A home move is often a chance to rethink everything – furniture, decor, even the overall atmosphere. For one homeowner, relocating from a quickly renovated Brooklyn apartment to a historic Hudson Valley space sparked a shift in design philosophy. The new home, with its original beams and fireplace, offered a beautiful “blank slate” that felt too perfect without personal touches.
The Influence of Place
Two years into living in Hudson, the homeowner found herself drawn to the area’s slower pace and thriving artisan scene. Antique shops, makers, and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape began to shape her aesthetic. Rather than chasing trends, she embraced a more thoughtful approach to interior design. The result is a kitchen and dining area that feels deeply rooted in its surroundings.
The first major change was color. She replaced the bright white walls with Backdrop’s “Stromboli Chess Club,” a vibrant cornflower blue reminiscent of local wildflowers. Paired with a playful pink in the hallway, the color choice immediately injected warmth and personality into the space.
Hunting for Character
Antique shopping became a favorite pastime, with visits to places like The Antique Warehouse—a massive 40,000-square-foot trove of vintage finds. There, she discovered key pieces like a blue sideboard, an orange coat rack, and a miniature green chair. Embracing the “wear and tear” of these items, she found beauty in imperfections that a younger version of herself might have overlooked.
Beyond the shops, connections with local artists and makers further enriched her home. She showcased artwork from Millerton, floral arrangements by Amanda Bruns of Flowerkraut, and ceramic pieces by friend Rae Wilson, creating a space filled with conversation starters and cherished objects.
Small Changes, Big Impact
The homeowner wasn’t afraid to experiment. A nonfunctioning fireplace was transformed into a focal point with a skirted design—a tension rod, cafe curtains, and brass hooks creating a cozy, unexpected element. Lighting was addressed later, with a renter-friendly Tulip fixture casting a warm yellow glow that completely changed the room’s feel.
Ultimately, the home became a curated collection of stories: custom fragrances from Poured Candle Bar, postcards on the fridge, and artwork on the walls. Each piece reflects a moment in time, a memory from Hudson or beyond.
The transformation demonstrates how personal connection and thoughtful choices can turn a house into a home, one treasured object at a time.
The result is a space that doesn’t just look lived-in but feels deeply authentic, reflecting the unique character of its surroundings and the homeowner’s evolving tastes.
