This weekend’s Get the Look Decor is inspired by the Southern California home of Morgan Satterfield. She and her partner Jeremy live in a small desert community with their two dogs, Iggy and Bowie. They have been documenting their budget-friendly DIY renovation on their blog, The Brick House, since 2008, and the remarkable results have had me running between the hardware store and my local thrift shop. The following inspiring photos represent an early stage of their home renovation; more recent updates are available on their blog.
[Clockwise from top left: Pillow Cover - Grey and White by poshhouseoriginals; Mona Lisa of the 80's Painting by Splinkville; BOKZ button back sofa by lunarloungedesign; STUMP Tables by realwoodworks1; Mulhauser Eames Plycraft Lounger with Ottoman by rubymountains; Organic Shaped Hide Rug by arboldesigns]
How would you describe your home decorating style?
Vintage thrifty minimalism? Masculine organic Californian? Transient mid-century modernism? Usually my style is fairly sparse and I tend to edit things down pretty strictly. I swap pieces around the house continuously and try to stick with a fairly neutral palette with loads of textural layers and warm, broken-in materials.
[Clockwise from top left: vase/cork jar by paulova; Jennie and Joel by michelleramin; Heath Small Teapot with Cork by DipperVintage; Vintage Mid Century Modern Light by lamanastronaut; paint by numbers cat by RustBeltThreads; Pair Danish Modern Woven Cord Side Chairs by GreenZebre]
Did you decide to decorate in this style or was there an evolution to your decorating process?
The design process with this house is pretty reactionary. I run into pieces I like, switch things in and out, and end up changing rooms over and over again. Being super frugal and having a penchant for vintage can sometimes create long waits and makes it impossible to predict when that “perfect thing” will come along. This approach has resulted in our bedrooms being headboard-less for the last four years. Somehow we’ve gone through about ten sofas and fifteen coffee tables.
[Clockwise from top left: Retro Yellow Fiberglass Chairs by Apartment528; Brass Italian Sputnik Lamp by WinkingOwl; 1970's Teak Dining Table by retrogradela; Mid Century Modern Earthenware Jug by Nachokitty; Danish Modern Rosewood Bookcase by openairmodern; Pottery Decanter with Warming Stand by UncommonEye]
Where are your favorite places to shop for home items?
My main places are thrift stores, Craigslist, flea markets, eBay and the odd estate sale. I’ll occasionally check out auctions, as well as antique and vintage shops.
[Clockwise from top left: Steel House Number Plaque by austinoutdoor; Globe Ball Pendant Light Fixture by BlueMoonLights; Bullet Planter by 27thAVE; REVERSE VARIEGATED SPIDER plant by deleas; BE YOU doormat by ggoetz; Modern Metal Hairpin Plant Stand by GallivantingGirls]
What inspires you when it comes to decorating?
I spend a ton of time hunting down unique and interesting vintage furniture, and not knowing what will pop up keeps me going. Researching the designers or the histories behind certain pieces is inspiring and I love watching folks be creative when stuck with limitations. I’m a sucker for interesting textures, materials and impeccable construction, but I really like things to be functional and useful, or at the very least, unexpected or unusual.
[Clockwise from top left: Vintage Mid-Century Cabinets by rhapsodyattic; Art Pottery Vases by susantique; LEATHER BUTTERFLY CHAIR by MountainLeather; Herman Miller Eames Eiffel Side Chair by CoMod; Amethyst Crystal by kuberacove; signed vintage charcoal portrait by ForgetMeNeverVintage; 1970s Pottery Vase by observation; Teak Round Coffee Table by AMBIANIC; Fire Drum Log Brickote by AntoinettesWhims]
What is your favorite thing about your home?
Just having one is pretty great. It’s comfy and nice to have a place to move furniture around in. I love that we are doing everything ourselves on an incredibly tight budget. Even though it can be a slow and frustrating process, it’s been incredible to transform this former halfway house into something that really impresses the pizza boy.
[Clockwise from top left: Vintage Navajo Rug by Cellar1237; 5 Light Benjamin Cluster by vintagefilament; Platform Bed Queen Size by tarikyousef; Large WHITE Icelandic Sheepskin Rug by blacksheepwhitelight; Throw Pillow Covers With Leather and Fur by derilyn; Handmade Wine Bottle by InsCeramics; Eames Herman Miller Upholstered Rocking Chair by VintagePrescription; Mariella Pendant Lampshade by kattybarac; Vintage GE Flip Number Clock by WiseApple]
Looking for more styles and interiors? Check out our video series, There’s No Place Like Here, where creative types show us their unique spaces — infused with their aesthetic and filled with the treasures they collect. Get involved and show us your amazing space in this Flickr pool.
158 comments
Sign in to add your ownTwinkleStarCrafts says:
Love, love, love! Wonderful selections and look!
240 days ago
JodysVintage says:
Very awesome collection, this is wonderful! Love the cool/warm colors!
240 days ago
FluffyFlowers says:
awesome. i love the idea of switching furniture out until you find the pieces you truly love :)
240 days ago
BarnshopAntiques says:
I like to change things constantly too. You've inspired me to want to de-clutter even more. Your place looks terrific.
240 days ago
beliz82 says:
Great home decor ideas !!!
240 days ago
tamaradesigns says:
Beautifully put together!
240 days ago
cottonbirddesigns says:
Great article beautiful home!
240 days ago
TopazTurtle says:
This home looks absolutely amazing.I love the unique light fixtures in it.
240 days ago
Niftic says:
Sensational home and a stunning use of minimalism! I love everything about it.
240 days ago
VintageEye says:
fabulous!
239 days ago
PolClary says:
Lovely! The colours of the entire house fit so well together, it's completely a whole.
239 days ago
myfunbeads says:
Beautiful, calming and with purpose. In environment like this you can actually focus your thoughts because there is no clutter around you.Love it.
239 days ago
RavensCuriosities says:
You have done a spectacular job. Just Love your Space!
239 days ago
OliveLongstocking says:
all good things and finds take time............... perfect X
239 days ago
OliveLongstocking says:
all good things and finds take time................ perfect X
239 days ago
MaryFosterCreative says:
Wonderful home!
239 days ago
pippatree says:
Wonderful! Love it!
239 days ago
redemptionart says:
Having an affinity towards minimalism and actually achieving it are two different things. You on the other hand have done an incredible job! Minimalism does not mean boring! Thanks for sharing your home with us!
239 days ago
QueenBeeVintiques says:
I too love the clean look and lines of Mid Cemtury...your home is lovely and to think that so many of the pieces are vintage finds...why would anyone not seek out vintage for their home...beauty and quality that has stood the test of time. I'm on my way to your blog now to see the rest of the story...Thanks for sharing!
239 days ago
PollyPainting says:
Great way to live. You're inspiring me to try to edit more.
239 days ago
BingoBox says:
What a beautiful home. Love your style descriptions - Cheers !
239 days ago
MegansMenagerie says:
Such a beautiful home! Love it! =)
239 days ago
ratafias says:
Inspiring! I might adapt your wood porch screen for our place. And finally put up the navajo rug on our bare wall. This was fantastic, thank you for describing the process and doing such a wonderful job of displaying the beauty here. But it always makes me wonder--how can people *really* find some of these things from thrift stores and Craigslist?! Maybe I'm not in the right areas... : )
239 days ago
tannerglass says:
Love this! And I love your answer to the most favorite things about your home. Congrats!
239 days ago
TheIDconnection says:
I love all of this! Especially the Scandinavian furniture.
239 days ago
blueflowervintage says:
Yes I do check out this blog! Love those butterfly chairs and the lovely yellow Eames scoop on the cat's cradle legs!
239 days ago
Parachute425 says:
I need that stove. Packing up the truck and will be there in two days. I'll bring the donuts.
239 days ago
VivaGailBeads says:
That coffee table is amazing! Although I love the clean and organized look of this style, it seems almost barren, devoid of life. Only the bed looks as if someone has been there. Just one book on the couch, or a coffee cup on the kitchen counter would change it for me. thank you so much for sharing your space.
239 days ago
blueskyclouds says:
This house is complete perfection, my exact sense of style. I love the restraint, the minimalism, while also having such interesting unique pieces.....pure love!
239 days ago
birdie1 says:
Love this look. The older I get, the fewer "knick-knacks" I want cluttering up my living space. Less is definitely more here.
239 days ago
Iammie says:
Nice and clean.
239 days ago
SellmySeoul says:
Nice rooms!
239 days ago
ellauniverse says:
Great inspiration! Thanks!
239 days ago
TipsyTimeMachine says:
I know what you mean about waiting for the right pieces, I haven't found a headboard I like either and will probably end up making one. Your furniture is gorgeous and I enjoy the minimalist look...not something I could manage in my daily life unfortunately :)
239 days ago
bhangtiez says:
Wow! Thanks for sharing your beautiful and inspirational home. Love it!
239 days ago
BigGirlz says:
Love it! Beautiful look.
239 days ago
BlueMoonLights says:
Love your style! Your choice for pendant lights is very cool! Thanks for sharing :D
239 days ago
greenscribble says:
That last collection with the comfy looking beds is probably my favorite.
239 days ago
mountainvintage says:
Everything in the house is beautiful, but I'm not a fan of minimalism. I want paintings on the walls, lots of them! I want more color, more texture, more knick knacks. Ha ha, especially with your taste. =)
239 days ago
GingersGirl says:
Beautiful home! I can't wait to check out their blog. Thanks for sharing.
239 days ago
FullCircleRetro says:
Always No. 1 on my daily blog list... =)
239 days ago
bedouin says:
Love the placement of your paintings and light fixtures~ the individuality rocks in this so cal home!
239 days ago
RivalryTime says:
Love it.
239 days ago
BanglewoodSupplies says:
I want that kitchen!
239 days ago
TheCakeStandBoutique says:
I am so in ♥ with that stove!!
239 days ago
Revisions says:
It's good to know I'm not the only one who goes through furniture left and right. I call it my furniture fetish... I particularly like chairs!..
239 days ago
peaseblossomstudio says:
Thank you for inviting us in for a peek, I absolutely love the kitchen!
239 days ago
KKCollectibleCollage says:
Your home has a certain beauty, but I would go crazy there, as you would do in mine. I love your vintage pieces...I would just like more!!
239 days ago
ImSoVintage says:
Love your home and hope you will check out all the wonderful vintage sellers here on Etsy for some more great finds.
239 days ago
chiquiita says:
I love your collection and the way you showcase them around your house. Thanks for letting us inside of your sanctuary. As always, Christine does amazing articles, I just love Sunday mornings......Thanks!!!!
239 days ago
jessjamesjake says:
This house is just fab!
239 days ago
blessedvintage says:
don't you just love those vintage portraits. You could make up silly stories they are your relatives and their crazy life! blessings
239 days ago
accentonvintage says:
It's amazing how your house is so organized and stripped down. Love your modern minimalism and color decor! Great article!
239 days ago
sewlola says:
Beautiful home!
239 days ago
DeAnnaClaudette says:
FAAAAABULOUS DESIGN INSPIRATION! I LOVE IT!
239 days ago
mylenefoster says:
It's great to live in a community where there is a rich selection of vintage items that are in great shape. I'm envious!
239 days ago
joyofvintagewithsam says:
girls' got an eye, for sure! Good hunting.
239 days ago
pamwalsh says:
Inspirational!
239 days ago
DiscriminatingDames says:
I am having serious lust over that stove, big time heart thumping lust. I also lust after vintage roadmaster station wagons and caprice classic wagons. What can I say. When I finally get around to bulldozing my kitchen that's the kinda stove I want!
239 days ago
wanderthisway says:
amazing inspiration, I love this!!
239 days ago
LaronDesign says:
Love it.
239 days ago
sonyarasi says:
great article. Very inspiring!
239 days ago
GoldenDaysAntiques says:
Beautiful home with beautiful pieces. Love it!
239 days ago
osloantiques says:
I love that you swap things around while allways looking out for that next "perfect thing" . If you like it you can allways make it fit.
239 days ago
ArtPhotosDiana says:
Have been following brickhouse too. love the attitude and style. she's a wizard of restoration.
239 days ago
MishaGirl says:
I love the decor!
239 days ago
ModernShop says:
These spaces look amazing!
239 days ago
GracefullyGirly says:
Very nice minimalist space. I couldn't find the headboard of my dreams in my price range so I ended up making one! I really love your animal rug!
239 days ago
melaniedk says:
Great to see some IE on the ETSY!
239 days ago
tarikyousef says:
I love the article, and then I noticed my Enso bed on it! Yeay, thanks for featuring my item
239 days ago
myAvonlea says:
As a border-line hoarder, minimalism is so dreamy <3
239 days ago
blackdaisyblue says:
Beautiful selection of items!!
239 days ago
hattieshouse says:
I have been following Morgan's blog for a while now and and that girl has a gift for finding simple, vintage pieces that pack a POW! Thanks for sharing her beautiful home and providing other folks ideas of how simple decorating on a showstring budget can be done to create a lovely nest!
239 days ago
breadandroses2 says:
Well done, spare spaces! I hope Etsy is one of your favorite places to shop, too. Great kitchen stove. Reminds me of the old Tappan gas stove inherited from a relative. Wish it I still had it.
239 days ago
RevolvingStore says:
Love this modern minimalist pallet as it draws your focus on the fabulous shapes and objects you have chosen. NICE!!!
239 days ago
RubyOutlaw says:
I love the slat wood wall on the front porch! Wish I had room to do that at my place! LOVE IT!!!!!
239 days ago
kmcknight1 says:
I love this style! So nice looking!
239 days ago
MarieVaughnDesign says:
As a Graphic Designer, I am a true minimalist at heart! I love all things clean, sleek, and modern! The artsy glass Coffee table is an awesome piece :)
239 days ago
lindaketelhut says:
Beautiful home. Love your style + all these great shops!
239 days ago
onelovebird says:
AMAZING! absolutely love it.
239 days ago
spacejam says:
it looks amazing...even though I would probably won't be able to stop and would continue adding new things...which won't be minimalistic after all))
239 days ago
everythingok says:
I'm full of jealous of this house. Minimalism is so cool if you can pull it off. My problem, it seems, is an overabundance of stuff crammed into a teensy space. If only maximalism had the same aesthetic appeal!
239 days ago
LynnsMix says:
very fun mid century spin!
239 days ago
styleforlife says:
AMAZING post....Love it all and use this philosophy as well. I need to redecorate my whole house and renovate my kitchen. Cant wait to check out their blog!! YAY! XXXXX Emily of EL Vintage
239 days ago
wolfatc says:
By the homeowner's own admission the house runs through furniture, and those are clearly some designer pieces. Even if they were gotten at a great deal, it's frustrating as someone who genuinely does have an extremely tight budget to be a shown a picture with a few Eames chairs and a cowskin rug in it and be told, "see? You can do it too!" I understand that a truly poor apartment probably isn't something most people want to see on the feature, but taking care with words might avoid making those of us who can't afford these types of items even at a steep discount feel a little less like facepalming every time one of these articles is posted. I've no doubt the homeowner is a great bargain shopper and probably scored major deals on all of these pieces--but labeling the house as thrifty is misleading at best and careless and condescending at worst. :(
239 days ago
JillianReneDecor says:
Love this space and the mid century vibe - totally ready to move in!
239 days ago
lucysnowephotography says:
Oh no!! I think I am dying with jealousy!!! :) gorgeous....!!! Love this look!
239 days ago
Guttervamp13 says:
I really like the one black wall in the bedroom....I may have to steal that idea. Great collection of pieces. Love your look.
239 days ago
weatheredsilo says:
Simply gorgeous! I'm a big fan of clutter-free spaces....wish my home was like that (tough to do with two young kiddos). Cheers, Mandy
239 days ago
belenderienzo says:
Great!! I´ll take some ideas for my house
239 days ago
RedorGrayArt says:
lovely ... so special ... simple beauty
239 days ago
carlossantiago says:
this is one of my fav ever!!! i love everything that you showed this time!!!! thank you for sharing!
239 days ago
valeriephoto says:
This is great. I've been doing something similar. I picked up a great Eames-style chair and ottoman and I'm having it re-upholstered in Merimekko fabric. I can't wait to see the finished product!
239 days ago
AnnTig says:
Great! Love it!
239 days ago
HihloStudio says:
so so much inspiration at the brick house. I'm constantly amazed
239 days ago
vintagejane says:
Simple and beautiful! Thanks for sharing!!
239 days ago
SkateBetty says:
Lovely! I adore the Sputnik lamp soooo much.
239 days ago
TownCountryJewelry says:
Are those shades on the windows or nothing?
239 days ago
mybeardedpigeon says:
I love it! Beautiful!
239 days ago
DestinysCreations says:
These are gorgeous!
239 days ago
MoonpieMandie says:
Beautiful home! I love finding a 'unique', wonderfully priced piece for the home in thrift stores. The thrill is in the hunt, baby!
239 days ago
YellowViolet says:
Looking at your home makes me realize just how much stuff I have with few places to put it. I LOVE the sparseness of it - it makes every piece stand out and I'll bet it's easy to clean. A picture really is worth a thousand words!Now I'll have to cull....!
239 days ago
KitKatCabaret says:
Reminds me of out home. I locate items around the neighborhood, I did find a gorgeous chair to keep my oriental screen company. I have found tiny wine racks with nautical art and rattan tables to hide away in the bath rooms. this article does have much merit. love furnishings the lamps are beautiful
239 days ago
recycledwares says:
What lovely rooms. After my own heart.
239 days ago
MerCurios says:
Boy, oh boy how I wish my house resembled that one...so open...so clean...so much room.. But I have way too much stuff. Perhaps in my next life I can learn to live with less. :)
239 days ago
pangeahandmade says:
i have to agree wholeheartedly with wolfatc's sentiments. labeling this 'thrifty' is very misleading. bummer. very cool design ideas, but i would definitely not say that this is "bargain bin" merchandise and saying that this style is great for someone on a tight budget is woefully untrue!
239 days ago
designgirl19 says:
love the look, was wanting to know what material you used for your countertop, we are working on our kitchen as well, like the look and I'm sure it's less than granite. thanks for sharing
239 days ago
kristincoffin says:
MORGAN!!!!! Amazing! I Saw the first photos, and new it was your house! Congratulations on the amazing feature! I'm going to spam everyone I know to share this article....I feel like I know a celebrity!
239 days ago
rachelungerjewelry says:
love your style and your editing skills!
239 days ago
LivingToDesign says:
the collection is great!
239 days ago
outofline says:
Love the clean lines. That black wall in the bedroom is awesome!
239 days ago
Unbunny says:
Love it!
239 days ago
rmoralespottery says:
Great decor! This was an inspiring style when we renovated our home.
239 days ago
sugaryberry says:
Love this idea.. this is sort of the look I go for in my own house. I am always trying to put clutter out of site, it makes me fairly small house feel bigger.
239 days ago
KAPARA says:
Love it, great decor!
239 days ago
malemmon says:
Just lovely. You pretty much decorate the way I do. I am going on three years in my little place and am still editing and finding new things.
239 days ago
scandivintage says:
I love this - one can see it has been a slow process, since it is perfect in every way. Thank you for sharing! :)
239 days ago
AliceCloset says:
Love love love!!! Amazing decor!
239 days ago
katrinaalana says:
I love how you call your decorating style as thrifty minimalism. The space looks gorgeous and you've edited the items quite well.
239 days ago
rambleswithreese says:
I adore what they've done what their home. Just brilliant! And on a frugal budget - gotta love that!
239 days ago
oldsnapshot says:
Morgan, you have done a beautiful job! I love your style and enjoyed visiting your blog. I can relate to the challenges that come along with being on a budget. Sometimes frustrating, but worth the wait.
238 days ago
mattandgrace says:
Ah those Scandonavians sure know how to design! Love the furniture. Thanks for letting us into such a lovely home..... grace arthousemum.blogspot.com
238 days ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
beautiful I love the combination of neutrals and key colours, very simple and homely style!
238 days ago
littlenestbox says:
I love the brick house blog, such fun to read!
238 days ago
RustBeltThreads says:
this is fantastic! so neat to see another paint by number cat set. thanks for having me here!
238 days ago
opendoorstudio says:
clean and lovely! thank you for sharing!
238 days ago
dorijenn says:
love the decor {drool}
238 days ago
MissHildebrandt says:
Sweet steps! I can definitely relate with the 'slow process'!
238 days ago
somethinspecial says:
I love the dining room light fixture, love this decorating style.
238 days ago
theLOVEstitch says:
beautiful!
238 days ago
BonChatBoutique says:
Wow! This house would impress more than the pizza boy.
238 days ago
BonChatBoutique says:
Wow! This house would impress more than just the pizza boy.
238 days ago
WhatADream says:
I LOVE minimalism and vintage. Minimalism is so clean and fresh, and vintage warms it up and creates something unique. This is what I'm going for in my house...it would help to have a large house
238 days ago
danielfranklin says:
Wish wish wish this house could look so neat and tidy, crisp and clean! 4 kids and baby toys everywhere- lol well got to go and pick up tinker toys- again
238 days ago
AntoinettesWhims says:
Beautiful home!!! I love these decorating articles. Thanks for including one of my items to get this look.
238 days ago
NaturalandVintage says:
cute ideas! i love the idea of making home decor affordable yet unique. our house is always a work in progress too!! its amazing what you can find at thrift stores
238 days ago
glimmersintime says:
Just looking at pictures of your house makes my feel more relaxed and calm. Love the look!
238 days ago
vinskord says:
Amazing interiors!!! So refreshing and super cool!!
238 days ago
linneaheide says:
What a breath of fresh air! This is very nice : )
238 days ago
Olive2 says:
I love their house and her blog. Makes me actually want to visit the desert. But I especially enjoy her sense of humor. (impressing the pizza boy - hysterical!)
238 days ago
amysoldschool says:
Love the entire house, especially the kitchen as well as their dog's names!! Thanks for sharing!
238 days ago
TheScarfTree says:
Wow, love the photo's of this house - I especially love the kitchen! Thanks for this great article! I think we can all learn from it - lose the clutter! :)
238 days ago
artXchic says:
what a great place! i wish i weren't so cluttered :)
238 days ago
BrittneyWest says:
So inspiring and absolutely beautiful visions! Thanks for sharing! "Let the beauty of what you love be what you do." --Rumi
238 days ago
TheSplendidSuitcase says:
Love it! Very refreshing x
238 days ago
Jungle says:
Blue & white with wood classic :)
237 days ago
Mclovebuddy says:
directly said and done is always a better route. see what happens when you say and follow through directly rather than in the net world.
237 days ago
rhapsodyattic says:
There are some fantastic pieces of furniture in your space!! So thrilled to be included in the "get the look"!!
237 days ago
victorianbustle says:
Yours is a lovely place, but I can tell you got spendy with a lot of your stuff. The dining chairs must have cost a fortune, even at a thrift store. Still, the overall effect is great.
237 days ago
OnlyOriginalsByAJ says:
Awesome! I really love the style!
237 days ago
ModernMode says:
Wow, basically my dream place. So refined, makes every single piece of furniture or decor absolutely pop.
236 days ago
whenifnotnow says:
I've been following The Brick House for a while and the only complaint I have with this Get The Look Decor is that practically every single item showcased breaks Morgan's rule about not spending more than $100 on anything. Of course, I know she breaks her own rules occasionally for particularly fantastic things, but even lamps and plant stands feature here are getting the LOOK right, but not the THRIFTY or LOW-BUDGET part that is the big inspiration for Morgan's slow and steady home makeover. So yes, if you want to Get The Look of this particular thrifty, low-budget minimalist home, you'll have to spend some pretty big bucks - which entirely misses the point, right?
236 days ago
5gardenias says:
I'm in love with the open space, and the calm and serenity of your home-- what a fantastic job you've done keeping your place free of clutter. The pieces you've selected fit together in total harmony. Truly a breath of fresh desert air!
236 days ago
ForElephant says:
This is so clean and fresh! A wonderful, relaxing environment! Thanks for sharing!!
235 days ago
NewModernArt says:
I love your vintage pieces....good old classics of timeless elegance.
234 days ago
andiespecialtysweets says:
Good lookin' place. Thanks for sharing.
234 days ago
vanessaeight says:
What an amazing home - particularly like the dinning room.
183 days ago
LavenderField says:
Lovely and unique style!
125 days ago