Cool House Connection

In this elegant, travel-inspired edition of CoolHouseConnection , host Deb d’Aquin takes listeners on a sensory-rich journey through Florence, Italy , uncovering what makes this Renaissance city—and its homes, gardens, and streets—so deeply cool . With her signature eye for detail and heart for design, Deb explores the power of layering —in architecture, daily life, and personal expression. From c...

In this special on-the-road episode of CoolHouseConnection , host Deb d’Aquin broadcasts from the timeless city of Florence, Italy , exploring how the city's masterful use of layers—architectural, cultural, and emotional—offers design wisdom for us all. From cobblestone alleys to cathedral contrasts, rooftop gardens to garden walls hiding secret beauty, Deb reflects on the nuanced genius that...

In Episode 9 of CoolHouseConnection , host Deb d’Aquin dives deep into the power of organization as the unsung hero of superior design . From decluttering drawers to designing luxurious wetrooms and elegant outdoor spaces, Deb reveals how smart, strategic organization elevates not just a home’s beauty but its livability and value. She shares tips, tools, and personal anecdotes—including design ins...

In Episode 8 of CoolHouseConnection , host Deb d’Aquin shifts the spotlight from mountain homes to the rich animal life— the fauna —that makes Yancey County such a magical place to live. With her signature warmth and storytelling, Deb takes listeners on a vivid tour of the creatures that roam these mountains, from curious black bears and graceful deer to ghost fireflies and trout-filled rivers. Sh...

In Episode 7 of CoolHouseConnection , host Deb d’Aquin takes listeners on a lively journey through the heart of Southern AppaLATCHA, reflecting on regional pride, rich dialects, and the power of local theatre to bring communities together. With warmth and wit, Deb explores the texture of both homes and lifestyles in Yancey County, spotlighting unique architectural gems—from rammed earth contempora...

In this heartfelt episode of Cool House Connection , host Deb d'Aquin welcomes listeners to the vibrant spring season in Yancey County, North Carolina, weaving a rich tapestry of local charm, hidden gems, and real estate insight. From breathtaking walks among blooming dogwoods and daffodils to insider tips on Burnsville’s temperate rainforest climate and microclimates, Deb paints a vivid picture o...

In this episode of CoolHouseConnection , Deb takes you on a heartfelt journey through the values that shape her approach to real estate in North Carolina’s mountain towns—centered around one core truth: authenticity. From her days at Yahoo in the high-octane '90s to navigating post-hurricane property challenges today, Deb shares real stories and golden rule marketing principles that build trust, n...

In Episode 4 of CoolHouseConnection , Deb d’Aquin weaves together history, wisdom, and mountain real estate savvy in a heartfelt exploration of how to “live large for less” in Western North Carolina. Inspired by Gene Roddenberry’s Star Trek mantra “Live Long and Prosper” —and its unexpected roots in the story of the legendary conjoined twins, Eng and Cheng Bunker—Deb invites listeners to reflect o...

In Episode 3 of CoolHouseConnection , Deb d’Aquin dives into the soul-stirring beauty of Yancey County’s thriving arts scene—from its deep Cherokee roots and folk art traditions to the globally renowned Penland School of Crafts. With her signature warmth and storytelling flair, Deb explores how creativity is not just a pastime in these mountains—it’s a way of life. She highlights iconic local arti...

In this heartfelt second episode of CoolHouseConnection , Deb takes listeners on a rich journey through the unique spirit of Burnsville, North Carolina. From its deep agricultural roots and old general stores to its vibrant artisan retail scene today, Burnsville is more than just a town—it's a way of life. Deb shines a spotlight on standout local businesses like Plott Hound Books, Yummi Yarns,...

Hi and welcome to Cool House Connection, a podcast devoted to appreciation for the  exceptional communities  nestled against the backdrop of the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina.  I’m your host, Deb d’Aquin. I moved to one of these iconic communitiesnorth of Asheville, North Carolina more than a decade ago and I am passionate about sharing my love for this incredible regi...

“Why spend time and energy on what does not satisfy?" Thisparaphrased Old Testament question has fueled a new chapter in my life, and at its core, it's the driving force behind this podcast. I’m a 40 year global brand marketer who after a corporate career found a deeply satisfying niche in helping clients find, sell and fully LIVE in cool houses in cool communities across the mountain com...