Episode 730: Shop Your Own Home: The Low Buy July Decorating Reset You Didn't Know You Needed

Do you ever get the itch to redecorate your entire house—especially when you've committed to not buying anything new? You're not alone. During Low Buy July, that desire for something fresh and new can feel overwhelming. But what if the solution isn't at the store? What if everything you need is already in your home?

In this episode of Clutter Free Academy, Kathi Lipp sits down with Tenneil Register to explore the art of "shopping your own home." Tenneil, who brings a designer's eye to everyday spaces, shares how most of us have beautiful things in our homes—we've just stopped seeing them.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How to walk through your home with fresh eyes—as if you just moved in or you're browsing someone else's estate sale
• The importance of "white space" and how clutter becomes an invisible backdrop
• Practical steps for a home walkthrough that doesn't end in chaos
• Creative ways to repurpose everyday objects (think: vintage hardware bins for shoes, old trim turned into shelving)
• Why putting something away for 30 days can help you decide if you truly love it
• How to search for inspiration by object size, shape, and color—not just function

Key Takeaways

You don't have to be a minimalist to have a beautiful home. If you're a maximalist at heart, that's okay! The key is putting purpose and order to the pretty things you love.

Create a staging area. Use a folding table or guest bed to gather items as you walk through your home. Separate your favorites from maybes, and have a donation box ready for the no's.

Think about reassignment. Does this item need a new place in this room? A different room? A different season? If the answer is no to all three, it might be time to let it go.

Set a time limit. This process can have a domino effect—suddenly you want every room to look its best. Give yourself boundaries so you don't get overwhelmed.

Whether you're feeling the Low Buy July itch or simply want to fall in love with your home again, this episode offers practical, creative strategies to refresh your space without spending a dime.