Why I'm Drawn to European-Style Homes
More than beautiful architecture, these homes remind me that the best houses are built for gathering.
Lately, I've found myself being drawn more and more to homes that feel timeless.
The kind with weathered brick, arched doorways, old stone paths, copper lanterns, and windows glowing warmly at dusk. Homes surrounded by overflowing gardens that look as though they've been growing there for generations—beautiful, a little imperfect, and completely inviting.
Part of that love grew through visiting my sister, who lives in a small town just outside of London. I've had the opportunity to visit her twice, and every trip leaves me inspired. I love wandering through the villages, noticing the natural gardens spilling over stone walls, the ivy climbing old brick homes, the charming cottages, and the quiet pace of everyday life. There's a warmth there that's difficult to put into words.
Those European-inspired homes make me feel something.
They feel welcoming.
They feel peaceful.
They feel lived in.
But over time, I've realized it isn't actually the architecture I'm chasing.
It's the feeling those homes create.
A place where people slow down.
Where dinner lasts a little longer.
Where friends feel comfortable lingering around the table.
Where faith, family, and everyday moments matter most.
That's what Rooted & Gathered is really about.
My hope is to create a home—and to encourage others to create homes—that aren't simply beautiful to look at, but beautiful to live in. A place where hospitality comes naturally, where memories are made around the table, and where everyone who walks through the door feels welcomed and at home.
The Elements I Always Notice
Warm Brick
I love warm brick because it feels authentic. It doesn't need to be perfect to be beautiful, and I think our homes are much the same. The best homes are filled with love, laughter, and the people who gather inside them.
Natural Stone
Natural stone brings a quiet, timeless beauty to a home. Its texture and organic character add warmth, making every space feel grounded, welcoming, and connected to nature.
Beautiful Windows
Beautiful windows have a way of making a home feel alive. They invite in natural light, frame the outdoors, and create a warmth that makes every room feel more welcoming.
Copper Lanterns
Copper lanterns are one of my favorite finishing touches. They add warmth, timeless character, and only become more beautiful as they naturally age over time.
Arches
Whether it's a doorway or a window, an arch adds a warmth and character that feels both classic and welcoming. It's a simple detail that makes a lasting impression.
Landscaping
A beautiful home doesn't stop at the front door. I love classic boxwoods, Limelight hydrangeas, climbing roses, and natural greenery that soften the landscape and make a home feel welcoming before you ever step inside.
But It's Never Really About the House
The homes that inspire me most aren't beautiful because they're expensive.
They're beautiful because they look like people actually live there.
Toys in the yard.
A table ready for dinner.
Herbs growing outside the kitchen.
A porch where neighbors stop to talk.
That's the kind of home I want to create.
Not perfect.
Just welcoming.
Bringing the Look Into Any Home
Practical Tips:
Add warm lighting. Soft, warm light instantly makes a home feel more welcoming, especially in the evenings.
Use natural materials like wood, linen, and stone. These materials have a timeless beauty that only gets better with age.
Plant herbs near your front door. I love the idea of stepping outside and snipping fresh herbs for dinner while adding a little life and charm to the entrance.
Choose timeless finishes over trendy ones. I've learned that classic choices are the ones you'll still love years from now.
Display collected pieces with meaning. Some of my favorite things in our home are reminders of places we've been, people we love, and memories we've made.
Keep fresh flowers or greenery in the kitchen. It's such a simple touch, but it always brings a little cheer to my day.
Invest in quality over quantity. This has always been my husband's motto, and over the years I've found it's true. Buying fewer things that are well made often brings more joy than constantly replacing what's trendy.
Gather Around the Table
Home isn't built by brick and stone.
It's built around dinner tables, conversations, prayers, laughter, and ordinary Tuesdays.
Rooted Reflection
We often spend so much time trying to create beautiful homes that we forget what makes them beautiful in the first place.
It's the people inside them.
Hospitality isn't about perfection.
It's about making room for others.
Whether your home is large or small, new or decades old, my hope is that it becomes a place where people leave feeling seen, loved, and welcomed.
Shop My Favorite European Finds
Copper Lanterns - One of the easiest ways to add timeless European charm and a warm, welcoming glow to your home's exterior.
LED Flickering Flame Candelabra Bulbs - One of my favorite upgrades for outdoor lanterns—they create the beautiful look of a real gas flame with the convenience of LED bulbs.
Aged Terracotta Pot - The weathered finish adds instant character and makes even the simplest plant feel collected over time.
Urn Terracotta Planter – A classic statement piece that brings old-world elegance to your front porch, patio, or garden.
Olive Tree - A beautiful way to add soft greenery and timeless European style that works in nearly every room.
Vintage-inspired Rugs – They bring warmth, texture, and the lived-in character that makes a house feel like home.
Linen Curtains – Light-filtering linen softens a room beautifully while creating an airy, relaxed feel.
Brass Door Hardware - Exterior – Quality brass instantly elevates your front entry and develops even more character with age.
Brass Door Hardware- Interior – A simple upgrade that adds warmth, consistency, and timeless style throughout your home.
Woven Baskets – My favorite way to add texture while beautifully hiding blankets, toys, books, and everyday clutter.
Wooden Cutting Boards – I keep them on the counter year-round because they're both practical and beautiful for layering in the kitchen.
Ginger Jars – My favorite decorating accessory. They add classic blue-and-white charm and can be styled in every season.
Coming Soon
10 Ways to Make Any Home Feel European
My Favorite European Exterior Paint Colors
Why I Love Copper Lanterns
European Landscaping Ideas
The Materials That Make a Home Feel Timeless
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Join the Rooted & Gathered Community
If you're longing to create a home that's rooted in faith, filled with good food, and always ready to welcome others, I'd love for you to join the Rooted & Gathered community.
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Here's to creating homes that are rooted in faith, gathered in love, and lived in well.
Rooted in faith. Gathered in love.
-Heather