When you travel, do you gravitate towards the natural world or a more metropolitan experience? On my family's trip to Canada this summer, I felt like we got the best of both worlds, dividing our ... Read More >

In many of our interior design projects, we are asked to integrate a client’s old and new belongings to achieve a fresh vibe.  I always love this challenge because the old pieces often have a ... Read More >

Fall is the perfect time to talk about color. As the light changes with the shorter days, I’m more aware of the nurturing effect that color can have. A recent experience gave me insight into the ... Read More >

The Russian River Valley has been a favorite vacation destination for my family for over 15 years.  In fact, when we first discovered the region, it was pre-kids.  We’d rent a house ... Read More >

While we continue to shelter in place, I’m going to take you on a virtual experience of my newest favorite urban adventure in San Francisco.  On a morning in early February, my kids and I ... Read More >

As we 'shelter in place' during this strange time of COVID-19, I find reassurance in the rhythms of the natural world.  Regardless of current events, today is still marks the beginning of spring, ... Read More >

The stories behind holiday traditions are often as much fun as the actual traditions.  One of my favorite personal traditions is the Hanukkah party we throw each year, which has come to be known ... Read More >

My assistant, Bridget Kelley, has many areas of expertise, and one of them is pizza!  Here’s Bridget’s advice for where to get your pizza fix: While Ellen’s passion may be French Fries, mine ... Read More >

I take my French fries very seriously, so let me save you the work and tell you my Top 5 places to get French Fries in San Francisco: 1) Trick Dog – Thrice Cooked French Fries!  Also, a creative ... Read More >