Breathing New Life Into Builder-Grade

Though Kristyn’s entryway doors were standard builder-grade, it wasn’t the doors themselves that bothered her but the mismatched, outdated knobs and hinges that clashed with her carefully curated aesthetic. “I knew I wanted to lighten the doors and add character in a fresh way,” Kristyn shared. “When I came across Grandeur Hardware, I instantly knew their pieces would do just that.”

With high-end knobs, hinges, and door hardware from Grandeur, Kristyn was able to transform what she described as “painted-over, misaligned, and mismatched” into a cohesive, elevated design that seamlessly integrated into her New England-inspired home.

Quality That Lasts, And Feels Good

For Kristyn, the most rewarding part of the project wasn’t just the visual impact — it was the lasting quality. “This is the first home where the hinges aren’t painted over or mismatched to the handles,” she noted. “It makes all the difference.”

Compared to big box alternatives she had used in the past, the difference with Grandeur Hardware was immediately noticeable. “There is no comparison. The attention to detail, the weight, and the overall finish surpassed expectations. I’m over the moon.”

Through this process, Kristyn deepened her appreciation for the role hardware plays in the home. “It’s easy to overlook, but hardware is something you interact with every day. It should be built to last and beautiful to use.”

Design Inspiration: Nostalgia Meets New England

Much of Kristyn’s design inspiration stems from her roots. Raised in New England, her style has evolved from trend-driven choices to something far more personal and timeless. “I’ve redirected my style to be more pared back and reflective of my upbringing,” she explained. “I’m inspired by boutique hotels with classic stripes and aged hardware; spaces that feel warm, nostalgic, and full of character.”

In her entryway, this translated to creamy wallpaper, dark wood accents, and the placement of heirloom pieces that spark conversation. Grandeur’s timeless, transitional style hardware became the perfect complement to this layered, story-driven space.

Function Meets Beauty

Kristyn’s approach to design is both heartfelt and practical. Before any aesthetic decision is made, she first considers how a space functions for her family. One example: A beautiful brass pot rail in the dining room that doubles as both decor and storage — a smart, stylish solution that’s seasonally adaptable.

“I always start by asking: what isn’t working in this space? From layout to storage to traffic flow, if something isn’t functional, it needs to change first.” Hardware, to Kristyn, is a key part of this balance. It’s functional, yes, but it’s also a detail that can shape the entire feel of a room, especially when it’s as thoughtfully designed as Grandeur’s.

A Home That Tells a Story

From her daughter naming their favorite space the “morning room,” to the wallpaper she installed with her own hands, Kristyn’s home is rich with meaning. Every detail is carefully considered for comfort, story, and soul. “If our home could talk, it would recount the memories we’ve made: first steps, changing styles, Sunday mornings,” she reflected. “It’s the backdrop of our lives.”

One element that brings her particular joy? Wallpaper. “This is the first home where I’ve added wallpaper, and it’s completely changed the feel of the entry, laundry room, and our primary suite. It brings so much depth.”

From Childhood Roots to My Modern Manor

Kristyn’s journey into the world of home design began long before she launched My Modern Manor. Raised by hardworking, hands-on parents who tackled DIY projects head-on, Kristyn grew up surrounded by seasonal charm and architectural character. “My father built the screened-in porch on our childhood home, and we’d gather there every year to take in the New England foliage,” she recalled. “Those memories shaped me. My parents still are my greatest inspiration.”

From racing to the mailbox for home décor magazines as a kid to antique hunting after church with her mom and sister, Kristyn’s love for homemaking was always there. Today, she shares that passion with a growing community through My Modern Manor, inspiring others to find joy in creating homes that are both meaningful and beautiful.

The Tools, Trends & Lessons That Guide Her

Kristyn is as much a student of design as she is a teacher. She’s constantly learning, experimenting, and finding inspiration in everyday tools and online communities. Her top three must-have tools for any home project include a multi-bit cordless driver-drill, a level, and a Little Giant extendable ladder. She listed YouTube, Instagram, Etsy, and a good old-fashioned call to her dad as her favorite resources for learning.

Looking ahead, Kristyn is excited by trends that bring richness and texture to homes, like wallpapered ceilings, wood paneling, and vintage-infused design. “We're moving away from blank walls, and I love it,” she said. “People are personalizing their homes with plaster finishes, bold patterns, and antique finds. It’s not about staging, it’s about curating.” Her advice to anyone just starting their DIY journey? “Start small. Ask questions. Do your research. Use safety equipment. And above all, enjoy the process. Home takes time.”

A Timeless Partnership

In partnering with Grandeur Hardware, Kristyn was able to bring her values — craftsmanship, intentionality, and heritage — to her home in a meaningful way. The result? A space that not only looks beautiful but feels like home. A space where form meets function, and every detail, right down to the weight of a doorknob, tells a story.

For Kristyn and Grandeur Hardware, it wasn’t just about a product; it was about creating a home with heart, one carefully chosen detail at a time.

Follow Kristyn's journey: @MyModernManor