While it seems so natural to be where I am now, never would have imagined it-or the route-in the beginning.
Growing up, I was always re-arranging my bedroom, lobbying my parents for updates to the house, but Design-or Decorating was not on the radar as a career option. A few design electives in my business/marketing academic course had me re-think that; and in a move that was both brave and naïve, I took an Interior Decorating job on a dare at age 23. And what a progression it’s been!
The 80s and 90s were expansive times. Saw the boom (and subsequent bust) of many dot-com furniture businesses. Home Décor became entertainment with the birth of HGTV, but few could translate the scenarios-or budgets- to their homes, and their lives. Home stores made things more affordable, but who knew what to buy? Or where to put it?
The new millennium brought more sobering times. Our concept of “HOME” changed almost overnight, and our pursuit of comfort and security became visceral. The look still counted, but functionality and feasibility ruled. Good results were expected, but consumers were craving more: knowledge, and a hands-on experience.
I had always worked in an organic and collaborative manner; creating a business featuring these ‘products’ wasn’t a stretch, but exactly the right name was needed to bring it all together: User-friendly and socially conscious, who knew how good design could change your life. Who recognized value could be found at any price point. Who understood how empowering it was to make good plans and wise decisions, so you could finally get on with your life. Where experience mattered, and kindness counted.
And didn’t sound all prissy-pants about it.
When it finally came to me, everything else fell into place, and twenty-six years after my first bold move, I made another, and launched The Refreshed Home in 2007.
Staying or selling, expanding or downsizing, buying or investing—please consider The Refreshed Home to be your creative, thoughtful, results-oriented partner and advocate.
