Where We’re Starting and What We’re Prioritizing in Our New Home

After a whirlwind season of packing, planning, and moving, we’re officially in our new home and it finally feels real. The boxes are thinning out (slowly but surely), the dogs have claimed their favorite corners of the couch, and we’re starting to see the bones of our new space take shape. When we first walked through the house, I immediately started envisioning how we’d make it feel like ours. As someone who thrives in a clean, styled space, I knew we needed to tackle the rooms we’d be living in the most and the ones that would help it feel like home right away

Step One: Start with the Heart of the Home

Our focus right now is on the main living spaces: the living room, kitchen… and of course, the primary bedroom. These areas are the most “public-facing,” which matters to me not just because I love hosting, but because they’re the rooms we move through all day, every day. There’s something grounding about waking up in a room that feels finished, cooking in a kitchen that feels intentional, and relaxing in a living space that reflects our style.

We made a conscious decision not to jump into every project at once. Instead, we’re working in phases, starting with the areas that matter most, and allowing the rest to unfold naturally.

Design Direction: Neutral Coastal Modern

When it comes to style, I want our home to feel like a calm escape, but still us. I’m steering clear of the classic nautical look (no navy anchors here!) and instead leaning into a neutral coastal modern feel: think layered neutrals, warm textures, and soft seaglass tones that echo our proximity to the beach without going too themed.

This look is all about balance. I want it to feel inviting and casual, but also elevated and thoughtful. A place that’s just as comfortable for a night in with takeout as it is for a full dinner party.

What We’ve Purchased (and What We’re Still Searching For)

We’ve made a few key purchases to set the tone for each space. In the living room, we brought in a new sectional and a pair of swivel chairs that I’m completely in love with. These anchor the space and give us plenty of room to relax and entertain.

In the primary bedroom, we upgraded to a new bed frame from Wayfair—simple, clean, and cozy. I’m still on the hunt for the right nightstands (ideally something with a little texture or detail), and I have a few coffee table and dining table options saved that I can’t wait to narrow down. Ideally, I want to add a round dining table that can extend—something functional for the two of us day-to-day but with room to grow for family dinners, celebrations, or future holidays.

A Strategy for Unpacking (and Avoiding Overwhelm)

Even though I want everything done yesterday, I’ve learned the value of small wins when it comes to moving. I’ve been tackling boxes one area at a time: if I’m doing laundry, I’ll take ten extra minutes to sort through something nearby. When I pass a box, I try to take something out and put it away.

My golden rule? Get the cardboard out as fast as possible. The clutter drives me nuts, so even if a space isn’t styled yet, just having it clean and clear gives me the headspace to make decisions about how I want to design it.

Life Lately: Soaking It In

Beyond unpacking, we’re really trying to soak in this new season of life. We’ve been taking the dogs on long family walks, enjoying slow breakfasts on the weekend, and finally having a backyard to relax in after a long day. It’s been a hectic few months (getting engaged, moving, wedding planning on the horizon) but now that we’re here, I’m excited to create a routine again. I’m craving structure, clean spaces, good food, and time to focus on creative projects that make me feel like myself.

The Vision Moving Forward

At the heart of everything, I want our home to feel personal and intentionally ours. I want it to be a space that tells our story, reflects our lifestyle, and invites people in with warmth and ease. This next chapter is about creating a home that fits us now—and the life we’re building for the future. One step at a time, one room at a time, we’re getting there.

Thanks for following along—we can’t wait to share more as the spaces come together.