In the spirit of love week, I’d like to talk about one of my favorite ways to express love. I know this may come as a shock to some of you, but design just happens to be at the tippy top of that list. Designing and decorating a home is a complete labor of love. If you have built a home from the ground up, I know you agree with me on this. From both a construction and design standpoint, the amount of attention and detail that is given to a home really is incredible.

When building or designing your home, for most, the ultimate purpose for taking on this task is to create a place of love and safety for the ones you adore. It’s more than lumber, shingles and drywall, but it’s a safe haven for the most special people in your life to gather and write new precious memories together. As a designer, I believe part of my job in loving my family is designing a home that speaks to them just as much as it speaks to me. This is also the approach I take with my clients.

If you’re building or gearing up for a little home makeover, I challenge you to incorporate the ones who fill your home with love in the decision making. Ask your hubby which room is the most important to him and let him join in on making some selections. Give your kiddos creative freedom in their own space. You don’t have to let them paint the walls purple but teach them the importance of creativity and get them involved in designing their room.

Building and designing a home can be stressful and overwhelming, but don’t forget the ultimate reason you’ve chosen to take on the adventure. When the stress hits, give yourself a moment to imagine the endless family activities and memories to come once your project is complete. It can be messy and unpredictable but keep your eye on the prize. An intentionally designed home is a home designed with love and anything with love at its core will always prevail.