Work in Progress: Unconventional Thoughts on Designing an Extraordinary Life

by Leanne Ford, Steve Ford

How did a couple of quirky siblings from suburban Pittsburgh end up as the king and queen of eclectic-design chic with their own HGTV show? They never let fear get in the way of a great idea. Leanne and Steve Ford share their secrets for how to turn dreams into reality. Leanne and Steve were middle-class kids growing up in Pittsburgh in the 80s and 90s. There was nothing particularly glamorous or unusual about their lives as kids. Leanne was a shy, stubborn child who lived a rich life in her own imagination. Steve was outdoorsy and offbeat and was bullied mercilessly at school for being different. Their parents, grounded in faith and always encouraging of both creativity and hard work, gave them the confidence and the encouragement they needed to pursue the often difficult creative life. Leanne's slogan as a child was, "My name is Leanne. If I want to, I can." Leanne studied clothing design and pulled gigs at fashion houses in New York and as a stylist to country music stars in Nashville before she found her true interior design. Steve threw himself into kayaking and snowboarding and opening his own men's clothing store in Pittsburgh. And then their individual passions converged when Leanne asked Steve to help renovate her bathroom. There was magic in their collaboration, and they began renovating for clients in Pittsburgh―creating unique, authentic spaces that manage to feel both chic and completely obtainable―before catching the eye of producers at HGTV. Leanne and Steve share the details of their journey, including the beliefs that have inspired them and the experiences that have challenged them along the way.

Audio CD

Published October 29, 2019

Reviews

[Carolw · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always enjoyed the sibling exchange between Leanne and Steve Ford in the HGTV show Restored by the Fords. I also enjoyed Leanne’s design style. I listened to this book which was read by Leanne and Steve. The quirkiness of Leanne and the level headedness of Steve came through as they read this book. I think you would have to have enjoyed them in their TV show in order to enjoy this book. It was intriguing to hear about their lives before HGTV came calling and how they were both on two totally different paths but through one bathroom remodel came together as a team.

[Nicole Del Mastro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. Don't get me wrong; I love Leanne and Steve’s design work, shows, and tv personalities. But to read an enduringly honest narrative of their road to (toward continued) success and their values is inspiring. I recommend this book for creatives, non-creatives, and anyone who needs a push in the right direction towards your definition of progress.

[Joanie Inlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Checked it out from the library but now I’m going to purchase … want it on my bookshelf to share with others. Fresh and interesting perspective on living our lives, and fun reading about their upbringing and growing up years.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this book and adore Leanne Ford, her style, philosophy, and her daring with ease. The banter and humor and personality of her and her brother Steve is priceless is in the book, with one of my favorites being his story of almost stardom in acting as an extra in a movie. It's a breath of fresh air and honest and fun. If we have learned anything during this time, it's the beauty in imperfection and impermanence. A refreshing new take and the opposite of cookie cutter design that has become so typical, and Leanne offers many inspirations for how not to just decorate, but live your life - imperfectly yet beautifully. We are all, after all, works in progress.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was pretty good. I like them and their show, they are funny and quirky and interesting. They were lucky children - their parents raised them to experiment and try things and actually make their ideas a reality. Hell, Leanne was allowed to paint the refrigerator when she was 10! (Three guesses as to what color). I was told I couldn't tape photos of the Beatles in my room. So I glued them. Believe me, that didn't go over very well. They seem like nice people who haven't let their fame go to their heads.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have watched their HGTV show. Was very interesting to see the path Leanne and Steve's life took them prior to becoming HGTV stars. Very interesting and made me enjoy their show and innovative design style even more. Worth reading!

[Brit Kolo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved learning about these two, their stories, their creative lives.

[DPK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this -inspiring guide to "follow your own path" and create what you love. A quick, fun read.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read it for a friend!

[Heather Mieloszyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I savored this over during the quarantine. Such a fun quirky story. The siblings are so relatable and down to earth. Enjoyed their view on life so much. Very uplifting in uncertain times!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Warm anecdotes and some inspiring advice!

[Danielle Matlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed hearing about Leanne and Steve’s interesting career paths and about the way they life creative lives. Makes me want to watch more of their show!

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This delightful memoir was read by the authors. I enjoyed listening to them tell their stories about how they got their start in HGTV and what led them up to their shows.

[Ani · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I was disappointed it wasn't about design but then I fell into a book that proved to be a much better treat. If you like Leanne Ford this book is an absolute must!