Tammy's Tidbits

Several years ago, we made a bold move. At the time, we were renting in a bustling county with all the conveniences—restaurants, shopping, and a breezy 15-minute commute to work. But when we began house hunting, we quickly realized that staying in our county meant making big compromises on what we wanted in a home.

So, we broadened our search. Exploring surrounding counties eventually led us three counties away to a charming riverfront town. It was there we found our dream house—a home that checked all the boxes and saved us a significant chunk of money. The trade-off? A daily one-hour commute to work.

For five years, we embraced the beauty of riverfront living, but the long drive began to wear on us. Then, by sheer happenstance, life handed us an unexpected opportunity. During a routine shopping trip, I ran into an old friend who happened to be hiring for a position that included on-site housing. The job was in the same county we’d once called home, offering a commute-free arrangement for me and a 15-minute drive for Patrick. It was a win-win.

Not only did this move simplify our daily lives, but it also allowed us to keep the river house as a getaway—a place to relax and recharge.

A New Chapter: Coastal-Inspired Makeover

Now that we’re no longer living at the river house full-time (and have pared down belongings by moving some essentials to our new home), it feels like the perfect time to give the space a refresh. We’re embarking on a no-demo renovation to spruce things up, focusing on one room at a time.

The vibe? Coastal-inspired, but not overly themed. Think whites, blues, and neutrals—light, airy, and serene—without leaning into clichés like fish or seashell motifs. I want the house to feel like a sophisticated coastal retreat, similar to a beautifully curated Airbnb.

Starting with the Living Room

The living room is our first project, and for good reason—it’s the largest space and sets the tone for the rest of the house. While I’m open to change, there’s one non-negotiable: the furniture. We scored an authentic Natuzzi leather set for just $200—a thrift find that still feels like the deal of a lifetime, considering it retails for $10,000!

Beyond that, I’m ready to experiment with fresh paint, updated decor, and creative ideas to make the room feel cohesive and inviting.

Join Me on This Journey

As I work through the living room (and eventually the rest of the house), I’d love your input! What are your go-to design tips? Do you have favorite designers or social media accounts that inspire your decorating style? Drop your suggestions in the comments—I’m eager to explore your recommendations.

I’ll be documenting the transformation of each room over the next several months, so stay tuned for updates. I can’t wait to share how everything turns out and hopefully inspire you along the way.

Here’s to making the river house our perfect little retreat!