Table of Contents
From Projects to Personal: Building for My Own Family
By Kim Spradlin Wolfe
Those who have been following Blanton on Instagram know just how much this project means to both my family and me. Over a three year span, I’ve renovated more than 15 houses on a major renovation show backed by a solid team, a healthy dose of voracity, and as many iced coffees as I could drink. I got great at the process, both creatively and logistically, I got my ass kicked, but also had SO MUCH FUN.
However, during those three years something else happened — I lost sight of my own beliefs about "home" in order to make one of so many other families. We sold our home and my husband and my three kids and I, all moved into a rental that was supposed to be very temporary, but wasn't. I started a mantra that went a little something like this, "we won't be here forever, so why make the effort?!" This applied to all kinds of things that made a home cozy, tidy, and special. It impacted all of us, and a change was a must.
We finally chose a house that checked most (never all) our boxes, and we jumped on it! We called it "Blanton" and we got to work. No matter how many cool high profile or big budget projects I get to do, it will always be special to design and build a house for the people I love most in this world.
Photo: Katie Jameson, Design by Kim Spradlin Wofle
My Thought Process
When it comes to starting a design, I try to go deep down the rabbit hole of envisioning what I want to create right off the top. I close my eyes, put on some great music, and try to get really clear on where I'm trying to drive the bus. I knew I wanted this new family home to feel warm and cozy, lived in, but not fussy. I wanted very little "white,” but with unique finishes, color, and a bit of European flair!
I began making material selections immediately because if I learned anything from Why the Heck Did I Buy this House!? it's that things run smoothly and quickly if you have everything on hand for your builder at the start. Some things fell into place beautifully with little effort. For example: the flooring.
Photo: Kim Spradlin WolfeOrdering Samples
The flooring was all a patchwork quilt of faux wood offerings in an array of shades, so I knew this needed a complete do over. I ordered a bunch of samples from many different manufacturers, and fell in love with the oiled, wire brushed finish of a sample called "Westgate" by Harper Floors. It had an old world authenticity to it with knots and warm honeyed tones, but the almost 9 inch wide planks balanced it out by keeping it modern.
Samples Pictured:
- Carlyle European Oak 5/8" T x 9 1/2" W x RL
- Somerville European Oak 5/8" T x 9 1/2" W x RL
- Westgate European Oak 5/8" T x 8 5/8" W x RL
Photo: Kim Spradlin WolfeFinding The Perfect Hardwood Floor
It was absolute perfection! We have been living on them (with an 8, 9, and 10 year old — doing all the crazy kid things) for over 6 months now, and what I'm loving even more is how low maintenance they are.
Photos: Samantha Biermer, Design by Kim Spradlin Wolfe Nothing beats the look of real hardwood flooring, but I must say, Harper Flooring’s engineered hardwood flooring provides the best of both worlds. It looks like the real thing, but is both durable and well-made. You can find some great sample options here to help you find the perfect fit for your home.
FAQs
1. What is engineered hardwood flooring, and how is it different from solid hardwood?
Engineered hardwood is made with a real wood veneer layer on top of multiple layers of high-quality plywood or fiberboard. This layered construction makes it more stable and resistant to moisture and temperature changes than solid hardwood, which is one solid piece of wood throughout. You still get the same authentic wood look and feel — just with added durability and flexibility for different climates or installation types.
2. Can engineered hardwood be refinished like solid hardwood?
Yes — but it depends on the thickness of the top veneer layer. Most Harper Floors engineered planks have a wear layer thick enough to be sanded and refinished at least once (sometimes more). This means you can refresh your floors years down the road if they get scratched or dull, extending their lifespan significantly.
3. Are engineered hardwood floors durable enough for kids and pets?
Definitely. Engineered hardwood is known for being more resistant to warping and cracking, and Harper Floors’ finishes are designed to withstand everyday wear and tear — from pet claws to toy cars. For busy households, it’s a great long-term choice because it combines natural beauty with low maintenance.
4. How can I order samples and what should I expect?
Ordering samples from Harper Floors is simple: visit www.harperfloors.com, choose the flooring style you're interested, and add to cart. Samples ship free, are delivered in two days, and credited towards your first purchase.
5. How many samples should I order before choosing a floor?
It’s best to order 3–5 samples that fit your color palette or design goals. Compare them in different lighting throughout the day — natural morning light vs. warm evening tones — and next to your wall paint or furniture. This helps you confidently choose a floor that truly fits your home’s personality.
In the short time we've been here one thing has come very clear and I think will stick with me moving forward, if there is a favorite house for me, it's the one that is done. The home where all the i's are dotted and all the t's crossed. The type of home that doesn't require anything more of me. This frees me up to do other things like bake cookies, carve pumpkins, spend time with my family, or enjoy the quiet mornings fall brings. Right now, I’m taking time to enjoy the little things life brings.
