Interior Editorial
Visual essays documenting the people, spaces, and personal histories behind interior design.
A Mother’s Eye for Design
How a change of circumstance became an unexpected creative renaissance.
Words & Photography by Aaron Smet
Green Bay, Wisconsin * 2026
The living room layered with thrifted finds, artwork, and warm light became the heart of her home.
A New Chapter
When my mother moved to a new city and downsized into a townhouse, her circumstances shifted in a way that changed her creative outlet. She could no longer take on the kinds of projects she once enjoyed—like kitchen or bathroom remodels—or easily find the unique items she loved at local shops.
Instead, she leaned into thrifting and interior decorating. What began as a practical adjustment quickly became a passion.
The dining area, one of the first spaces she began reworking after the move.
“Her home didn’t look like anyone else’s I had known—it felt distinct, evolving, and deeply personal.”
A bedroom layered with classic textiles, antique-inspired pieces, and a sense of warmth.
A Sharpened Eye
Her sense of style—both in clothing and home décor—really began to sharpen. With each visit, I would notice something new in her home: a rearranged space, a refined detail, a room that felt more intentional than the last.
It reached a point where I felt compelled to start documenting it. Her home felt distinct, evolving, and deeply personal. To encourage her, I began capturing each room through an editorial lens, showcasing how her creativity documenting the progression as it unfolded. She genuinely enjoyed seeing her creativity showcased that way.
The Details
Thrifted objects, inherited pieces, and meaningful artwork come together to create a home that feels layered, lived-in and uniquely hers.
An Evolving Home
What began as a way to fill the space after a move became something else entirely: a new creative outlet.
Her home continues to change-one thrifted find, re-arranged room, and unexpected detail at a time.
I’m grateful to be able to document this chapter and share a glimpse into a home that reflects her creativity, resourcefulness and the beauty she brings to everyday pieces.