Design Portfolio Project 1 – Suite Thyme

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Helloooo, DIYShowOff friends! It’s been a minute. Or longer! Long overdue for an update! I’ve missed you. What’s been going on with you? All good? Around here? Continuing to embark on my whimsical journey of DIY, decorating and domestic wonders along with hosting amazing guests at Suite Thyme and continuing a passion for well-being at Wellness Inspired Living. I recently drafted a design portfolio. And since it documents my decorating and DIY journey to date, thought you’d like a glimpse and update too.

Design Projects

Here’s a showcase of my flair for creating a snug and charming space, paired with my love for crafting a peaceful environment in our short term rental, AirBnb.com/h/SuiteThyme. This design project was absolutely a labor of love. From empty rooms to luxury lodging, Suite Thyme has over 100 five star reviews! Guests include wedding couples, business travelers, family reunion guests, festival go-ers, self care retreats, weekend getaways with friends or for romantic escapes. I enjoy hosting and making guest stays special.

Before and After Transformation

Most of the before and after design for Suite Thyme has been shared in the #helloredreno series but there’s also new windows and a brand new look to the property’s exterior. It doesn’t show in photos, but the red (not original) was very weathered and peeling. And if you’re like me, when the expense is large…I want to be “wow-ed” so changing the color was important to me. Finding a color was a challenge but I am over the moon thrilled with my decision to go with Benjamin Moore’s Black Forest Green. It is stunning! Don’t you think?

This late 1800 property has a lot of history. We purchased it in 2017 from a lawyer who made it his long standing office for over 45 years. I’ve heard there was an antique shop there at one time and a previous deed found on the property shows a purchase back in 1912. I’d love to find out more information. It’s so charming and prominent on a corner city lot.

The transformation has been a lot of work but so worth it!

Design Update

What’s next for Suite Thyme? This year there’s a plan to purchase (judicial sale) an adjoining property to expand the backyard and parking. You may have seen the demo of the abandoned house next door. Fingers crossed it happens! Also on the list is a new metal roof, a concrete patio, some landscaping TLC. And for inside, there’s a few things I’d like to update including a kitchen backsplash and bedroom refresh. It’s hard to believe it’s been providing special lodging for travelers.

Stay tuned for detailed Design Project #2.

Meditation Room Makeover

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Happy Winter Solstice!

Thyme & Mint Meditation Room Makeover

Oh you guys, I enjoy hosting at our short term rental, Suite Thyme, here in my small hometown so much! It’s such a joy to make someone’s visit to Butler a memorable experience and to share what I love about where I grew up. The apartment is tiny but big on character and guests love the trendy luxury design and comfortable atmosphere. I really love pampering guests and making them feel so welcomed and special, much as a guest in our own home. I enjoy developing friendships with many of our guests – even if we’ve never met face to face. Although sometimes I’m available for a quick meet and greet, especially if they’ve added services to to their stay. More on that below.

Butler Suite Thyme airbnb

 

The apartment is located upstairs. There is a wellness studio on the main floor for my office and a place where we hold essential oil classes. We also collaborate with several small business owners and wellness practitioners to offer a “create your own personal wellness retreat” with a la carte menu services in a self care package we refer to as “Thyme & Mint”. Services include yoga from Ambur Waves (Yoga.Movement.Sound), Evangeline (reiki master) from The Lunar Fae Shop and Becca from The Wandering Bramble, Dorothy’s Herb Shop and Herbal Apothecary. We also offer essential oils education, Aroma Freedom and iTovi scans from Wellness Inspired Living. Guests can purchase herbal bath soaks, crystals and essential oils (packaged with their choice of intention collection) in advance and have them ready upon arrival.

The update:

 

 

As a member of Butler County Tourism, Suite Thyme recently had the opportunity to put together a proposal for a grant that would enhance Butler visitors’ experiences. I love a creative challenge! The room that is utilized for reiki, sound baths and guided meditation was a bit of a mish mash and in need of some TLC. I designed a medication room with purpose. I submitted by design and plan  and was awarded a small grant to make it happen!

meditation room mood board

Ready for some meditation room eye candy? Let’s go!

The space went from looking like a living room with a sofa and chairs with a small crystal retail area and shelves filled with essential oils and accessories (a DIY essential oil bar) to a tranquil space dedicated to reiki, sound baths, crystal healing, private yoga and meditation There’s even a cute spot at the window with a desk for journaling. Shelves are lined with crystals, plants and self care books. There’s a small library nook with comfy floor cushions, an area for yoga with a basket of yoga mats. I added a daybed for relaxation, a tv for meditation/yoga videos or relaxing music with a bluetooth speaker, a white noise machine with northern lights projector. There are crystal singing bowls for sound healing, a mini waterfall for blocking out small city traffic noise, black out blinds for closing out the busy street. It wasn’t part of the grant, but we invested in new windows for the property as well this year.

meditation room ruggable meditation space sun moon fireplacesound healing space diyshowoff meditation room meditation space meditation decorblack door and trim shungite sphereboho rattan daybed meditation spot room decorself care library meditation decor reiki room indoor water fall

Additional purpose and function of the space:

The apartment is small and at times a bride books the apartment for her special day. Things are tight to say the least as the space is a better fit for 2-4 people! Now, this extra room can be added on for an extra fee to act as overflow space and more square footage for bridal party prep. Or if a guest is staying with family but requires a quiet separate area for work, they have the option to add on a separate private ‘office’ and quiet workspace.

meditation decor

The room is now so magical and peaceful…an experience of a calming energy the minute you step through the doorway.

Butler PA Suite Thyme lodging airbnb

Suite Thyme

The second story of this updated 1880s home boasts a trendy newly renovated efficiency apartment loaded with charm. It’s located just steps from the main thoroughfare of downtown Butler’s best eateries, antique shops, breweries and more. Perfect for festival-goers and travelers looking to enjoy a small town vibe. 

This 2nd floor eclectic space located above a quiet by appointment only wellness studio is loaded with personality and beautiful style. Sleeping arrangements include 2 queen beds in the bedroom + a queen sleeper sofa in the living room for peaceful night’s rest and sweet dreams. There is a beautiful fully equipped modern kitchen area tucked into a combined living room/kitchen/dining area. Bathroom includes a clawfoot tub for soaking away tension. Plus, it’s just a short stroll to Butler’s historic Main Street district.

Traveling to the western PA area? Looking to book a self care getaway? I love showing off my hometown pride! Book Suite Thyme HERE. Now booking!

Wishing you a year filled with wellness, peace and happiness!

Gratitude:

A HUGE thank you to Butler County Tourism for the generous funds to create a special space as well as all they offer to promote Butler County and small business owners. So much appreciation for all you do! See more at VisitButlerCounty.com.

Butler County Tourism

A special thank you to my Mr. DIY for his assistance and support. Thank you to my dear friend Shelby for encouragement and brainstorming with this project. To contractor Troy Douthett for his help, thank you! Thank you to Evangeline at The Lunar Fae for her knowledge and input too! So much appreciation for all of the attention and assistance in making this magical transformation a reality! xo

Charming, Trendy Small Town AirBnB Apartment

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Ready for a ‘Suite Thyme’? There’s a new place to stay in downtown Butler, PA. Suite Thyme (AirBnB) is officially open for guests! Butler Suite Thyme airbnb

Welcome!

Suite Thyme

Created with the help DIYShowOff partnerships, the second story of this 1890s home boasts a trendy newly renovated efficiency apartment loaded with charm, located just steps from the main thoroughfare of downtown Butler’s best eateries, antique shops, breweries and more. Perfect for festival-goers and travelers looking to enjoy a small town vibe just approximately 30 miles north of Pittsburgh, PA. Butler PA Suite Thyme lodging airbnb

1st story…

Located on the main floor, Wellness Inspired Living is a quiet, by-appointment-only wellness workshop providing Aroma Freedom Technique, small chemical free living/healthy lifestyle events, reiki, relaxation sessions, iTovic scans and more. We’ll always let you know if there’s something scheduled during your stay and you’re always welcome to join in, free of charge, if interested. entryway with staircase

2nd story…

This 2nd floor eclectic space is the efficiency apartment “Suite Thyme”. It’s loaded with personality and beautiful style. Inviting, warm and welcoming, all ready for your next trip to Butler! original walnut staircase railing split staircase black door

One bedroom, two beds!

Sleeping arrangements include 2 queen beds in the bedroom + a queen sleeper sofa (officially sleeps 6) in the living room for peaceful night’s rest and sweet dreams,boho bedroom

a lunar retreat…moon phases art above bed

and a boho beauty…boho wall art accent wall

Time to eat!

Cook up your favorite meal with local veggies from the farm market in a beautiful fully equipped modern kitchen area.small modern apartment kitchen airbnb apartmentfloating kitchen shelves floating kitchen shelves apartment

Coffee (tea, hot cocoa), anyone? Help yourself to the complimentary coffee bar. You may even find snacks in the pantry area. Open the cupboards. Get familiar. Make yourself at home! keurig coffee station microwave cart apartment

Dine…

Downtown Butler is home to multiple restaurants with an eclectic menu ranging from your favorite comfort foods to gourmet dining. Ask about our favorites! But there’s room for 4 at the dining table, with additional seating for 3 at the breakfast bar if you’re staying in and whipping up a meal or ordering delivery. small apartment dining room mid century modern dining table breakfast bar small apartment

Unwind!

Kick back on the comfy sofa with the tv remote. Choose your subscription and favorite shows utilizing the Smart TV feature or browse the limited selection on a very basic cable package. Or connect your phone to the blue tooth speaker and pump up the volume! accent wall floral wallpaper muralblack fireplace black wall reclaimed wood plank wall

Quiet time!

Curl up in the cozy egg chair on the landing nook with a good book or your tablet and favorite game.  boho basket gallery wall egg chair egg chair

Soak your worries away!

Bathroom updates include the original but refinished vintage clawfoot tub for soaking away the tension. Escape! When was the last time you had a relaxing bath? It also offers up the traditional or handheld shower option. Bath bomb,  fresh fluffy towels and bath essentials provided. PLUS! Suite Thyme has a la carte options including several ritual baths – baths with intention, herbs and essential oils. Coming soon!  vintage clawfoot tub clawfoot tub flower bath essential oilsbath essentials vintage built in apothecary cabinet blue bathroom vanity

Get to work!

Traveling to Butler for business? Connect your laptop at the USB charging station at the breakfast bar aka workstation and catch up on your work.  airbnb charging station

Seasonal:

…just a little gazebo/outdoor seating area.small outdoor seating area

Local Favorites:

Plus, it’s just a short stroll to Butler’s charming Main Street district!Butler PA favorites

Social Media:

Follow us!

  • Instagram: @SuiteThyme
  • Facebook: @ButlerSuiteThyme
  • #suitethyme
  • #suitethymeinbutlerexperience
  • #butlerdowntown #downtownbutler #butlercountypa

Suite Thyme amenities:

* Sleeping for up to 6 guests (2 queen beds, 1 queen sleeper sofa)
* Full kitchen: electric range, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee maker
* Coffee, tea, sugar/sweetener, creamer
* Small outdoor patio area in back
* Free wi-fi
* Free parking for 1 (maybe 2 if vehicles are small)
* Smart TV
* Bluetooth speaker
* USB charging station
* Clawfoot tub/shower
* Heating // Central A/C
* Self check in//keyless entry
* Hair dyer
* Bathroom Essentials
* Iron
* Essential oils diffuser and oils

Discounts: 

Suite Thyme offers 20% off a weekly stay. Yay!

Around the Area:

  • 30 mi. north of Pittsburgh, PA
  • Local breweries – walking distance
  • Restaurants – walking distance
  • Antique & boutique shops – walking distance
  • Brushes & Barstools painting studio – walking distance
  • Escape Room – walking distance
  • YMCA, library – walking distance
  • Talk of the Town Nail Salon – walking distance
  • The Art Center – walking distance
  • Maridon Museum- walking distance
  • Moraine State Park – Butler County
  • McConnell’s Mill – Butler County 
  • Trampoline Park – Clearview Mall
  • Butler Freeport Trail – Butler County
  • Festivals (Jeep Fest, Italian Festival, Fall Festival and more, holiday parades) – walking distance
  • Butler Fair – Butler County
  • Butler Farmshow – Butler County
  • Saxonburg Carnival – Butler County 

and more! 

A la Carte Menu!

Coming soon! In an effort to familarize out of town guests with the downtown Butler, PA area, we’re partnering up with other local businesses by adding an a la carte menu with upgrades including a wedding weekend package, a romance bundle, photography sessions, reiki appointments, mani-pedi pampering, beer tasting, florist services and more – all from locally owned small businesses within walking distance to Suite Thyme. 

Ready to make a reservation?

We are dedicated to ensuring you have a five star stay and look forward to hosting your “home away from home”.

BOOK SUITE THYME HERE! 

What guests are saying:

“Beautiful Butler City Apartment is indeed a beautiful apartment. Everything was very nice, and the apartment was a beautiful, cozy place. The couch and beds were very comfortable, and the kitchen was very modern, with high quality, modern cooking utensils. Roeshel obviously takes a lot of pride in this apartment, and it shows. I was very pleased with my experience there.”
 
~Robert
 
“Beautiful apartment next to a cute down town! Our first Airbnb fell threw last minute and Roeshel was on top of getting back to us and having us stay with such short notice! So many extra touches to ensure a great stay! Lists of local places to eat and a calendar of things to do! If I could give more than 5 stars I would! Definitely recommend.”
 
~Brittany
 
“Roeshel’s place was simply spectacular!! Luxury surrounded us in every detail of her space. The kitchen was a dream…I enjoyed cooking up local vegetables. The beds were super comfortable with fabulous linens. And the decor was right out of a magazine! Roeshel’s special touches made this my favorite all-time AirBnB experience. We felt so at home and didn’t want to leave. If you’re lucky enough to get to stay here, I’m certain you’ll feel the same way.”
 
~Cathy
 

Holiday stays:

“My husband and I stayed at Roeshel’s for a trip home over the holidays and absolutely loved it! Roeshel met us for a quick tour when we arrived. The whole place is filled with cute little touches and smells amazing (all essential oils). She even had it decorated for Christmas and it looked incredible! The bed was super comfy and there are throw blankets to keep warm under and a full kitchen should you need it. We would definitely stay again!”
 
~Shannon
 
“This place had everything you need and more. I mentioned to the host that I was visiting my 2 1/2 yr old granddaughter for the holidays and I found a basket of perfect toys that were placed to share with her in the space. The house is sparkling clean and the atmosphere so inviting. Everything you need to have a nice getaway! I highly recommend staying here!”
 
~Christine
 

Wedding weekend:

Butler PA wedding lodging

“My husband and I booked Roeshel’s place for our wedding weekend. We used the space to get ready in and as a retreat after our long exciting wedding day. Her space is decorated beautifully with many amenities for her guests to use. One feature my make-up artist loved was the long table/desk with built in charging station – convenient!
 
Not only did she go above and beyond with her communication and little touches but she also surprised us, not once but twice! When we arrived the morning of our wedding she had laid out a little welcome platter of fruits and drinks with a congratulations sign hung on the fire place mantle. She also drew up a cute little note on the calendar on the refrigerator!
 
When we arrived back to the space late that night after having the most perfect wedding day, we were greeted with another surprise. The entry way and stairs leading up to the AirBnB had been decorated with rose petals and electric candles. This led to a decorated romantic set up outside the apartment door along with chocolates, drinks and chilled glasses. We cried. It was the most perfect ending to the beautiful day we had just shared. It meant the world to us.
 
Her thoughtful touches, ultra clean + super hip space and her timely communication make this easily the best place to stay in the Butler area. If you are in town or just want a little stay-cation I can’t encourage you enough to book Roeshel’s space!”
 
~Lizi