As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the spaces we call home.
I spent mid-December in Santa Barbara decompressing from an exhilarating 2024, filled with new partnerships, exciting announcements, and my evolving roles as Creative Director of Fabuwood and Vice Chair of the NKBA Board of Directors. When I returned just before the holidays, I quickly realized the world was pausing until early January. It was a golden opportunity to prepare for what’s shaping up to be an extraordinary year, starting with the groundbreaking of our Garage Turned Cottage ADU project.
This project has already sparked so much joy for my husband and me. It’s not just about creating a functional space but crafting a story we can share with our community, thanks to the wonderful brands and partners involved.
Yet, before construction begins, I faced a daunting task: clearing out our garage.
Getting Started: The Big Declutter
Imagine EVERYTHING in your garage needing to go—holiday lights, tools, decorations, sports equipment, camping gear, automotive gear – everything. Living in a historic home just over 2,000 square feet, with a 300-square-foot basement primarily used as a wine cellar, meant there was no “just stash it somewhere” option. It was time to get creative.
- Consign Closet Items: We started by consigning good condition luxury closet items to our friends at Article Consignment, finding new homes for pieces that no longer suited our needs.
- Sell and Donate: I embraced the magic of Facebook Marketplace and called a friend who owns a vintage store. Two truckloads later, many of our unused treasures found new homes.
- Pass It Forward: A friend building a library gratefully accepted vintage books, while newer editions filled local neighborhood book boxes.
- Ask Around: A neighbor gladly took unused alcohol, knowing we mostly enjoy wine and tequila.
- Celebrate Joyful Minimalism: By eliminating items that no longer served us, I realized the freedom and happiness that comes from having just what you need and love.
Creating Space for Joy
This process reminded me of the beauty in maintaining an edited aesthetic—one that tells the story of the people who live in a home while celebrating what truly matters. As someone who appreciates a timeless, collected look (think Ralph Lauren), it’s all about finding balance.
Here are steps to fall back in love with your home:
- Edit Your Space: Let go of what doesn’t serve you. Whether you donate, sell, or gift, the act of clearing out creates physical and emotional space.
- Celebrate What Brings Joy: Keep items that hold meaning or functionality, and arrange them in ways that feel intentional.
- Dream Big: Think about how your home can evolve with you. Whether it’s a big project like an ADU or small changes like reorganizing a closet, the process can reignite your love for your home.
- Lean Into Partnerships: Collaborate with others to bring your vision to life. Sharing your home’s story with your community can be incredibly rewarding.
Your turn!
How have you fallen back in love with your home?
Do you have a decluttering tip, a favorite design project, or a story to share? I’d love to hear about it!
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