Our Home So Far: A Real-Life Look at Each Space

We’ve officially been in our new home long enough to start calling it ours, even if most of it still feels like a work in progress. Moving in is one thing… but settling in? That’s a whole journey on its own. As a designer, it can be easy to fall into the mindset that every space should be “done” right away. But I’m learning to embrace the in-between, the pieces we’ve added, the corners that still need love, and the funny little surprises along the way.

So today, I’m giving you a real-life peek inside. Nothing is perfectly styled. Not every room has a plan yet. But there’s beauty in progress, and this is where we’re starting.

Entryway

The first thing you’ll see when you walk in is our new Ruggable rug — it instantly warmed up the space and made it feel a little more lived in. It’s amazing how something as simple as a rug can anchor a room and make it feel intentional, even if the rest of the space is still a work in progress. I went with a fun pattern full of rich tones, that feels like a statement but still adds character, and it’s already holding up well to sandy shoes and muddy dog paws.

I still have plans to add functional storage — maybe a console — and I’d love to hang a mirror to reflect some light and make the space feel bigger. The entryway might be small, but it sets the tone for the rest of the home, so I want it to feel welcoming and useful. For now, the rug was a quick win that made a surprisingly big impact.

Living Room

This is where we’ve spent most of our time lately. Whether we’re lounging in the evenings or watching TV while folding laundry, it’s quickly become our main hangout zone. We’re still on the hunt for the perfect coffee table — finding the right size has been more of a challenge than I expected. The space is a bit tricky dimensionally, so I’m holding out for something that balances function, scale, and style. In the meantime, we’ve been getting a feel for the room and how we actually use it, which is helping shape the longer-term plan.

I’m also dreaming up a future built-in on one of the main walls — something that could offer both closed storage and display space. Ideally, it would include a little bar area setup for when we have friends over, but still feel streamlined and purposeful for everyday life. The vision is definitely coming together in layers, and while it’s not “done” yet, it’s already feeling like the heart of the home.

That said… the garage might be giving it a run for its money. I’ve been spending a lot of time out there painting a set of custom cornhole boards, and between the paint fumes and the Florida heat, it’s been an experience. It’s not exactly the dream creative studio setup (yet), but it’s getting the job done. Still, after a sweaty painting session, nothing beats flopping onto the living room sofa with a cold drink and a movie.

Kitchen

The kitchen hasn’t seen a full design moment yet, but it’s functional and we’re cooking in it regularly — that’s a win in my book. You may have seen my dense bean salad reel last week (still eating that on repeat), and I’m getting used to how this space works for prep, hosting, and everyday life. The layout flows well, and even without much styling, it already feels like a central hub in the house.

Eventually, I’d love to add pendant lighting over the island to bring in some visual interest and soften the overhead lighting. I haven’t landed on the exact style yet — something sculptural but simple feels right — but I know it’ll help define the space a bit more. Organization and styling will come in time, but for now, just having a fully functioning kitchen that we enjoy using feels like a major step forward.

Dining Room

The dining room is currently a blank slate, but I’m on the hunt for the perfect table to anchor the space. I’m leaning toward something round that can extend into an oval — this house has a lot of sharp angles, and I think it could really benefit from some softer, more organic shapes. I want the table to feel casual enough for everyday meals but still flexible enough to host friends or family when we entertain.

Right now, the only pieces in the room are two thrifted Pottery Barn slipcovered host chairs that I absolutely love. They were one of those rare finds that felt like a little design gift, and I’m building around them as a starting point. I can already imagine how cozy this room will feel once it starts coming together — soft lighting, layered textures, and a table that brings everyone in.

Primary Bedroom

This room is where we’ve made the most progress in terms of comfort. We unboxed our new Brooklinen sheets recently, and they are so soft — total game changer. I also found a long lumbar throw pillow on Etsy that I’m kind of obsessed with. It’s giving me the inspiration to design the rest of the bedroom around it. I’m also trying to decide if the white Euro Shams are the way to go, or if the blue piping is better to compliment the throw pillow…. Decisions…. Decisions. A little detail, but it made the space feel personal and pulled together in a way that really matters when it’s the last place you land at the end of the day.

We’re currently trying to decide between two nightstand options, and I keep going back and forth on which one will work best for the room. I’m also planning to bring in an area rug to soften things up, plus an upholstered bench at the foot of the bed — ideally something inviting enough that the dogs will start sleeping there instead of on us. I’ve got my eye on new lamps too, specifically ones with darker bases to add contrast and some moodier texture. It’s not done, but it’s definitely on its way to being our most finished-feeling space.

Flex Space

This one’s… TBD. It’s definitely the furthest from “finished” and currently housing a random mix of furniture, including our old sofa that I haven’t quite figured out what to do with. I’m toying with the idea of reupholstering it and giving it a second life in here — maybe as a cozy reading spot or a statement piece that sets the tone for the room. Either way, this space is low-pressure, and that feels good right now.

I’ve been saving inspiration images of bold couches and low reading benches paired with purposeful storage — something that could hold our important documents and help the room serve a dual function without feeling cluttered. It has the potential to be something really special once I figure out the right layout and vibe. For now, it’s on the back burner, but the ideas are definitely percolating.

Final Thoughts

It’s tempting to want every space to be finished, especially when you’re constantly surrounded by home inspiration. But real life doesn’t work that way. Homes take time — to furnish, to decorate, and to feel like home. Ours is already filled with memories and laughter (and maybe a little paint in the garage), and I’m learning to appreciate this slow and intentional process.

I’d love to know — which space are you most curious to see come together next?

xo,

Taylor