From Overwhelmed to Overjoyed: Lynn's "Refined Vintage Oasis" Transformation

How one client's journey from bathroom addition to whole-home renovation became a masterclass in trusting the design process

The Beginning: A Simple Bathroom Addition

Lynn's story started like many home renovation tales, with a simple need for an additional bathroom. What began as a straightforward project quickly evolved into something much more complex and overwhelming. After consulting with a general contractor and architect, Lynn found herself facing decisions she'd never anticipated making.

"I had been overwhelmed in looking at adding a bathroom," Lynn recalls. "I previously had a pretty modern aesthetic. I loved bright colors and linear lines and geometric shapes. But I was also avoiding that Pottery Barn look—I wanted something different but didn't know how to find what I liked in this different way."

The Search for the Right Designer

Lynn's path to finding the right design partner wasn't immediate. She interviewed competitors, explored options with big-box retailers like Crate & Barrel and Room & Board, but nothing felt quite right. "I wasn't realizing at the time, holistically, I needed more," she explains.

A referral from a Pottery Barn associate eventually led her to HouseHome, where she connected with designer Mariah during a special consultation offer. But even then, the relationship took time to develop.

The Moment Everything Changed: The Stove

The transformation of Lynn's project and her trust in the design process came down to one pivotal shopping trip. Lynn and Mariah were looking for modern, flat ranges when something unexpected happened.

"I don't know how it happened. Honestly, I don't," Lynn laughs. "In the span of one hour, she had introduced the fun oven! A modern classic with vintage front design but all modern features."

That day, Lynn said "screw the plan"—architect plans, cabinet plans, everything went out the window in favor of this one perfect piece that would become the heart of the home.

Building Trust Through the Process

What followed was a gradual building of trust between client and designer. Lynn admits she was initially hesitant: "It was really, really hard to trust at first." But Mariah's confidence and gentle guidance helped Lynn navigate the overwhelming number of choices ahead.

"She doesn't get mad at me when I second-guess or throw out alternatives," Lynn notes. "We kind of have this agreement that she has the last vote, and she'll say, 'I think we're okay with this one.' But with a kind heart, and that's what I need."

The Power of Letting Go

One of the most transformative moments came when Lynn had to travel during the final installation phase. She left boxes of her priceless artwork and personal heirlooms for Mariah to unwrap and place throughout the home.

"I would've never put anything where they put it. Nothing," Lynn admits. "I hadn't seen any of it in two and a half years since I wrapped it up. It was like Christmas for Mariah to see me through the years and what I had collected. The placement was more than I could have imagined. Seeing pieces of my Mom especially was just so special. And to see where her eye was so much better than mine for these placements, it really showed me - wow - this is a legitimate Interior Designer - it was such a beautiful surprise. The whole house was like a present to unwrap. "

The Grand Reveal

The moment Lynn returned home was everything a design reveal should be. "I went to the city offices first, but I got to come home that night. It makes me so proud. I want to brag, I want to have people here," she says.

The transformation was complete—from a modern aesthetic to what Mariah dubbed "Refined Vintage Oasis," centered around that perfect stove with its brass and black finishes flowing throughout the home.

Beyond Beautiful: A Home That Hugs

More than just aesthetically pleasing, Lynn's home achieved something deeper. "It hugs you when you come home," she explains. "And I always wanted a house that hugs you when you come home."

The design successfully incorporated Lynn's personal art collection, preserved the home's original architectural details like woodwork and fireplace brick, and created unexpected moments of beauty in spaces like the laundry room that exceeded all expectations.

Lessons for Future Homeowners

Lynn's journey offers valuable insights for anyone considering a renovation:

Start with trust: Even when it's hard, trusting your designer's vision often leads to better outcomes than you could imagine on your own.

One perfect piece can change everything: Don't be afraid to let a single element you love drive the entire design direction.

Every room matters: Spaces like laundry rooms and storage hallways deserve the same design attention as kitchens and living rooms.

Let go of preconceptions: Sometimes the best design comes from moving beyond your initial style preferences.

The Lasting Impact

Today, Lynn's home stands as a testament to what's possible when client and designer work together with mutual trust and respect. The project not only transformed her living space but also created what she describes as a "lifetime friendship" with her designer.

"This house hugs you," Lynn reflects, looking around at spaces that perfectly blend her personal history with thoughtful design. "And that's exactly what I wanted—a home that embraces you the moment you walk in."

For homeowners feeling overwhelmed by the renovation process, Lynn's story is a reminder that with the right design partner, even the most daunting projects can become sources of joy and pride.