48. Home: Why Design Matters - The Real Value Behind Beautiful Spaces

Why Interior Design Is About So Much More Than Just Aesthetic

Let’s be real for a second: interior design isn’t just about making a space look pretty. Sure, that’s part of it, but what’s the point if it doesn’t feel right? A well-designed space is more than just eye candy. It’s about creating an environment that shapes the way we think, feel, and experience life. In our latest podcast episode, I’m sitting down with interior designer Jaclyn Steele Thurmond to talk about the power of design and why it’s about so much more than just picking out throw pillows. We dive into her journey, her design philosophy, and what it really means to create a space that supports and elevates your life.

Jaclyn’s Design Journey: A Lifelong Love Affair

Okay, first of all, Jaclyn is basically a design prodigy, and she didn’t even know it. She was sketching architectural plans as a kid just for fun—no formal training or fancy terminology in sight. It wasn’t until later that she realized this wasn’t just a random hobby. As much as Jaclyn loved music, there was something about the art of customizing spaces that kept pulling her in. Fast forward to 2016 when she decorated her own home, and the rest was history. Her home sold in less than five days in 2020. Then she started helping her husband Sam with his real estate projects, and before long, Jaclyn was getting requests from clients who saw her work and were like, “I need that in my life.”

The Frequency of Design: Why Our Spaces Affect Us

Here’s where things get really interesting: Jaclyn believes that everything has a frequency. Our homes, our spaces, our environments—they all emit energy. And just like we affect our surroundings, they affect us right back. Have you ever walked into a room and just felt something? Maybe it lifted your mood or made you feel relaxed. That’s design at work. It’s not just about making things look good—it’s about crafting an atmosphere that elevates our energy, our emotions, and our mindset.

Jaclyn reminds us that we spend around 60% of our lives at home. So the vibe of our living space? Yeah, it matters. A lot. If your space is chaotic or uninspiring, chances are it’s impacting your energy and your daily experience. On the flip side, when your space feels like a sanctuary, it shifts everything—your productivity, your relationships, your mindset. A well-designed home can be life-changing.

Jaclyn’s Evolving Aesthetic: From Minimalism to Mediterranean Vibes

As a designer, Jaclyn’s style has evolved over the years, and honestly, it’s so fun to see. She started out in the Scandinavian black-and-white minimalist phase (hello, cool but stark), then moved into mid-century modern, and now she’s all about Spanish and Mediterranean influences. Think: warm, earthy tones, rustic wood, rounded architectural features, and natural textures. When she talks about her design work, she describes it as a home “giving you a hug when you walk in.” Isn’t that the dream?

Jaclyn’s personal style has shifted because she’s come to understand something important: design isn’t just about choosing things that look good. It’s about how those things make you feel. When you enter a space, it should feel like a reflection of you, your energy, and what you need in that moment. Your home should embrace you, not overwhelm you.

Designing with Intention: Putting You First

Here’s the thing about Jaclyn: she doesn’t approach design from a “this is what I like” perspective. She’s all about creating spaces that are tailored to you. When working with clients, she removes her ego from the process and digs deep into understanding the people who will be living in the space. She asks questions like, “How do you want to feel in this room?” and gets to know your personal story. This is how she makes sure each design is a true reflection of its owners, rather than just a design for the sake of design. The space should feel personal, grounded, and ultimately inspiring for you.

The Secret Sauce to a Successful Design Project

Now, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty. As much as design is about vision and creativity, Jaclyn is a total pro at making sure the logistics are on point. A successful design project doesn’t just happen. It takes intention, organization, and a whole lot of communication. Here’s what Jaclyn recommends:

• Start with a clear vision. Know what you want, and don’t just go in blind.

• Communication is key. Whether it’s with your contractor or your clients, keeping everyone in the loop is non-negotiable.

• Set expectations. A great design process is built on honesty about timelines, budgets, and what can realistically be achieved.

• Manage the progress. Don’t let things slip through the cracks. Stay on top of it to avoid chaos and unexpected costs.

When you keep your budget and timeline in check, you’re not only ensuring a smoother process, but you’re also making sure you’ll get the results you actually want. Plus, you’ll save yourself the headache of surprises along the way.

Why Thoughtful Design = Big ROI

Okay, let’s talk money for a second. A lot of people don’t realize that small changes can have a huge financial impact. Even things like swapping out hardware, upgrading lighting fixtures, or repainting walls can massively increase a home’s value. You could spend $5,000 on updates and see a return of up to $100,000. And don’t even get us started on staging. A well-staged home tends to appraise for more, and it gives off that irresistible “I could totally see myself living here” vibe.

Your Home as a Reflection of You

At the end of the day, interior design is about creating a space that works for you—your life, your energy, your needs. Jaclyn’s journey proves that great design is not just about making a room look pretty; it’s about creating an environment that supports and enhances your life. When you design with intention, you’re not just decorating. You’re aligning your space with your soul, your energy, and the life you’re building.

Final Thoughts: Is Your Space Inspiring You?

So here’s the big question: Does your space inspire you? Is your home a place where you feel energized, peaceful, and empowered? Or does it drain you every time you walk in? If you’re not feeling the love from your surroundings, it might be time to reevaluate. Thoughtful design doesn’t have to mean a total overhaul. Sometimes, a few small changes can create the shift you need.

Your home should be more than just a place you live—it should be your sanctuary. A space that nurtures you and elevates your daily life.

Live on purpose. Live on frequency.

• Ien from The Beckon Times