From Renovation to Real Life: The Journey Continues

You know a house is done when you stop stepping over sawdust and start stepping into quiet.

Teche didn’t get finished on a schedule — she got finished on a feeling. There were 31‑hour runs (yes, literally) where I barely slept, a Sunday with Patrick and Evie where the air smelled like paint and ambition, and a moment that suddenly made all the chaos worth it: when Evie, mid‑sprint across what had finally become a clean floor, skidded to a stop and turned to me, wide-eyed: “Mommy? I fink dis house is almost done.”

In that second, the walls stopped being walls. The rooms stopped being rooms.

That was it. The shift.

Suddenly, this wasn’t a flip full of deadlines and dust. It was a house with lungs.

The second the house became present. Intentional. Ready to be lived in.

From Chaos to Calm Underfoot

I’ve walked through enough flips to know what “listing‑day ready” often ends up meaning: floors still suffused with drywall dust, painter’s tape dangling from casings, baseboards coated in debris, hardware that doesn’t match. That’s never been my standard — and Teche made sure of it. By the time the final photoshoot rolled around, I had crawled on my hands and knees through eight hours of vacuuming, mopping, and hand‑polishing the original cypress tongue‑and‑groove walls and ceilings in the dining room.

Each pass wasn’t just about cleanliness — it was about respect. Respect for wood that had weathered decades, respect for a home that will carry decades more, and respect for whoever walks in next. This wood deserved reverence. It wasn’t just clean. It was cared for. Sure, I’m certain there is a paint touch up or 2, maybe a light fixture that needs adjusting, but nothing about this finished project feels rushed or careless.

This wasn’t fluff or finishing touches. The house didn’t just get wiped clean — it got given a second breath. Because if you’re going to ask someone to call a place home, the least you can do is make it feel sacred.

The Last-Minute Details That Made the Difference

Spare No Detail — Especially the Late‑Night Ones

Finishing a home isn’t glamorous. It’s in the tiny decisions that add up, the ones nobody notices, but can feel it when they’re missing.
The truth about finishing a home is that the smallest decisions take the longest.

The right hardware.

The correct temperature bulbs (because lighting matters).

Brass that actually patinas.

Paint touch-ups performed at hours when normal people sleep.

We swapped out every piece of tired, half-painted hardware. We aligned switch plates, patched corner joints, adjusted trim, polished surfaces until even the reflection felt deliberate. No band‑aids. No “good enough.” Not one corner was overlooked. It wasn’t about checking boxes — it was about asking the space to be ready, really ready.

And then came the staging — which was, admittedly, too fun for my own good. I styled until the rooms felt lived-in, not decorated; until every seat looked like someone had just stood up; until leaving the house felt genuinely difficult. Every surface looked like it had just been touched.

When you care — really care — you feel it. In the bones of the walls. In the grain of the wood. In the quiet hum of a space that finally, finally works.

Because Charm Shouldn’t Be a Victim of Renovation

Out front, I planted the cottagecore wildflower-inspired garden I’d dreamt up while drawing floor plans at midnight. Snapdragons. Jasmin. Creeping fig vine. Swaths of soft green stems and bursts of Red, yellow, and purple dancing in the Louisiana wind. It’s not for the MLS — and that’s fine. It’s for Sunday mornings, bare feet, and half‑drunk mugs of coffee in the quiet peeks of sunrise before the world stirs.

No spreadsheet calculates charm like that.

Because charm doesn’t just show up on paper — it settles in the bones of a place. And those are the details that stick with people, even when the finishes fade. But buyers feel it.

They always do.

This Isn’t a Flip. It’s a Rebirth

Call it heresy, but I almost hate the word flip for this project. The word feels too quick. Too transactional. Too empty. Flips are often all sheen and no substance — designed to photograph well and age poorly, to impress from the curb and disappoint once you open the cabinet doors.

Teche isn’t that. Not even close.

Let’s be clear: Teche wasn’t gutted and replaced. She was restored.

Where lesser flips rip out history and paste from Pinterest, this house got listened to. Her quirks were studied, not stripped. Her bones—solid cypress, aged brick, solid wood cabinetry—were never the problem. They were the blueprint.

Every change was a conversation between what she was and what she could be. Where to add softness. Where to hold the line. What to uncover, what to edit, and what deserved to stay exactly as it was.

Restoration is slower. It asks more of you. It doesn’t give you straight lines or clean answers. But it gives you soul. And that’s what Teche has now, tucked into every threshold and behind every re-hung door: a sense of self.

This wasn’t a flip.
It was a reclamation.
Of beauty. Of time. Of something worth keeping.

The Heart Behind the Work

This house may have been my vision, but it never would’ve come together without the people who showed up when it counted.

Blaise—my PIC and voice of reason— never faltered when the foundation needed to be rebuilt, the gas company gave us a 5 week delay, or tile needed to be re grouted (ok maybe that last one wouldv’e gotten to him had it not been for me taking matters into my own hands with a trip to Floor & Decor and a grout float).

Ian quite literally saved our A-words when he stepped up and took the entire project into his own hands after our first project manager couldn’t hack it. He spent early mornings, late nights, and every moment in between rewiring for my (many) light fixtures, plumbed everything just right, and somehow made Teche a well-oiled restoration machine after walking into sheer and utter chaos. In all these weeks, I’ve never once seen the guy without a tool in hand, rolling up his sleeves, ready to do what needs to be done and do it right. I fear he’s stuck with me now, because I’ve never met another contractor who quite lives up to his standard.

Then there are the ones who put the work in for no reason other than a love for our crazy crew.

Patrick ran point on furniture hauls, dumpster runs, and more cleaning and landscaping than anyone should have to do after a full work week. Teagan rolled up her sleeves and helped me scrub, stage, and get Teche market-ready like it was her own.

And then there’s Wrigley—who somehow made space where there wasn’t any. She captured the soul of this place through her lens, pitched in for late-night cleanup parties, and kept Evie so entertained that she never even noticed how much time Mama was pouring into finishing touches.

Because of them, Teche didn’t just get finished. She got loved. And you can feel it in every photo, every corner, every little detail.

The Last Word

Teche isn’t perfect. She was never meant to be.

Perfection ages poorly anyway. What she is—what we built her to be—is ready. Ready for the things that actually make a house matter. The messy kitchens and undone laundry. The late dinners that stretch into second bottles and unplanned dancing. The tiny feet, the laughter in the hallway, the messes that mean something.

She can hold all of it.

She started as a flip—sure. But along the way, she asked for more. More care. More patience. More of us. And we gave it, piece by piece, in paint touch-ups at midnight and hands-and-knees floor polishing, in choosing the right lightbulb, not just a lightbulb.

By the end, this wasn’t a renovation. It was a restoration. A making-right. A letting-be.

Teche didn’t just get finished. She grew into herself.

And if we did our jobs right, she’s ready to grow with someone else now.

Ready to Meet Her for Yourself?

If you’ve made it this far, you already know—Teche isn’t just another house on the market. She’s layered, thoughtful, and quietly alive in a way that only happens when a home is given time, intention, and love.

She’s ready for real life now.
Maybe yours.

Schedule your showing here:

Intentional, Edited, and Almost Done: Teche’s Not-Quite-Final Reveal

The dust has settled, the last coat of paint is dry, and 105 Teche is no longer a before—she’s the after they warned you about. But make no mistake, this isn’t just a run of the mill flip. What began as a sagging structure with promising bones has been fully transformed into something soulful, intentional, and design‑forward. Every corner holds a detail, every surface a story.

As someone who eats, sleeps, lives, and breathes the world of real estate and interior design, I knew this house was about more than square footage and comps—it was a chance to blend architecture, artistry and authenticity. We’ve already touched on the major shifts—layout changes, structural reinforcements, the improved flow that now defines the space—but today I want to take you deeper. I want to walk you through the intention behind the selections, the moments of craftsmanship that flew under the radar, and the bold design calls that gave Teche her new identity. She’s almost market-ready, but we’re showing our cards early.

A Shower Moment, But Make It Cinematic

First stop: the bathroom that sets the tone, then takes it one giant step further. Dark, dramatic marble tile now flows up the walls, enveloping the space in moody sophistication. The intention was clear: we wanted contrast, texture and a hint of luxury that didn’t feel ostentatious.

The star in this space is the brass shower system. It doesn’t scream for attention, it wears like jewelry: precise, textural, and exactly right.

The shower niche is proof that a detail can be both functional and quietly show-stopping. The scalloped tile layout plays with repetition and restraint, alternating between bold, large-aggregate terrazzo and a finer, more grounded mix. It’s texture without visual noise. Framed in coordinating brass trim, the niche breaks through the dark marble surround with just enough warmth to catch light, not steal it. Every finish here is speaking the same language: edited, layered, modern. It’s the kind of designer bathroom detail that makes a space feel intentional, not overworked—proof that functional elements don’t have to disappear.

Why this works

• Navy marble does the heavy lifting, creating a rich, dramatic backdrop that anchors the entire bathroom without begging for attention.

• Brass finishes punctuate the room’s darker palette, adding warmth, reflectivity, and a sense of patina that connects the space to the rest of the home’s vintage-modern language. In a room of saturated tone, brass offers just enough light play.

• The terrazzo niche adds a layered texture, a surprise detail that shifts the space from “luxury bathroom” to “bespoke design moment.”

• The juxtaposition of dark, reflective stone with warm metal and articulated terrazzo demonstrates a controlled risk: bold, but rooted in restraint.

• The added beaded moulding, painted to match the wall, bridges the gap between the brass trim and the rest of the space—keeping things cohesive, with just enough cottagecore to soften the modern edge.

Soft Neutrals, Strong Lines: A Modern Take on the Primary Bath

From the moody intensity of the navy marble bath, we transition into something quieter—but no less considered. The primary suite bath trades saturation for softness. It’s calm. It’s architectural. A quieter kind of bold.

Hand-cut vertical stripe tile draws the eye upward, adding subtle movement and emphasizing height. On the floor, golden marble veining softens the geometry, grounding the room with a more organic pattern. The fluted freestanding tub sits at the center—sculptural but not showy, anchoring the space without feeling heavy.

And the wall-mounted brass faucet? Vintage-inspired, beautifully tactile, and quietly confident. It balances form and function the way great fixtures should—elegant, purposeful, and built to last.

Design intentions:

• The vertical tile does more than stretch the walls—it gives the room rhythm. Quiet but deliberate, it keeps the space from feeling static.

• Honey veined marble underfoot softens the structure. It adds just enough movement to ground the geometry without stealing the show.

• The fluted tub is more sculpture than statement. It anchors the space, but doesn’t dominate it—form doing exactly what it should.

• Antique brass fixtures bring warmth in all the right places. Wall-mounted, vintage-referenced, and chosen for the way they’ll age, not shine.

• Nothing matches—but everything speaks the same language. The space isn’t coordinated. It’s composed.

Soft Utility: Where Design Meets Daily Use

The original kitchen layout had the sink awkwardly shoved to the left of the window—a placement that made no sense functionally or visually. So we moved it. Centered it. Gave it a view.

Now, the faucet sits exactly where it should: anchored beneath the window, framed by light, aligned with the outdoors. It's no longer an afterthought—it’s part of the composition. Everyday tasks feel just a little less routine when they happen in a space that was actually designed to be lived in. The unlacquered, vintage-inspired brass fixture ties back to everything Teche got right: cohesive, era-appropriate, and fully functional for real life.

And because this house was always meant to hold life, not just stage it, we made sure to test that theory. This house was never meant to be precious. It was never about creating a space too perfect to touch—it was about designing a home that could take a breath, hold a moment, and look even better after it’s been lived in. We didn’t just design the kitchen to look good in photos. We let it live. Really live. We broke in the floor by dancing on it. We pressure-checked the layout by spinning in circles. We gave the countertops a real audit by letting a four-year-old climb on them and cackle at full volume.

And in those moments, something clicked. The design didn’t fall apart. It embraced us. The light landed in the right places. The foundation proved rock solid. The space worked—because it was made to. It’s easy to forget, in the world of curated stills and showroom-perfect walkthroughs, that homes are meant to be a little loud. A little messy. Full of little fingerprints and inside jokes.

What we built here isn’t just resale-ready—it’s life-ready, the good, the bad, and everything in between. And that’s the part you can’t fake. You can feel when a house was designed with heart. When someone thought about real life unfolding inside it. This kitchen isn’t just where you’ll plate dinner. It’s where someone will practice spelling at the counter, where you’ll take a breath between emails, where you might one day hold a tiny human mid-laugh and realize—you built something great.

A sink with a view is nice. A kitchen that holds a moment like this? Priceless.

The kitchen was never just about trendy cabinet colors—it had to work for actual life. Preferably loud, barefoot, and standing on countertops.

Not Just for the Photos

You don’t always notice good design in the moment. It’s not loud. It doesn’t announce itself. But it changes how you move—how you pause, how you breathe, how you connect. It shows up in the way a room supports your rhythm without interrupting it.

This kitchen wasn’t built for show, but to hold the weight of real life—quiet mornings, quick meals, late-night pacing, a glass of water at the end of a long day. If you feel more grounded in it without knowing why, that’s by design.

Design isn’t just visual—it's spatial memory. The kind that sneaks up later, when you walk into a different kitchen and realize something feels off.

Good design doesn’t insist. It just works—quietly, daily, and often without credit. But if it makes someone feel more at ease in their own space? That’s the point. Always was.

Built for the Life Inside It

While we arranged textures and details to impress, at the heart of Teche is the invitation to live. This home is not a showroom—it’s a backdrop for real life.

The final photo shoot, for example, wasn’t about perfection. It was about capturing laughter in the kitchen, glasses clinking under that sculptural light fixture, moments of arrival. Because houses don’t just become homes—they become scenes, core memories, integral parts of each and every one of us.

The Mindset

When we design a space, we’re not setting a scene—we’re creating space for real life to step in. The laughter, the mess, the late-night pacing, the slow mornings. We don’t cover that up. We make room for it.

The design choices matter (in fact I obsess over them). But what brings a house to life is always the people. The energy it holds. The stories that haven’t happened yet but feel close.

This one came together with the kind of team you want in your corner. The kind that knows when to push, when to pause, and when to crack open a bottle on the floor before the light bulbs are even in. It felt less like a project, more like a shared vision that actually landed.

Teche isn’t just nearing the finish line. She’s getting ready for whatever—and whoever— comes through the door next.

Joy, unstaged.

Next up: The finishing layers, the list-day plan, and a new standard for Lafayette flips.

The renovation’s nearly over—but the story’s just warming up.

This isn’t just a run of the mill flip rushed for the sake of a “for sale” sign, this is a chapter we still live in, breathe in, and show up for together. Our team, more like a scrappy collective than a crew, leaned into the chaos: hanging cabinet hardware in heels (guess who), collective panic over gas company delays, all hands on deck to decode my paint instructions and light fixture placements, drywall dust in shoes, and that moment when the door moldings finally aligned. We didn’t slip away silently—we stayed to peel back the final layer, untuck the details, and test how it all felt in real life. 105 Teche wasn’t built to be perfect.

It was built to meet you where you are.

And all the moments you see here? Captured beautifully by Wrigley Smith, who somehow managed to capture the mess, the magic, and all the quiet in between. You can follow her work here.

FAQs

• What does “design‑forward flip” mean?

  A design-forward flip isn’t about packing a house with trendy upgrades—it’s about designing with intention, from structure to finish. It means asking better questions at every stage: How does this space function day-to-day? What should it feel like at 7 a.m. with sunlight pouring in—or after dinner when the house gets quiet? Instead of defaulting to resale-safe choices, we focused on proportion, flow, and timeless materiality. A flip doesn’t have to feel temporary or generic. It can feel collected, livable, and quietly bold.

  Teche is that philosophy in practice. We moved the kitchen sink to align with the window—not just for symmetry, but to bring the outdoors into a daily ritual. We chose unlacquered brass because we wanted materials that age with the house. We added bead moulding and warm wood tones to soften harder lines, keeping one foot in her cottage roots while updating her for modern life. Every edit—from the terrazzo niche to the window casings—was made to support the space, not steal from it. It’s a house that was rethought, not just redone.

• Why invest in high-end finishes when flipping?

  Because buyers feel the difference before they know what they’re looking at. You can walk into a house and instantly tell whether it was thoughtfully renovated or rushed to market. Details like unlacquered brass fixtures, bespoke cabinetry, or custom tile work don’t just look elevated—they signal care, longevity, and a point of view. And that’s what makes buyers fall for a home, not just buy it.

  These aren’t upgrades for the sake of flash—they’re decisions that create emotional connection and perceived value. In a crowded market, the flips that linger are usually the ones that feel flat or forgettable. But when a home has been edited with intention—where the materials, palette, and layout all work in quiet harmony—buyers take notice.
  
  But a design-forward flip doesn’t mean blowing the budget on luxury everything. We hunt for pieces that look high-end, feel durable, and still let the margins breathe. It’s about having a vision and refusing to settle—even if that means scouring every corner of the internet or every aisle at the big box stores. (Just ask Patrick—he watched me scroll through every faucet on Amazon and every vanity at Home Depot. Twice.)

• How do I source timeless finishes that won’t feel trendy next year?

  Start with an audit of your explore page. If everything looks the same, you’re missing the point.

  Timeless design doesn’t come from copying, it comes from creating. It’s less about what’s popular and more about what holds up. Look for materials that wear in, not out. Real stone with natural quirks. Metals that patinate. Fixtures that feel like they belong to the house, not the Pinterest board.

  You don’t need to blow the budget, you need to know what reads as considered. I’ve sourced Amazon faucets that pass for vintage and mixed them with polished stone and custom vanities without blinking. It’s about the composition, not the cost.

  And yes, it takes time. Think: 74 open tabs, comparing the curve of spouts, filter settings set to “brass only,” endless photoshop renderings, and one poor contractor watching me spiral as I unpack the wrong fixture shipped from Amazon… again. But when the palette hits, the scale’s right, and nothing feels like it’s trying too hard? That’s when it works.

• How do you stay true to your design style while flipping multiple properties? Don't they all end up looking the same?

  Start by letting the house speak—and actually listening. On that first walkthrough, before demo, before Pinterest boards, you can usually feel what the house wants to be. The lines, the light, the layout (even if it's broken)—they all leave clues. You’re not forcing a look onto a space. You’re pulling the right version of it out.

  From there, staying on brand doesn’t mean stamping the same style onto every project. It’s about working within a consistent design language: warm metals, tactile materials, tonal restraint, layered contrast. Things that feel edited, not overworked. Even when the architecture shifts, your point of view doesn’t have to. You just calibrate the mix.

  For me, that means brass shows up often, but it lands differently depending on the room. A fluted detail might move from sink to tile. A certain type of veining shows up again—not because it's a formula, but because it belongs.

  It’s never about matching past projects, but about making the next one’s final product feel inevitable. Like it was always meant to look this way—even if it took some demo (and maybe even tears) to get there.

• What comes after the listing goes live?

  The work doesn’t stop at the final photo edit or when the staging pillows are fluffed. Once the listing hits, it turns into a sprint—but a curated one. It starts with how the story is told: social content that actually reflects the design process, captions that go beyond “just listed,” and visuals that show more than angles—they show intent.

  The showings matter, but so does the experience within them. Lighting adjusted. Tools Gone. Kitchen island styled. Let the finishes speak. Let the layout guide. It’s about giving buyers space to feel something.

  Then there’s the follow-through. The email responses that don’t sound templated. The detail sheets that highlight why that wall was opened up, why that faucet was chosen, why this flip doesn’t feel like a flip.

  Because a buyer isn’t just walking into a house—they’re stepping into a decision. Maybe the biggest one of their lives to date. Our job is to make sure it all feels intentional. Every touchpoint, every room, every material—designed to not just show well, but live well.

• What’s left to finish at Teche?

  We’re down to the final layer—the kind of details that most people overlook, but that actually make the space feel finished. A few light fixtures still need to be installed (yes, even more are coming). Laundry room cabinetry is next. Gas connection is scheduled so the new range can do its job.

  We’re also swapping out a few pieces of door hardware—touchpoints again—and making sure every outlet and switch plate cover is matched and intentional. Paint touch-ups are happening, grout is getting sealed, and we’re walking the house with fresh eyes before the final tidy-up.

  It’s not quite the big reveal yet. But almost.

From Chaos to Cottagecore: Teche’s Design Risks, Budget Breakthroughs & Cozy Aesthetic

Real Talk Before the Pretty Pictures

Flipping a house is basically like signing up for a group project where you’re the leader, the note-taker, and the one buying snacks—except the snacks are $7,200 worth of tile you absolutely cannot justify.

That’s been the journey at 105 Teche. We started with a house that felt more “structurally haunted” than “dream home”. But after months of foundation fixes, roof replacements, and late-night design debates, it’s turning into something that’s both functional and… dare I say, pretty charming.

If you’ve been following along, you know the vibe has shifted from “what did I get myself into?” to “wait, is this about to be my best flip yet?” Let’s break it down—design risks, budget wizardry, and a heavy dose of modern cottagecore.

Modern Cottagecore Without the Cliché

When you hear cottagecore, you might picture mushroom mugs and gingham everything. Cute, but not sustainable when you’re designing for real buyers (and not just Instagram). What I’m aiming for here is modern cottagecore—which means blending cozy nostalgia with clean, livable updates. This renovation is about enhancing and staying true to the spirit of the home while still giving it the thoughtful updates that still make it not just livable, but a dream living space.

Think:

• Textures that feel layered, not chaotic. Plaster walls, warm wood tones, textiles that look collected over time.

• Colors with personality. Nothing sterile, nothing too “builder beige.” Just rich hues that feel alive without screaming.

• Patterns in moderation. Checkerboard floors, wallpaper in unexpected spots, terrazzo-inspired tile. Small doses that make you pause, not panic.

The point is to create a house that feels warm and welcoming—but still fresh, functional, and move-in ready. A space with soul, not a Pinterest board cosplay.

Budget Tricks That Saved This Flip

I’m all for bold design choices—my budget, not so much. That’s where a little creativity (and a good dose of stubbornness) really saved the day.

Checkerboard Tile: Dream vs. Reality

In my head: a dramatic, magazine-worthy checkerboard floor running through the kitchen, dining, and laundry.

In reality: $7,200 quotes that made me laugh-cry into my calculator.

Solution? DIY. We got in the car, drove the Great American Race: Lafayette Flip Edition, and finally sourced affordable tile at Lowe’s, laid the pattern ourselves to make sure the thickness/exact LxW measurements were compatible for our pattern, and cut the cost down to a whopping $650. It was a little chaotic, a little back-breaking, but totally worth it. I stood firm on my design non-negotiable that shaped the project from day one, and the budget stayed intact.

Strategic Material Swaps

Sometimes it’s less about compromising and more about pivoting. Instead of overspending on “must-have” finishes, I found affordable dupes: terrazzo-inspired porcelain instead of true terrazzo, plaster-textured paint instead of imported limewash. Luxury materials for accents/small spaces, and tried and true budget friendly tile for larger footprints (while still being on trend and vibe obvi). Each choice keeps the aesthetic intact without tanking the bottom line.

Bathrooms That Refused to Be Basic

Bathrooms are always where flips can tip into either “safe and boring” or “sterile modern style departure” territory. Not at Teche.

Primary Bath

This space got the quiet confidence treatment:

• Calacatta Marble inspired floor tile for subtle pattern and texture.

• Fluted standalone soaking tub for the vibiest escape of all time.

• A layout that feels functional and calm, not fussy.

It’s earthy and understated—but in a way that feels intentional.

Secondary Bath — The Dark Horse

This is the one that surprised me. It’s small, sure, but that just gave me permission to go bold:

• Ocean-blue terrazzo floor tile (TileBar’s “Kobe Flakes Ocean Blue”)—playful and moody all at once.

• Matte microcement navy shower walls—they absorb light, creating a cocoon-like vibe that makes the tub pop, while still introducing a more natural texture that ties the room into the design flow of the rest of the house.

• Shower niche with arched alternating luxury tiles—the kind of unexpected detail that elevates the whole room.

When I shared the mockup with friends, the group chat exploded with heart eyes and “okay but what tile is that??” That’s when you know you’re onto something.

Tiny Details, Big Payoff

Cottagecore doesn’t really live in the oversized gestures—it’s in the details you almost miss at first glance, but can’t stop noticing later.

Like the wallpaper mural in the laundry room, turning what’s usually a “close the door and forget it” space into a spot that actually feels intentional (yes, even folding socks deserves a view). Or the addition of dentil trim accents, those subtle architectural touches that give otherwise plain edges a sense of craftsmanship.

Then there’s the vintage-toned brass plumbing fixtures—warm, lived-in, and just enough patina to avoid the too-shiny “new build” look. Pair that with paint colors chosen like a playlist—every shade in conversation with the next, cohesive without being predictable.

And of course, the lighting. Nothing random, nothing filler. Each fixture placed to shape the mood, not just illuminate it. The result? A house that doesn’t feel “flipped,” it feels considered. Designed. Like someone cared about the small stuff.

Conclusion — Still in Motion

Teche isn’t done yet, but the progress feels exciting. Risks are paying off, the budget hasn’t collapsed, and the house is finally shedding its “before” energy.

We’re heading toward the fun part—staging, finishing touches, and eventually listing—but for now, I’m just enjoying this in-between moment where vision and reality are finally syncing.

And yes, I’m still open to mirror and sconce suggestions. Or laundry wallpaper votes. Or any unsolicited design hot takes. You know where to find me.

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Quick FAQs (Because People Always Ask)

• Q: How do you pull off modern cottagecore design without it looking cliché?

  A: Balance. Too much floral wallpaper and it screams costume, too many niche/trendy light fixtures and it feels cheap. But pair vintage-inspired touches (like brass fixtures and botanical artwork) with modern functionality (like updated layouts and smart lighting), and you get cozy luxury without kitsch.

• Q: Is a cottagecore aesthetic actually practical for a flip house in Lafayette?

  A: Absolutely, when done right. Buyers love character, and the cottagecore aesthetic layers warmth into a renovation. The trick is being intentional: wallpaper in a laundry room instead of every wall, brass plumbing fixtures instead of builder-basic chrome. Those details sell (and I have the eager potential buyer DMs to prove it).

• Q: What’s the most budget-friendly upgrade that makes the biggest impact?

  A: Paint. Always paint. At Teche, carefully chosen palettes gave each room personality without adding unnecessary budget spend. Lighting comes in second—swap one boring overhead for a statement fixture, and suddenly the whole vibe changes. These are also the most DIY friendly upgrades, and labor costs are always the first to get out of hand in a home renovation. Say it with me: Sweat Equity.

• Q: How did you decide on the paint colors?

  A: Like curating a playlist—you want every track to feel different, but still cohesive. Each color was chosen in conversation with the next. Neutrals with depth, moody accents for contrast, and no sterile whites in sight. Unlike most flips that have 2 colors: trim and wall, we really went for maximalism here in color and sheen variation.

• Q: What’s trending in Lafayette real estate design right now?

  A: Loaded question, but at the risk of oversimplifying I can attest to this: Buyers are leaning toward cozy, character-driven spaces. Think: textured walls, mixed metals, vintage-inspired furniture, and warm neutrals. The farmhouse-gray trend is fading, and personality is back in.

• Q: Why bother with details like dentil trim or niche tile accents in a flip?

  A: Because they make buyers stop and feel something. Anyone can recognize a mass-market flip. But a dentil trim detail or tiled shower niche tells people the house was designed, not just renovated. That’s the emotional hook. This also isn’t your typical “quick flip turned investment property,” at our price point and level of detail, this isn’t so much a “flip” as it is an upscale restoration destined to be a lucky buyer’s forever (or for a long time) home.

• Q: How do you keep a flip on budget without it looking cheap?

  A: Spend where it matters—tile, fixtures, lighting—and save where you can DIY. At Teche, the checkerboard floor went from an almost 7 figure estimate to a little over $500 total with a scrappy Lowe’s hack. Buyers notice the design, not the receipt.

From Structural Fixes to Style Moves: The Teche Flip Gets Serious

Future project manager vibes. Teche’s tiniest fan staking her claim on the porch before we even picked paint colors.

The Parts You Can't Undo—Now Done

We’re officially past “demo looks worse than it started,” and well into strategic chaos. The bones are stronger, the flow’s clearer—and we might have stumbled into literal bathroom daylight. Here’s your deep dive into the latest chapter at 105 Teche.

This phase is where most flips either start sinking or start making sense. For us? It’s the latter. We're laying the groundwork for something that looks effortless but is anything but. Every beam, every floorboard, every color swatch—it’s all part of the plan.

Built Different (Literally): The Foundation Overhaul

First thing we tackled? The literal foundation. We went full overhaul—ripped out every questionable board and rebuilt from the dirt up. It’s now level, sound, and ready for the next 50 years (or just a very chic resale). Not the sexiest part of a flip, but definitely the smartest. No more soft spots or “should this floor bounce?” moments.

A solid foundation doesn’t just mean safety. It means you can design without fear. Add tile without cracking. Move walls without guessing. Hang art where it should go, not just where studs happen to be. Trust—it’s worth it.

Yard Cleared. Vision Loading.

We finally said goodbye to the rogue tree stumps that were threatening to trip everyone who dared to enter. The yard has been fully cleared, leveled, and prepped for future landscaping—aka actual usability. It’s now giving “afternoon garden party” instead of “survival training course.”

Clearing the yard also made it easier to visualize the exterior’s future. Think garden beds, string lights, a gravel dining area, maybe even a vintage metal bistro set. We’re not overdoing it, but we’re definitely not letting this space be basic.

First draft of new floor plan for 105 Teche

Layout, Leveled Up: We Built a Real Third Bedroom (and a Non-Cursed Bath)

The old layout was doing the bare minimum. We’ve reframed the third bedroom and carved out a completely new space for the second bathroom—moving it from its former awkward situation inside the laundry room to a much more logical and functional location. Think thoughtful flow, modern layout, and way better vibes.

The third bedroom instantly ups the resale appeal, especially for second-home buyers or small families. It’s compact but intentional—no wasted square footage. The new bathroom location also brings symmetry to the home, making it more livable without tacking on unnecessary additions.

AI rendering of the space, not actual design plan.

Kitchen + Living Room Now Speaking Fluently

The major wall between the kitchen and living area? Gone. We installed a sleek support beam that holds everything up without cramping the open-concept style. The space now breathes. It’s brighter, more social, and finally feels like a space someone would actually want to live in.

Removing that wall changed everything. The natural light travels farther. The furniture layout options just multiplied. It no longer feels like three separate boxes—it feels like a home. The support beam gave us function and form, and it’s kind of the unsung hero of the flip so far.

Surprise! Natural light in the primary bath is now in the cards.

Demo Surprise: A Window We Didn’t Know We Needed

During bathroom demo, we uncovered what can only be described as a hidden gem: a completely covered-up window behind the old shower wall. It’s now a highlight in the future master bathroom plan—bringing in soft, natural light and instantly elevating the space. Sometimes demo gives back.

Finding that window shifted our entire bathroom design strategy. It gave us permission to lean into light tones and textures instead of compensating for a dark, moody space. Expect a spa-like layout with modern cottagecore undertones—brass fixtures, leafy textures, clean tile lines, and maybe a framed print that says something cheeky.

Fresh paint, a brand new roof, and major curb appeal—105 Teche’s glow-up is officially in motion. Greek Villa + Evergreen Fog never looked so good.

Teche Gets Dressed: Greek Villa Meets Evergreen Fog

We’ve officially chosen exterior paint colors and yes—they’re perfect:

• Brick: Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa (SW 7551) – a warm, creamy white that reads timeless

• Trim/Shutters/Ceiling: Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) – a calming, muddy sage that feels earthy and modern all at once

It’s soft, inviting, and just the right amount of elevated. Very much “Lafayette traditional meets design-forward curb appeal.”

Painting the exterior is one of those moments where the house finally starts looking the way it feels. The palette is subtle but intentional—neutral enough to sell, distinct enough to stand out. Once it’s painted, it’s going to turn heads in the best way.

We’ve also installed a brand new roof. It’s not a flashy update, but a fresh roof equals clean lines, better insulation, zero leaks, and solid resale value. Sometimes boring is beautiful.

The current roof was holding—but barely. The new one ties the exterior together, quiets the house down, and just feels better. You don’t think about a roof when it’s done right. And that’s the goal.

A little photoshop imagination of the primary bath—mood, not blueprint. Expect warmth, curves, and cottagecore energy.

Plotting the Primary Suite: Smart Storage, Better Flow & No Weird Plumbing

With the bathroom now completely demoed, we’re officially in the planning phase for the new primary suite. The goal? A layout that actually works—zoned spaces, hidden storage, and brassy fixtures that feel vintage without the weird plumbing. We’re mapping everything out to maximize light (shoutout to the surprise window), optimize flow, and build in comfort without unnecessary square footage bloat.

We’re sketching out vanity placement, debating tile finishes, and figuring out if we can sneak in a linen closet without sacrificing breathing room. This is where the flip starts to feel personal—even if it’s for a future buyer.

The Flip’s Coming into Focus

This stage is less about Pinterest and more about priorities. It’s dusty, it’s structural, and it’s setting the stage for the finishes to shine. The big moves are done. The framework is in. Now we get to start layering in the charm.

Every choice now builds toward the reveal—the vibe, the livability, the resale moment. We’ve done the heavy lifting. Now it’s about doing the right pretty.

Q+A

• What’s the overall design style of the 105 Teche Drive flip?

  We’re blending modern function with cottagecore charm—think natural textures, vintage-inspired finishes, brass details, and a floor plan that actually makes sense. It's Lafayette-traditional meets Pinterest-saved-with-intent.

• What paint colors are you using on the exterior of the house?

  We chose Sherwin-Williams Greek Villa (SW 7551) for the brick—creamy, timeless, and soft—and Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) for the trim, shutters, and porch ceiling. It’s organic, neutral, and very Lafayette-front-porch-chic.

• How are you reworking the floor plan?

  We opened up the wall between the kitchen and living room, added a structural support beam, reframed the third bedroom, and relocated the second bathroom to a better spot within the main footprint. It flows now—without adding extra square footage.

• What’s the story behind the window discovery during demo?

  While demoing the old master bathroom, we found a fully covered window behind the shower wall. It’s now a major design feature, bringing in natural light and completely changing the feel of the future primary suite. A literal bright spot.

• What are your plans for the primary suite?

  We’re designing a functional, stylish suite with great flow, smart storage, and vintage-inspired finishes. Expect brassy fixtures, earthy textures, and a layout that feels custom without the custom-home price tag.

• How does this flip balance design and resale value?

  Every decision is a mix of what looks good and sells well in Lafayette. We’re preserving original charm (like wood cabinets), using timeless materials, and skipping low-ROI upgrades (like luxury appliances or major structural additions).

• Why move the second bathroom out of the laundry room?

  Because laundry room bathrooms are NOT it. The new layout puts the bathroom in a proper location, improves flow, and makes it actually usable for guests or future homeowners.

• What are the benefits of doing a full roof replacement?

  New roofs aren’t glamorous, but they’re essential. The updated roof will improve energy efficiency, resale appeal, and peace of mind—plus, it ties the entire exterior upgrade together.

• Who is this home being designed for?

  Anyone who wants a space that feels intentional, looks good, and doesn’t require a full-on renovation just to function. It’s stylish, practical, and move-in ready—with enough charm to stand out and enough comfort to settle in. It’s ideal for anyone who appreciates good design without the pressure of doing it themselves. It’s cozy, practical, and pretty—in that order.

Design Detox: Flipping the Switch on Lifeless Interiors

Why “Millenial Gray” has GOT to go

Remember when everything was gray? Cabinets, walls, curtains—HGTV perfection. But here in Lafayette, what once felt modern now comes off as cold and cookie-cutter.

Why Gray Took Over

It was the perfect neutral: easy to match, appealing to a broad audience, and a safe bet for resale. In the 2010s, gray was basically the Swiss Army knife of paint colors.

The Gray Problem:

1. Mood-Vacuum: Gray absorbs heat and character—great in chilly rooms, not in humid Louisiana spaces.

2. Overdone: Walk through Acadiana’s newer developments, and you’ll spot gray fatigue.

3. Characterless: Gray walls mute the vibrancy Lafayette buyers crave.

Other Overplayed Trends

Remember when every Pinterest board and HGTV episode was drooling over barn doors? Rustic charm! Farmhouse fantasy! Joanna Gaines-core! In Lafayette, they popped up everywhere—from River Ranch to subdivision flips.

At first, they gave open-concept homes a little architectural drama. But now?

• They Don’t Slide Smoothly. Ever tried quietly closing one during a Zoom call or after a baby’s bedtime? That screech could wake the whole neighborhood.

• Privacy? What Privacy? Unlike traditional doors, barn doors don’t seal fully. Great for aesthetics—not so much for bathrooms, bedrooms, or home offices.

• Dust Collectors. That gorgeous exposed track? It collects every bit of South Louisiana pollen and dust, and good luck cleaning behind it.

• Awkward Space Planning. They often block walls that could’ve held shelving or art—design sacrifices that don’t make sense anymore.

More Trendy Features That Lost Their Spark

1. Shiplap Everything
   What started as a sweet nod to coastal charm turned into overkill. Entire walls—and sometimes ceilings—plastered in shiplap now feel like you’re living inside a wood crate. Minimal is in, not millwork mania.

2. Industrial Lighting Overload
   Matte black cage pendants and Edison bulbs were cool… until everyone had them. Now they feel dim, overdone, and kind of impractical in kitchens where actual visibility matters.

3. Sliding Barn-Style Pantries
   Looks charming, sure—but if you actually cook, you’ve probably knocked over a spice rack or two trying to maneuver the door open with one hand and a hot pan in the other.

2025 Aesthetic: Warm, Textured, Soulful

Think caramel taupe, olive greens, terracotta, and navy accents—2025 design outlook champions warmth and texture steadily.com. Layered neutrals and wood tones are finding a place in listings across River Ranch, Greenbriar, and downtown.

How to Update Warmly

• Choose an accent wall in mustard or olive while keeping other walls neutral.

• Swap cool-toned hardware for brass or bronze.

• Introduce woven rugs and wooden blinds to soften edges.

• Bring in greenery—plants are mood-enhancing and make gray feel more alive.

323 Thibodeaux Drive Lafayette, LA 70503, presented by Paige Gary, District South x Real Broker, LLC.

Case Study: Lafayette Spotlight

Take 323 Thibodeaux Drive, presented by the always incredible Paige Gary of District South x Real Broker LLC—this stunner skipped the tired millennial gray entirely. Instead, it showcased rich stonework, warm wood tones, and thoughtful textures throughout. The result? It sold at list price—$1.35 million—on its very first day on the market. Proof that Lafayette buyers are ready for luxury that feels warm, intentional, and refreshingly un-basic.

Bored of beige and ghost gray? I’ve got the antidote.

Done with gray’s dull embrace? Message me—whether you're staging a sale or hunting for homes with more heart.

Living in a Time Capsule: What to Do When You’re Stuck with a Dated Rental Kitchen

You walk in and—bam—you’re back in 1953. Pastel tile backsplash, clunky cabinets, appliances from another era. It’s vintage chic… until you try cooking anything beyond reheating pizza. But here’s the good news: you can completely transform your rental kitchen—no demolition, no permission, zero landlord drama.

Know Your Lease Boundaries

STOP! Put the power tools down. Most leases frown on permanent changes. Think drilling, painting, tearing things off walls. But smart décor? Totally fair game. You deserve a kitchen that feels you, not like a museum exhibit.

Rent‑Friendly Upgrades That Actually Work

Peel‑and‑Stick Backsplash

Vinyl and PVC options are cheap and easy; gel or faux stone look incredible—Bold advice: clean walls well, fill seams, use a hairdryer when removing, and pick neutral tones for versatility.

Contact‑Paper Counter Covers

Faux-marble or wood-grain films conceal laminate disasters and peel off cleanly at move-out. A personal favorite? Rub ‘n Buffed contact paper over a dishwasher to make it look like copper patina or brass. One TikTok tip: apply clear contact paper first to protect surfaces during removal .

Hardware Swaps

New drawer pulls and knobs are like jewelry for your kitchen—and removable. Choose warm metals like brass or copper for instant luxe appeal.

Plug-in Lighting

Under-cabinet LED strips or puck lighting brighten dark counters and create ambiance with zero rewiring.

Portable Storage: Carts & Open Shelves

Slim rolling carts tuck in gaps and add function. Floating shelves (command-strip mounted) offer style and utility. Small-space hero? Joseph Japanese-style cabinet organizer—doubles your storage, no drill needed.

Statement Rugs & Window Treatments

Kitchen runners hide scuffs and add personality. No-drill curtain rods soften the space and elevate window vibe.

Lean Into the Retro Charm—With a 2025 Twist

That pastel backsplash? Keep it—but layer on modern elements. Think mid-century mugs, enamelware, smart lighting, and open shelving. Embrace the nostalgia without sacrificing function.

When to DIY vs When to Embrace

DIY It: If the kitchen is functional but ugly—do tile, swap lighting, add decor.

Let It Be: If plumbing’s sketchy or cabinets sag—lean into the character and live with it (safely)

Can’t renovate? Doesn’t matter. You can reimagine. Share your kitchen pics—I'll help you make it look (and feel) like home.

Lafayette’s Hottest Home Design Trends for 2025: What Buyers Are Loving

112 Avoyelles Drive, Lafayette, LA 70508

Lafayette, Louisiana isn’t just a hub of culture and cuisine—it’s also a hotbed of stylish, functional home design. As we step into 2025, local buyers are more design-conscious than ever. Whether you're staging to sell or updating your forever home, understanding Lafayette's unique design trends will give you a competitive edge. Here’s what’s dominating the scene in Acadiana homes this year.

Warm, Earthy Color Palettes with Cajun Character

2025 is ushering in colors inspired by nature and the Louisiana landscape. Think mossy greens, rich terra cottas, cypress blues, and sandy neutrals. These colors create a calming environment and complement Lafayette’s natural light.
Hot Tip: Use matte finishes and two-tone color blocking to make a room pop without overwhelming it.

Open Concept Is Evolving—Think ‘Zoned’ Open Spaces

The open floor plan isn't gone, but it’s being reimagined. Buyers now prefer layouts that offer visual openness while defining individual spaces for work, play, and privacy. Sliding glass doors, built-in bookcases, or ceiling treatments create division without closing off the space.

Southern Modern: The Perfect Lafayette Style Fusion

Lafayette buyers are loving a modern twist on Southern architecture. This trend mixes clean lines and minimalist decor with rustic elements like reclaimed wood, wrought iron, and French doors. Black window frames and barn-style lighting are major favorites.
Why It Works: This aesthetic feels fresh yet timeless—ideal for Lafayette's blend of tradition and innovation.

Smart Kitchens with Intentional Design

Today’s Lafayette kitchens are embracing a modern, fresh design that blends luxury with practicality. Homeowners are gravitating toward clean lines, soft neutrals, and intentional storage solutions—like oversized walk-in pantries, built-in spice drawers, and concealed appliance garages. Statement pieces like a Viking stove or custom range hood are becoming the heart of the kitchen, marrying performance with high-end style. While the overall aesthetic is leaning contemporary, there's a noticeable shift away from the all-white look. Bold, colorful backsplashes and painted cabinetry—especially in muted blues, greens, and clay tones—are making a strong comeback, adding warmth and personality to these elevated spaces. Quartz countertops with gentle veining continue to outshine marble for their durability, low maintenance, and sophisticated appeal, but granite islands in statement blues and greens are beginning to make an appearance as well.

Outdoor Living That Extends the Home

Outdoor spaces in Lafayette are now extensions of the home, not afterthoughts. Covered patios with ceiling fans, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and screened seating areas are becoming must-haves. Landscaping with native plants like Louisiana Iris and gulf muhly is on the rise.

Energy Efficiency Meets Aesthetics

Eco-friendly upgrades are trending across all price points. Homeowners are integrating smart thermostats, tankless water heaters, and solar panels with design-forward thinking. Expect sleek, modern solar shingles and energy-efficient windows that don’t compromise style.

Design Choices That Help Sell Faster

If you're preparing to list, subtle but strategic upgrades make a big difference. Fresh paint in trending colors, replacing outdated light fixtures, and staging with local artwork or Cajun touches can speed up offers and increase perceived value.

Top 3 Quick Wins:

• Install statement lighting in dining areas

• Upgrade cabinet handles and bathroom mirrors

• Use light linen drapes to enhance natural light

Lafayette Style Is All About Balance

The Lafayette design scene in 2025 reflects what the region itself stands for—balance between old and new, tradition and innovation, utility and beauty. Whether you’re designing your dream home or preparing to sell, these trends ensure your space resonates with today's buyers.

Need advice on upgrading your Lafayette home for resale?

Contact me today for a complimentary design consultation that aligns with the local market trends!