A.L DESIGN
 
Newsletter 02.
The In-Between Season
 
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There’s something I love about this transitional time of year, when the urge to spring clean kicks in and I start rediscovering old treasures tucked away in drawers or closets. Giving them a second life, whether it’s resurfacing, repurposing, or just moving things around, brings a fresh energy into a space.
 
In a world that leans heavily into fast fashion and instant gratification, I’ve felt more and more called to slow down, both personally and professionally. There’s a kind of magic in taking the time to source things that are truly special. It makes the moment you do find that perfect piece feel even more meaningful, it’s not just exciting, it’s sustainable.
 
The words “antique” or “vintage” can sometimes feel synonymous with “expensive,” but I always try to remind clients: maybe that vintage rug you’ve been eyeing for years is the one piece you invest in this year. Build around it slowly. I know it takes patience to curate a home over time, but the beauty is that it becomes a true reflection of you, layered with stories, memories, and things that bring you joy. Buying all things new from a big box retailer doesn’t exactly allow you to create that depth for a well-loved space.
 
Start small. Clean out a closet. Maybe you stumble upon an old business card from a restaurant you loved, frame it. Maybe it’s a vase you never quite found a spot for, fill it with tulips and put it somewhere you’ll see every day.
 
Move things around! Play with the space. I’m a sentimental person, and for a long time, especially after experiencing loss, I was scared to shift things. I thought moving a photo or keepsake might somehow lessen its meaning or make me forget  a memory or loved one,  but I’ve realized that rearranging actually breathes new life into those objects. It honors them; it shifts the energy.
 
So if something’s been feeling “off” on a shelf, turn on your favorite music, wipe it down, move things around. Start fresh. Put that meaningful item somewhere new: on your counter, bedside table, your desk. Let it tell a new story….
Currently Inspired by
Here is a little roundup of pieces from my own space that have been inspiring me lately - a mix of found treasures from travels and sentimental objects from family. 
 
Enjoy! 
 
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Feature Image: M’Liz Keefe Painting + Vase and books (found) + Tancredi & Morgen Ottoman + collected antique furniture
 
(L-R): #1. Parisian Flea Market Antique Box + Patricia Qualls Art ,#2. Marianne Simon Desk, Tori Jones Studio Vintage Lyre Back Chair, #3. Paralumi Luigi Pendant Light + Vicolo Via Mameli Fern Prints, #4.  FOUND Birmingham Armoire, #5. Found objects,  #6. Attic Vintage Brass Vessel  + UNPOL/SHED Wall Sconce, #7. Collection of found objects + Panoplie Vintage French Alabaster Table Lamp , #8. Alex Rooted Handwoven Willow Basket
XO,
Abby
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