Late last year, a dear friend’s home in Steamboat was lost in a devastating fire. It was a place filled with love, warmth, and countless memories—a true heart of the community. I decided to create a custom home illustration as a gift for them to remember this special place. I knew this would be more than just a painting; it was a way to honor and preserve the spirit of their home.
A Painting Full of Memories
I wanted to include as many details as possible, drawing from both my personal memories of visiting their home a few years back and the reference photos I found. Every object in the window, piece of scenery, and shadow held a story. It was important to capture the essence of what made this house so special to them.
One of the biggest challenges in this piece was the grass. At first, it just wasn’t working—I struggled to get the texture right. But after some trial and error, it finally clicked. I found a beautiful sweeping motion through the bottom half of the painting that brought it to life. It was a small but satisfying moment that made the scene feel more natural and dynamic.
More Than Just a House
This painting is more than an illustration of a structure—it’s a memory of love and community. It serves as a reminder of the countless moments shared within those walls: laughter-filled gatherings, quiet mornings with coffee, and the comfort of home. Losing a home is never easy, honestly, I can’t even imagine it, but being able to preserve its beauty through home portraits can provide a lasting connection to what was once there.
The Perfect Gift for Special Moments
My custom home illustrations are a wonderful way to celebrate the places we’ve called home, whether they’ve been lost to unforeseen circumstances or simply left behind in a new chapter of life. These pieces make for thoughtful gifts for those moving away from a beloved home, and they’ve also become a favorite realtor gift for clients purchasing or selling a home. There’s something truly special about giving a keepsake that captures the heart of a home in a timeless piece of art.
Each of my home portraits is typically created in either 9×12 or 11×14 sizes, and I offer framing upon request for an additional fee. Every detail is carefully crafted to reflect the unique charm of the home, with permission to add details that mean something to you–a garden with your favorite flowers, your dog in the window, kids toys in the yard, etc.–making each piece deeply personal and one-of-a-kind.
Commission Your Own Home Portrait
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to celebrate a home, consider commissioning a custom home illustration. Whether for yourself, a loved one, or as a realtor gift, these paintings capture the essence of a home and keep its memory alive for years to come.
Get in touch today to create a timeless tribute to a home that holds a special place in your heart.
