Yesterday I shared a Home Goals worksheet for 2019. It’s energizing to plan ahead, but it’s equally important to pause and appreciate how far you’ve come and to feel content with what is. You know?
In the blog and social media world, there’s a tendency to always chase the next thing. That mindset can breed comparison and anxiety — feeling the need to do more, move faster, have more, or start the next project even when it’s unnecessary. Remember: creating a home is not a race. Projects take time, and it’s okay to move at your own pace.
Some seasons are busy and productive; others call for smaller updates or simply rearranging what you already own. Over the years I’ve done large renovations, little tweaks, and plenty of puttering. Today I want to celebrate progress by sharing many of the updates we’ve made around our home in recent years.
2020 UPDATE: This post was originally published in 2018. Click HERE to see the latest of our house in 2020!
Even with a long to-do list, it’s helpful to acknowledge the projects we’ve finished. Some improvements took far longer than expected — the side yard took years of trial and error — but persistence paid off.
Here is a roundup of the improvements, updates, and changes we’ve completed over the past few years:
- We installed a front gate — a long-awaited finish after being “gateless in Seattle.” The final reveal was delayed by a few hiccups, but it’s on the way.
- We transformed the backyard and side yard with a new Trex deck and landscaping, creating outdoor spaces that feel inviting and functional.
- We painted the exterior brick white, which brightened the whole house and refreshed the curb appeal.
- We refinished and painted our concrete side patio and steps, making outdoor areas more cohesive and livable.
- We brought back a white slipcovered sofa for a relaxed, cozy living room look.
- Plantation shutters and bamboo shades were added to several windows to improve light control and bring warmth to the rooms.
- The master bedroom received a thoughtful makeover to make it calmer and more comfortable.
- We remodeled the galley kitchen to add character and better functionality for our small space.
- Our kitchen was photographed for Better Homes & Gardens and featured in The Cottage Journal, which was an exciting recognition.
- Both the front and side doors were replaced with Dutch doors, adding charm and a distinctive architectural detail to the home.
- Lighting was updated throughout the house, including new barn-style lights in the entry hall that add personality and better illumination.
- Most interior walls have been painted; a full list of our paint colors is available for reference.
- The small guest bedroom got a coastal-inspired refresh to make guests feel welcome.
- The fireplace has been updated twice on a budget, continually improving that focal point of the living room.
- We carved out a small herb garden in the backyard and planted a special garden for Lily, adding both beauty and utility to the outdoor spaces.
- Shiplap walls were installed in the dining room, giving it texture and a cozy cottage feel.
- We made several updates in our son’s room to better suit his needs and style as he grew.
- Carpet was removed and new laminate floors installed in the basement, improving durability and aesthetics.
- A new wall subdivided the large basement room to create a separate office, making the home more functional for work and family life.
- A hallway built-in received a simple DIY makeover to improve storage and style.
- We organized a Winter Wellness Station in a guest room closet to keep essential oils and remedies accessible during cold months.
In addition to these projects, I continue to document lessons and home adventures in my books. If you enjoy the blog, you’ll find more ideas and deeper reflections collected there.
I’ll be back tomorrow with thoughts about our next steps for this house. Meanwhile, if you want to set intentions for your own space, you can fill out a Home Goals worksheet or use it as an Instagram story template to map out what matters to you in 2019.
2020 UPDATE: This post was originally published in 2018. Click HERE to see the latest of our house in 2020!
Follow The Inspired Room on Instagram for ongoing updates and photos from around the house. You can also browse sources for items we use and view a complete list of our paint colors to help plan your own updates.
Books by The Inspired Room
Thank you for following along — celebrating progress, big and small, makes home feel more like home.