Jaw-Dropping: This 27-Year-Old Completely Transformed Her Rental On A Budget
I’ve long assumed that interior designers are bound by a strict formula for creating their ideal home. On one end of the spectrum, it’s all about luxury and high-end everything; on the other, it’s a thrifty affair with second-hand finds dominating the space. But Emily Schoen’s home in Ann Arbor, MI, serves as a refreshing reminder that investment pieces can coexist harmoniously with vintage treasures.
As Visual Director and Operations Manager at The Maryn, Emily has curated a unique space that embodies both eclecticism and modernity. Her 1,000 square foot rental property is a true reflection of her personality, embracing every quirk and imperfection it may have. In fact, Emily’s approach to interior design is all about embracing individuality, which she shared with us in an exclusive interview.
We also got the inside scoop on how she got into the industry, from her must-know design tips to insights from The Maryn Founder Michelle Adams.
What was your first job, and how did you land it?
After completing college, I embarked on my first career move in Commercial Real Estate in Columbus, OH. Prior to that, I obtained my real estate license and began networking with anyone who would listen. A friend of a friend in the industry graciously offered to introduce me to some key players, setting up a string of informational interviews for me. Each meeting was a chance to ask insightful questions and learn more about their experiences, culminating in a steady stream of new connections.
One unexpected outcome was that many of these professionals handed me their business cards, prompting me to take matters into my own hands and create my own card, proudly declaring myself a ‘young professional seeking experience in the Commercial Real Estate Industry.’ The surprise factor worked in my favor, making me stand out in a memorable way.
By the end of this two-week whirlwind, I had accumulated an impressive list of connections who went on to introduce me to their managers and ultimately, led to five job interview offers from different real estate companies. One of these opportunities piqued my interest, and I embarked on my first professional journey.
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You began your career in real estate. How did that help you get into interior design?
As I navigated the world of Real Estate, I discovered that achieving my goals requires an unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and a willingness to connect with others. When my husband’s job transfer took me to Ann Arbor, MI, I seized the opportunity to pursue a passion project. One evening, while others might have been scouring job listings, I found myself lost in the world of home design on Pinterest.
A stunning house featured by House Beautiful caught my eye, and I became enamored with the story of Michelle, a Manhattan editor turned Michigan fixer-upper expert. My fascination led to an all-night research binge, and the next day, I devoured her blog posts, marveling at their quality. With Alex’s encouragement, I mustered the courage to reach out to Michelle via email. Initially, I doubted she’d respond, but a few hours later, I was thrilled to receive a reply.
After my initial excitement subsided, we scheduled a coffee meeting in Ann Arbor, and our friendship blossomed.
You and Michelle Adams, founder of The Maryn, worked together to launch the home and lifestyle shopping site. How was this process?
As I reflect on launching The Maryn, I’m reminded of the incredible learning experience it was to work alongside Michelle to bring her vision to life. Our collaborative efforts involved countless discussions over dinner, pouring over research, setting budgets, and communicating with our talented copywriter and web developer team. This experience not only honed my creative skills but also taught me valuable organizational lessons.
I gained a deep understanding of the importance of styling photoshoots, streamlining team communication, and juggling various logistical tasks like packing orders, managing inventory, and maintaining a clean warehouse. This venture has been instrumental in shaping my professional growth, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Michelle, who not only serves as my mentor and boss but also remains a dear friend.
Her humility, kindness, and dedication to those around her have had a profound impact on me, inspiring me to embody these same qualities in my own interactions.
Tell us about your biggest career accomplishments.
While my professional achievements are impressive, what I’m most proud of is earning a reputation as a hardworking and reliable team player. This mindset has become second nature to me, and I consistently strive to uphold these values by arriving at work prepared, motivated, and dedicated, ensuring that I not only meet but exceed expectations.
What is your favorite part about living in Ann Arbor?
Living just an hour away from both sets of family means that we’re within easy reach of loved ones, making it simple to plan visits or impromptu get-togethers. But our proximity also affords us the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Northern Michigan, which has stolen our hearts with its stunning lakeside scenery in the summer and world-class skiing trails come winter.
And let’s not forget about autumn – the changing foliage is a sight to behold, and we love discovering hidden gems like secluded parks where we can take leisurely hikes amidst the vibrant fall colors.
How did you find your place?
The tedious process of scouring through countless Craigslist listings can be a daunting task, especially when the search yields little to no results. Hours blend together as you click from one ad to the next, hoping to stumble upon that elusive gem that meets your needs.
Were there any quirks in the space that you had to work around? If so, how did you overcome those challenges?
The transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Painting the entire apartment a uniform shade of white had a profound impact on the space. One peculiar feature that initially stood out was an awkward door in the middle of our living room. By painting it and the surrounding trim the same crisp white as the walls, we managed to seamlessly integrate this design quirk into the overall aesthetic. Now, it’s almost imperceptible, allowing us to focus on the space’s other unique characteristics.
You worked with Michelle Adams on decorating your space. What was it like having her input?
When Michelle visits for wine nights, I’m thrilled by the opportunity for her expertise to transform my space. Her keen eye and knack for interior design make her an invaluable sounding board as we rearrange furniture or ponder new purchases. Her ability to distinguish between timeless and trendy pieces has been particularly helpful in guiding my investment decisions. With her guidance, I feel more confident in committing to enduring pieces that will withstand the test of time.
When you first start designing a room, what is your jumping off point? Any tips for our readers who have to slowly add pieces over time as they can afford them?
I’m a firm believer that decorating is all about the journey, not the destination. Rather than waiting for perfection, I prefer to collect meaningful pieces over time. It’s essential to start with the essentials – think sofa or bed – and then take your time to curate each item with intention.
Frequenting thrift stores may not always yield a treasure trove of finds, but even the occasional empty-handed departure is worthwhile for the thrill of stumbling upon that special piece when you least expect it. Many of my most treasured possessions were snatched up at bargain prices from second-hand shops or online marketplaces.
We LOVE the pops of color in your home. How did you decide on a color palette?
When it comes to decorating my home, I’ve adopted a straightforward approach: bringing in only what we truly love. This mindset allows the focus to be on statement pieces and unique finds, rather than getting caught up in trying to match every item perfectly. In fact, many of our favorite pieces were discovered at thrift stores or online marketplaces like Craigslist, where we often stumbled upon hidden gems at incredibly affordable prices.
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How has working for a home and lifestyle shopping site affected your design style?
Living a chic lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it’s all about making intentional choices that elevate your everyday moments. For me, this means investing in timeless pieces like seagrass placemats, which can instantly dress up your table setting. Why not make every meal feel like a special occasion? I love setting the mood with candles and placemats – it’s an easy way to add some sophistication to your daily routine.
This approach has also encouraged me to seek out unique textiles that tell a story, rather than settling for mass-produced items. One of my favorite finds is Tensira, which not only offers stunning designs but also supports over 40 full-time employees in Republic of Guinea workshops and numerous independent artisans. Their handmade blankets and pillow covers are truly special – I adore the intricate details and the sense of community that goes into creating each piece.
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What design advice have you learned from working with Michelle? What about from decorating your space?
Michelle has been an invaluable guide throughout my decorating journey, offering insightful advice over wine-fueled gatherings that always result in a refreshed space. Over the years, she’s shared numerous design lessons with me, including the importance of never passing up a great mirror at an antique store – the more ornate, the better! I still regret not purchasing one Michelle recommended, which continues to haunt me.
On the flip side, her suggestions have led to some delightful discoveries, such as the way bamboo shades and terracotta herb pots can evoke the feeling of living in a Nancy Meyers film. A white slipcovered sofa from Ikea has also become a trusted favorite, while investing in textiles – like my beloved Cultiver bedding – provides a luxurious touch. Art pieces, whether sourced from Artfully Walls or J. Crew’s gallery walls, add soul to any room.
What’s more, Michelle has shown me that great decor is achievable at any budget by mixing thrift store finds with affordable Ikea pieces. Even leopard and fawn prints can be neutralized, as seen in the charming fawn-print bed from The Inside in our guest bedroom.
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There is so much gorgeous greenery in your space! Which plants are your favorite?
I’d like to express my gratitude for our lovely rosemary plant. It brings me immense joy, as its fragrance instantly lifts my mood whenever I catch a whiff of it while preparing meals in the kitchen.
Decorating with a spouse can be difficult. What compromises did you and your husband have to make for this space to work for you both?
While it’s true that I often take the lead in decorating our home, I make a conscious effort to incorporate elements that reflect my partner’s personal style. A striking Mid Century ship painting and his grandfather’s wooden water ski, for instance, are proudly displayed in our living room, showcasing his unique tastes. I also strive to balance out any overly feminine touches with more neutral or masculine pieces, knowing that this blend is essential to creating a space that feels truly ours.
When we do disagree on design choices, my partner typically trusts my instincts, recognizing that I’ll obsess over the smallest details to ensure our home exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. As it stands, we’ve successfully transformed our apartment into a cozy haven, and we’re thrilled with the outcome.
What was the easiest part about designing this space?
As I embarked on the daunting task of revitalizing my living space, I decided to take a bold approach by stripping away the outdated brown carpet to reveal the original hardwood flooring. The thought of pairing this new foundation with a fresh coat of paint in a soft, creamy hue like Chantilly Lace was all the motivation I needed to get started.
What is your favorite room in your home, and why?
As we navigate our daily routines, it’s amazing how much of an impact the time of day can have on our experiences. Our apartment, situated on the second floor of a duplex, boasts an abundance of East and West-facing windows that let in an ample amount of natural light. My personal favorite is the room that receives the most sunlight.
There’s something truly special about sipping coffee at our kitchen table as the morning sun pours in and illuminates the space, making it the perfect setting for tackling emails. As the day progresses, our living room transforms into a warm and inviting space, thanks to the majestic tree outside the window that seems to come alive with the dancing shadows of the sun’s rays. It’s moments like these that bring me joy!
Come evening, our bedroom becomes a serene oasis, where I can unwind and indulge in the breathtaking sunset view outside. The feeling is nothing short of heavenly.
Where are your favorite places to shop for home decor?
When it comes to furnishing the interior of your home, there are a multitude of options available to you. From the budget-friendly choices like thrift stores, estate sales, flea markets, and antique auctions, to the more modern and trendy options such as Artfully Walls, Ikea, CB2, West Elm, and Homegoods, the possibilities are truly endless. One popular choice among consumers is to combine different sources to create a unique look that reflects their personal style.
What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?
To achieve success, it’s essential to maintain a strong work ethic and unwavering focus. Identify your passions and turn them into a fulfilling side hustle, refusing to accept defeat when faced with obstacles. Instead, cultivate resilience by exploring alternative paths until you find the right one. Additionally, prioritize long-term financial security by setting aside funds for retirement.
Finally, make time to nurture meaningful relationships with loved ones, recognizing that these connections can bring joy and fulfillment in both the present and future.
Emily Schoen is The Everygirl . . .
As I ponder my favorite brunch spot, Zola comes to mind. It’s a guilty pleasure of mine to indulge in Justin’s dark chocolate peanut butter cups – they’re the perfect pick-me-up. When seeking design inspiration, I find myself drawn to the beauty of travel and the curated aesthetic of The Artful Review. My iPhone camera roll is filled with snapshots of nature’s splendor. While some design trends are best left in the past, chevron patterns might just take the cake.
If I could have lunch with any woman, it would be Barrett Prendergast. I’m drawn to her Instagram stories and her remarkable ability to balance wellness, running a successful blog like Valleybrink Road, and raising a family – it’s truly inspiring. I’d love to sit down with her and gain insight into how she achieves such harmony in her life.
GET THE LOOK
When it comes to furnishing and decorating your home, there are many great options available. For a stylish and modern look, consider shopping at places like Ikea, Farlov, Overstock, Etsy, Wayfair, Joss & Main, CB2, West Elm, World Market, Hayneedle, Potterybarn, or The Inside. Each of these retailers offers a unique selection of items to help you create the perfect space.
For example, Ikea and Wayfair both offer a wide range of affordable furniture options, while Etsy specializes in handmade and vintage items. Joss & Main and CB2 provide modern pieces with a focus on design, and West Elm and World Market offer a mix of stylish and functional items. Hayneedle is great for finding unique and one-of-a-kind finds, and The Inside offers a range of modern and stylish furniture options.
Additionally, Anthropologie provides beautiful home decor items like wall art and scented candles, while Artfully Walls offers a selection of unique and artistic pieces to add some personality to your space. For those who love natural and earthy tones, consider shopping at places that specialize in natural materials like seagrass, linen, or marble.
