Hooked on Homeworthy
(And a Fairhope House Tour!)
My hot entertainment for the moment is the YouTube decorating fix, Homeworthy. It’s a runaway success that has surpassed the likes of old-guard design shows on HGTV and PBS. Airing on social media platforms instead of traditional television, it provides a format for everyday people to give tours of their houses, and in doing so, have reached over 1 million viewers.
The casual home tours begin with a smiling homeowner opening the front door and a friendly greeting to, “Come on in and let me show you around my house.” Some hosts are professional decorators while others just have a knack for style, be it bold and contemporary or traditional.
It’s fun to see how other people live while wearing your jammies. There’s no housewarming gift needed and you can press the pause button to take notes on wallpaper sources and garden designs that may come in handy someday. Who knows? It’s the show of dreams. The downside for me is that there is little editing and some homeowners want to talk on and on about insignificant aspects, like their dog’s fluffy-wuffy-lil’ bed or a ten minute explanation of their child’s baby toy given to them by a 2nd cousin, that inspired a tiger themed playroom. It makes it real, but I prefer to stick to the basic paint colors and kitchen design. “Show the pantry!” is what I say.
The tours feature neat-as-a-pin homes, with no erupting laundry baskets awaiting a wash or peanut butter smeared countertops. The homeowners aren’t professionally trained TV personalities, which can sometimes be irritating when they “umm- umm” and “like, ya’ know” us to death, but it keeps it real, ya’ know? That’s when the fast-forward button comes in handy.
Modern, traditional, artsy-funky or mid century modern, there’s something for everyone, and even if you aren’t a fan of their individual style, you can appreciate their passion for creating a home they love. Isn’t that what everyone longs for?
Speaking of a passion for home, my own obsession with pretty houses will be fed on April 11th with The Eastern Shore Art Center Spring Homes Tour in Fairhope, Alabama.
Although I’ve already been in a few of the houses, it’s always good to see them again and like Homeworthy, the tour homes that are new to me will be a fun surprise. Grab loveliness while you can, because it will be nice to stroll and see the works of local architects, decorators and artists. The ticket price funds outreach programs for children and at-need populations in our community, and it’s a lovely way to spend the day. Ticket information can be found at esartcenter.org.
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My first hair disaster was when I was little. My mother desperately wanted a girly girl and I was what we used to call a tomboy. I’d be outside playing wild horses or football with the guys so would wear jeans under my dresses. My beautifully starched dress would be a torn rumbled mess. Mother didn’t give up and took me to my dad’s best friend’s wife for a hot wave permanent. It was torture for a kid who couldn’t sit still under most conditions. I ended up with Brillo pad hairdo and a burnt ear.
Oh dear. those old home treatments were never a good idea for anyone. All we really needed was a hairbow.
I adore Homeworthy! I find one many nights before bedtime to wind down. I only recently figured out how to leave a thumbs up on YouTube while watching via television so now I’m going back to find my favorites and leave one hoping Homeworthy will catch on to my type, which are quirky ones bordering on maximalist. Usually from the UK but occasionally a Southern belle pulls it off for me.
Your writing of the local tour of homes makes me miss my younger days when my sister and I would attend every one within 50 miles. We can’t do that any longer and that is probably why Homeworthy now ticks the box for me. Leslie Anne, I’m so happy with the ease of commenting here now. For some reason for a while there I couldn’t figure it out so I’ll be sure to look from now on when I see you’ve published a post.
Best to you,
Dewena
Hi Dewena! Yes, for some reason the UK hostesses have lovely and unique houses. I love all the color they use. I would have guessed their homes would be more formal English homes – like Hyacynth Bucket – “It’s BOUQUET!!!” – “Elizabeth, would you care for a biscuit?” – Anyway, yes, the new website seems to have done the trick for commenting issues. I’m so sorry about the past frustrations. But from here on out, it should be smooth sailing!
Leslie Anne, I am so sorry about your new do. I hope they didn’t make you pay!! I love HomeWorthy, makes me remember the old HGTV. Happy Tuesday!
You mean back when HGTV wasn’t a competition show where everyone fusses and fights? Yes, I miss those days as well. As for the hair – they didn’t offer to refund any money but gave me a few “conditioning” treatments on the house. – How kind, right?