“Not only are bloggers suckers for the remarkable, so are the "It's comfort first, comfort last, comfort always."

–Timothy Corrigan, Interior Designer

Introduction:

I'm sitting with a mug of coffee, my gaze drifting over the screen of my laptop in my cozy Florida home. It's one of those moments where time slows down. I find myself reflecting on the journey that brought us back here less than a year ago.

The memories of that season, a mix of stress and excitement, are still fresh in my mind. It marked the beginning of a new chapter for us. After the heartache of losing our Kennebunkport home to a fire, everything felt uncertain and beyond my control.

Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a silver lining—it brought us back to our roots, to the embrace of our friends and family. And for that, I'm grateful. Reflecting on the mood board I created during the flight down, I'm reminded of how it served as a beacon of positivity amid the chaos.

Original Inspiration Mood Board:

Let's explore the heart of my original inspiration:

Classic Elements

From the textures of rich leather to the timeless appeal of cotton slip-cover couches, every detail exudes sophistication and warmth. I gravitated towards neutrals accented with my favorite color, blue, to create a harmonious backdrop.

Coastal Comfort

Above all, our home is a sanctuary—a place of solace and warmth for all who cross our threshold. Plush couches invite weary souls to rest, while sturdy rugs and weathered coffee tables bear witness to the joy and laughter shared within these walls. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to foster relaxation and connection.

Reflecting on the mood board, I've made subtle changes. Instead of the lighter coffee table pictured above, a rustic, antique piece now takes center stage—a cherished find that resonates deeply with me. I'd also like to add more color alongside the neutral tones and blue hues.

Where We're At:

Expanding on my vision:

Antiques

Ah, antiques—my enduring passion. Each piece tells a story, evoking the charm of bygone eras. From intricately carved furnishings to delicate heirlooms passed down through generations, these treasures breathe life into our home, infusing it with character and charm. The fire claimed most of our antiques, leaving just one table (that, truth be told, still smells burnt but I couldn't part with it). However, the journey of gradually discovering new pieces to adorn our home has been a rewarding and joyous experience.

Wood Tones

Initially, I leaned towards lighter furniture. However, my preferences have since shifted towards darker-toned wood furniture, which I find more complementary to our space.

Texture

I'm aiming to incorporate different materials like leather, wood, metals and natural fibers to add depth and visual interest. By layering these textures, I aim to transform the living room into a cozy and stylish space that reflects a sense of warmth and personality.

A few items I'm still on the lookout for:

1. Artwork to add more personality to our walls

2. An entry table to welcome guests

3. Plants

4. Frames for family photos