Design Dispatch | The Sink That’s Redefining the Modern Kitchen

Ever noticed how once you buy a certain car, you start spotting it everywhere? Same thing with this. If you haven’t paid attention to workstation sinks yet, you soon will—because they’ve quietly become the must-have of modern kitchens.

Over the past few years, workstation sinks have gone from niche to nearly essential—so much so that almost every major brand now offers their own version.

So what makes them so great? A workstation sink features a built-in lip (sometimes one, sometimes two) just below the countertop, allowing accessories to rest and glide within the sink itself. Think cutting boards, colanders, drain racks, knife blocks—even drying mats—all perfectly fitted to move along the ledge.

The result? A kitchen that’s both more efficient and more elevated, keeping prep tools above the waterline and the counters beautifully clear.

A few of my personal favorites: Franke and Blanco, both known for thoughtful design and precision engineering. Sizes range from modest single-bowl models perfect for smaller kitchens, to 57-inch double stations large enough to accommodate two faucets—for the true home chef (or the family that loves to cook together).

Material choices are expanding, too. Stainless steel remains the timeless classic, but new options in fireclay, granite composite, and brushed finishes integrate seamlessly into both modern and transitional spaces.

Once you start noticing them, you’ll understand the appeal. Functional, sleek, and surprisingly transformative—it’s one of those upgrades clients tell me they’d never go back from.​

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In the Mix | The Modern Fall Mantel — What’s Your Vibe?

Yay for fall! 🍂
Fall mantels are the design equivalent of sweater weather: cozy, classic, and customizable. This year, we’re seeing three distinctive directions (and I’m sharing some of my faves):

The Elevated Classic — Brass candlesticks, layered mirrors, and natural branches. Think warmth without clutter.

The Modern Minimalist — Asymmetry, sculptural vases, and tone-on-tone palettes (I’m embracing!). A single statement object can say more than ten small ones.

The Family Edit — Got kids? Let them contribute—pressed leaves in simple frames or painted pumpkins. Imperfection adds heart and authenticity.

If my kiddos were still little, I’d be all about this—painted pumpkins in a limited palette are a great way to let them express themselves while keeping things cohesive. 😏

What’s your go-to mantel mood? Do you lean timeless, modern, or sentimental? Hit reply or tell me on Instagram—I’d love to see what fall looks like in your home this year.

Need color inspiration? Check out our post on 2 Must-Try Fall Palettes

Off the Clock | When Causes Choose You

I don’t talk about this part of our life often, but it’s profoundly shaped me and my family—and in many ways, led me right here.

Next week, we’re taking part in something deeply personal—an event for the Wilson Disease Association, held for the first time here in Sacramento.

It’s been thirteen years since our family’s journey with Wilson disease began—a rare (1 in 30,000) genetic condition where the body can’t properly eliminate copper, leading to copper toxicity. Three of our children were diagnosed within weeks of each other, an experience that radically changed the trajectory of our lives.

We were invited by the very first doctor we met on this journey to join a panel for caregivers and families, sharing what it’s been like to navigate the emotional and practical challenges—and the surprising gifts—of this diagnosis.

Ironically, it was this chapter that led me to design. Our family decided I would go back to school—partly as a safeguard. Managing Wilson disease involves constant bloodwork, costly medications, and doctors visits, and around that same time, my husband was facing his own health challenges. We weren’t sure if he could continue working long-term, so I prepared in case our healthcare coverage ever needed to come from me instead of Chris.

That scenario, thankfully, never came to pass. But out of it grew something wonderful: a career that continues to challenge and inspire me—one that allows for creativity, connection, and purpose I’m almost certain I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.

While I would never choose this diagnosis for my kids, I couldn’t have imagined how deeply it would shape and even enrich our lives. It’s pushed me to take risks I might have otherwise avoided, deepened my faith, and revealed a strength I didn’t know I had—and that in turn has given me a certain freedom and deep awareness which keeps me wholly present in today.

Sometimes you choose your causes, and sometimes they choose you. And it’s the most difficult paths that lead us right where we’re meant to be.

Project Update | The Secretary with Secrets

Still in waiting mode! Matt’s paused work while we get feedback from a few restoration experts. Hoping to share more soon once we know the best path forward.

If you missed the first part of the story, you can catch up here & here.

Until next time, may your home reflect both your story and your style.

🤍 Lisa

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“Styles come and go. Good design is a language, not a style.” — Massimo Vignelli

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Design secrets this good deserve to be shared...but only with the right people. Know someone who'd love this? Go ahead- hit forward 😉