House + Love = Home: Creating Warm, Intentional Spaces for a Beautiful Life

by Jenny Marrs

The hosts of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous welcome you into their home, sharing personal stories and gorgeous photos of their restored farmhouse, their delightful kids, and many of the beautiful, inviting spaces they’ve transformed over the years

Beloved by millions of fans, Jenny and Dave Marrs have built and remodeled hundreds of homes over the last two decades, creating joyful, warm, and thoughtful makeovers in each one. Now they share their journey of establishing their own home, an ever-growing family, and a busy, sustainable business. Woven throughout are wonderful essays by Jenny about their lives on the Marrs farm and how they seek to live intentionally with a deep abiding faith and purpose.
 
At its heart, the Marrs believe a home needs to express the intentions of its inhabitants. They also believe your home should be beautiful—not based on how the latest trends define beauty, but as a reflection of who you are. House + Love = Home is filled

• Stunning Photos Jenny and Dave share never-before-seen photographs of interiors, exteriors, intimate family moments, and more.
• House + Love = Home highlights the twelve areas within a home that Jenny and Dave often remodel and show how each unique space can have intentional design elements that express the personalities of those who live there.
• Transformational These tips take a specific part of a home—everything from doors and shutters to lighting and flooring—and shows the most effective ways to enhance that area.

As Jenny says, “Our company motto is the simplest of House + Love = Home. Beautiful spaces are most often imperfect and full of character. Just like people. Perfection is never the goal. Living well is.”

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Design, Interior Design

261 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 14, 2023

Reviews

[Gina Zappa · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was a pink oven in here and I actively felt my pupils turning into lil hearts as I gazed upon it's majestic beauty 😍

[Ginger Hudock · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a lovely combination of a memoir and a "how to" on home decoration. It includes many photos from both the author's home as well as others that she has been the designer for. It also highlights her Christian faith.
I encourage anyone who would like some personal and home decor inspiration to read this book.
I received a complementary advanced copy from the publisher via Netgalley of this book.

[Suzie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lovely book packed with pretty rooms and spaces. The author's family and family stories are largely featured. Lots of great ideas and some diy tips. While I read this online, this would be a nice book to have to revisit.

[Talya Boerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the author herself, House + Love = Home encompasses so many things. The book is part home design and how-to, part heartfelt memoir, and part personal testimony. The book is divided into sections (I.e. front porch, gathering spots, private retreat, etc.) accompanied by Jenny’s personal relationship to those areas, along with decorating details and tips. Photographs throughout are authentic and gorgeous. House + Love = Home is honest and full of realness. It will make a lovely gift for the special friends in your life. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.

[LAMONT D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the shows Fixer Upper and Home Town, Dave and Jenny Marrs come in next as our favorites on HGTV. Our library had this hardcover book, and I was curious to read it. Their story is pretty clear from watching the show, but this book gives you more insight into the thoughts and lives of this wonderful couple. The pictures are plentiful encompassing not only their restorations and designs over the years but also of their family and the old farmhouse that they restored. By the way, anyone that has a problem with Dave placing an American Flag on their houses that are completed should have their head examined. In the book he explains why he does it for each house. Her designs are not exactly what I would envision for us personally, but her style and her heart behind the designs are very attractive. Plus, their mission or main purpose in what they do and why they do it is paramount and comes through loud and clear.

[Kim Hudson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it was going to be a few more design pictures and not so much about their family. I liked reading more about their family but I would’ve liked that couple with design and decorating pictures.

[Saljo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked Ben and Erin Napier so much better. Sorry to compare. I know that's rude, but this felt unoriginal for sure.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this book because it does a great job of giving you a glimpse into the world that is the Marrs family while also giving tips and tricks for home renovation and design. The book is well put together and there are some nice elements like the tips, interspersing sections with Dave's voice, and integrating not only the projects they did for others but the projects they have done for themselves (their home/farm, and the inn especially). It was fun to also see how Dave's skills have progressed over time and how he and Jenny have very different ways to manage their quiet time.

The book flows well, and for me, the real value was in the words where Jenny talks about how they made decisions, what they were looking to accomplish, and the little touches that made the renovation work. It was funny to see the section where they talk about putting up a flagpole and flag, because despite watching the show, I have never really caught onto that in their remodels. They have a very lovely view on family and family time, and there is definitely a strong work ethic and give back to community that shines out of the pages.

For me, this was a fun read about some people who are doing good things and also on HGTV.

The only reason I didn't give this a 5 star is because it may be off putting for someone who is not as devout to read some of this. I didn't mind, but there were times when it was a lot so would likely be hard for someone who is not as spiritual or who does not appreciate that type of language to read.

*I received an ARC via NetGalley.

[Markie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this book because it does a great job of giving you a glimpse into the world that is the Marrs family while also giving tips and tricks for home renovation and design. The book is well put together and there are some nice elements like the tips, interspersing sections with Dave's voice, and integrating not only the projects they did for others but the projects they have done for themselves (their home/farm, and the inn especially). It was fun to also see how Dave's skills have progressed over time and how he and Jenny have very different ways to manage their quiet time.

The book flows well, and for me, the real value was in the words where Jenny talks about how they made decisions, what they were looking to accomplish, and the little touches that made the renovation work. It was funny to see the section where they talk about putting up a flagpole and flag, because despite watching the show, I have never really caught onto that in their remodels. They have a very lovely view on family and family time, and there is definitely a strong work ethic and give back to community that shines out of the pages.

For me, this was a fun read about some people who are doing good things and also on HGTV.

The only reason I didn't give this a 5 star is because it may be off putting for someone who is not as devote to read some of this. I didn't mind, but there were times when it was a lot so would likely be hard for someone who is not as spiritual or who does not appreciate that type of language to read.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny Marrs, star of HGTV’s Fixer to Fabulous invites you in to her home and life in House + Love = Home. This beautifully photographed book is more than a guide to design, although that is included. Jenny shares her relationship with her husband Dave, her struggles to start a family, the harrowing birth of her premature twins, the years long adoption process to bring her daughter Sylvie home and more. Decorating advice is almost second to this beautiful story of love and resilience. House + Love = Home is aptly titled. Beginning with porches and ending with home offices, the book shows how to create extra storage (we all need this lesson), to make play spaces for children that will grow with them, to recycle building materials and, most importantly, to fill spaces with inviting warmth. Jenny includes her favorite paint colors for different rooms, directions for simple projects - shelves, gallery framed pictures, etc. Completed indoor and outdoor designs are paired with before pictures. Jenny also shares photographs of her own home and tells how she and Dave conceived and completed renovations. This is a beautiful book that you will read again and again. 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley, Convergent Books and Jenny Marks for this ARC.

[Brynn D'Avello · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny Marrs has written a book for after you KonMari your house (or during). Where one encourages letting go of things that do not spark joy; Jenny motivated me to look at the pieces I’ve chosen, or will choose, to bring joy to my home. And it doesn’t have to be expensive or a full renovation. It can be showcasing my children's art, or repurposing comfy furniture for a new season of life. Creating a cozy nook just for me, or giving the kids space in the living room, or an organized workbench for my husband. I’ve always believed you cannot live your life in a home you are creating for the next owner, because we are the ones actually doing the living in it. When I pass the keys on to the next family they might like what we did and keep it or they might immediately change everything. But the memories and traditions carried out while we live there are ours forever. So make the space work for you.

Jenny gives examples and motivation interwoven with intimate heartwarming stories of her own life in real, relatable chapter starts that moves this book from a beautiful coffee table book to a must read.

[Joni Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Jenny and Dave Marrs from Fixer to Fabulous, this book is a slam dunk!
If you don’t know them, you will come to love them and their work by reading this book, and you will be inspired to create spaces in your house to make it feel more like home.
Interwoven through the chapters based on what part of the house they were designing, Jenny tells their family story. You not only get the reasons for design decisions, but you also hear how their sweet family lives in some of the spaces.
I like the way Jenny intersperses their love for others, for developing relationships through using their home, and for growing their family by building a strong marriage and home based on the love of Christ.
The way the book was laid out was not what I was expecting, but I enjoyed it nevertheless. A beautiful book with a timeless story.

[Carolyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, I did not previously know Jenny Marrs. Apparently she has a TV show. She comes from a very specific culture--definitely Christian, very family oriented, sort of a Hobby Lobby-type aesthetic.

I felt like the text of this book was long and unfocused--it was part diary, part design talk. The personal reminisces didn't particularly make me connect with her and it seemed maybe a little over sharing? I think it's intended for people who already know and love her. I was not particularly interested in how her family negotiated Covid. The design discussion might be helpful for someone already pretty confident in their ability to make design choices, but in that case, I'm not sure how much they need design advice. It didn't seem like a help-you-do-it book. So this book did not meet me where I am.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t realize this was by a woman with an HGTV show. If you like her show you’ll love her book. It is full of her memoirs, her family and her faith. There are a lot of photos of her home and family, plus a lot of photos of houses they’ve renovated. It is all very much in the style of rich renovated farmhouse with most stuff painted white. There are also projects shared by her husband. I was hoping for less storytelling and more diversity in styles but if you are the type who shops at Hobby Lobby and want a modern “farmhouse” aesthetic, you’re likely to enjoy it.

It was a one star for me but will probably be a five star for her target audience so I’m averaging to three.

I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.

[Randal White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Book! Anyone who enjoys the Marr's television show, "Fixer to Fabulous" will absolutely love this book! Of all the HGTV stars, Dave and Jenny Marrs seem like the most authentic, down home & talented of the network. And their family centered life is admirable and sets an example for the rest of us. This book takes the television show and expands on it exponentially! We learn so much more about why Jenny comes to her design and decorating decisions. And Dave! Master of the unexpected in building personal items for his clients! The book also delves into the personal life of the family, the triumphs and the tragedies. Very, very well written and touching. I'm left with the desire to pick up roots and move to Bentonville so that the Marr's can build my dream home! Highly recommend!

[Frankslycreative · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is as warm and inviting as Dave and Jenny are on their show. It’s not a how-to, it’s not a design formula. It’s not a humble brag or call to do it their way. This book is a conversation, (one I would love to have in person but will gladly settle for in print) about creating and designing for life. Their personal stories share who they are and how they think, the photos show how those intangibles are turned into beautiful spaces and masterfully hand-crafted pieces. I borrowed the book from the library, but it’s one that will be on my next gift wish list because I know I’ll want to flip through it again and again, like going back to a friends house to catch up over coffee and dream about days to come.

[Casey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the stories/photos and personal memoir like aspect of this book and I wish it had been all that. It was not really a how to or “home edit” tips for organizing and decorating type of book so you will be disappointed if you’re expecting that. It talks about each part of a home and what’s important in that part of the home from the Marrs point of view and shows some examples of houses they’ve done which are beautiful but I like better on the show seeing the before the after and the process in video.

Over all I love the Marrs’ and I support their show, this book, the berry farm, and anything else they do.

[Caeli Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute coffee table type book I picked up at the library when I saw it on display- fun mix of home design and memoir. I loved the chapter on “plying, sleeping, learning” as the author talked about what she wants her kids to remember about their childhood. “Our house is not a museum. It’s a living, breathing, soul-filling place where our kids learn what we value most. And we value them. If I value a perfectly orderly and clean home at all times, I can’t possibly encourage art projects at the kitchen table…” I loved her section on what summers with kids are for too!

[Haley Royal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was Jenny’s newest book when I checked it out from the library, but turns out this one is a few years old. I still read the whole thing and enjoyed learning all the tidbits of turning a house into a home! I know Jenny’s latest book is more of a memoir/autobiography and it seems like that’s what this one was trying to be, but maybe publishers wanted more of their home building pieces in there to fit the brand. I’m bummed there wasn’t much room for the stories to stretch because Jenny is such a talented writer. I’ll be getting her newer book next!

[Karen Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although very obviously written for the American market (I would like a swing in the porch of it were not for the weather in the UK, and no porch), but there are some very useful hints and tips that would apply to homes anywhere. I loved the focus on home rather than just dressing a house. The narrative of the authors family and home made delightful reading. The examples from other home she and her husband have worked on were all insightful. A lovely informative comforting book.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part memoir, part decorating/designing book, this is a lovely look into the Marr's family, and Jenny and Dave's design business. Filled with gorgeous photos, Jenny showcases the design choices of different homes they have worked on in a easy, accessible manner.

This would be a lovely coffee table book!

Thank you Netgalley and Convergent Books for granting my wish to read and review this ARC!

[Michelle Ogden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huose + Love = Home a new book by Jenny Marrs is part decorating book, part how to, and part biography on the Marrs family. Get to know the family as Jenny walks you through the house from front porch to backdoor while chatting about life and family. Dave, Jenny's husband, provides plans for built-ins in the entryway, floating shelves and more. Learn how to make your house a home for the whole family and reclaim space for living.

[Alison E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was vaguely aware of the show "Fixer to Fabulous" when they started airing their renovation of an Italian villa, and I watched all of it. When I saw this book at the library, I had to pick it up. I learned so much more about this family that I already loved. I loved their designs, but the stories of their family was just as important. I probably won't be doing any house remodel, but I will enjoy their show more now that I've read this book.

[Emilee (emileereadsbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got really into home renovation shows during postpartum and quickly had some favorites, and the Marrs were in my top two. I love how she incorporates the family and how they really function in a space. Her style isn’t necessarily what I would pick for my own home, but I still love to see and hear how she thinks through designing and styling spaces.

Thanks to Convergent for the gifted title. All opinions are my own.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I did not know they had a HGTV show (& have never watched it) but I just moved and have been reading a lot of decorating/organizing books and was intrigued by this one. However, we have very different ideals and since I don’t know who she is, I was uninterested in the personal anecdotes. Plus it took til almost 25% of the way through to get to any real DIY instructions. Overall, it wasn’t for me but if you like their tv show, you’ll probably love this book.

(I received an early copy from NetGalley)

[Vivian · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another rich white blond Christian lady who designs farmhouse style houses and has an HGTV show. Nothing wrong with it but nothing new. Mostly talk about her life and family.

Someone please make a decorating book about a single mom with too many hobbies, a $50 budget and a boho garage sale vibe.

Thanks NetGalley for the temporary loan. All opinions are my own (duh).

[Trish Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect book for fans of the Marrs’ special brand of warmth, fun, faith, not to mention the renovation know-how they share in their HGTV show. The pages are filled with gentle feel-good stories that make you feel like goodness is possible and home can be a place of peace and happiness. A really lovely book.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book.

[Melki · Rating 3 out of 5]

As far as home decorating books go, this is a nice book. A pleasant book. The designs are clean, uncluttered, earth-toney, and kind of boring. There really wasn't one thing in this book I haven't seen in MANY OTHER decorating books. Oh, except the author's kids. There are lots, and lots of pictures of the author's kids.

Thanks to NetGalley and Convergent Books for the ARC.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you like Dave & Jenny Marrs from HGTV? If so, then you should definitely buy this book! Jenny walks you through how to make your house a place for YOU and your family. She highlights 12 areas of the home to concentrate on to give you a place to start. This is a great book and one that I will continue to use for years to come.

[Debby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fun read. Each chapter tells family stories and highlights areas of their home. Then each chapter shows and explains choices they made in their builds and tips on how to create a similar look in your home. She even includes some of her favorite paint colors and materials for different rooms and how to use color to a create a feeling in a room.