In the heart of Chicago, there exists a blossoming creative project known as West On Willow, born out of a desire for stability and growth during the uncertain days of the pandemic. Its founder, Amber, found herself navigating the challenges of life and transformation through the art of furniture flipping and storytelling. What began as a personal journey soon evolved into a beautiful exploration of home and design.
Years of renting had given Amber ample opportunities to experiment with her living spaces. She often transformed her surroundings, turning them into reflections of her experiences and aspirations. In 2022, her vision took a bold leap forward when she and her partner purchased their first home. It was here that Amber decided to elevate her creative endeavors, diving headfirst into home renovations. Armed with a newfound determination, she even learned to wield power tools, making significant updates that would leave a lasting mark on her home.
Amber's journey was not without its challenges. Among her most ambitious projects was the complete remodel of her foyer, kitchen, and bedroom. The kitchen offered the steepest learning curve, as it was the first time she had attempted to build cabinets from scratch. In a true testament to her ingenuity, she initially tackled the project without a table saw. Once she’d built each cabinet, she couldn’t help but realize the need for professional tools and rented one to refine her work. Along the way, Amber learned to embrace both her successes and setbacks, sharing her experiences with her followers as opportunities for collective growth.
One of the standout features in Amber's home remodel was her choice of hardware. After using door handles from Nostalgic Warehouse for her closet project, she was convinced of their quality, ease of installation, and aesthetic appeal. The unique blend of modern and vintage styles available at Nostalgic Warehouse perfectly aligned with her vision. As she mood-boarded for her living room door project, it became clear that these gorgeous door knobs would be her only choice, effortlessly elevating the character of her home.
Amber's design philosophy can best be described as "collected vintage modern." She has an eye for timeless design and is a true lover of antiques, often seeking treasures in vintage shops. Yet, she seamlessly incorporates clean lines and modern elements, creating a beautiful juxtaposition that reflects her evolving aesthetic. Inspiration flows to her from various sources, including nature, Pinterest, and even the decor of her favorite restaurants.
Organizing a project is no small feat, but Amber has developed a keen approach to planning. It all starts with putting ideas on “paper” by creating mood boards in Adobe Illustrator. She establishes a timeline using Google Docs or Milanote and compiles a detailed materials list before diving into execution. This methodical yet adaptable approach has served her well as projects often require revisions and rework.
When it comes to choosing a house for renovation, Amber believes in the allure of history. For her, it was essential to find a location with character that needed a bit of love. This passion for revival resonates with many aspiring renovators, and Amber has some sage advice for those looking to embark on similar journeys. She encourages others to establish a foundational plan but remain flexible, understanding that the process may evolve unexpectedly. Creating a loose timeline is also crucial, as renovations can often take longer than initially anticipated.
For anyone wishing to transform their homes, Amber has straightforward advice: “Just start!” Taking that first step can feel daunting, but the only way to truly know what works for you is to dive in and give it a try.
As she looks toward the future, Amber has exciting plans ahead, including a bathroom makeover and potential bedroom transformations. In sharing her journey, Amber expresses gratitude for the support of her community and brands like Nostalgic Warehouse that align with her vision. With every project, she inspires others to embrace the beauty of home, encouraging them to learn, grow, and transform their spaces with love and creativity. As “West On Willow” continues to unfold, so does Amber's story—a tale of resilience, design, and the ever-evolving journey of making a house a home.
Featured Products
