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The Reveal We’ve All Been Waiting For! Caitlin’s Mostly Thrifted, Postmodern Regency Deco Living Room

I need you all to know that I am sitting down to write this post with the same manic-meets-panicked energy of Michael Scott during a fire drill. Like, OH MY GOD, IT’S HAPPENING. (In case you’re just tuning in – my name is Caitlin and I head up partnerships and revenue around these parts. You may know me from greatest hits like “Caitlin designs an insane bathroom” and “Caitlin tries and fails to buy a condemned house that’s falling off the side of a hill.”) Today, though, I’m FINALLY welcoming you into my actual living space (and it only took 3.5 years to build up the courage, so that’s something). 

Some context into the process, before we deep dive into the very personal photos up ahead: I’d say that this room was “collected” more than “designed.” Sure, there are a few new investment pieces in here – my dream swivel chairs, a classic rug, a modern record cabinet – but the rest of the room is filled with vintage furniture, family heirlooms, flea market finds, gifts from friends, and hand-me-downs from the big boss’ garage. (I am very lucky!!!) Here’s a quick reminder of where we started…

The Before

The good: a huuuuuge space (14’x20′!), original hardwood floors, plaster walls, beautiful moulding, a decorative fireplace, 1930s sconces, gorgeous windows, nearly 100-year-old hardware…SHEESH. The bad: well, it gets kind of hot? (I’m underselling – it regularly hits 90 degrees in here in the summer. It’s VERY HOT. But then I think about all of the people who buy sauna blankets and who love sweating, and about how my apartment – seemingly built of top-of-the-line insulating materials like “a piece of paper” and “a prayer” – is kind of like my own rent-controlled sauna blanket, and that helps.) All in all, it’s a beautiful place with incredible bones and I’m still so grateful that I get to live here, surrounded by so many special original details.

The Progress (Alternatively, “Trust The Process”)

This is where I last left you – most of the major pieces were in place, but I knew the layout, paint color, and styling still needed some SERIOUS tweaking. Earnest confession time: honestly, sharing this in-progress content left me feeling anxious and insecure. Like, my full-time job is to help the EHD team turn around beautiful, scroll-stopping makeovers in a matter of weeks…but this was as far as I’d gotten in my own home after years of collecting?

And while I could see the light at the end of the tunnel – I imagined new curtains, warm paint on the walls, two chairs flanking the fireplace, all kinds of stuff that made me feel excited and hopeful! – I also felt worried that my space wasn’t going to be “designed” enough to be internet-worthy, especially when I looked at all the beautiful, cohesive, seemingly uninhabited spaces on my Instagram feed. The absolute insanity of me – a journalism grad with 1. a business development background and 2. a tight budget – comparing my living room to the work of AD100 designers is not lost on me. But I couldn’t stop!!! I felt really disappointed in myself, honestly. The negative self-talk and self-flagellation were at an ALL-TIME HIGH, friends!!!

The After

…buuuuuut then I saw this image pop up on Sara’s laptop screen. (HI, WELCOME TO THE REVEAL PORTION!) It was the first photo we took, and, well, it took me WAY back in time. I thought about the 13-year-old version of myself who had designed a striped pink, orange, and green bedroom and who had filled that space with wicker furniture and chrome accents and geometric lamps. (I’ll link a photo on my IG as not to fry your retinas; proceed with caution.) 

So when I stood behind Sara and really looked at this picture, I just saw me. Like, that colorful (borderline abrasive?) style I had developed as a loud, strange kid? Turns out that I still have that same taste now, nearly 20 years later, as a loud, strange adult. It was a real “wherever you go, there you are” moment, you know?

Since the shoot, I’ve been thinking a lot about going back in time and meeting up with that weird kid in her nearly-neon bedroom – sitting her down, showing her these photos, and letting her know that it all does work out in the end (mostly, at least). Because friends, let me tell you: that lil’ freak who just wanted to get out of Delaware and who loved color and chrome and quirk would have FLIPPED OUT. She’d be overjoyed to live here, in Los Angeles (a lifelong dream!), in an apartment decked in her signature pink, orange, and green color scheme.

So after spending so much time worrying about how I’m stacking up to my “peers” (read: full-time famous designers who are by NO MEANS my actual peers in any way, shape, or form), realizing that little me would be SO proud to live in this apartment feels really fulfilling in a new way. It’s a welcome, WAY overdue change in my perspective. It may never be Elle Decor cover-worthy or Pinterest perfect, but it’s filled with things I love and it feels like a Lizzie McGuire set from the early aughts that’s enough for me. (FINALLY. Only took a photo shoot to get there, NBD.)

The Paint + Coffee Table

Paint | TV | Rug | Chairs

OKAY, ENOUGH BLUBBERING. Let’s talk about paint (because that’s a good transition, right?)! After a little bit of trial and error with my color selection (mainly “error,” TBH, as detailed previously here), I covered the walls with two coats of Pueblo from Sherwin-Williams and I couldn’t be more thrilled about how warm it makes this room look and feel. It’s technically a light orange (!!!), but it’s the perfectly barely-there, almost-pink shade – a little neutral, a little peachy, and SO GLOW-Y. We shot these photos in the late afternoon, and you’ll be able to see how the light and color change throughout the day as the sun goes down – it’s one of my favorite parts of living in this place.

I wanted to take a second to call out the vintage coffee table, too. It was a 2019 steal from AES of LA and it’s lived through every iteration of this room – I love that it’s statement-y, but not loud. The copper tray and stainless Georg Jensen vase were hand-me-downs from Em’s garage (zero qualms about mixing metals over here, can you tell?) and you can also spot my much-loved Horchow card box (copped for $25 on Chairish!) on top of a few recent book purchases from Hennessey + Ingalls. We kept the styling really true to life and only added some fresh flowers – I know I write a lot about maximalism, but it turns out that I like to keep surfaces pretty open in my own home. 🙂

The Closed Storage

Chairs | Ceramic Lamp | Rug

Let me set the scene real quick: I’m currently writing from this exact spot (it’s my favorite place in the apartment!). My go-to playlist is on shuffle, the sky is blue, it’s 76 and sunny (after three months of nearly non-stop gloom – what gives, LA?), there’s such a nice breeze coming in from the open window, and I’m getting occasional whiffs of clean laundry from the laundromat next door. IT’S SO DREAMY.

Speaking of dreamy…can we talk about that vintage campaign dresser? It’s a workhorse that stores everything from board games and puzzles to wallpaper swatches and tile samples. The ceramic lamp is new from Crate & Barrel, and I love how it’s a modern cousin to the original sconces flanking the fireplace. The green glass vase and pink glass bowl are both family heirlooms that Brenda shipped to me before we shot (thanks, mom!!!), and it’s fun to think that my love of color is at least a little genetic. 🙂

The Dream Swivel Chairs

Chairs | Ceramic Lamp | Rug | Cat (Similar)

You may recognize that Salterini end table from the last update – it was a Rose Bowl flea find that I’m still pinching myself over. I also can’t speak more highly of the swivel chairs. I knew I wanted upholstery here to balance out the leather sofa, but I didn’t want to invest in something that couldn’t stand up to pretty intense daily wear-and-tear (I spill everything – no joke, I literally spilled Hawaiian Punch all over the sofa while we were shooting – and Buffalo spends at least half the day scaling chairs like a feline Alex Honnold, so performance fabric was essential.)

To that end, Sunbrella was the only upholstery option that made sense for my life, and I was THRILLED to find the offerings at Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. I was immediately taken by the Costello Swivel Chair – customizable! Clean lines! No bulky cushions! The perfect arm shape for those of us who love to pull our legs up into our chairs! – and after ordering a few fabric swatches, I customized my pair with Sunbrella’s Performance Basket Weave in Almond fabric and Natural Wood bases. I’ve been living with these for 7 months and I genuinely couldn’t be more pleased – I love how they look (clean, modern), but I also love how they feel (comfortable, supportive) and how easy they are to maintain (seriously – if you’re only using Sunbrella fabric outdoors, you’re missing out).

A Lazy Gal’s Frame TV Hack

Chairs | ‘Yee Haw’ Pillows | Rug | Planters | TV

Um, hi, TEXTBOOK LIBRA REPORTING FOR DUTY. It’s not groundbreaking, but I love symmetry. A few other things I love: the vintage wooden sugar bowl on the left of the mantel (purchased from this Ukranian Etsy shop in 2020 – they’re still shipping and it’s a great business to support!); the old blue Anthropologie vase; and the little geometric candle, which was a gift from Em on our most recent team trip to Portland. And y’all, don’t even get me started on those Yee Haw needlepoint pillows – they’re so fun AND they’re from a small business in Texas, which rocks. (Who else grabbed one?!) I’ve had the embroidered Mexican Otomi pillow on the right for years – it was a Rose Bowl find and I never get tired of looking at the embroidery.

BUT WAIT, LOOK UP. You see that stack of books on the right side of the mantel? That’s actually the receiver for my Frame TV – I just wrapped it in a black book jacket right before we shot. There’s a famous Bill Gates quote that goes, “I choose a lazy person to do a hard job. Because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it,” and baby, IT’S TRUE. No need to make a fancy electronics cover or run wiring through the wall – just strip down a book, wrap it around your technical eyesore, and call it a day. www.lazygirldesignhacks.com

A Fun Planter

Planters | Cat (Similar) | Rug

I found these face-shaped planters at a Target in Glendale the night before we shot. I sent Bowser about a trillion texts about them (“Do you like these?” “Do you think they’ll look okay in the photos?” “Is this too weird?” “Am I overthinking?”)…and then I bought them anyway before she responded because the heart wants what it wants. (Nothing like repotting plants in the dark, amiright?) I think they’re kind of quietly kitschy – especially when paired with ponytail palms!!! Guys, it’s like they have little ponytails!!! – but most of my visitors haven’t really clocked the faces, so it’s like a fun inside joke with myself (and now with you, too).

An Updated Neutral Rug

Rug | Chairs | Media Cabinet

After years of writing “my apartment has the best bones and the best light,” it’s SO EXCITING to show you said “best bones” and “best light.” It’s so warm and bright, even at sunset – my favorite. 🙂 I wanted to honor the light and airy feeling in here, so I chose the Harwich Rug from Annie Selke to anchor the room. I love the timeless harlequin pattern – I think it speaks to some of the more classic architectural elements of my apartment (the moulding, the hardware, all that jazz). Beyond that, it can take a BEATING (read: daily maulings and clawings from a certain feline companion). It’s surprisingly comfortable underfoot and it’s held up beautifully over the past 7 months. If you’re on the hunt for a neutral rug with a little extra ~spice~, I’d wholeheartedly recommend this one.

Oh, and that vintage wicker duck basket is an all-time favorite of mine. I grabbed it 7 or 8 years ago from Pepe’s Thrifty Shop (there are two in LA – the one on Centinela is the good one!!!). Pepe’s genuinely has the best inventory, the greatest prices, and it’s owned by the sweetest family team. If you’re in the area, you’ve gotta follow them on IG and stop in sometime!

The Best Cheap Curtains, Shades, and Rods

Curtain Rods | Drapery Rings | Roman Shades | Curtain Panels

Well. Since I’m clearly not good at gatekeeping my favorite resources: LET’S TALK ABOUT MY CHEAP, FAST, AND GOOD WINDOW TREATMENTS. Y’all, these fooled Bowser and Sara – both gals thought they were gifted and custom, which is THE BIGGEST COMPLIMENT I COULD EVER RECEIVE.

From the top (make it drop?): I bought the French Rods and Drapery Rings, both in Bronze, during one of Ballard Designs’ 30% off sales (they happen frequently and they’re worth the wait). The cordless woven shades were from Amazon (about $40 each, and they come in a ton of sizes and colors – this one is “Squirrel”) and the curtain panels (in “Tuscany Green”) are currently on sale for $34 each. I used 7 rings per panel and I LOVE how they turned out (you know, in case you’re also the type of person who Googles questions like “where do I place my drapery rings” and “how many rings do I need” and “what’s the correct drapery ring spacing”). I’m really proud that I was able to outfit all the windows in here for the price I’d been quoted for ONE custom window treatment. Feel free to steal the formula for your own home!

A Vintage Tulip Table

Curtain Rods | Drapery Rings | Roman Shades | Curtain Panels

If you’ve been following along for a while, you may remember that this corner was my problem area…NOT ANYMORE! I considered a lot of different things for this space – game table? More storage? Sculpture? Large light fixture? – but then I saw this $120 vintage oak tulip table on FB Marketplace and was like, “oh, that’s what’s supposed to go there.” I love how this piece feels like it’s “friends” with the rest of the room – the white base speaks to the bookshelves and trim, and the wood speaks to, uh, the other ~15ish wood tones I have going on in here.

I’ve loved having a table in this corner, though – it’s fun for puzzles, practical as a bonus workstation, and it looks pretty freakin’ nice with a big bunch of branches, too. 🙂 Bowser grabbed this bundle of blossoms at the flower market in DTLA for only $20 (!!!) and a ton of blooms continued to open up in the weeks after we shot, which was such a genuine delight. (PS. Guess who gave me the big ceramic vessel – her name starts with “E” and ends with “mily Henderson.”)

A Little Decor Break

Media Cabinet | Circle Pillow | Rug

Welcome to the entry! The open space to the side of the door is typically reserved for my ice skating duffle bag (huge and ugly, so it did not make the cut for this shoot, but just know…it’s usually there). And man, I finally found the spot for my vintage horse mirrors!!! I bought them from Old Green Garage on a Rose Bowl trip with Jess in 2021 – our first excursion post-lockdown! – and I really, really, really love them. Speaking of vintage, you can spot the 1800s pear “box” that I grabbed in a Hungarian antique shop last November on the shelf right above the sofa! Thanks to a few brilliant commenters, I learned that what I thought was a ~fun souvenir~ is actually an $$$antique tea caddy$$$.

And while it’s not thrifted (finally, something from this decade to talk about!), I also wanted to call out the ceramic vessel on the top of the bookshelf, which was made by an artist I love named Scott Cooper. He’s based in Philadelphia (just a hop from my hometown in Wilmington, DE!) and I’ve purchased a few of his pieces over the years. All of his work is unexpected and irreverent and fresh – grab it while you still can!

The Best Vinyl Record Storage

Media Console | Record Player | Speakers

Pivoting around for a minute to show off my final new acquisition: the Keaton Media Cabinet from Room & Board. Y’all, I spent YEARS looking for this piece. My wishlist was incredibly specific: I needed something long (at least 60″ to fit a good chunk of my records), low (under 19″, to keep the windows functional), with closed storage (for blocking sun AND for blocking nosy cats), and with a simple shape (something that can work with any future styles or trends I decide to try). CHECK, CHECK, CHECK, CHECK. I grabbed the Keaton in white oak, pulled out the removable shelves, loaded it up with LPs, and it’s been the PERFECT base station for my little record zone.

All the decor on top is from the flea market with the exception of the blue glass decanter, which is another family piece that Brenda shipped to me before we shot. I’m so glad I got to document it like this! 🙂 And if you’re in the market for a high-quality audio setup that will not (majorly) bankrupt you, you cannot go wrong with a U-Turn Audio Record Player and these powered AudioEngine speakers. It’s easy to set up, aesthetically appealing, comparatively affordable, and it sounds WAY better than the all-in-one turntables out there. (PS. All the wifi/router/cord/mess situation in this room is just shoved behind the curtain on the left. www.evenmorelazygirldesignhacks.com)

A 1980s Sofa Moment

Shelving | Rug | Circle Pillow

It’s THE DREAM SOFA. I loved it, I loathed it, and then I learned to love it again. I bought this 1980s caramel leather baby sight unseen from Modtiques, an incredible vintage retailer in New Jersey…but when it arrived, I realized that I hadn’t considered that the shape (curved), material (leather), and construction (armless) makes it more of a “talking” sofa and less of a “lay down here and don’t move for the whole day” sofa.

Enter: the shaped, textured pillow. Instead of throwing the baby out with the bathwater, I realized I just needed to change the types of pillows I was trying to use here – this one from Crate & Barrel doesn’t slide off the leather, which makes the whole setup infinitely more comfortable and usable. PROBLEM SOLVED. And as it turns out, having a sofa that doesn’t make me want to waste the day lying prone and staring at the ceiling is kind of a win too, you know? It all works out! I love this sofa and I’m glad I learned to work with her. 🙂

A Little History

Shelving | Rug

Well, well, well…if it isn’t more vintage 🙂 The gold chrome lamp was a pandemic purchase from Lackluster.co that I topped with a cheap lampshade from the Rose Bowl; the wicker elephant was a 2017 Long Beach Flea find that I bought for a single $2 bill! (Can you believe it?!) Bowser and Sara pivoted him out so you could get a nice look – the table’s in awesome condition and I love him SO much.

One of my favorite pieces, though, is the little tiled tray on top of the elephant. It was made by my great-grandpa Frank! He passed away when I was pretty young (6 or 7, I think), but he worked with tile as a hobby. I have a few pieces he made (smaller ashtrays, larger trivets) and they’re all so cheerful and geometric and colorful. It’s so exciting that the pieces he made decades ago blend in so seamlessly here, you know?

My other favorite piece in this shot is the leather box on the bookshelf farthest to the right – it was my dad’s backgammon set. He passed when I was very young (18 months – I know that one for sure!) and while I don’t have any memories of him, I love that his things also fit in perfectly here. It feels nice to have a connection to my family, even though they’re no longer around. 🙂

Bookshelves (with Books!)

Shelving | Candles

And here’s some real up-close intel on SO MANY of my little treasures! The framed dog matchbooks on the left were a 2019 Christmas gift from Sara; the Carl Durkow candles up top were a 2022 Christmas gift from my boyfriend’s parents (literally was blown away when I opened the package – the Keenans knocked this one outta the park!!! I’m very lucky :)); I bought the pink vessel after writing about it here in a post about affordable accessories (purchased it minutes before the post went live, naturally); the chess board, lamp, and original chrome tangle are all flea finds; the “Doomed” art was a limited run piece in 2020 by my all-time favorite band, Los Campesinos.

I’ve always admired bookshelves that are styled a little more sparsely – you know, all curated vessels and objects in a cohesive palette – but I like to read, so I needed space for actual books, and I love to see all my little favorite sentimental pieces of decor displayed (even when they don’t technically “go together” – like, yes, of COURSE, I needed to display my tiny wooden mushroom forest next to a 1970s space age lamp). Overall, I love that the shelving units back here are a blank canvas with a ton of room to grow – I can’t wait to show you the next iteration someday in the future 🙂

That’s Just the Beginning…

Dining Room Wallpaper | Kitchen Wallpaper

On that note, HERE’S A SNEAK PEEK INTO WHAT’S NEXT. Lots of color, lots of wallpaper, and lots of fun. One day I’d like to get a big piece of art for the wall on the left to balance out the campaign dresser, but I’m still saving up for something special. (Dreaming of a Monica Ajenjo piece, TBH.) The dining room to the back is still a work in progress, but I CAN’T WAIT to show you the awesome $75 vintage china cabinet I just had delivered – it looks SO GOOD in there. (Did anyone catch it on my stories last week?!) I also finally hung my lucite ribbon chandelier! Just need some comfy dining chairs and some art and we’ll be cruising towards a shoot date. 🙂

The galley kitchen in the rear is almost ready to share, though…just finishing up a few hardware and lighting swaps. Are you ready for it?

But That’s All for Today 🙂

Nails

Here’s where I leave you – sitting in my favorite party dress with a champagne coupe filled with Hawaiian Punch. You know, JUST A TYPICAL TUESDAY. (Not pictured: me spilling all over myself and the sofa. You’ll have to imagine that one for yourself.) ANYWAY. If you’re also struggling with self-doubt and insecurity when it comes to the design of your home, I hope this helped a bit – we’re all our own toughest critics. I mean…did you notice that my TV is seriously off-center?! No one else ever does – and I didn’t have it fixed in the photos, because I wanted to keep it real! – but the idea of sharing all these small imperfections originally left me feeling scared. Now, though, it makes me feel kind of powerful – like, HERE’S MY HOME, MISTAKES AND ALL! It’s not perfect, but it’s perfect for me. 🙂

Signing off from my strange lil’ “1999 Limited Too Exec Time Travels to 2023″-style apartment. Thank you for being here. Any thoughts, questions, concerns? I’m ready to hear it all. WHAT SAY YOU? Let’s chat. See you in the comments. xx

*Design by Caitlin Higgins (me!)
**Styled by Emily Bowser
***Photos by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

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Justine
1 year ago

Oh, Caitlin. You have me tearing up at 4 AM! What a joyful space and such a beautiful introspection. Your home is bright, happy, and fresh! I am so thrilled for you. Thank YOU for letting us into your life over the past few years. I’m sure I speak for many of us when I say that you feel like a friend! Congratulations on a job well done.

Lucy
1 year ago
Reply to  Justine

Well said, Justine. Thanks for letting us share in your pride and joy, Caitlin. It’s beautiful!

Sarah
1 year ago

WOW! I just love this! It feels like you’ve lived there for years, in the best way possible. Bravo!!

Sarah
1 year ago

This is SO inspirational, and SO real. This is what I come here for. Brava! bellissima!

Anna
1 year ago

Beautiful home, full of personality! Nothing like anything seen before, original in every sense, with a happy and vibrant feel, but without being tiring to the eyes. Great work! Enjoy your beautiful home.

Karen
1 year ago

Hooray! This looks amazing! I love the personality in the room, in your writing and in your party dress. Fantastic

CAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTLLLLLLLIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OMG. This is by far my favorite reveal i’ve seen on ANY design site in a long time! for real. big time designers are definitely your peers because this is amazing and SO SO fun to look at. there are too many things to comment on and i need to get my kids ready for school (i’m already behind because i had to read this whole thing first). But I’ll just say for now, I FREAKING LOVE THIS. also, that dining room peek has me dying! must see. okay, back later with more comments.

Leslie
1 year ago

Whoa!!!! What a living room!!! YOU knocked it outta the park!!

Lisa
1 year ago

Oh MY!!!! This is so, so, so goood Caitlin!!! I love how your room manages to feel equally thoughtfully designed, incredebly fun and exciting and yet also like a really cozy, lived in space that I would absolutely love to hang out in <3 I am in awe of how you managed to bring together so many stand-out pieces without it feeling like a bunch of exclamation points all screeming "hey look at meeee!!! no, ME!!" and instead it actually feels really harmonious (but ya know in an exciting way ;)) I always love to hear your writing voice on here and this post and this ROOM is an absolute triumph!!! Also also also: that glimps from the living room through to the dining room and the kitchen?!?!? UGH DIVINE the wall treatments look so so SO good together and I CAN NOT WAIT to see the other rooms!!! Like "would sneak into your apartment and snuggly your cat while stroking your wallpaper"-excited (not to worry there is like an entire ocean keeping me from even attempting anyting of the sort but like mentally I am there deliriously happy about your pretty walls and beautiful things) I hope you are… Read more »

C
1 year ago

Caitlin, well done and thank you.

AK
1 year ago

Wow. Just WOW. It just exudes fun and charm and yes, a sense of great confidence. And for it being so very personal, it also just welcomes you in. This is my very very favorite reveal in maybe forever. Oh. And the greeeeeen curtains? Wow. Just wow.

Mandy
1 year ago

Caitlin, this is beautiful!! I am by no means a maximum design kind of girl but your living room is GORGEOUS! It feels like home in the best possible way. I would wholly disagree with you, this could be in any design magazine.

Elaine
1 year ago

Wow, Caitlin, wow. There is nothing strange about this apartment lady, it oozes collected, curated, and so cool. When you posted about those deco mirrors I knew this room would be something special and boy have you delivered something special. I’d definitely give you an AD cover!

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Allison
1 year ago
Reply to  Elaine

Elaine this is awesome! I came here to also say, this is 100% cover worthy! Love the way Caitlin has pulled together an original, breathtaking, fusion-thrifted design! Go Caitlin!! Looovvveee it and it deserves all the covers!

Katherine
1 year ago
Reply to  Elaine

This is so great and yes, agreed this room totally looks cover worthy!

🥰 Rusty
1 year ago
Reply to  Elaine

I LOVE this!!!!!💓

Christina
1 year ago
Reply to  Elaine

I love this cover and the text you added and I agree with all of it and your comment. You’ve created a wonderful space, Caitlin, that seems so very you. And it is inspiring to make my living room more me and therefore a bit more weird.

Breanna
1 year ago
Reply to  Elaine

1000% design cover worthy!

Abi
1 year ago

LOVE ❤️ LOVE ❤️ LOVE ❤️

You have such an eye for fantastic vintage finds and I love the low key animal theme you’ve created (elephants and horses and ducks, oh my!). The paint color is perfect, the rug really ties the room together and you should be incredibly proud of the space you’ve created. Will definitely be stealing that cheap curtain hack! Your style is so authentically individual which is what I love most of all.

Also very much enjoy the kitty who clearly demanded not to be left out of the shoot.

LouAnn
1 year ago

So. Many. Cool. Details. And yet they all somehow work together. Lovely, lovely space. Seriously there so much to look at here, it’s going to take a few reads!

Angela Evans
1 year ago

Your home is beautiful and it is perfection! Our homes are meant to be a reflection of the person living within, not a carbon copy of what’s trendy and you hit it out of the ballpark! I can’t wait to see the rest.

jenny
1 year ago
Reply to  Angela Evans

So well said!!!

Emily
1 year ago

Yayyyyy! I LOVE a Caitlin post! Your style is my favorite and your rooms bring me joy! Color makes me so happy and I am absolutely loving the palette here. The wall color is so lovely and ties it all together. That sofa is gorgeous although I’m imagining it to feel very sticky when it’s 90 degrees.
I can imagine feeling pretty stressed out about sharing your home on here but you have absolutely nothing to worry about. Caitlin- you can hold your own in a room full of fancy designers. Your instincts are spot on! Great job!

Erin Dae
1 year ago

SWOON! Fellow Libra here and I just want to stare at these pictures all day! My style tends to lean more traditional but your posts always remind me to keep things fun and go for pieces that I love. Absolutely gorgeous, and a wonderful way to start the week.

Anne
1 year ago

This post was equal parts informative, inspirational, hilarious, and just very touching. You’re a jewel Caitlin, a talented writer, and I can’t wait to buy your book someday. And this room!! So you, so cool, so playful but sophisticated. My style is totally different, and I still found myself looking for things to emulate. Bravo!

Reanna
1 year ago

Absolutely fabulous. Amazing. So pulled together with a core aesthetic. Love it!

Shannon
1 year ago

Love it all!!! You’re equally (and extremely) talented as a writer and a designer. Just beautiful. Enjoy!!

anotheremily
1 year ago

I LOVE your point of view and your writing. you have no reason to worry that your designs don’t compare; your home is consistently wonderful.

and WHY is your cat so cute

RachieT
1 year ago

You should be so proud, lovely lady, you. This is all So GOOD! And original. And cover-worthy. Talent, taste, voice… nailed it!

Dena
1 year ago

Thank you for being you! And sharing your unique personality and perspective- you are a breathe of fresh air (minus laundry detergent!). Love everything about your style!

Alexandre
1 year ago

Caitlin, I love all of this. It’s so beautiful and special. And the story about you as a teenager! Thank you for sharing! That shot into the dining room and kitchen? I do think it’s Elle Decor worth it! Can’t wait to see and read more.

Heather
1 year ago

Caitlin,

Love your writing, and your personality shines throughout this space. I seriously just want to come over, curl up on one of your swivel chairs with a glass of Hawaiian Punch, and just hang out. Love all the little personal touches and stories behind them. Thank you for sharing. The room is perfectly you and absolutely beautiful. Love the paint color!

Susan
1 year ago

Great post…love …love your livingroom. Where is your lamp ( stacked balls) that is sitting on your record console from?

Rachel C
1 year ago

What a joyful post for a Monday morning! I love your colorful and eclectic style Caitlin. It is really refreshing to see after all the farmhouse posts.

Emily
1 year ago

1) It looks amazing.
2) Limited Too Executive is an amazing description. I enjoy your writing deeply.

Aimee
1 year ago
Reply to  Emily

I was going to say the same thing! I haven’t thought about Limited Too since like fourth grade and man did this take me back (plus the Lizzie McGuire reference). So so fun!

Brianna
1 year ago

This post was a total delight and so heartfelt. Thank you for expanding my vision of what’s possible in a living room full of play and heart!

Sally
1 year ago

I’ve been wondering and wondering when this post would come, and it is really worth the wait. Am travelling and rushing to get a bus to my next destination but HAD to stop to read this. Seriously beautiful and filled with warmth and personality and interest. It’s just a lovely, lovely room and could easily fit in the pages of AD. Well done, and thanks for the inspiration. Looking forward very much to the final spaces!!!

Rebecca
1 year ago

Caitlin, this is perfection and now I am jealous of your perfectly styled bookshelves and the fact that you have that limited edition print from also my favorite band, Los Campesinos! Their prints are so good and this is the perfect place to bop around to 🙂

Jill
1 year ago

I can feel your joy!!! NEVER, EVER, EVER compare yourself or your work.

Elisabeth
1 year ago

Caitlin, you’re an absolute delight, as is the room. And “Cat (similar)” made me laugh so hard.

Sarah
1 year ago

Love it!
Is that a zodiac dress? Where can I buy it please.

Kj
1 year ago
Reply to  Sarah

It’s the Lotus Star Front Twist Midi Dress In Multi from FARM Rio.

Sal
1 year ago
Reply to  Kj

this is so impressive. your search skills are magnificent, Kj.

Mary B.
1 year ago

Caitlin – this room is so amazing! Seeing all of the treasures you have shared over the years plus the ones you’ve been holding on to for longer pulled together makes me smile! This room is YOURS – it’s beautiful, it’s welcoming, it’s real life. I love it!

Bethany
1 year ago

Caitlin. If you go for it, you’ll get to AD. You have the talent. And you clearly have the personality to engage not just clients, but also the media. I hope you do have clients- if not, go out and get them, and have the confidence to say, I can give you a beautiful, unique home with soul. It’s so fun to watch you- get out there and dream big, girl!

Holly Wight
1 year ago

Ive wanted a round, clear coffee table for ages!!!! Why so hard?!

Emma
1 year ago

I absolutely love your writing style is so funny. Thank you for your thrifty living room design I really like how you just made things work and it’s all so unique

Katy
1 year ago

I never comment on this blog but I had to chime in here. This room is INCREDIBLE! Such a unique style, I was just smiling the whole way through the post. And the photo of you at the bottom! It’s just so clearly a reflection of YOU—and really, what more can any of us ask for in our homes?
I always have a hard time buying little trinkets/cool or quirky items that speak to me when I’m out shopping, but your home is inspiring me to just go for it and trust that if I love it, it will find a place. Looking at all your beautiful items with such strong memories attached reminds me that those little items are what make a room personal.
Can’t wait to see more!

Lisa
1 year ago

I think the design of you apartment is amazing. Original, creative, completely random and also totally cohesive and in line with the architecture/feel of the place. You’re really a talent!

Katherine
1 year ago

Love it! What a unique and beautiful space. Your posts are always the best!

I love the lamp way up high on the campaign dresser—I also need to add lighting and have no lower surfaces. How did you deal with the cord—did you have to swap out for a longer one?

1 year ago

This reveal is absolutely stunning! Could hold its own on AD for sure while being absolutely YOU. At the end of the day, fi you have the resources, anyone can copy trends. Collecting and loving things into a cohesive space takes vision, perseverance, and self knowledge. I have a feeling this room is going to break the Internet too!

StephanieZ
1 year ago

It looks amazing and I love the view looking from the record wall into the dining room. Just so well matched. Rooms should always be this well collected.

Roberta Davis
1 year ago

Good story, Caitlin! And I like this room better than some I’ve seen in those hoity-toity magazines. Man, there’s a lot packed in here and it looks great! (credit to Bowser and Sara, too!). It’s definitely you- the grown-up you! And I love the paint color with the dining room wallpaper! And your kitty really knows how to class it all up with some impressive poses! (So many exclamation points!)

Jen A
1 year ago

Taking time to find the pieces you love and making it your own is the design lesson here, and it pays off in spades. You’ve mixed in just the right amount of new with your vintage finds to bring it all together. I want to lie down on that beautiful rug and spend the evening listening to records and just hanging out in your cool apartment. I agree with the others about the AD cover, you’ve nailed it! And your dress and image at the end are perfection. Shoutout to Emily and Sarah for helping you capture it all, too, which really helps the personality of it shine. Bravo!

C
1 year ago

Yes!! I agree with all the comments. It just works and reflects who you are. I had my doubts for this room when you shared the pieces you were collecting, but dang girl, you put them to together and turned this room into perfection with your artistic magical talent. What a fun gift you have.

M
1 year ago

Caitlin, I love your space so much! I love how it reflects your wonderful personality! Your voice is so distinctive and delightful and so is this space! Colorful but calming, eclectic and interesting. You brought together a lot of disparate elements and made them sing beautifully together! They say if you love something, it will work with all the other things you love. I have to admit, I am sometimes skeptical of that old adage, but you’ve proven it to be true here.
Getting to peek into your lovely historic apartment was such a great way to start my week. Thanks for the delight!

Julia
1 year ago

This is amazing!!!!!!!!! This is what I dream of my home looking like someday. I have so many quirky collectables from over the years and I dream of the day when I have a home of my own (no roommates) and have a living room as wonderful as this. One small thought I had about that place for the big piece of art until you’re able to afford your special something, get a big canvas and do a Rothko style painting! Would take one afternoon and could give you the balance and pop you’re looking for and you can customize colors to be exactly what you want.

Alexandra
1 year ago

Love everything about this reveal. The sherbet walls, the “cat (similar),” the bookshelves teeming with real(!!) books, the collection of curios, the voice of your writing … it’s all so good. Kudos on an inspired space! And on finding boyfriend in-laws who understand your taste and buy you rad candles … that’s a feat in and of itself.
P.S. Immediately added those face planters to cart. They are just the right amount of kooky, esp. with those drape-y, wild haired palms.
P.P.S. if ever you get tired of that chrome ball table lamp … I’d gladly take it off your hands. 🙂

Monique Wright Interior Design
1 year ago

Love it! Love the sofa, the curtains (which I also have! ;)), the paint color, the vintage finds and YOU! Such a perfect combination that creates some magic!

Proving yet again that you’ve always been cooler than I’ll ever be. 🤩