So you've finally decided to move. Utah has many great homes for sale, property prices are rising, and despite Covid, the job market is buoyant. It's a great choice for so many reasons. The local economy is strong. Outside of areas like Park City, the cost of living is very reasonable and is often below the national average. The climate is warm and sunny, the natural surroundings are just spectacular, and there are countless ways to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.
The first thing you probably want to do when moving is to make your new property feel right at home to you and your family. But how can you remodel a house so that it really becomes yours? Here are a few simple ideas to help you stand out no matter your budget.
Bring the things you love
There are sure to be special items in your current home that you appreciate. Things that tell the story of your life. Family photos, favorite pictures, ornaments, even pillows and throws. Don't forget the kitchen utensils – the coffee cup that makes every drink special or the perfect omelette pan that is just the right size. Have each family member choose some of the items that have special meaning to them. The challenge will not be to find things to bring with you. It will likely be how the things are selected that each person is ready to be separated from, even for a short time!
When packing your belongings in your current home, ship the “loved” items separately so that they arrive safely before most of your furniture. If you are coming by car, pack them carefully and take them with you. If not, choose a reliable courier company to deliver them as soon as you move in. That way, almost from the moment you arrive, you will be surrounded by those things that express who you are and bring you joy.
take your time
A mistake people often make when they move into a new home to fully furnish and equip it as soon as they move in. Unless you're a really talented interior designer (see below) the end result is likely a little overwhelming and the overall effect will be that things are too "tuned" or too coordinated. Whether you love antiques or cutting-edge, high-tech pieces, buying bulk items from a store or two doesn't always produce an aesthetically pleasing result. Far better to look for pieces over time. Choose items that speak to you and express your personality rather than trying to finish your interior design in as short a time as possible.
Transform the exterior of the house
When you're moving into a new home, one of the most impersonal and changing things about it is the outside world. However, it isn't difficult to change the look of a property with a few simple adjustments. Hard landscaping projects might seem a little daunting just moving in, but perhaps inexpensive and easy-to-install additions like patios or a fire pit can help you claim the outside space as your own. Adding some new plants – in the ground or in planters – is another great way to connect you to your corner of the natural world and express your individuality. Many people are surprised to learn that Utah's climate makes it easy to grow tomatoes, zucchini, peas, peppers, corn, and other foods that thrive in the heat and hours of sunshine. Just toss a few seeds in the rich soil and in no time you're serving organic salads from your own garden.
Integrate with the local style
If you are making a fundamental change in your lifestyle, for example from an urban apartment to a new rural house, the golden rule is: take the time to create a house that truly reflects your personality. At the same time you came to Utah. It is therefore a great idea to make design choices that match the local style. "Modern Mountain" is often used to describe the comfortable, functional chic of the look that many people find perfect for a relaxed, nature-loving lifestyle.
Check out local interior design magazines and websites like Utah Style and Design for inspiration and ideas. This type of publication is also a great source of contact for suppliers, manufacturers, and showrooms so you can create a plan of action as you explore the many wonderful options available. Fill your outdoor area with vegetation that is native to the region. That way, there is a greater chance that it will thrive in the local soil and blend in with the natural environment. Of course, you can add special accents to your favorite shrubs such as lavender and rosemary. Only focus on those that thrive in similar climatic conditions, even if they are originally from a different part of the world.
Partner of an interior designer
If your budget allows, invest in the skills of an experienced local interior designer. He or she will work with you to reinterpret your ideas and express your individuality in a design that incorporates the unique feel of Utah. Using a professional can be a smart investment. This will avoid wasting money on costly mistakes or programs that somehow don't do exactly what you want. Designers usually have contacts with local artisans so organizing the work can save you a lot of time and effort. They also know who is doing a good job and whose price is reasonable.
Most of all, before they start implementing a project, you are the one with final approval. So you will be assured that your home will feel like you and that the treasured items you brought with you when you first moved in will be included in the program. Hopefully they will have found their rightful place in your Utah home.
