Burnham Design
I haven’t had much time since we moved in to sit and imagine the furniture I’d love to fill our new home. Now that a few major projects are behind me and I can finally breathe, I’m ready to dive into settling in. A little window-shopping spree feels inevitable this week.
Do you ever imagine starting fresh, with a blank slate and the chance to pick every piece? It’s a fun exercise even when you plan to keep most of what you already own. We sold a few items during the move, and some existing pieces will need to find their perfect spots in this house, so I’ll likely be on the lookout for a handful of new things. Not complaining — just deciding what they should be.

How to Decorate // Ballard Designs
While browsing Pinterest today I kept noticing subtly striped sofas. They’re quiet but interesting — a gentle pattern that adds texture to mostly solid furnishings. I’ve always liked pinstripes. I’m not sure I’ll choose a striped piece, but I appreciate the look and the way it can give a room personality without overwhelming it.
This week I plan to run some small experiments: removing a few items, trying different layouts, and testing color palettes and patterns to see what feels right. When the movers placed our furniture, much of it stayed where it landed (we did hang one mirror, at least), so I’m eager to rearrange and test new arrangements. I’ll also make a trip to the paint store — repainting the first room usually makes a house feel more like home.
I still feel a bit disconnected from the house, but I know things will come together once I begin to add my personal touch to each room.

How to Decorate // Ballard Designs
It can take time for a room to evolve so it both functions well and reflects your style, but finding that first piece often sets the direction. I’ve asked several blogging friends to share rooms that inspired them over the next week or two. It’s always interesting to see how different spaces evolve and how people arrive at the look they love. That gradual process is part of the charm.
I’ll be doing regular roundups starting later this week to showcase those inspired rooms as part of my book launch celebrations, and I’ll invite readers to share their own spaces. I’ll share details soon.
Tell me in the comments how you felt when you first moved into your house.

Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7
