportunity, and finding a fun blog thread is a lot easier than searching for a needle in a haystack!
Take my word for it. I didn't just roll out of the pumpkin patch, you know….
DBCoop on October 30, 2010 at 4:57 pm
You mean that wasn't you I saw out there waiting for the Great Pumpkin to put in an appearance?
CplusE on October 30, 2010 at 5:25 pm
We know you didn't just roll out of the pumpkin patch Coop. It's been at least a year or two since you rolled out.
Lessie on October 30, 2010 at 10:48 pm
For first dramatic impact it has to be the Entry Hall of the 2010 DH. Who resist the cozy feeling of that turquoise tiled fireplace? Not many of us.
My overall favorite has to be the 2005DH in Tyler Texas. Not only was it huge enough (over 5,000 sq.ft.) to accommodate my children and their families for a visit at the same time, everything was beautifully decorated. The view as you lounged overlooking the pool and then to the lake was perfect. So many places to cook and eat.
I loved the kitchen, but have a thing about open cabinets. I would prefer glass fronted cabinet doors.
Would like to leave you all with a scary Halloween thought. Have you bought enough candy? Do you eat the left overs or scrounge your kids bags for your favorites? Oh, I just heard BOO and that scared me . If this is scrambled, blame it on the ghost and not me.
Katydiddle on October 30, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Katydiddle, I like the 2005 Dream Home too. Remember the winner's story of fishing from inside the house. He loved that house. Too bad he couldn't keep it.
Lessie on October 30, 2010 at 10:55 pm
Lessie: The fact that he couldn't keep it broke my heart too. I guess the DH team overreached themselves, but gave us a wonderful home to dream about. Now here's an IF dream. If I won the lotto I could purchase a few acres on one of our many inland lakes in Michigan and either buy the plans from HGTV or, if not available, have plans drawn up with even more personalized needs. Like space for my son-in-laws Kite boarding equipment. And I hope I would be the one to catch a fish.
Don’t worry, I promise not to inflict the Annoying Orange upon you ever again – he just seemed so appropriate for Halloween. After all he IS orange, and also annoyingly creepy!
For more citrus-y Halloween fun involving a knife, do you remember this television classic?
You're welcome, Deerspring! I enjoy finding amusing and slightly offbeat information as well as anything pertinent to the HGTV homes!
CplusE on November 2, 2010 at 7:16 am
In general – not dividing things into spaces- I love the Colorado Dream Home, 2007 – the other ski resort home. I also loved the Oregon home, 2000. (Yes, I've been a HGTV viewer and around a long time). My third fav is the first home, 1997, in WY. Location and floor plan are part of my considerations.
OmahaLady on October 31, 2010 at 1:15 pm
Has anyone watched the Travel Channel today, Halloween? So many scary things to go to if you are so inclined. Many scary places to go see and be scared out of your wits! B O O ! http://www.hauntedhouse.com/search/Haunted_Attrac…
The history channel had a special on Halloween yesterday–The Origins of Halloween. Only got to see the lead-in. Today I caught the end of a special on the Winchester haunted house in California. The narrator used Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 to explain that the dead takes no further part in what happens on earth: "For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even the memory of them is forgotten. Their love their hate and their jealousy have long since vanished; never again will they have a part in anything under the sun."
Lessie on October 31, 2010 at 6:06 pm
2. However, the narrator did say that paranormal activity is really the supernatural world. He then went on to explain God's warning against dabbling in the supernatural. His example of the first case of channeling was Satan using the serpent to entice Eve to rebel against God. It was an interesting presentation. Wish I had caught it from the beginning.
If jack-o’-lanterns really do ward off evil spirits as the ancient Celts intended, Stowe is bound to be one of the least haunted places around for Halloween (sorry, Emily)!
CplusE on October 31, 2010 at 4:41 pm
Thanks for the links, CplusE. You've done a lot of research on how Stowe residents celebrate Halloween.
Lessie on October 31, 2010 at 6:22 pm
I don't know if pumpkins ward off evil spirits, but they seem to attract little kids in costumes, who ate up nearly all of my meager supply of Halloween treats.
Of course, for Emily, there were certainly no pumpkins to be found at the Dream Home, so I'm sure she had a fitful night of haunting in the secret room, as it should be on Halloween.
DBCoop on November 4, 2010 at 12:08 pm
The 2007 Colorado DH and this years DH are my favorites. Love rustic mountain homes.
Kathy Seals on October 31, 2010 at 5:59 pm
That's because you're a blog cabin lover at heart, Kathy! It doesn't surprise me that those are your favs.
Wow Lessie great find! Thanks for sharing those sweet pics. I think it's sad that DIY has veered away from the rustic cabin theme that attracted so many of the bloggers in the first place including myself.
I can't wait to see the 360 online tour of the DH. Won't be too much longer.
Kathy Seals on November 4, 2010 at 11:25 am
Kathy, have you seen the photo of the HGTV 2011 Dream Home Rose Bowl Float? The link is under Deerspring's comment. It's rustic to the max!
Lessie on November 4, 2010 at 10:57 pm
Tour starts December 20 Sherlock, too long for my impatient personality!
EdinOregon on November 4, 2010 at 11:29 pm
Of the mountain homes HGTV did, Lake Lure was my favorite, and the way Linda W. decorated it made me feel so much at home…I just fell in love with it. I would hike a little, but the ski resort DH's are not 4 me.( I was a skateboarder in 7th grade, but missed the snowboarding craze– I was hopeless as a skiier, LOL)
LLColeman on November 5, 2010 at 1:29 am
The top 5 Dream Homes for me, as far as curb appeal, are, in date order, '97 Jackson Hole, WY; '05 Tyler, TX; '06 Lake Lure, NC; '07 Winter Park, CO; and '09 Sonoma, CA.
But factor in the weather and year-round living, and the '09 Sonoma, CA Dream Home takes the top spot.
The jury's still out on the 2011 Vermont Dream Home — I need to see the finished product, inside and out, so pour on the steam, Gail. I'm looking forward to those video reveals.
DBCoop on October 31, 2010 at 7:19 pm
I have seen very few photos of the Jackson Hole DH. I'd like to learn more about it,, since I only live about an hour away. Really, I'd like to see enough exterior photos that I could search for it the next time I'm in Jackson. Does that make me a Dream Home Stalker?
Wyo_Girl on November 1, 2010 at 2:09 pm
I remember when they built the Jackson Hole Home "Stalker"! ^_^ It seemed like it was on quite a bit of acreage. This is the only picture I could find of it: http://www.hgtv.com/dream-home/hgtv-dream-home-19… There might be some articles in the archived Jackson Hole Newspaper.
EdinOregon on November 1, 2010 at 4:21 pm
I have seen that photo, and it's the only one I can find, too. I googled this and looked at everything I could, but I keep coming up short. Wow, I think I really AM a stalker!!
Wyo_Girl on November 1, 2010 at 6:16 pm
Thanks for the link Ed. I'd never seen this picture before.
Lessie on November 3, 2010 at 8:00 pm
It appears that virtually all references to the Jackson Hole Dream Home have been effectively erased from the records. I'm sure that the current owners of the home are not unhappy with that, but I suspect that a resourceful HGTV dreamer will be able to come up with some more information on it before long.
DBCoop on November 4, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Coop: For curb appeal it has to be the Sonoma, CA DH. I loved the wrap around porches and the landscaping with flowers in bloom. Help me, what was the name of the classy lady who walked around with her adorable dog and gave us updates as the building continued. That graceful house only lacked a bedroom and bath on the main floor.
Katydiddle on November 1, 2010 at 7:27 pm
If I remember correctly, the sweet lady's name was Ingrid and she often walked her adorable dog Bobo in the Dream Home neighborhood. As you say, she gave us updates on the progress. She even got to talk with Super Fan Gail, who visited with Ingrid at her home for a chat.
DBCoop on November 1, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Katydiddle, Sonoma DH is 2 hr.s drive north of me, and my 86 yr. old mom lives in Sonoma Co. to the west….. I SO wanted to win that, because she rents, and I am staying with in-laws. She would have loved that beautiful home, besides being a huge HGTV fan like me. I would have re-arranged the large dining area with smaller table and chairs, a love seat in the bay window, to become a formal parlor, so that I could close off the living room and make it into a bdrm. for mom. She can't climb stairs…. It also would have meant– Wine Country sacrilege–taking out the wine cellar, plumbing & tiling that space to add a small shower tied into the 1st flr. bathroom. The den / wine tasting rm. would have had a big armoire to hold clothing, and a fold -out sofa for guests… I would have had to turn that place inside out, LOL ! The family area off the kitchen would have been the main gathering spot, rather than a formal living rm. / parlor; and we would not have needed so much space to house wine. I would have preferred they add a cellar, since true Victorians often had them– then the next owners could have stored wine down there. Otherwise, I loved the place.
LLColeman on November 2, 2010 at 2:37 am
LL.Coleman: I loved your solution for turning the house Inside-out. I had thought of making the living room into a bedroom, but had no idea how to add a shower. Brilliant design work. My problem with stairs is not going up them, but coming down, as I have no depth perception due to my low vision. Coop was kind enough to remind me that it was Ingrid walking her dog, Bobo, that kept us up to date on the progress. It was such a romantic house. Hope some family is enjoying it now.
—
Katydiddle on November 3, 2010 at 6:39 pm
Katydiddle, I am sorry to learn of the low vision challenge; I can relate somewhat because as I have gotten older, my depth perception goes out of whack when going downstairs…. so far, that is the only time I notice it. As we all mention on the blogs, it is frustrating that these homes have no accommodations when it is just as easy to factor them in w/out too much adjustment.
I have Googled entries on Dream Homes past ,and a lot of them state that the winners try to sell them, or have sold, but rarely keep them.
LLColeman on November 4, 2010 at 2:38 am
LLColeman, love the changes you would have made to the home. Your mom would definitely have enjoyed living there.
Lessie on November 3, 2010 at 8:05 pm
LOL, I am new to blogging this year, and always spent the months leading up to each Dream Home drawing poring over the photos, mentally moving furniture around the DH, trying to figure out how I'd deal w/ taxes for each DH if I were a lucky winner. I think my most hilarious scheme involved the Sonoma one, where I'd do the aforementioned re-model (plumbers would love me with THAT project), install my mom in her new bedroom, open the upstairs for a 3 seasons Bed and Breakfast, and make my husband and me stay on the fold out den sofa ( like trolls under a bridge ), ready to serve our B&B guests a breakfast, or wine & chocolate in the evenings ! ….We would only get to stay upstairs in winter !! (Oh, yes, and shoo all the lookie-loos off the front lawn, since the property is unfenced ! )
LLColeman on November 4, 2010 at 2:29 am
Sonoma was a favorite of mine for many reasons. I loved the home, the area, and the weather's nice enough (but not quite as sunny and warm as S CA) Since Napa County is my birthplace and I still have family there, I enjoy visiting when time permits. Needless to say, the Sonoma Dream Home would have been perfect — but since you can't hold back progress, it's on to Stowe and the beauty of winter snow.
DBCoop on November 4, 2010 at 12:15 pm
You've got a great imagination LLColeman. Rather I should say you're very creative. It's amazing how you took the Sonoma Dream Home, sacrificed your personal enjoyment, and created a home for your mom and others to enjoy. Your mom should be happy to have such a loving and caring daughter.
Lessie on November 4, 2010 at 11:11 pm
you are too sweet, Lessie. I just think it is hilarious in retrospect to picture my husband and me in the little den ( formerly wine tasting room)…. but you can bet I would live it up in the winter, upstairs soaking in that incredible tub, LOL!
My personal philosophy is to" Live Simply.(Unless One Wins a Scripps Giveaway )" LOL
Seriously, I do not believe in living ostentatiously and detest "Mc Mansions" that are popping up all over CA. Given the chance to live in a 'luxury' home, I would make it earn its keep. hmmmm…. Home Swapping Vacations are appealing, too.
LLColeman on November 5, 2010 at 1:10 am
Why chase the looky loos away? Charge them admission! I have two sons in Sonoma, so that would have been a perfect home for me.
EdinOregon on November 4, 2010 at 11:28 pm
wow, rental property in Ramona & 2 sons in Sonoma ! My brother lives in Santa Rosa, and we found a rental for our mom on the same block he lives on.
We all used to live in Monterey and in nearby Pacific Grove…. I would love to see Scripps build a place on the Monterey Peninsula ! It's spectacular there.
LLColeman on November 5, 2010 at 1:16 am
I agree about the Monterrey Area. I honeymooned in Carmel and used to go fishing out of Monterey and Santa Cruz!
EdinOregon on November 5, 2010 at 11:16 pm
My favorite space?
Without a doubt it's the 2007 Master Bedroom and Bathroom suite.
Outstanding!!!
JOofARK on October 31, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Hi Alicesoneysmom,
Thank you for the link ! Nat King Cole has such a beautiful, golden, mellow voice and this is my favorite song, I used to listen to it when I was seventeen, so this is a " goose bump feeling, blast from the past !" I would bake cookies in the Dream Home kitchen and play this soundtrack ! Lol .
GoldieLocksBear
XO
GoldieLocksBear on October 31, 2010 at 8:46 pm
They will be replaced by blow stowe, vermont once we see it all. I've always liked areas
View will be just about any DH characteristics! Congratulations to the DIY winners, Tony marino!
burberryoutlet on November 1, 2010 at 12:08 am
Good morning, I'm having semi-hectic week, but found a moment to add a few thoughts about Mary's ;latest question. For me, it's always about the architecture that encompasses the space. The Winter Park, CO exterior/interior is one of my favorites—-from the awesome exterior design to the lodge room, looking up that stairway to those incredible ceilings that are in that home. It's hard for me to imagine topping that home's appeal. I felt the same way about the New Mexico home—-stepping into that entry hall and seeing the Santa de Cristo mountains framed within that wall of windows was breath-taking. I also, loved the "location" of the Sonoma home (I love the wine country of CA)—although the style of the home wasn't my favorite ——continued
MeKhazSimi on November 1, 2010 at 9:43 am
I can never pick one(room)—–it's always the connection between the space and the arcitectrual elements within the home that does it for me. I realize I'm not exressing this with any clarity and "decisive favorite" but, for me, this is as close as it gets. I love the arcitectural style of both these homes and bottom line—–a DH in "sun country" —this year——regardless of design will make me happy. I hope everyone has a nice day. LOL
MeKhazSimi on November 1, 2010 at 9:44 am
As long as Linda W. is involved in the projects, I love every one of them. Not being a skiier, though, this year's and Winter Park are the bottom locations for me, due to the remoteness and focus on skiing…but the homes themselves are as you say, awesome examples of architecture. Linda has made each one so home-y and appealing, no matter what sort of architecture she worked in.
LLColeman on November 2, 2010 at 2:16 am
Hello o o o o o o. How is everyone in the land of Dreams? Just checking in to say hi.
Now that we are done with Halloween, we can start looking towards the next upcoming Holidays. ..
There's Veteran's Day coming up on the 11th, which is always a special day of remembrance, with very humble but heartfelt thank yous- from many fellow Americans.
Thanksgiving Day on the 25th- when we remember all we're grateful for.
So I would say this is a pretty special month. Lots to look forward to, and much to be grateful for!!
Cami on November 1, 2010 at 7:22 pm
Yep, I'm looking forward to the holidays, and also celebrating new Dream Home videos from our Super Fan Gail, due on a big screen near you soon.
A very special month this will be indeed. The Urban Oasis winner will be contacted around 15 Nov, so someone is going to be especially lucky this month. I won't be here to watch the winner's reveal on the 20th, but I'm quite sure I'll be hearing all about it on the blogs.
DBCoop on November 1, 2010 at 10:17 pm
Do you think it's possible we will get the virtual tour of the DH this month? That would really make it a month for celebration! I am recovering from a bout of food poisoning (that's the way I got to spend my Halloween — ugh, doesn't get much scarier!) but as soon as I feel a little less queasy I will get back to blogging on a regular basis!
CplusE on November 2, 2010 at 7:14 am
Sorry to hear that C+E.. That doesn't sound very pleasant. Let's hope that Thanksgiving dinner treats your tummy a little better.
Cami on November 2, 2010 at 9:00 am
CplusE, food poisoning. Now that sucks! Hope you're better soon.
Lessie on November 3, 2010 at 8:09 pm
PS. If I remember correctly, I think HGTV posted the virtual tour of Dream Home 2010 in December.
Lessie on November 3, 2010 at 8:12 pm
Soney and I only know about the DH 2011 what a beautiful home. But Jack T have Seattle somehow tucked in the windmills of your mind for a future home! Although it is raining no pouring and windy and flooding Seattle is truly beautiful. Check this out. http://www.kirotv.com/wxcam/1867908/detail.html
alicesoneysmom on November 1, 2010 at 8:14 pm
San Francisco Giants you did it! What a celebration!!!!
alicesoneysmom on November 1, 2010 at 10:33 pm
YAAAYY !! So proud of the miracles this team performed…..underdogs finally had their day for the West coast.
LLColeman on November 2, 2010 at 2:10 am
Thank you Alice. I remember dancing to this song many times! ^_^
EdinOregon on November 1, 2010 at 10:45 pm
my favorite space would have to be the sun room from 2010 DH it has just enough privacy to help you relax with those beautiful sunsets, but yet not far from your children If they need you.
pixelecho69 on November 2, 2010 at 12:04 am
Congratulations LLColeman! Your team won the World Series!!! Tonight is the night you should be up celebrating. Hope all is going extremely well for you.
my all time favorite home is the 2009 dream home. My favorite spot is the 2009 dream home kitchen. Oh how I dream of having counter space like that to cook and bake in !!!
BDianeB on November 2, 2010 at 5:34 pm
That was a great kitchen, BDianeB. All great cooks would love the opportunity to have a kitchen like that.
Lessie on November 3, 2010 at 8:22 pm
The outdoor patio of the 2009 Dream Home was ideal; the Master Bedroom and bathroom dreamy; the office space perfect for me, and even the cozy sitting area in the formal dining room couldn't have been better for enjoying a glass of wine or cup of tea with a friend or two. Oh well, my dreams will certainly be revived in full force with the reveal of the Stowe Dream Home interior.
DBCoop on November 4, 2010 at 12:24 pm
It’s the master’s bedroom that usually appeals to me. I love the designs and the intimacy created with it. Thanks and I hope to see more creative design inspirations here.
The room I gawk over in any floor plan is the home office. Dream Home 2010 has a wonderful one, roomy with lots of shelving, it's own outside door, and great views.
I can't tell if it has easy access to a powder room, looks like there might be one on the floor plan, but it's not in any pics.
Check out favorite space got to go things to do and places to go have a great day everybody!
This one's going to take some real looking into, MARY. However, starting off at the top of the list with my freshest memories, the impressive 2010 New Mexico Dream Home, I'm going to tentatively say my favorite Dream Home space was its Entry Hall. It was unusually appealing and welcoming, with its light pinewood ceilings and Viga-style beams — opening to the Dining Room on the left, and to the right, the warmth of the turquoise tiled fireplace and sitting area with its most inviting armchairs — then drawing the eyes onward, the delightfully scenic views out through the glass-windowed wall of the Great Room to the mountains beyond. Now THAT was simple breathtaking.
My official vote will be coming soon — but it may take longer than expected as I get involved in browsing through all those great Dream Homes of the past!
Loved the 2008 master bedroom.
Coop, you should work for HGTV. Absolutely love your descriptions.
Tony Marino is the winner of the Blog Cabin! Check him and his beautiful family out at diynetwork.com,
Guess my message from my phone didn't make it. My favorite is the 2008 Master Bedroom! Now that's a place I would love to go to bed as well as wake up. Oh the memories I'd make there!
Are there photos attached to these choices?
If they are, I didn't see them. Just gave the first response that came to mind.
RJM, on the Main Dream Home webpage, in the center column, about the middle of the page, there's a section called about The Best of HGTV Dream Homes. When you click on that link, you'll be able to see photos of all the homes.
Too bad I didn't see the 2008 master bedroom photo overlooking the deck and the water. Still love it after all these years. Oh the memories I could have made…….
Thanks alot Lessie!!
You're welcome, RJMstone. Glad to help a fellow blogger out.
Nope-they do this every time so that you go back and browse through all of the old photos
When you check out Tony Marino, please read his answers to our questions. He has a great perspective.
I can't believe we have a new blog topic so soon. You're going to spoil us, Mary! This was a tough choice. I loved the Winter Park Master Bedroom, but I think I have to vote for the Tyler, Texas, Kitchen. LOVE that stonework!
You can tell it is getting back into prime season!
After a quick photo refresher of Dream Homes past, I was really impressed with the 2007 Winter Park, CO Master Bedroom with its bold yet luxurious mountain cabin appeal, pine planked ceiling and exposed timber trusses. The Tyler, TX 2005 Dream Home Kitchen scored lots of points with me for its high planked ceiling and rustic-styled limestone facing, country cabinetry and stainless steel appliances.
In the end, I'm staying with my first-named favorite, the 2010 New Mexico Dream Home's Entry Hall. That space couldn't be topped in my book, so back to the voting booth I'll now go….
FYI: Tony Marino, winner of the 2010 Blog Cabin, posted a comment at diynetwork.com/blogcabin.
THANKS!
He's a lucky devil!
Thanks Lessie, I guess I can cross DIY's surprise arrival at my house- off the calendar. Whew!! 1 down an unlimited amount of potential surprises to go. : )
Love your attitude Cami. That's what I call a positive perspective.
I thought they were suppose to keep quiet until the T.V. show; and isn't Tony Marino the name of the character John Travolta played in Saturday Night Fever???
Since I didn't enter the blog Cabin contest, I'm not sure about the reveal date. But I thought it was supposed to be yesterday.Oh well, maybe HGTV is trying to throw me off, especially if I'm the winner of the Urban Oasis. I won't complain.
Gremol, forgot to comment on your John Travolta comment. Tony Marino could have been John's character's name, but I'm sure Travolta's character isn't any happier than the real live Tony is at this point in his life. But the real live Tony Marino may be imitating some of those Saturday Night Fever moves about now.
When DIY announces the winner for one of their Blog Cabins they always do so on the diy website they don't have a special TV show like HGTV does. They show pics of the family and usually have a short article along with Q&A for them.
The rules had stated they would announce the winner on or about Nov. 1st. So it was done just a little before then.
A Food Network contest from up above….. https://subscribe.hearstmags.com/subscribe/splits…
well since a winner was chosen for the blog cabin i will go on and start dreaming of Vt. Wish Tony and family well ENJOY!!!
That's a lot of pics to check out, so if I have to choose my all time fav. I'll need more time. My favorite Dream Home will always be 2005, so I was tempted to just pick the kitchen in the 2005 home. However we musn't be too hasty when deciding an "all-time favorite" Dream Home space. ; )
I'm glad you're taking a professional approach to this all-time favorite Dream Home space poll, Cami.
Calm and deliberate is generally the wisest path to take, unless we're talking about desserts.
This is just to comment Cams, that some of you guys/gals have been on for quite a long time. You have quite a researching long history with the HGTV family and should be commended for your efforts. I've been busy this weekend, but will follow suit, and check out the previous years "all time favorite spaces". Since this is my first year, the only comment I can make is from the perspective of watching these homes that I've seen grow before my eyes. I did love the second floor "crows nest" in the Plymouth GH. I am enthralled by the window seating in Urban Oasis at the W. Could sit there for hours at night. The hallway of the Sandia DH, set the stage entrance for the home, and I liked the flow of DIY kitchen to family area. The previous years offerings will have to be from an eyeball perspective. Let's see what the past homes special spaces offer.
After reviewing all of the possibilities, I have to say the 2010 Entry Hall is my favorite — when I saw that seating area with fireplace again I knew it was the one for me! I had forgotten just how cosy that space was (but I am still partial to the sunrise room, which unfortunately was not one of our choices!). There were a lot of close contenders, though!
Ditto for me love on the sunrise room, as I am always looking for a curl up nesting space, a hide-out if you will wherever I am.
Good evening everybloggie,
I have to be perfectly honest and say that this 15th Anniversary Dream Home 2011 really " Speaks to my soul". I absolutely love the exterior, the location, the view and the whole indoor / outdoorsy design concept.
I choose this as my all time favorite Dream Home
GoldieLocksBear
XO.
So far, the views of the 2011 Dream Home takes the cake for us! Can't wait to see the completed Home!
Celebrate Halloween in Stowe with the Ghoulish Getaway package offered by the Green Mountain Inn!
http://www.greenmountaininn.com/ghoulishgetaway.h…
A ghost tour, chocolates, and the pumpkin of your choice – what more could you ask for the perfect Halloween (except maybe the added treat of a peak at the Stowe Dream Home)!
Imagine living in a Halloween hot spot, where you can buy 15 bags of candy and still run out before the trick-or-treating is over! Maple Street in Stowe is one such place:
http://www.stowetoday.com/stowe_reporter/news/art…
The Stowe Recreation Department even sponsors a candy drop where people can donate bags of candy to be handed out to Maple Street residents in an effort to keep up with demand!
For the past three decades we have lived in rather remote rural areas and have always bemoaned the fact that we never get any trick-or-treaters — maybe we should be counting our blessings instead! I would not like to get the reputation as one of the houses in the neighborhood that runs out of candy!
I have the same problem, a complete lack of trick-or-treaters — not a single one for years. I think the logistics of climbing gates seems to deter folks, especially those in costume. However, I never give up, and buy candy every Halloween. Needless to say, I have to eat whatever I haven't given out all by myself.
LOL! I do the same thing, but this year I finally learned to outsmart myself — I bought the kind of candy I dislike but my husband loves, so he will have to finish it off!
Wait a minute, CplusE, isn't that counter-intuitive, counter-productive, counter-culture, or counter-something or other? Shouldn't you be buying the kind of candy that YOU LIKE, but your husband doesn't? That way you won't have any competition…. ^_^
Well, it does run counter to my inclinations, but I really shouldn't add any more candy to my diet, especially with Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas excesses coming up hot on the heels of Halloween!
I do the same thing C+E. Coop never has to worry about how sugar and calories affect his diet, I'm guessing.. So far I haven't eaten any candy, but I have a bag of snickers (I didn't buy) about 5 ft. away from me as I'm writing this.. I think I need to head for higher ground, before I drown in temptation.
Snickers? Did I hear snickers? And I'm not referring to snide laughter either. I'm talkin' 'bout the GOOD stuff, Snickers candybars. They are my absolute favorite! Interesting that I bought a large bag of Snickers to give out to all of my non-existent trick-or-treaters…. ^_^
Happy Halloween, my fellow bloggers. May the force (to resist all of those yummy candies) be with you.
Coop, anyone who loves Snickers is a good person. Welcome to the "Good People Club" Cami and Coop.
We are new here is this where we vote for Snickers? http://www.wikio.com/video/snickers-commercial-ro…
Here is the forecast for Stowe Mountain Resort http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USVT0234
Looks like snow has fallen a bit. Check out the webcam. http://www.stowe.com/ http://www.erh.noaa.gov/btv/html/cams/stowe.shtml
Looks like there may be more than frost on the pumpkins for Halloween in Stowe tonight — although the temps don't appear low enough to hold on to the snow, and the rains will melt any dusting off very quickly. I think we still have time to wait until awarding the next Stowe snow title. But just in case, keep those snowshoe-s ready, Cami.
Oh dear, I did pick Halloween as the next snow date but I really didn't want the little candy monsters to have to trudge through snow to get their haul!
Thanks for the link Cami. Snow covered Stowe is beautiful. Winter wonderland. Can't wait to see how Stowers decorate for the holidays.
I love everything that we know so far about the 2011 Dream home! it has a warm, comfortable appeal to it!
With Super Fan Gail somewhere out in the wilderness pounding the pavement (or Scripps Networks Interactive's new 150,000 square foot home office in West Knox, TN) to get answers for her devoted bloggers, the 'Best of the Best" polls popping up everywhere, Blog Cabin winners announced, and hopes still riding high to be named the winner of the Urban Oasis, I'm not going to beat around the bush. Does it seem at times in the blogs that it's feast or famine? We begin to feel like we're swimming upstream, that we've been dropped like a hot potato, flat as a pancake, and then, bingo — MARY throws us a lifeline and here come's another round of blog threads that are a feast for sore eyes. Ain't that the way…just when you're ready to dig in for a long deep freeze, MARY hits the button at her desk marked "Caution — Warp Speed", and we are inundated with all kinds of great blog threads faster than the eyes can see and our nimble fingers can tap those keys and click that mouse.
2. When it rains it pours, as they always say. Turns out to be like some days when it's all or nothing — either all goes well, or everything just falls apart! The blogs can be slow as molasses one minute, and faster than a speeding bullet the next. We're left to wonder whether MARY's got a bee in her bonnet, or Coop's about to post another wry sonnet.
3. Oh well, better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick I guess. After all, MARY's blog threads are invariably the best thing since sliced bread. The moral of this story: if you're feeling like going out on a limb and betting the farm on a prolonged drought, guess again. You'll just end up holding out the olive branch, happy as a pig in mud or a duck in water.
4. So if you ever wake up on the wrong side of bed, feeling like you've just fallen out of the grumpy tree and hit every branch on the way down, look on the bright side — instead of barking up the wrong tree, go to your nearest friendly computer, log on, and go the HGTV and DIY blogs. You'll be surprised what you can find if you just look for it…sometimes you can't see the forest for the trees. Each day is a whole new opportunity, and finding a fun blog thread is a lot easier than searching for a needle in a haystack!
Take my word for it. I didn't just roll out of the pumpkin patch, you know….
You mean that wasn't you I saw out there waiting for the Great Pumpkin to put in an appearance?
We know you didn't just roll out of the pumpkin patch Coop. It's been at least a year or two since you rolled out.
For first dramatic impact it has to be the Entry Hall of the 2010 DH. Who resist the cozy feeling of that turquoise tiled fireplace? Not many of us.
My overall favorite has to be the 2005DH in Tyler Texas. Not only was it huge enough (over 5,000 sq.ft.) to accommodate my children and their families for a visit at the same time, everything was beautifully decorated. The view as you lounged overlooking the pool and then to the lake was perfect. So many places to cook and eat.
I loved the kitchen, but have a thing about open cabinets. I would prefer glass fronted cabinet doors.
Would like to leave you all with a scary Halloween thought. Have you bought enough candy? Do you eat the left overs or scrounge your kids bags for your favorites? Oh, I just heard BOO and that scared me . If this is scrambled, blame it on the ghost and not me.
Katydiddle, I like the 2005 Dream Home too. Remember the winner's story of fishing from inside the house. He loved that house. Too bad he couldn't keep it.
Lessie: The fact that he couldn't keep it broke my heart too. I guess the DH team overreached themselves, but gave us a wonderful home to dream about. Now here's an IF dream. If I won the lotto I could purchase a few acres on one of our many inland lakes in Michigan and either buy the plans from HGTV or, if not available, have plans drawn up with even more personalized needs. Like space for my son-in-laws Kite boarding equipment. And I hope I would be the one to catch a fish.
A little Halloween humor:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7F5nIA8xmw&NR…
Don’t worry, I promise not to inflict the Annoying Orange upon you ever again – he just seemed so appropriate for Halloween. After all he IS orange, and also annoyingly creepy!
For more citrus-y Halloween fun involving a knife, do you remember this television classic?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYaADqh2eCA&fe…
Happy Halloween everyone!
Thanks CplusE. I always enjoy your great finds!
You're welcome, Deerspring! I enjoy finding amusing and slightly offbeat information as well as anything pertinent to the HGTV homes!
In general – not dividing things into spaces- I love the Colorado Dream Home, 2007 – the other ski resort home. I also loved the Oregon home, 2000. (Yes, I've been a HGTV viewer and around a long time). My third fav is the first home, 1997, in WY. Location and floor plan are part of my considerations.
Has anyone watched the Travel Channel today, Halloween? So many scary things to go to if you are so inclined. Many scary places to go see and be scared out of your wits! B O O ! http://www.hauntedhouse.com/search/Haunted_Attrac…
Grab a sofa pillow to squeeze……
Ulster Park, New York is one…………… http://www.headlesshorseman.com/
The history channel had a special on Halloween yesterday–The Origins of Halloween. Only got to see the lead-in. Today I caught the end of a special on the Winchester haunted house in California. The narrator used Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 to explain that the dead takes no further part in what happens on earth: "For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even the memory of them is forgotten. Their love their hate and their jealousy have long since vanished; never again will they have a part in anything under the sun."
2. However, the narrator did say that paranormal activity is really the supernatural world. He then went on to explain God's warning against dabbling in the supernatural. His example of the first case of channeling was Satan using the serpent to entice Eve to rebel against God. It was an interesting presentation. Wish I had caught it from the beginning.
O O O O oOoOoOoOoOoooooo
Don't forget a terrifying haunted house in Atlanta! http://www.fearworld.com/
One of the ways Stowe residents celebrate Halloween is to line their courthouse steps with numerous jack-o’-lanterns:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/untitledfragment/293…
And their carvings can be very creative indeed:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardboyle/5123583…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/paulmoody/5108337258…
If jack-o’-lanterns really do ward off evil spirits as the ancient Celts intended, Stowe is bound to be one of the least haunted places around for Halloween (sorry, Emily)!
Thanks for the links, CplusE. You've done a lot of research on how Stowe residents celebrate Halloween.
I don't know if pumpkins ward off evil spirits, but they seem to attract little kids in costumes, who ate up nearly all of my meager supply of Halloween treats.
Of course, for Emily, there were certainly no pumpkins to be found at the Dream Home, so I'm sure she had a fitful night of haunting in the secret room, as it should be on Halloween.
The 2007 Colorado DH and this years DH are my favorites. Love rustic mountain homes.
That's because you're a blog cabin lover at heart, Kathy! It doesn't surprise me that those are your favs.
Kathy, if you love rustic mountain homes, look at this http://renovationsmarts.blogspot.com/2010/11/stow… AND this http://twitpic.com/photos/AmblerDesign
Wow Lessie great find! Thanks for sharing those sweet pics. I think it's sad that DIY has veered away from the rustic cabin theme that attracted so many of the bloggers in the first place including myself.
I can't wait to see the 360 online tour of the DH. Won't be too much longer.
Kathy, have you seen the photo of the HGTV 2011 Dream Home Rose Bowl Float? The link is under Deerspring's comment. It's rustic to the max!
Tour starts December 20 Sherlock, too long for my impatient personality!
Of the mountain homes HGTV did, Lake Lure was my favorite, and the way Linda W. decorated it made me feel so much at home…I just fell in love with it. I would hike a little, but the ski resort DH's are not 4 me.( I was a skateboarder in 7th grade, but missed the snowboarding craze– I was hopeless as a skiier, LOL)
The top 5 Dream Homes for me, as far as curb appeal, are, in date order, '97 Jackson Hole, WY; '05 Tyler, TX; '06 Lake Lure, NC; '07 Winter Park, CO; and '09 Sonoma, CA.
But factor in the weather and year-round living, and the '09 Sonoma, CA Dream Home takes the top spot.
The jury's still out on the 2011 Vermont Dream Home — I need to see the finished product, inside and out, so pour on the steam, Gail. I'm looking forward to those video reveals.
I have seen very few photos of the Jackson Hole DH. I'd like to learn more about it,, since I only live about an hour away. Really, I'd like to see enough exterior photos that I could search for it the next time I'm in Jackson. Does that make me a Dream Home Stalker?
I remember when they built the Jackson Hole Home "Stalker"! ^_^ It seemed like it was on quite a bit of acreage. This is the only picture I could find of it: http://www.hgtv.com/dream-home/hgtv-dream-home-19… There might be some articles in the archived Jackson Hole Newspaper.
I have seen that photo, and it's the only one I can find, too. I googled this and looked at everything I could, but I keep coming up short. Wow, I think I really AM a stalker!!
Thanks for the link Ed. I'd never seen this picture before.
It appears that virtually all references to the Jackson Hole Dream Home have been effectively erased from the records. I'm sure that the current owners of the home are not unhappy with that, but I suspect that a resourceful HGTV dreamer will be able to come up with some more information on it before long.
Coop: For curb appeal it has to be the Sonoma, CA DH. I loved the wrap around porches and the landscaping with flowers in bloom. Help me, what was the name of the classy lady who walked around with her adorable dog and gave us updates as the building continued. That graceful house only lacked a bedroom and bath on the main floor.
If I remember correctly, the sweet lady's name was Ingrid and she often walked her adorable dog Bobo in the Dream Home neighborhood. As you say, she gave us updates on the progress. She even got to talk with Super Fan Gail, who visited with Ingrid at her home for a chat.
Katydiddle, Sonoma DH is 2 hr.s drive north of me, and my 86 yr. old mom lives in Sonoma Co. to the west….. I SO wanted to win that, because she rents, and I am staying with in-laws. She would have loved that beautiful home, besides being a huge HGTV fan like me. I would have re-arranged the large dining area with smaller table and chairs, a love seat in the bay window, to become a formal parlor, so that I could close off the living room and make it into a bdrm. for mom. She can't climb stairs…. It also would have meant– Wine Country sacrilege–taking out the wine cellar, plumbing & tiling that space to add a small shower tied into the 1st flr. bathroom. The den / wine tasting rm. would have had a big armoire to hold clothing, and a fold -out sofa for guests… I would have had to turn that place inside out, LOL ! The family area off the kitchen would have been the main gathering spot, rather than a formal living rm. / parlor; and we would not have needed so much space to house wine. I would have preferred they add a cellar, since true Victorians often had them– then the next owners could have stored wine down there. Otherwise, I loved the place.
LL.Coleman: I loved your solution for turning the house Inside-out. I had thought of making the living room into a bedroom, but had no idea how to add a shower. Brilliant design work. My problem with stairs is not going up them, but coming down, as I have no depth perception due to my low vision. Coop was kind enough to remind me that it was Ingrid walking her dog, Bobo, that kept us up to date on the progress. It was such a romantic house. Hope some family is enjoying it now.
—
Katydiddle, I am sorry to learn of the low vision challenge; I can relate somewhat because as I have gotten older, my depth perception goes out of whack when going downstairs…. so far, that is the only time I notice it. As we all mention on the blogs, it is frustrating that these homes have no accommodations when it is just as easy to factor them in w/out too much adjustment.
I have Googled entries on Dream Homes past ,and a lot of them state that the winners try to sell them, or have sold, but rarely keep them.
LLColeman, love the changes you would have made to the home. Your mom would definitely have enjoyed living there.
LOL, I am new to blogging this year, and always spent the months leading up to each Dream Home drawing poring over the photos, mentally moving furniture around the DH, trying to figure out how I'd deal w/ taxes for each DH if I were a lucky winner. I think my most hilarious scheme involved the Sonoma one, where I'd do the aforementioned re-model (plumbers would love me with THAT project), install my mom in her new bedroom, open the upstairs for a 3 seasons Bed and Breakfast, and make my husband and me stay on the fold out den sofa ( like trolls under a bridge ), ready to serve our B&B guests a breakfast, or wine & chocolate in the evenings ! ….We would only get to stay upstairs in winter !! (Oh, yes, and shoo all the lookie-loos off the front lawn, since the property is unfenced ! )
Sonoma was a favorite of mine for many reasons. I loved the home, the area, and the weather's nice enough (but not quite as sunny and warm as S CA) Since Napa County is my birthplace and I still have family there, I enjoy visiting when time permits. Needless to say, the Sonoma Dream Home would have been perfect — but since you can't hold back progress, it's on to Stowe and the beauty of winter snow.
You've got a great imagination LLColeman. Rather I should say you're very creative. It's amazing how you took the Sonoma Dream Home, sacrificed your personal enjoyment, and created a home for your mom and others to enjoy. Your mom should be happy to have such a loving and caring daughter.
you are too sweet, Lessie. I just think it is hilarious in retrospect to picture my husband and me in the little den ( formerly wine tasting room)…. but you can bet I would live it up in the winter, upstairs soaking in that incredible tub, LOL!
My personal philosophy is to" Live Simply.(Unless One Wins a Scripps Giveaway )" LOL
Seriously, I do not believe in living ostentatiously and detest "Mc Mansions" that are popping up all over CA. Given the chance to live in a 'luxury' home, I would make it earn its keep. hmmmm…. Home Swapping Vacations are appealing, too.
Why chase the looky loos away? Charge them admission! I have two sons in Sonoma, so that would have been a perfect home for me.
wow, rental property in Ramona & 2 sons in Sonoma ! My brother lives in Santa Rosa, and we found a rental for our mom on the same block he lives on.
We all used to live in Monterey and in nearby Pacific Grove…. I would love to see Scripps build a place on the Monterey Peninsula ! It's spectacular there.
I agree about the Monterrey Area. I honeymooned in Carmel and used to go fishing out of Monterey and Santa Cruz!
My favorite space?
Without a doubt it's the 2007 Master Bedroom and Bathroom suite.
Outstanding!!!
Hi Alicesoneysmom,
Thank you for the link ! Nat King Cole has such a beautiful, golden, mellow voice and this is my favorite song, I used to listen to it when I was seventeen, so this is a " goose bump feeling, blast from the past !" I would bake cookies in the Dream Home kitchen and play this soundtrack ! Lol .
GoldieLocksBear
XO
They will be replaced by blow stowe, vermont once we see it all. I've always liked areas
View will be just about any DH characteristics! Congratulations to the DIY winners, Tony marino!
Good morning, I'm having semi-hectic week, but found a moment to add a few thoughts about Mary's ;latest question. For me, it's always about the architecture that encompasses the space. The Winter Park, CO exterior/interior is one of my favorites—-from the awesome exterior design to the lodge room, looking up that stairway to those incredible ceilings that are in that home. It's hard for me to imagine topping that home's appeal. I felt the same way about the New Mexico home—-stepping into that entry hall and seeing the Santa de Cristo mountains framed within that wall of windows was breath-taking. I also, loved the "location" of the Sonoma home (I love the wine country of CA)—although the style of the home wasn't my favorite ——continued
I can never pick one(room)—–it's always the connection between the space and the arcitectrual elements within the home that does it for me. I realize I'm not exressing this with any clarity and "decisive favorite" but, for me, this is as close as it gets. I love the arcitectural style of both these homes and bottom line—–a DH in "sun country" —this year——regardless of design will make me happy. I hope everyone has a nice day. LOL
As long as Linda W. is involved in the projects, I love every one of them. Not being a skiier, though, this year's and Winter Park are the bottom locations for me, due to the remoteness and focus on skiing…but the homes themselves are as you say, awesome examples of architecture. Linda has made each one so home-y and appealing, no matter what sort of architecture she worked in.
Hello o o o o o o. How is everyone in the land of Dreams? Just checking in to say hi.
Now that we are done with Halloween, we can start looking towards the next upcoming Holidays. ..
There's Veteran's Day coming up on the 11th, which is always a special day of remembrance, with very humble but heartfelt thank yous- from many fellow Americans.
Thanksgiving Day on the 25th- when we remember all we're grateful for.
So I would say this is a pretty special month. Lots to look forward to, and much to be grateful for!!
Yep, I'm looking forward to the holidays, and also celebrating new Dream Home videos from our Super Fan Gail, due on a big screen near you soon.
A very special month this will be indeed. The Urban Oasis winner will be contacted around 15 Nov, so someone is going to be especially lucky this month. I won't be here to watch the winner's reveal on the 20th, but I'm quite sure I'll be hearing all about it on the blogs.
Do you think it's possible we will get the virtual tour of the DH this month? That would really make it a month for celebration! I am recovering from a bout of food poisoning (that's the way I got to spend my Halloween — ugh, doesn't get much scarier!) but as soon as I feel a little less queasy I will get back to blogging on a regular basis!
Sorry to hear that C+E.. That doesn't sound very pleasant. Let's hope that Thanksgiving dinner treats your tummy a little better.
CplusE, food poisoning. Now that sucks! Hope you're better soon.
PS. If I remember correctly, I think HGTV posted the virtual tour of Dream Home 2010 in December.
Soney and I only know about the DH 2011 what a beautiful home. But Jack T have Seattle somehow tucked in the windmills of your mind for a future home! Although it is raining no pouring and windy and flooding Seattle is truly beautiful. Check this out. http://www.kirotv.com/wxcam/1867908/detail.html
San Francisco Giants you did it! What a celebration!!!!
YAAAYY !! So proud of the miracles this team performed…..underdogs finally had their day for the West coast.
Thank you Alice. I remember dancing to this song many times! ^_^
my favorite space would have to be the sun room from 2010 DH it has just enough privacy to help you relax with those beautiful sunsets, but yet not far from your children If they need you.
Congratulations LLColeman! Your team won the World Series!!! Tonight is the night you should be up celebrating. Hope all is going extremely well for you.
What a nice pic! Snowi! *_*
http://twitpic.com/32tgld
my all time favorite home is the 2009 dream home. My favorite spot is the 2009 dream home kitchen. Oh how I dream of having counter space like that to cook and bake in !!!
That was a great kitchen, BDianeB. All great cooks would love the opportunity to have a kitchen like that.
The outdoor patio of the 2009 Dream Home was ideal; the Master Bedroom and bathroom dreamy; the office space perfect for me, and even the cozy sitting area in the formal dining room couldn't have been better for enjoying a glass of wine or cup of tea with a friend or two. Oh well, my dreams will certainly be revived in full force with the reveal of the Stowe Dream Home interior.
It’s the master’s bedroom that usually appeals to me. I love the designs and the intimacy created with it. Thanks and I hope to see more creative design inspirations here.
The room I gawk over in any floor plan is the home office. Dream Home 2010 has a wonderful one, roomy with lots of shelving, it's own outside door, and great views.
I can't tell if it has easy access to a powder room, looks like there might be one on the floor plan, but it's not in any pics.