Karly, a high school science teacher, and Kevin, a cartographer, reside in a painted lady in Old Goucher with their two dogs, Rosie and Howie.

I spent an afternoon photographing their home, and hearing more about their decorating process, best tips for the perfect lighting, and how to conquer plant paradise in a home with limited windows.

How long have you been living in your home?

Since November 2014

What drew you to this neighborhood?

The architecture, quiet streets, diversity, and friendly neighbors

Do you know anything about the history of your home or neighborhood?

Our house was built in 1922. Our neighborhood is called Old Goucher because it used to be the site of Goucher College—around the time when 25th street had a streetcar going down the middle of it, and Memorial Stadium was still around in Waverly.

The dining area was recently moved to the front of the home to encourage its use for dinner parties and entertaining

The living room features ample seating and comfort, with accented blues and greens

Did you use any of the Baltimore homebuying incentive programs when purchasing your home?

Yes, we went to the class through the city and were able to get a few of the credits. At the time, going through the incentive process was slowing down our purchase of the home and the seller was getting a little impatient, so we ended up opting out of some of the incentives we would have qualified for.

People pick homes for a variety of reasons—what were the deciding factors for purchasing this home?

The ability for us to grow into this house was a huge factor. We wanted a big back yard, a porch, plenty of bathrooms, tall ceilings, and a nice kitchen. We fell in love with the block we live on—the trees and colors of the painted ladies on Guilford Avenue are uniquely beautiful.

You have perfected the lighting in your space to make it feel cozy and welcoming. How did you do it?

We use only soft white bulbs because we like the warm look. We also put dimmers on all of the lights in the house, or used smart lights (Phillips HUE) which made it easier to dim/change colors.

The ‘Crying Room’ sign—painted by Kevin’s brother, Sean—hangs over the powder room door

A large kitchen was on Karly & Kevin’s must-haves list when searching for their future home

Floating shelves and wall racks provide function and decor in the spacious kitchen

Did you have a moment in your search when you knew this was your home?

This was the first house we looked at. We kept comparing every other place to this one. I [Karly] couldn’t stop looking at pictures of it, and had already started decorating it in my head.

How would you define your decorating style?

I would describe my style as unique—I like classic/vintage mixed with modern. We have both always loved things from the 60’s and 70’s, so that’s influenced our choices a lot. For color, I always try to mix earthy textures and bold, dramatic colors.

The guest bedroom, sometimes referred to as ‘Rick’s Room,’ is a bold blue with gold and natural accents throughout

Most of the vintage and mid century furniture in their home originally belonged to their grandparents

How long did it take for you to be comfortable in your space?

A couple of months. We bought the house in November and we hosted Thanksgiving that year, as well as our engagement party. I think the more people you have over and the more memories you build in your house really make it feel more like home than any piece of furniture ever could. Also, having the dogs really helped it feel like home.

What’s your favorite room in the house?

Our bedroom is probably my favorite. I love how the light comes through in the morning and the tray ceiling.

The light-filled master bedroom is Karly’s favorite room in the house

What are some projects/renovations that you’ve done for you home?

The biggest thing we’ve done is the backyard. We put in a patio deck and put in grass and a garden. One of my favorite things was done by Kevin’s brother. He did our house numbers above our front door in the transom window in gold gilded lettering. Other little things that aren’t as fun seem to constantly be popping up also.

You probably have over 30 plants in your home. How did you manage, considering only having windows in the front and back of the home?

We have had to experiment with lighting and the types of plants we can have. We get early morning and evening light, but not a ton of direct afternoon light. We have rearranged furniture quite a bit to try and get things right. In the end, buying plants that like indirect light (pothos, snake plants, etc.) has been great for the rooms that have less natural light.

The kitchen window features numerous plants

A portrait of Rosie, painted by Kevin, hangs in their third bedroom, known as the Meditation Room/Rosie’s Room

Any ghosts or paranormal experiences in your house?

We’ve had the water turn on once, and some weird sounds from a speaker, but nothing feels spooky—if anything, it’s a friendly ghost.

Is there something you wish you knew before you bought your home?

In general, we have had a really positive experience with our house and the neighborhood, so no regrets. As a first time home buyer, I wish I had the financial organization/knowledge that I do now. There are so many expenses with owning a home that we weren’t ready for.

Do you feel a part of the community where you live?

Very much, our neighbors are so fantastic. They are all down to earth, and invested in seeing the neighborhood thrive.

What are your favorite neighborhood spots?

To eat— Penn and Quill, The Dizz, Clavel, Taste This, iBar, Homeslyce, R-House, 29th St. Tavern

To drink/hang out— Fadensonnen, W.C. Harlan, Ottobar, The Crown