Recently, I swayed on the side of moving for moving’s sake. A random apartment fell in our lap, and before we knew it, we were printing a year’s worth of bank statements and practically signing over one of our babies for an apartment. For a moment there, moving seemed like the best and dumbest idea ever. But we were on the train, and ain’t no stopping that moving train once it gets goin’. Soon enough, that train halted. We realized that in about 24 hours, we became who we were a few years ago, and we didn’t like it one bit. The manic that NYC moving sets into individuals is quite impressive. Craving a fresh space left as quickly as it came in.
That’s not to say that those feeling won’t arise again, I’m sure they will. When yearning to freshen anything up, I’m now (once again) swapping things in our home. Purging before purchasing and so on.
A table. After having our old Ikea table for about two years, we decided we were ready to expand. With kids of our very own, we are more eager to host dinner parties and art play dates. A vintage biergarten table for function (and conversation) will do. Even though our dining area isn’t large, it’s amazing how a larger table makes the space feel so much bigger. Our dining nook, now feels like a dining room. Our table was a Craigslist gem, but here’s a similar one that’s new.
Flooring. Whether it’s a new rug or laminate flooring, both can change a home instantly.
Linens. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the change that occurs when new linens arrive. There’s something about the purchase in itself, that stirs up the Martha in me. Here’s one that I fancy.
Framing. I love a good gallery wall. I find that changing an existing one up, or framing new and beloved images can really bring some character in your home. Peter and I both love Framebridge, for their easy ordering, custom framing, and delivery practices.( p.s 15% off your first Framebridge order with code 15LATONYA)
Leave. Really. When all else fails, just take a much deserved break and just leave. Somehow, leaving for a bit, has the ability to give a fresh perspective and admiration for our space.
I was talking to a good friend the other night, and she reminded me to refrain from tempting myself with the whole “the grass is greener” mentality; which I totally needed to hear. Sometimes, especially in New York, we have the tendency to peek through windows (figuratively or literally) and find ourselves green with envy. Don’t peak through windows. Clean yours and look at them with joy. I bet it’s beautiful! How do you freshen up your home?
Love this. I too wanted to move from my apartment recently after a bad breakup. Even though I'd get to keep the apartment, I thought there would be too many memories in it for me to stay…but I realized that I wasn't going to find a place that I liked for the price. So I got to redecorating too! And yes, rugs made a huge difference as did rearranging furniture. Now it feels just different enough for me to stay and feel at home.
Come to think about it, I'm actually contented with my home. From time to time, I will buy more frames and add more pictures. Also, I do buy quite a bit of candles to create a good mood at home.
That's awesome Charly! I'm happy to hear you kept it, I'm sure the memories fade eventually and only the good parts are left in the space.
xo
Candles are a game changer!