painting our living room *DIY bookshelf design*

[@jenn2758]

You can tell you hold yourself back whenever you're expressing or talking about mom life and Cade. I know you're trying to be more reserved to not receive any negative opinions but for me as a true fan I think it's beautiful to see you and Romeo transitioning into parenthood. Me and my husband just had our second baby. He just turned two a few days ago. so watching you go through what I just went through it's very relatable. I watched you for sometime now and you made me realize I love thrifting flipping and my husband is construction worker so it's something that we can do together and I thank you for that❤

[@viviendoconedna]

I agree!

[@vickirickman5828]

I agree

[@sarahlauch8459]

Yes! I’m a long time viewer, but a lot more engaged now that she’s a mom tbh!

[@Bmf214]

Or maybe she thinks that exposing her child’s identity fully on the internet is too much exposure. Remember he still has to grow up and find out a choice was made for him that he may not have chosen for himself. This kind of life is a delicate balance.

[@jenn2758]

@@Bmf214 very true!!

[@mahvahm]

I think the bookshelves being a bleached oak like the curio cabinet and entry table will look so beautiful and tie everything together more! Always love watching these makeovers 🥰

[@kylieharrison3782]

I agree. Dark cabinets and shelving would so wrong in the loungeroom.

[@barre_with_jo]

OOOOH YES!

[@Leechowave]

I also came here for this thought! I think a lighter wood like the dining table in the kitchen would fit the bookshelves a lot!

[@rebeccareimer]

I’d be curious to see a render with them blue like the kitchen hood- but love this idea

[@Tracydee34]

Yes! This. I loved the color of the cabinet. I thought the dark was way too heavy. The stained beams will bring in depth and character and then adding dark wood/ elements will tie it together without adding so much weight!

[@jjfrank]

Ever since you first mentioned the idea of putting shelves in your living room, I have been SO excited to see that project get started. That wall is BEGGING for them!!!

[@heidi.a.thomson]

The doors to your bedroom would be so nice stripped and unpainted. ❤

[@xomacennavlogs]

Omg I love that idea

[@kimwood6632]

@@xomacennavlogs I was thinking of a thrifted piece like the one in the entry integrated with boxed window seating with storage all around to your office area and finding another piece to finish off there. That way it's not just on that big wall but follow the room and curve enveloping that whole side of the room with different heights yet bringing in your ability to build window seats for Cades toys in the future and making it all look original to the home. You'd have to find 2 perfect pieces but I bet you can as you can do anything. Then the seats can have fabrics you could change as the years go by.. just an idea to marry that wood in the front room to in this room if the beams are going to match that room as well. Glad sculpture clay works in your house. It's great in a bed and bath un my house but has a k Lavender undertone in my dining room so having to find another color for that spot that coordinates but doesn't compete. It's a good color when it works!

[@nancyrogers5620]

@@xomacennavlogsI agree, do the bedroom doors in the dark walnut.

[@tiffanytorres6353]

Yes! And then change the glass to match the kitchen cabinets.

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

😢😢😢

[@Sooz1234]

Twenty years from now, when you and Romeo go back over some of your videos, you will look at each other and be so pleased at how well you both worked together, not only for decorating, but also for parenting. A true partnership with a shared vision is so rewarding.

[@PHcute]

😂

[@KindOfCountryLife]

I really like the large, floor to ceiling bookcase(s). You have a large room and it feels more balanced with a larger piece like that.

[@saraheguinn]

for the bookshelf, you could leave the backs your wall color similarly as you did in the kitchen so it doesnt feel as heavy/dark

[@xomacennavlogs]

Yes!! That’s the first thing I thought of when he send the renders

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

Came to say this, too. Adds depth and dimension, especially since it will appear even a couple of shades darker because it's recessed and there will be books and things muting and filtering the light.

[@laurabee78]

It’s amazing how much changed in the living room with just a coat of paint. The lighting on camera looked so much more diffused and cozy! You guys dad such a great job!

[@danielarodriguez9654]

Girlll! get rid of those two large paintings & add your gorgeous antique frames! 😍😍

[@xomacennavlogs]

If I had some big enough I totally would!!!

[@veritorossi]

@@xomacennavlogs Just make your Mom paint you a really big one and send it to a framer. There are tons of vintage looking frames and you can't tell the difference from the old ones. Get a framer that is a craftsman, not a framer at Home Depot. At least here in Buenos Aires there are tons all over the city that still make frames like they did decades ago. Those just don't work with your new aesthetic. The shape is wrong.

[@NoOneHere2Day]

​@@veritorossiDang, are you going to pay for it? You people have so many suggestions like it doesn't cost anything.

[@chantz_a_loo]

@@xomacennavlogsgroup a few together in a gallery? Don’t you have a bunch you’ve already collected?

[@tracygarrett3952]

There's already a gallery wall and since a bookcase will be there, why the need to style that wall?

[@lisaa8437]

For the ceiling, and I know you’ve already thought of this, but I would take down those small beams and just leave the 2 big ones. Too busy up there…😊 the color makes the room look sooo good!!

[@LittleBit123]

Yes! I also don’t think they would be able to stay if the bookshelf goes all the way to ceiling with crown molding!

[@Zesbeer]

I would extend the bookshelves all the way around the window and put some storage under the window and a shelf above the window. oh just thought of this but build in your desk into the design as well.

[@lindsaybaker1131]

Yes! She said a while ago too how she’d love a reading space there. Maybe incorporate a bench under window

[@taetaetrash9728]

Same! and then put a bench (with storage) underneath the window with cushions for a reading nook

[@ruthpei194]

Or maybe even a hang out spot for Kinsley. Oh, the possibilities!

[@kairnmclellan2919]

Thought the same thing.

[@Midwesternmisfit]

Yeah and she could round out the edge of the book shelf as it meets the window

[@sarah.fb.lindsay]

Guys, PLEASE like my comment so MaCenna sees it. Use furniture wax in that table to seal it! I use Fields of Lavender furniture wax it doesn’t mess with the look of the natural wood, it smells AMAZING, and it will protect that beautiful piece!!! Loving all the little details ❤❤

[@xomacennavlogs]

Yes!! I already have some wax I’m testing!! That’s what I used on the cottage table

[@sarah.fb.lindsay]

@@xomacennavlogs girl, can’t wait! Everything you touch turns pretty (with hard work and a good eye, of course). Can’t wait to see the final product ♥️

[@robynwalker7616]

I’d use Dixie Belle Gatorhide, it’s water resistant

[@fisherlady408]

So much warmer ❤

[@rosehughes599]

Test underneath rather than on the top

[@annieb5647]

I’m glad Romeo is always willing to help. ❤

[@princessdaaahlingamor5798]

Something about the bookcase rendering feels old man/heavy/entertainment center. Maybe if the book cases were more integrated like those at the cottage? That color doesn’t feel heavy in the kitchen but they do feel heavy in the living room… anyhoo. Excited about living room project ❤😊

[@xomacennavlogs]

100% it was giving study / entertainment center but the concept was there and it was good to see how large they would feel in the room

[@savebees]

I agree

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

I felt the same. I actually laughed because he clearly took an old picture of an entertainment center and just ran with it. I worked at Ethan Allen in the 90s and we sold quite a few of those, mostly cherry or dark stained oak. This looks like one of the oak ones. I'd have been very disappointed if that's what I received, though I suppose it helped reinforce/solidify what she *doesn't* want.

[@princessdaaahlingamor5798]

@@xomacennavlogs I’m excited to see you work your magic on it!!!

[@wendylawrence378]

What about just keeping the back of the cabinets the wall colour, instead of the dark wood. Feel more integrated, feel lighter.

[@amend021]

The living room being painted makes it look like it’s basically finished! 10/10 best decision.

[@valeriecaban2844]

Yes. Land lines are still a thing- we still have a landline and my husband uses it for working from home. 😊

[@lovly2cu725]

You can make calls during a power outage. Always have a traditional land line, not cable or voip

[@MicheleWalkerWebb]

My Mom still has her landline and the SAME phone number. It's been about 50 years!

[@christinefreche1115]

Maybe you could consider hiring out to do the beams in the family room and you and the baby could be in Texas leaving Romeo to manage the workers. Having multiple workers could make the job go much faster and the. Romeo could then follow you in Texas for family time. This would be the safest for the baby and you don’t have to wait to have the family room of your dreams.

[@susanhensley9444]

Totally agree, remember how quickly the team removed the old kitchen? I love you are making the decision to wait.......but hire someone when you can stand being away from Romeo....go with light wood cabinets....walnut too dark for the living room. Having the variety in wood tones is one of your looks....

[@blissmore00]

The paint completely transformed that room, it’s beautiful! Bookshelves on that back wall would be really pretty too and I think you should wrap them around that window and paint them the same color as that cabinet you have in there or the same color as the walls, it would be gorgeous.

[@brooketyler469]

I LOVE the idea of your mom finishing the other painting. That could be a beautiful family heirloom, two generations. ❤

[@sherryhudson9075]

Love the new fresh paint color and arches. Honestly, I just don’t think those 2 large painting go with your new aesthetic

[@xomacennavlogs]

You’re not wrong I think I’ve outgrown them I dif make them like 6 years ago lol

[@missannetteslittlefarminth9069]

❤

[@Lucinda_Jackson]

I agree. I actually liked them better as they were without the landscape. They just sort of blended in but added enough weight to anchor the wall until a more final solution was found.

[@larisashulikov9959]

Love your style and the fact that you are not afraid to go out of your comfort zone or out of the “norm” of whatever is trending! All of your remodels bring warmth and coziness! Stay true to yourself and your style! ❤️

[@valarya]

It's so cute seeing Cade in the bouncy seat in the kitchen during the finished-shots 😍😍 - back there with Honey having the time of his life bouncin.

[@alexandratracey8252]

The very second you turned the light on after painting I felt instantly cozy and warm. It is beautiful! And I am so glad you finished the arches! They are incredible!❤

[@nichole2106]

Yay! Romeo let you have the sweater 🎉 It looks so cozy!

[@3Oh3metrostation]

the dark walnut shelving/cabinetry that matches the kitchen wood look amazing, Love the change in room color.

[@iinaac]

Macenna, you should make the option with the art inbetween the bookshelves a hidden push-open closet door and hang the art on the front! That way you optimise the storage while still getting that same look! Maybe a good place to store large skinny items, or even have shelves on the inside! And btw, what do you have on your eyelids? Looks gorgeous 😍

[@JRP58]

The painted walls look great. I’m so glad you were able to finish the arches. The bookshelves and beam stripping/staining will really complete the room.

[@heidil.4651]

The paint color is definitely softer! Crazy what a difference it makes. ❤

[@katrinarefior700]

WE HAVE COMPLETED ARCHES PEOPLE!!! It’s wild how just some paint can transform the look of a room. Excited to see the bookshelves when they go in too.

[@melissafernandez9795]

Yay!!! The arches are finally done!!!! 🎉🙌🏼

[@dusty1754]

The completed arches are fantastic!!!

[@pamp3158]

Don't forget to plan storage for Cade's toys.

[@andreamills98]

That’s easy! Furniture like ottomans and beds with drawers can work miracles. Beautiful baskets and also rotating toys is a great solution because it makes the toys feel new Eve though they aren’t. Just have a select few out every month and put the rest in totes and rotate.

[@elizabethgibbs9021]

Agree I used to have three lots one upstairs one down and one I put in storage room and rotate every three weeks. Reading to your children is vital for development, also outside toys like swing climbing frame and ride on toys. It’s so easy to get drowned in toys, too Many and they just tip them out and then play with a wooden spoon and a bowl.

[@behealthybefit]

It never ceases to amaze me the beautiful character you are adding to your home. You inspire me daily to keep dreaming in our upstate NY 1900 colonial! Thanks for being you MaCenna!

[@Dolphin-yp6el]

Just wanted to say I loved hearing you talk about VOCs in the paint. Like you were saying you don’t know until you start to learn about it and are exposed to it. Thank you for helping others.

[@Dolphin-yp6el]

Also wanted to add that it’s a shame we have to research this hard to protect our things that shouldn’t be available to hurt us in the first place.

[@alisonpendlebury-brown7885]

That's so true. I'm very aware as I'm asthmatic and high VOC paint irritates my asthma, so for many years I've had as low as I have been able to, and luckily over the years this paint type has improved I quality.

[@barbarajones2920]

Yes, VOCs are an issue with so many things. I’ve been searching for a new sofa for quite some time now because last TWO I bought had to go back because of the off-gassing of VOCs into the air. There are companies out there but the costs are prohibitively expensive for a lot of people. In particular, formaldehyde is a carcinogen and apparently I’m allergic to it(tested). It IS ridiculous what we can unknowingly be exposed to just trying to live! Hopefully, as more people become aware, these companies will become more concerned about the bottom line and make changes.

[@alisonpendlebury-brown7885]

@barbarajones2920 Wow, is it's something they use in ensuring sofas are fire retardant or just in the manufacturing process in general?

[@karenthomas8458]

Painting the room makes it seem so much cozier. I do think having tall bookshelves behind the sofa will add height and more visual interest. I love how you and Romeo work together on projects.

[@lyndsaymonique2505]

Look forward to how you design your livingroom especially the fireplace in your main living room. With all the work you put into you doorways. ☺️ your home is so beautiful! Happy for you to enjoy it and being a new mom after watching you the last 6 yrs 💖

[@tambij]

18:14. Totally sensing Kinsley’s anxiety ( I imagine Kinsley running around watching you & Romeo painting the room, “thinking about baby boy”. Wondering what she should be doing to help her family. She’s always so involved & excited about things happening. ). Love the new updated family room. I already feel sad thinking about your Momma leaving soon. She needs a house next door. 😊

[@cassandragardner6566]

It's so much warmer and welcoming with that wall color

[@twiztedfairy2007]

You bring such calm and light to my day. Motherhood looks so good on you. You keep making candles and I'll keep buying them. I own an estate sale company and I WISH I had people like you to buy the things we have on the East Coast! Much love to you and your beautiful family ❤

[@dawnwesterbeck346]

Maybe she will visit?

[@BP-cs9qo]

Your home is beautiful!

[@xomacennavlogs]

aww thank you so much

[@donnawisner1481]

Your house just keeps getting more beautiful!

[@florencecampbell774]

Looking lovely.Well done you two.Nice to have your mum to help you.Tell her from us Thank you as this helps you get the video for us viewers.We appreciate all that you do.Take care.❤️🥰

[@anitatucker8812]

The room is so much more cozy MaCenna. The decor pops nos with color. It's not stark like the white. As always I love your ideas.

[@MarietteBronkhorst-h9c]

I have been watching your programme for sometime now from South Africa, but i must say it is something that Dr Phil said that a person stops living their lives to watch other people living their lives but inspite of that i can't wait to come home after a busy day at work and watch you, it really relaxes me and you feal like close friends or family!

[@whatlolawants2167]

If there ever was a more perfect paint commercial this is it!!❤❤❤ Gorgeous MaCenna! I can't wait for those beams!!!

[@meganwetherbee4944]

Yay way to go finishing the arches!! It's such a good feeling to cross a project like that off the list.

[@sherylsbohocreations7282]

Definitely the bookcases will add so much more to this beautiful room!

[@kimpike4362]

The home feels calm & connected. The design principles you practice are so visually (& practically) satisfying. Take a deep breath & enjoy your home.

[@TheTattooedCrafter]

Love the storage renders. Think matching with the kitchen is a great idea, up to the window too will make them such a focal point within that room. Another cracking renovation. Yes home phones do exist but we don’t have one in our home as it’s just a waste as people use our mobiles. X

[@tammyhendrickson-kt2bo]

I love the idea of bookshelves.. painting the room makes it feel like you’re wrapped up in a cozy blanket

[@nataliemerrill]

Love the idea of the built in bookshelves! If you can find fun french-inspired vintage table legs, you could extend the "built in" around to your desk and make it look purposeful. Someone already mentioned that, and I love that idea! Building a little reading bench/Kinsley nap spot under the window/next to the desk would be such a sweet moment.

[@terriaviles]

The sitting room looks so good! The wall unit will be a great addition , and I can see your bedroom as your your office or play room and your bedrooms all privately upstairs ❤

[@Mandys844]

How pretty can a home be?! ♥ It's so so beautiful, calm and cozy ♥ You are such a big inspiration - when I will have a house someday, I will totaly take yours as a big inspiration ♥ Thank you for your wonderful content and also for the wonderful 30 minutes every video of you creates ♥ I'm german and my english isn't perfect, but I love watching every single of your videos and I'm looking forward to them everytime ♥

[@observer4497]

I’m am so happy to see Your Mom enjoying her time with Cade.😊

[@kristinecornell8649]

You do such good work. Such an inspiration! I have become a DIY queen because of you! I have completed a picture box molding accent wall, a fireplace wall with shiplap, new mantel & stone surround & I just finished a half bath refresh with beadboard, trim & wallpaper. Thank you MaCenna!

[@DesireeTorres-q1g]

I also really enjoy hearing about your family life! It is also My baby’s first everything! 🥹🥹🥹

[@hsjnyc4ever]

It’s so wonderful being able to be part of this new journey juggling motherhood and renos with you! I wanted to know if you’ll be keeping the smaller beam? details on the ceiling as they don’t seem to be on the ceiling of the other living room. Love your content always and looking forward to the next video as always ❤

[@Yesi9693]

I had such a stressful day today, but as soon as I saw there was a new video, I swear my mood instantly lifted!! Love to see you get back to your projects, and I am really looking forward to the living room makeover. Even if it takes a while, I know it will look so good!

[@lisadrivanos5455]

Love what you’re doing with your home.. I’m glad to see your Mama there and doing well. I always like seeing you and your mom shopping together

[@sheilavanduynfote5539]

The paint color is gorgeous it really warms up the room, I can see the bookcases on the back wall. I love your smile when ever you hear Cade making noises ❤❤❤❤❤. Again I love seeing your Mom, I truly miss her from your videos. The thrifting was amazing!!!!!!!!!

[@chelseygarrett4221]

The paint color made such a huge difference! It feels so grounded. ❤

[@chattonnette1990]

Oh the paint makes it look so much more cohesive! Love it I’d add skirting boards so it looks more completed and finished.

[@rachellewis907]

You finished the last archway!! Yay 🎉 so happy, that must have been a relief an exciting at the same time...just beautifully done ❤

[@lindaga820]

Love the paint , McCenna ,it really warms up the room. Love Cade " talking" in the background, sooo adorable !!!

[@katsalvante2152]

Nice sweater! 😂 Also Kinsley "helping" you roll up the paper was so cute!

[@maryabbott9680]

I laughed out loud when you were strangling the trim at Home Depot!😆 you are so real! God bless you! I miss your mom and daughter videos!

[@lorikegley3327]

So cozy! The bookcases are going to make that room amazing! Can't wait.

[@shawnvalentine1166]

Got to love when your local Home Depot plays Donna Summer as their “elevator” music 🤣😜🤭

[@OrianaFunkhouser]

I LOVE the dark look of the bookshelves! Make them a statement!!!!

[@annieb5647]

Wow! The room looks so much better the clay color. 🎉

[@marysmart5628]

This is basically the same color I have used in most of my house and I love it because you can put any color with it and it looks great. I change my pillows, throws, decor seasonally and this color blends with everything.

[@kmjnkns]

That color is the perfect neutral! Love! I also love the bookshelf wall. Definitely a statement!

[@blakejordan3742]

I love hearing you talk about motherhood + Cade!! 🥹💓

[@RebeccaVinyard-h1c]

So exciting to see the living space painted, and that arch completed is the best! I know Honey is enjoying the time with baby Cade. It’s so sweet. ❤

[@annetteturner2286]

I was thinking the same thing about your Mom fixing the other painting and it will be extra special, 1 of your painting and 1 of hers. Love how everything is coming together ❤

[@jodhaaakbarfantuomey8103]

Okay I admit I'm less-than-thrilled about the sculptor clay again, but I finally know why! It brings back a memory of me trying to make pottery as a tiny kid and it being an awful experience. Still, your plan for the bookcases looks outstanding! I cannot wait to see it all come together, Congratulations on finishing the arches they really look stunning! As I've always said we may not share the same style but we share the same passion for vintage and antique and your home looks absolutely exquisite. Little Master Cade's room is probably my favorite, but I love to watch you and get inspired.

[@corgimom3247]

Love the paint color you used in the room. Gave it the depth and warmth it needed.

[@mklarson2980]

Wow the paint color completely changed the vibe of that room. So cozy. And I’m thrilled for you that the last arch is done! Your vlogs are always a highlight❤

[@brendabell4074]

It's looks so good.🤩😍🥰 and just a tip, you can put clear vanilla extract in whatever paint to help with the smell. I always use it and it makes your space smell good while making it look good. 🥰

[@sarahb3606]

The room looks so lovely in that colour.

[@anna-mariapreiss2235]

Looks great! I painted the home I bought in April 2023. I did the living room, kitchen, and dining room in Sculptor Clay. Definitely warmed up the space. I have cathedral ceilings in those rooms as well. Cozy yet still very roomy.

[@HelaineBeetge-lk4vb]

What a difference the new colour has made. Well done.

[@tammyleviner3070]

The paint color looks really good in that space, so much better with the other rooms already being that color too. The room is just very cozy & inviting.. and when the bookcases are done its going to be gorgeous! Glad to see the arches all finished😄 Excited for the bookcase videos to come!

[@marykempski3986]

What a different hat paint color makes. I think the room looks so much cozier now. Love the idea of the bookshelves. Can’t wait to see that project.

[@britnisonsky2717]

For the bookshelves I wouldn’t go too dark tbh! Either the same painted color as the walls, maybe a light olive green to contrast with the red brown brick floors, or a bleached wood

[@moda78z]

I’ve been looking forward to the bookshelf built! 😃

[@JL11775]

Yay the arch is done! Lol. And the room looks lovely. Can’t wait for the fall decorating video! Take care 😊

[@londastreeter7269]

Just the paint really warms up the room and it feels cozier even though you haven’t really done much to it makeover wise.

[@lindaburnham9593]

Totally agree with feelings about white walls. Kind of feels like being inside a refrigerator.

[@Jennifer-f4h1g]

I’m actually so glad I’m not the only one who starts a “project” and thinks it’s not gonna be no big deal and then it’s the death of me (your windows in the cottage and these arches! Lol) ❤

[@nothingness7580]

Yaaaaayyy!!! Yes book shelves behind ur couch for your books and knick knacks please! Make it maximalist!

[@hannajane]

The color makes such a huge difference, especially since your furniture is all neutrals as well. It looks great!

[@elizabethzambrano2053]

Painting your family room, you took it to the next level. I love the color!

[@lelaitcestlavie4504]

It really does look so much better in this color! Can't wait for the beams to be dark wood :) So glad you found the energy to finish the archways, it changes everything!

[@audreysantiago7491]

The paint color u chose is absolutely gorgeous, it's soft,cozy and absorbed light really well. McCenna and Romero please enjoy cozy times this fall and holiday seasons with ur son in this beautiful space.

[@kiraberinger]

You make the BEST content. Always look forward to your videos! 🤍🤍🤍

[@beverlysearles61]

Love the new paint color!! You and Roman work so well together!

[@susangriffin-byrne8393]

Wow, what a difference painting the room made. I couldn't really imagine the changes you were talking about that the paint would make but I can see it clearly now. You were right. Also, I absolutely love the arches you did.

[@PahotaFamily]

Love the warmth to replace the harsh white! GLOW not GLARE ! 😁

[@carolyngregory9354]

That color really made a difference in your room. Very pretty.