East coast native to Midwest local. How this Des Moines interior designer finds joy.
From the bustling streets of the East Coast to the wide-open spaces of the Midwest, the journey of an interior designer finding her way in a new landscape is one of adaptation, creativity, and joy. For one East coast native to Midwest local, this transition has been more than just a change in geography—it has been a profound shift in lifestyle, aesthetics, and the very essence of design philosophy. How this Des Moines interior designer finds joy in her work and life is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever taken a leap of faith into the unknown, only to find themselves grounded in a place that feels like home.
The Journey from the East Coast to the Midwest
Leaving the fast-paced life of the East Coast was not an easy decision for this designer. The East Coast, with its rich history, diverse culture, and architectural grandeur, had been her playground for many years. Yet, the pull of the Midwest—a region known for its warmth, community spirit, and slower pace of life—was undeniable. The decision to move to Des Moines was driven by a desire for a fresh start, a chance to escape the frenetic energy of the coast and immerse herself in a place where life felt a little less hurried and a little more intentional.
Upon arriving in Des Moines, the contrasts were immediately apparent. The city, though smaller and less hectic, had its own unique charm. The sprawling landscapes, the expansive skies, and the friendly faces all contributed to a sense of belonging that she had not anticipated. The East coast native to Midwest local transformation was beginning, and with it came a new approach to design that was as much about the people as it was about the spaces they inhabited.
Embracing Midwest Aesthetics
In her new home, the designer quickly realized that the Midwest had a distinct aesthetic that was both refreshing and inspiring. Gone were the sharp lines and bold statements of the East Coast; in their place were softer, more organic forms that spoke to the natural beauty of the region. The Midwest’s design language is rooted in simplicity, functionality, and a deep connection to the land. This was a revelation for someone used to the more elaborate and often ostentatious designs of the coast.
How this Des Moines interior designer finds joy in her work is by embracing these Midwest sensibilities and integrating them into her projects. She began to incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, and clay, which not only complemented the local architecture but also brought a sense of warmth and comfort to the interiors she created. The muted color palettes, inspired by the endless fields and vast skies of Iowa, became a signature element in her designs. She found that by embracing the local aesthetic, she could create spaces that were not only beautiful but also deeply connected to their surroundings.
The Joy of Community Connection
One of the most significant differences between the East Coast and the Midwest is the sense of community. In Des Moines, the designer found that people took the time to get to know each other, to build relationships, and to support one another in ways that were often lacking in the more transient and fast-paced coastal cities. This sense of community has been a source of immense joy for the designer, as it has allowed her to build meaningful connections with her clients, colleagues, and neighbors.
In her work, she strives to create spaces that reflect the values and lifestyles of the people who live in them. Whether it’s a family home, a local business, or a community center, her designs are infused with the warmth and hospitality that define the Midwest. How this Des Moines interior designer finds joy is through the relationships she builds, the stories she hears, and the impact she can make in the lives of those around her. Each project is a collaboration, a partnership that results in spaces that are as much a reflection of the people who inhabit them as they are of the designer’s vision.
Finding Joy in the Everyday
For this designer, the move to the Midwest has also brought about a change in how she approaches her work and her life. On the East Coast, success was often measured by the scale of the projects, the prestige of the clients, and the speed at which everything moved. In Des Moines, she has discovered the joy of slowing down, of finding beauty in the everyday moments that make life meaningful.
She now takes the time to savor the simple pleasures of Midwest living—morning walks through the neighborhood, farmers’ markets on the weekends, and evenings spent on the porch watching the sunset. These moments of calm and reflection have not only enriched her life but have also informed her work. Her designs have become more thoughtful, more intentional, and more attuned to the needs and desires of her clients. How this Des Moines interior designer finds joy is by infusing her work with the same sense of peace and contentment that she has found in her new home.
A New Chapter in Design
As an East coast native to Midwest local, the designer’s journey has been one of discovery, adaptation, and growth. The move to Des Moines has not only changed her approach to design but has also deepened her appreciation for the role that space plays in our lives. She has learned that true joy in design comes not from following trends or making grand statements, but from creating spaces that resonate with the people who live in them, that reflect their values, and that enhance their quality of life.
In the end, how this Des Moines interior designer finds joy is a testament to the power of place, the importance of community, and the beauty of living in harmony with one’s surroundings. Her story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever made a bold move, taken a risk, or sought a new path in life. It is a reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards come not from where you started, but from where you end up.
