Downsizing the Blended Home: When Two Households Become One (Downsizing the Home)

Fresh decorating and decluttering advice for the modern family—a must-have book to help those who are merging their hearts, lives, and homes.

When merging households, one plus one needs to equal . . . one. The path toward that fundamental fact, however, is not so easy. With the same warm, narrative tone that made Downsizing the Family Home such a success—and using her own story of marriage and merger in midlife as a backdrop—Marni Jameson guides you through the turf wars and transitions, so you understand what matters and what doesn't, and can discover a style that suits you both. Along the way she interviews psychologists, designers, and couples who've made it through the process, passing along tips, tricks, and marriage-bolstering advice.

The wise advice includes:
• If you want to transform a space from me to we, the fastest, cheapest way is with paint.
• Look around you for the five or so nonnegotiable items that ground you, items that tether you so you're not adrift. Give those a place in your remodeled space and build on them.
• The old marital bed is a charged item, as are family photos of the former spouse or partner. A new bed is ideal, and new bedding is a must.
• Injecting a contemporary rug or piece of art, or a modern lamp or sculpture is a safe way to start moving toward modern in a room full of traditional furnishings.
• Buying furniture together is a great way to invest in your look and your future. Start with something big in your combined style.