A Look Back at the Details, Design, & Lessons Learned
We did it! We made it through another project. As we wrap things up, I want to take a step back and reflect on what inspired this home, the details that brought it to life, the experience along the way, and, most importantly, what this project taught me. Let’s dive in!
01 / THE INSPIRATION: The Vision Behind the Design
The story of a home envisioned with intention
People often ask where my inspiration comes from when designing a home. With this particular parade home, I wanted to draw from the things that had been inspiring me at the time while creating a space that felt warm, inviting, and ready to welcome a family.
I found myself drawn to traditional elements, the character of antique pieces, and the charm of vintage details. There is something special about incorporating pieces and finishes that feel as though they have a story to tell, even in a brand-new home. I wanted this home to feel collected over time rather than designed all at once, striking a balance between old and new that would give it a sense of history, character, and timelessness.
This vision came to life most clearly in the Hearth Room, which quickly became one of the defining spaces of the home. With its rich color, traditional influence, and collected feel, it captured the warmth and character I wanted to carry throughout the design. More than just a beautiful room, it helped establish the tone for the entire home and became the starting point for the story I wanted each space to tell. And while it felt risky in the moment, I trusted my instincts and I am so glad that I did.
02 / THE DETAILS: Every Single One Counts
A closer look at the details that brought the home to life
For me, the details are what make a home feel truly special. They are often the elements that might go unnoticed at first glance but, when brought together, create a space that feels layered, thoughtful, and full of personality. With Highland Glen Manor, there were so many details I fell in love with along the way.
The soft elegance of the antique pantry door, the deep vibrancy of the Hearth Room, and the glasswork in the library are just a few that stand out. I also loved the layout of the library itself, and the sense of comfort it created. Each of these elements brought something different to the home, whether it was a sense of warmth, a touch of history, or a little unexpected character.
I believe these are the details that make a home feel personal rather than simply finished. It’s not always about making a grand statement; sometimes, it’s about the smaller choices that work together to create something meaningful. Every finish, texture, and design element contributes to the bigger picture, and it’s that combination that makes a home feel complete.
03 / THE EXPERIENCE: A Balance of Beauty & Function
Thoughtfully designed for the beauty of everyday living
How do you balance functionality without sacrificing beauty, and vice versa? For this home, I approached the design by treating the main living spaces as “home bases.” These rooms became the foundation for the rest of the home, allowing me to establish a sense of cohesion before branching out and introducing more color, depth, and personality through the details.
I believe a home should be just as functional as it is beautiful. After all, a home is meant to be lived in, and the spaces within it should support the rhythms of everyday life. But functionality doesn’t have to mean playing it safe, just as beauty doesn’t have to come at the expense of practicality. To me, the best designs are the ones where the two naturally work together.
Starting with a strong foundation in the main living areas gave me the freedom to build upon that framework, allowing each adjoining space to develop its own personality while still feeling connected to the home as a whole. It was in the details that I could introduce those extra layers of character, whether through color, texture, or the thoughtful selection of finishes and materials.
Ultimately, I wanted Highland Glen Manor to feel like a home first and foremost: welcoming, livable, and full of character. Every space needed to serve a purpose, but it also needed to feel special. When beauty and function are considered together from the beginning, the result is a home that not only looks beautiful but feels just as good to live in.
04 / THE TAKEAWAY: Lessons in Design
Design wisdom that extends beyond these walls
Every home teaches me something, and sometimes, it teaches me a few things along the way. Highland Glen Manor was a reminder to trust my instincts and, once I make a decision, to own it.
One of my biggest uncertainties throughout this project was the Hearth Room. Positioned right at the front of the home, it was a space I chose to drench in color. As much as I loved the direction, I couldn’t help but wonder if it was too much. Would it feel overwhelming? Would the boldness translate the way I had envisioned? It was a big design decision, and one I had to learn to feel confident in.
I had to remind myself to trust the process, trust the design, and lean into the vision I had from the beginning. Sometimes, it’s easy to second-guess yourself when you’re stepping outside your comfort zone. But I’ve learned that those moments of uncertainty can lead to some of the most meaningful decisions, both in design and beyond.
In the end, the Hearth Room became one of my favorite spaces in the entire home. Looking back, I’m so glad I trusted my instincts and allowed the space to become exactly what I had envisioned. It reminded me that the choices that feel the most uncertain at first can sometimes become the ones you’re proudest of. And it translated into the rest of the build and design process of this home.
More than anything, Highland Glen Manor taught me to trust my gut, stand behind my decisions, and have the confidence to see a vision through. Not every decision will feel certain from the start, but sometimes, you have to trust yourself enough to keep going.
And with that, we close the door on spotlighting my 2026 Utah Valley Parade Home. Thank you for following along as we revisit some of my work and share the stories, decisions, and details behind these homes. It’s been a joy to look back on this one and I can’t wait to dive into the next!
