We Downsized—And Not By a Little
We went from 3,500 square feet with five bedrooms and five bathrooms to just 973 square feet, two bedrooms, and one bathroom. Sounds a little wild, right? I won’t pretend it’s been easy. Downsizing has come with its fair share of challenges—especially while living through our DIY renovation (but that’s a story for another day).
Still, here’s what I’ve learned — and why it might matter more than square footage ever could.
Chasing the Big Dream
I used to dream of the big house. I’d drive through beautiful neighborhoods imagining that if I could just have that home, I’d finally feel content. And for a time, I did love our house. It was full and lively and everything I thought I wanted.
But when the kids left for college, something shifted. The house didn’t feel the same—not because it had changed, but because life had. I realized it wasn’t the crown moulding or extra rooms I missed — it was the life that had filled them. The laughter around the dinner table. The movie nights with all of us piled onto the couch. Baking cookies at the kitchen island. It was never about the size—it was about the togetherness.
Creating a Cozy, Intentional Space
Moving into a smaller home has challenged us, yes — but it’s also offered something beautiful: the chance to be intentional. Intentional with space, with our time, and with the way we create a home.
I’ve learned to lean into decor that holds meaning — pieces that tell our story. The vintage glassware my grandmother chose. Art prints from special trips. Wine glasses we’ve used during countless celebrations. And now, new pieces that reflect this next chapter of life.
Less Space, More Meaning
Here’s the truth: you don’t need a lot of space to create a meaningful home. What matters most is how it feels, not how it measures.
The key is intentionality — surrounding yourself with what you love and letting go of the rest. It’s about creating space that feels good, functions well, and welcomes the people you care about.
Downsizing has simplified more than our square footage — it’s clarified what truly matters. We’ve found that less really can be more, more or less, especially when it opens the door to more peace, more purpose, and more of the life we want to live.
Create Cozy in Your Own Space
Whether you’re in a spacious home or a snug little nest, your space can still feel full of warmth, personality, and intention. At Cup and Pillar Mercantile, we’ve curated pieces that bring comfort and meaning into everyday living — no matter the square footage.
Flutes – Elevate even the simplest gathering with these timeless, elegant flutes. Perfect for toasting big milestones or quiet everyday moments.
Taper Holders (Set of 2) – Add instant warmth to any nook or table with these classic taper holders. A small touch with a big impact on ambiance.
Mirrored Woven Table Tray – Beautiful and functional, this woven tray is perfect for layering candles, glassware, or keepsakes to create a cozy, styled vignette.
Looking for more inspiration? → Explore all our home essentials to help make your house feel like home.
