5 Steps to Downsizing with Ease, Comfort & Enjoyment

If you’re seeking “less house, more home” you’re probably considering downsizing… and it might be a little scary. But once the decision to downsize or “right size” has been made, that initial tension is balanced with a relief and eagerness to achieve that fresh, new and luxurious lifestyle.

Getting there and achieving that lifestyle… well, all the details can make your head spin!

This is why getting assistance from a professional can make the process easier, more peaceful, and even more exciting — and can lead to the final outcome you desire.

Today I’m sharing 5 steps to help get you from a decision to your new home. Remember to keep your eyes on the prize. The excitement builds when a goal is in place, and a vision board or inspirational photos can be a big help to maintain focus. Then, take it one step at a time…

Step 1: Start with a downsizing plan

When you watch Marie Kondo, you see the strategy she uses to reduce possessions, donate, and then find a smaller home. Your new home may require updates or resized furnishings. Overall, you need a PLAN and a professional to partner with you to turn your new space into one that promotes an easier, simpler, inspired and comfortable lifestyle.

I help my clients identify phases of this process. There are many checklists to review depending on a direction. Are you selling? Refreshing? Also important is to give yourself time. Set a starting point, ideally a room that is less important such as a linen closet or laundry room.

Starting with small, easy victories will give you the confidence to tackle the larger ones!

Step 2: Understand your downsizing needs

In your new space, are you mainly doing the same things you do now? But in a smaller way? Grandkids, family dinners, book club? Will you retire here?

When you share your goals with me, I fill in the details for a design direction. Lifestyle is so very individualistic and the design solution that we craft together will fit all the pieces together into one cohesive picture. Remember this blog post about the condo we redesigned for a lovely couple? Perfect example.

Step 3: Floor plans and renderings

Using ideas from our exchange, I begin with floor plans. I prefer to include 3-D drawings or renderings of how the finished product will reflect your vision. (My wonderful team member Tawna Allred is the best at bringing our vision to life on paper!)

In my experience, this visual is so important for my clients to see what their home could really look like and how downsizing isn’t robbing them of the comforts they truly enjoy. They’ll see how it can function beautifully for the lifestyle they want.

Step 4: Furnishings that feel personal, classic, comfortable

Accumulating and assimilating all the information leads to furniture and furnishings selections that are personal to you. Colors, shapes, sizes, and function ~ all important. The mix I present to you for a design solution combines your preferences and is all about you and your desired lifestyle.

As for the furniture you’re ready to part with, please think carefully about how others may benefit from those items. Every city has opportunities and charitable organizations who value donations that help our Seattle community.

Step 5: Bring your vision to life

In my work, I have developed relationships with vendors and trades who provide services with pride and excellence. My ‘team,’ as I refer to them, are people who are caring, qualified, and professional. Together, we will make your transition pleasant and timely.

And if you opt for a turnkey design solution, we’ll bring the entire vision to life for you, right down to the accessories and final touches that make your new home move-in ready.

Lastly, I want to offer you some words of support in this time of change. At some point in all of our lives, we’re all going to be ready for a smaller, more intimate space. But that doesn’t mean it has to be stress-filled, scary, or lacking in the comforts we truly enjoy. What if your new home was full of happiness, relaxation, and a fresh, invigorating feeling? Count me in for that!

If you’re ready to simplify downsizing in all the right ways, we’d love to help.

Yours,
Faith