The Designer’s Personal Renovation Project
For over 20 years I’ve lived in the United States — and for more than 30 years I’ve been working in design, with over a decade creating meaningful spaces for families and businesses here in the U.S.
But it was only now, after my son graduated from college and my daughter began this new chapter of her life, that we realized: it was finally our moment.
After countless searches, careful budgeting, and many family conversations, we decided to renovate our own home. And it was much more than a remodel — it became a turning point.
For over two decades, I had never truly lived in a home where I could see myself reflected. Even after living in Florida and later settling in Atlanta, something essential was missing: identity, warmth, a true sense of belonging.
Our house felt dark and uninspired — completely disconnected from the style I love. I used to joke with my husband, “What an ugly house we had.”
Today, after five months back in our newly transformed home, I can honestly say I finally feel at home — in a space that reflects our style, our way of living, and our everyday joy. We love to host, to welcome people, and to make them feel comfortable the moment they walk in.
This project required thoughtful planning, financial adjustments, and even moving out of our home for 90 days — but every decision was worth it.
The key goals of our renovation were clear:
– To fully integrate all the spaces on the main floor
– To bring the primary suite to the main level
– To transform our former garage into my new home office, a future wine room, and a new laundry room
Because to me, spaces truly matter. They shape how we live, how we feel, and how we connect.
I always tell my clients that renovating in the U.S. requires patience and a long-term vision. Here, everything can — and should — be done in phases.
Our next step will be my husband’s new garage, followed by reimagining our outdoor areas. But for now, we are deeply grateful and truly enjoying everything this new home is already giving us. Follows along as I share the transformation of my own home a journey from a heavy, traditional, personality-less space to a clean, timeless and elegant home that truly reflects who we are!
But it was only now, after my son graduated from college and my daughter began this new chapter of her life, that we realized: it was finally our moment.
After countless searches, careful budgeting, and many family conversations, we decided to renovate our own home. And it was much more than a remodel — it became a turning point.
For over two decades, I had never truly lived in a home where I could see myself reflected. Even after living in Florida and later settling in Atlanta, something essential was missing: identity, warmth, a true sense of belonging.
Our house felt dark and uninspired — completely disconnected from the style I love. I used to joke with my husband, “What an ugly house we had.”
Today, after five months back in our newly transformed home, I can honestly say I finally feel at home — in a space that reflects our style, our way of living, and our everyday joy. We love to host, to welcome people, and to make them feel comfortable the moment they walk in.
This project required thoughtful planning, financial adjustments, and even moving out of our home for 90 days — but every decision was worth it.
The key goals of our renovation were clear:
– To fully integrate all the spaces on the main floor
– To bring the primary suite to the main level
– To transform our former garage into my new home office, a future wine room, and a new laundry room
Because to me, spaces truly matter. They shape how we live, how we feel, and how we connect.
I always tell my clients that renovating in the U.S. requires patience and a long-term vision. Here, everything can — and should — be done in phases.
Our next step will be my husband’s new garage, followed by reimagining our outdoor areas. But for now, we are deeply grateful and truly enjoying everything this new home is already giving us. Follows along as I share the transformation of my own home a journey from a heavy, traditional, personality-less space to a clean, timeless and elegant home that truly reflects who we are!
Project Cost: $200,001 - $500,000
Country: United States
