Edit with Intention: How to Fall in Love with Your Home

There’s a quiet kind of magic that happens when your home truly reflects who you are. It’s not about chasing trends or filling every corner with something new—it’s about editing with intention and finding inspiration that speaks to your life, your style, and your story.  I often work with clients who feel overwhelmed by their spaces. They’ve collected beautiful things over the years, but something feels…off. The rooms don’t flow. The energy feels cluttered. The joy is missing. That’s where editing comes in.

Step One: Clear the Visual Noise

Editing your home is like editing a great story—you remove what doesn’t serve the narrative. Start by walking through your space with fresh eyes. Ask yourself:

• Do I love this piece?

• Does it serve a purpose—functionally or emotionally?

• Is it helping or hindering the overall feel of the room?

Let go of the guilt that comes with parting ways with items that no longer fit. Donate, repurpose, or store them. You’re not erasing memories—you’re making space for new ones. It is okay to be attached to some items emotionally and keep them as they are part of your story but if something doesn’t have a purpose and is stressing you out it is time to pack up and donate! Two of my personal favorites are Green Drop and Gone Girl Home. Anyone else ride around with a trunk full of donate bags just a little too long? 😊

Step Two: Find Your Inspiration

Inspiration is everywhere, but the key is to look with intention. Here are a few of my favorite ways to spark creativity:

• Take a walk through Old Town Alexandria. The historic architecture, layered textures, and charming storefronts are full of ideas waiting to be translated into your home.

• Create a digital mood board. Pinterest and Instagram are great, but don’t just save what’s trendy—save what makes you feel something.

• Visit local makers and boutiques. Alexandria is full of talented artisans whose work can add soul and story to your space.

• Look inward. What colors calm you? What textures make you feel cozy? What memories do you want your home to evoke?

Step Three: Style with Purpose

Once you’ve edited and gathered inspiration, it’s time to style. This is where your home becomes a reflection of you.

• Layer thoughtfully. Mix old and new, soft and structured, bold and neutral.

• Leave breathing room. Not every surface needs to be filled. Negative space is powerful (absolutely one of my musts in designing spaces).

• Tell your story. Display meaningful art, travel finds, or family heirlooms in ways that feel intentional.

The Result? A Home You Love to Live In

When you edit with care and design with heart, your home becomes more than just a place—it becomes a sanctuary. A space that energizes you in the morning and welcomes you at night. A space that feels like you.

So this summer, I invite you to slow down, look around, and ask: What do I want my home to say about me? Then start editing, styling, and living with intention.

You might be surprised by how much joy you uncover in the process.

A few of KTI’s favorite places in Alexandria for design inspiration and special pieces: 

• Old Town Townhomes, front doors, window boxes, and small space gardens.

• Red Barn Mercantile for Walter G pillows and napkins. 

• Eries Interiors for amazing local art.

• The Torpedo Factory and waterfront always a great place for inspiration and finding a perfect piece of art.

• Swings Coffee and running into so many wonderful and inspiring neighbors…and the best flat white.

• Helen Olivia Floral for the most stunning and colorful arrangements are an insta mood booster in our home.

• GW Trail —a restorative walk in every season resets my mood and always brings inspiration. Sometimes it’s a beautiful color combination or composition that inspire or just the space for my brain to think clearly.

This week please share with us on Instagram how you edit your home and what you are finding inspiration in! Tag us @KristinTryInteriors and @AlxStylebook We could all use a dose of what is bringing you joy right now! Cheers! 

SEE ALSO: KTI Project Underway: A Basement Built for Living, Hosting, and Everything In Between