motherland homemaking

Helping You Fall in Love with Your Home (Again)

Hello, I’m penelope.

I’m Dutch by origin, but a citizen of the world at heart. Life has taken me through many countries — and for the past three years, l've been lucky to call beautiful Portugal my home.

I'm a mum, a wife, a friend, and now a grandmother — roles that have taught me the beauty of creating warm, harmonious spaces where everyone feels welcome and at ease.

Throughout my journey, I discovered what I truly love and what l'm naturally good at: Helping people feel at home.

Whether this means decluttering your space, reorganising a room, or simply bringing calm and order into your everyday surroundings — I help you fall in love with your home, again.

small details that make all the difference

“To have Penelope taking care of my guesthouse allowed me to have a super relaxed vacation. I was supposed to stay only one week away, but I ended up staying more because I felt the house was in better hands than my own.

From the first day she knew exactly what to do without me having to explain anything. She took care of the house and guests, paying attention to the small details that make all the difference. Guests kept sending me messages praising all the love she puts into everything.

I went to the house to hang out with her, and enjoy the delicious things she baked. During these visits, more than feeling the house was perfectly organised, I felt it was warmly arranged and cared for.”

Maria Santos, Owner | Guesthouse Cabeça da Cabra

What I offer

While you’re away, I care for your home or guest space — keeping everything organised, welcoming, and running smoothly, whether it’s a private residence, Airbnb, or retreat setting.
- Guest check-in and check-out
- Offering guests a warm, welcoming "soft landing"
- Providing local tips and information
- Optional extras: babysitting or private cooking service
- Decluttering & organising
- Shifting, refreshing, and reimagining your living spaces
- Creating balance, flow, and harmony in your home
- Settling-in support after your move to Portugal
- Helping you find what you need (personal shopper)

My Approach

Every home tells a story, and I believe that when a space feels loved and cared for, life flows more easily. If you'd like to know more, let's chat about how I can support you in creating (or maintaining) a home that feels like a sanctuary.

meeting where you are

Whether you're looking to reconnect with your home, create harmony, or simply enjoy peace of mind while you're away, I'm here to help.

DISCREET & ADAPTABLE

I work with care, discretion, and a touch of creativity, always adapting to your lifestyle and needs.

Get in touch

Email: penelope@motherland.pt
Mobile / WhatsApp: +351 965 736 016
I am based near Ericeira, Portugal

Reviews

“Penny organizes check-ins and check-outs, shows guests the house, prepares it, and takes care of the house when I'm not there. She is the most reliable, thorough, and flexible person you could imagine.”

Sven Jacobsen | Owner, Wooden Haven

“Penelope has excellent taste and a deep understanding of the character of a house. She worked with great energy both indoors and outdoors, always gently and with love. Her presence brought calm, beauty, and efficiency to my home, and I remain deeply grateful for her help. I recommend her wholeheartedly.”

Cisela Bjōrk | Owner, A Casa Cor de Rosa

“After making a huge decision to change countries with my son and dog I was in need of a trustworthy person who could take a load off my back. Penny went out of her way to make us feel at home from the moment we stepped into our new apartment. Every little detail was thought of — even the fridge was full of nice healthy groceries.”