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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CWU chapter.

I think a lot of us have that special interest of if we weren’t pursuing a certain line of work or in that field now, we would do something else.  Mine would be interior design.  I’ve always been fascinated with DIY home shows or even house-hunting shows that show you every detail the buyers are looking for and what makes the house they’re looking at such a standout from the rest. The thing I love most about interior design and home design, in general, is the ability you have to make it your own and create your sense of style that showcases who you are.  Interior design is chalked full of inspiration.  Whether it is from shows you see, TikToks you scroll through, or Pinterest boards you’re creating for the ultimate dream home it is a place to let your imagination run wild.

I started by creating Pinterest boards years ago.  Mine ranged from unique rooms in the house like theater rooms, craft rooms, secret rooms hidden behind what looked like a shelving unit or painting just to hide something special that visitors don’t know about, to even having a space that is turned into one huge walk-in closet full of organization.  It gave you the idea that anything is possible in just a single room, but it’s all about what you find useful for yourself or your family and maybe what gives your house that “wow” factor that not everyone else has.  With Pinterest, just typing in homes, I was given so much to work with.  Color palettes, types of design from modern to rustic and even planned layouts give you an idea of what would be the perfect plan set for your dream home. 

Another way I find inspiration is through house design shows.  Currently, I love binge-watching Fixer Upper with Chip and Joanna Gaines.  They have different families or couples that come on the show looking for a house that fits their needs whether it is a location closer to work or school districts or a certain neighborhood they want to be in.  They are then taken to three different locations, some needing a lot of work inside and out, others needing minimal work.  Depending on the client’s budget Chip and Joanna determine what their renovations can be used for and how they can utilize the space by removing some walls to increase the size of the kitchen or adding on to a room to create a home office.  When the clients decide on the new dream home the Gaines go to work on the fixer-upper to create the dream home for the family.  They include them in the house design but also make it a surprise with the big reveal at the end.  If I wasn’t majoring in nutrition, I would probably aspire to be Joanna Gaines with her rustic appeal to the design. 

My design ideas have evolved over the years for what I dub to be the ultimate dream home.  The best part about it is that styles can evolve and change as often as you want them to.  Your house is ultimately like the other wardrobe that is showcased to you, your family and your friends when they come over.  The freedom of creative expression is so much fun and makes me want to push the creative boundaries of having a uniquely styled home one day. 

My name is Katelyn Richardson. I am 29 years old. I am currently attending Central Washington University studying for my Master's in food and sciences to become a nutritionist and later a diabetes educator for kids. I've been personally battling type 1 diabetes since I was six years old. I love being outside, vintage shopping, watching movies, and going to stock car races! I love being a Her Campus Contributor because it gives me a platform to talk about current issues, topics I'm passionate about & real-life relatable experiences.