LIVING ROOM MAKEOVER || Books Declutter || Before and After || Minimalism Journey

[@introvert22]

It looks great. I think Andy's shelves look cohesive, not cluttered.

[@annbeth6730]

clutter is when you have things you do not need or that are messy.

[@aimeeontheharp]

His shelves are neater than our home library shelves :P We love our little library though!

[@ruthmgonigle5914]

Me too. I would give him the third shelf on that side of the room. Styling is overrated if it is a library especially. 😉

[@karimcnair9890]

I am a strong minimalist, but I'm also an avid bookworm. I think Andy's shelves look exactly how they should look.

[@lifeabundant1269]

I really like Andy's book library. To me minimalism is about removing things to make space for the things you love and matter to you. To me this is minimalism- clearing out your home so Andy can have his library and not books in boxes. You could see how much joy the books bring him, that's what it's all about. Xx

[@cantocant2346]

I like Andy's shelves the best. They actually look less cluttered than yours. It was nice to see him enjoying his collection. The room is beautiful.

[@sarahjohn1484]

Every time you look at his shelves and you start to feel that overwhelm of visual clutter, verbally express gratitude for the space you created for his passion that is no longer taking up boxes and boxes of space in the basement. That attitude of gratitude will get you through his time of curating.

[@katemackenzie6477]

I’d recommend giving Andy all three of those shelves on the side with the rocking chair. Allowing him to space out his series and singles throughout the three (focusing on a diagonal pattern of styling books up the shelf, like how you have it on the other side by the futon). It’s too much of a contrast with the minimal bookshelf next to Andy’s two that look more “cluttered”. I’m a big book lover so I know it’s not an option to get rid of favorite series. So maybe giving him all three shelves would allow you to rethink styling and make it look like a cohesive set of shelves on that wall. You can try having some vertical books in a row, then right up against it having some horizontal books. You can place little sentimental or decorative items, such as book ends, pictures, art/sculptures/baskets/etc, on horizontal books to make things look more styled as well! Awesome job with this room makeover, I love it and see how the vibe of the whole room has changed for the better:) so cozy and homey!

[@rhondawidmer2937]

I really like what Andy did with his books. To me as a minimalist it looks soothing and has a clear purpose.Very aesthetically pleasing.

[@beautiful.life1396]

I second this too

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Great idea!

[@lifewithlarsandsusie8315]

I thought the same!

[@shirleypol5683]

Like a reading nook! Wonderful suggestion!

[@eviewesner6231]

I have an idea for your sentimental book shelf!!! Why not YOU use the middle shelf and his book shelves flank or "book end" your shelf? Maybe aesthetically, your minimally filled book shelf will look more balanced sandwiched by his fully booked shelves? Just an idea!! You both have come a long way!!! So proud of you!!! I'm grateful you're sharing your journey here, it's so inspiring!!!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Nice idea!

[@LindsayDroke]

I was going to say the same thing

[@roxanaconception]

Yes!! Thankyou for this comment! I was thinking this and wanted to yell it to the screen!😁 “Erica! Center your shelves!

[@jenniferspangler8078]

I also came here to say this!

[@catharinabra]

Andy seems so happy unpacking his books. When he said ”now what?” Ranger was like: Can I offer you some Ranger cuddles? 🐶 I would put all the books on the lower shelves of all of the shelves if that makes sense, and then use the top shelves for sentimental and decoration, like your baskets with stuff. This would bring the ”weight down” towards the ground and make it airer higher up, don’t know of I explain that so you can understand but I’m going for a feeling, so the room feels mor airy. Yes! Loved it when Andy smelled the books, that’s the way to go! I always small books and bread for some unknown reason.

[@Tinamar65]

Exactly my thought! 😀

[@staciearagon5394]

I agree, spread Andy's books equally between all the bookshelves, but on the bottom. I think it will look fabulous and now I'm going to go do the same thing with my two bookshelves!

[@lesleyharris525]

You are a book lover too.we try to be minimalistic but books.lol.💖

[@cynicallyyours61]

In Andy's defence, a reading room is about books, not about aesthetic. Most home reading rooms/libraries look like libraries. Its a place to store your books and look after them.

[@sarahjohn1484]

You might give Andy all three bookcases, but use the middle shelf on each of his for your decor. It would add even more balance to that wall than just making the center bookcase yours.

[@candicewaller403]

Andy and I have similar taste in books! I definitely prefer the classic library aesthetic, but the best way to achieve the more minimalist airy vibe is probably to let Andy have all three bookshelves on that wall. Then, he can space series out a bit more and have some negative space in between. You guys did a great job with the space. It feels so inviting!

[@ANNtique]

Haha the humoured tension over the shelves. So real. With the lamps maybe you could put them lower on the shelves so they are geared more as reading lamps than room lamps? This seems to make sense if a guest was using the futon that they would want to be able to easily turn the light on and off. Is the cord long enough for that? Also the kids can reach to turn the lights on and off if they are lower. I like that you have found a purpose for the room. It looks really nice when entering the house with this set up. I’m so amused by how awkward Andy was when he first appeared in videos and how comfortable he is now. He’s so funny.

[@abbywibberley4285]

I thought the same thing about the lamps, just put them on a lower shelf.

[@StarrREVA]

A thought I had is to do what Dawn did with the lights in her daughters' room -- they bought remote controlled battery puck lights and attached them to the socket -- they get the light, but no cords (bonus is they can have color changing option if wanted). Of course, you will need to store the remotes somewhere discretely and securely.

[@beautiful.life1396]

Lamps should be lower at usable level

[@melissameinders2454]

I have a suggestion for the kitchen set. Get a 3 cube storage unit and set the kitchen set on top. My kids were getting tall but loved the kitchen so we did this and they play with it more now that it's their height again. They use the bottom for storage.

[@dianegriffen2756]

There's nothing like a library, it' looks gorgeous. Have you thought about integrating 'some', not all, of the kids books in there too so you can sit together on the sofa or the rocking chair and read to them?

[@antoinettehigh586]

If you place 'your' self in the middle and his on either side it will feel more balanced...I'm so happy for both of you as he realizes his dream of a library!

[@gailthakur122]

I saw that too

[@gailgriffith8957]

My thought as well!👍🏻

[@elizabethlangheim7214]

Glad Andy has his Library room. It certainly looks nice.

[@rvmomma8687]

I love how your not afraid to say “this isn’t working”. First it was a school room, then a playroom and neither worked for your family. Now you’ve created a space that will work for you guys!

[@carakroeker4493]

I, too, put my books on the shelves like a library. However, I tried something “new” and put some of those books stacked on their sides, in between the upright books. I chose carefully, keeping it to smaller sets. It breaks it up and gives it a modern, stylized look while still using the shelf as intended - for books, with no wasted space 🙃

[@laurennoel5176]

That's exactly how I do mine! 👍

[@TheLifeTidy]

What if you put your shelving unit between Andy's? Let the books sort of frame the outside bringing the eye toward the more minimal? Just a thought. The room looks amazing!

[@lisamalone5988]

I was thinking the same thing! I think that would looked balanced and less visually cluttered.

[@annashepherd6545]

I agree! Also - taking some of his book series and stacking them on some of the shelves would eliminate some of the visual ‘clutter’ for Erica 🙂

[@Mar10la]

I think that's going to look more cluttered. To create peace in a room it's important to section of and look at lines and flow of items (if that makes sense). Honestly, I like a minimal look but I don't get the anxiety with the books at all. It's because they are neatly put away and it just gives me such a homy and cosy vibe, especially with the rocking chair in front 😊 All those shelves with just misc items on there would be clutter for me. Everybody is different I guess!

[@Gabi_T]

I think that would go against the reading nook idea

[@AtoZenLife]

I am surprised no one wanted that toy table but bravo for supporting a shelter and giving it away for free +++❤️!!!!

[@NancyWhelanSharingMemories]

I love to see Ranger watching over you as you declutter together!🥰🐕

[@leeyonder2135]

I think it's great to give space for Andy. It makes me happy to see you show that type of respect for your husband. I am like you with liking things minimal but since it's not our space alone we must embrace their style aswell. He has it looking tidy so I think it's great.

[@phoenixrising2517]

I love reading so there is nothing more esthetically pleasing to me than a full bookshelf, and a comfortable spot to dive into a good book and become one with the story.

[@Joybug_51]

The English/Reading teacher in me loves to see the full bookshelves. Andy did a great job of decluttering and must be really happy with his library. Let him enjoy!

[@mondfalkin3781]

I like the minimalist version but also Andy's libary version which looks so cozy

[@amandakringle]

I’d try putting the books on the bottom couple of shelves all across the room and then using the top few for your styled shelves, it would blend your styles together more I think, and the cluttered books would be less noticeable.

[@annbeth6730]

but why do you think the books are clutter?

[@shirleypol5683]

That's a great suggestion.

[@johnandkitty]

He is a book lover. His books make him happy.

[@sherimcgill5139]

I love the rug you chose! Goes well with the book spines.

[@suedefringe]

Maybe move the shelf you styled to the middle of Andy's 2 shelves . Even it out ! Make it mirror image. Retail trickery. 😉 Ps Andy and I have the same taste in books. Great job decluttering. Books are a hard one for me that and sentimental.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Oooh great idea!

[@sinkintostillness]

Came to the comments to say the same! It's Andy's dream to have a library so it will look like a library..... at least if your shelf is in the middle it balances. Andy will probably take it over as he collects more books so that whole wall will become a library wall.

[@suedefringe]

@@EricaLucasLoves any time. I don't think you didn't like all of Andy's stuff out. You just didn't like the feel of the lopsided-ness ! Athestics make you feel good at this point in your minalmist journey I think. Mirror image always makes me feel good...probably from working to many years of retail!

[@melissapalmer7496]

Me too! Some awesome books there!

[@PhanglyPhish]

I love the library aesthetic! I actually find it much easier to look at than a bunch of decorative clutter that I sometimes see on Pinterest or hgtv. The books are accessible to actually read as intended instead of trying to dig out the book you want from a stack that is there only for decoration. I haven't read any other comments yet to see what others have suggested, but maybe Andy could spread out the smaller series around the room so that a single shelf is not full end to end - maybe only 1/4 or 3/4 of the shelf width. That would give you a spot to put a decorative item in the blank space or nothing at all to lift the visual weight a bit. Maybe it would be less jarring for you too look at if the whole room was balanced with books and decor/sentimental displays?

[@robynw6307]

Sorry Erica. I'm with Andy on this one. Love the smell of old books. And I love the "library" look. If I had my wish I'd have a room dedicated to books, floor to ceiling, on every wall, like they have in houses in old movies. Oh the joy.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Ha - I'm loving the division in the comments on this one! I'm a big Kindle reader so I think if I had to declutter my Kindle, I'd melt down.

[@elizabethb913]

The "anxiety" shelves are so much better than a billion totes in the basement. Everybody wins.

[@danabrown2391]

I loved watching this process! You should perhaps re-visit your wall art stash in the basement and see if you actually still LOVE all that's down there!

[@pnwflipper2089]

This room looks so inviting! Such a good transformation you guys! The rug and curtains have warmed the space up so much and the sofa, chair, and book cases have given the room an identity and purpose. I think you will love this as a music room/ library. Personally, I think that even though there are A LOT of books it does not seem out of synch with your minimalist journey. If they truely spark joy for Andy ( you can tell they sure do when he touches them and talks about them and he lights up). They deserve to be on the shelves in the study where they are accessible and given a place of honor. Because the bookcases do not have sides, I do see some potential for books to get messed up if kids are being rambunctious in the room. Might be best to set some expectations that that is a calm room and that we are careful of Daddy’s books to show respect for the things we have and also for Daddy because his library is important to him.

[@bethanyatkinson6944]

I like his bookshelves! They look very cohesive... They are all the same thing, so my mind sees them as simpler than Erica's, because (as she was explaining) she has multiple categories for each thing

[@shearrermadness]

Love how Ranger is in the middle of it🐶 looks great!!

[@robbisidyakin1369]

Okay, here are my thoughts on the aesthetics…. First: I LOVE the room!!! Second: Andy’s wall may flow better if his two heavily filled cases were on each end and the sparse shelf was in the middle. It may create a more cohesive and balanced feel. Third: maybe move his beer making books to “his” wall (middle shelving unit) in order to keep that “Andy’s book nook” feel then move the sentimental items to the unit at the right of the couch. Just thoughts…. I love and appreciate your videos so much! You are real, down to earth and so relatable; not to mention educated and insightful!!!

[@amypoole30]

You might not ever read this but you two make the perfect couple! Just adorable and so fun to watch you two together. Those are also some Blessed children to have such loving, caring and attentive parents. A forever fan who went through the struggle not once but twice. The second time with you made all the difference in me getting my clutter under control for my two special needs kids. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.😊

[@drewconway7135]

I’m glad you got your room done, but I think we all know the dog was the real star of this video. 😁

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Ranger is the star. ❤️

[@ritacooke3175]

I think it all looks so nice! Andy's such a good sport and he's trying so hard. :)

[@kgghaddar1]

Erica you are a great teacher of minimalism to Andy, not pushy or overbearing but very understanding of the journey, it’s beautiful! As a Catholic it was lovely to see the discovery of the Catholic women’s Bible and Catechism 💗🙏🏼💗. The room looks amazing!!! Well done!

[@Fraloob]

Books = cosy for me. I love the look of shelves filled with books. Give me a overfilled book shop to ramble in and I'll be happy for hours.

[@paulasownpace8684]

Really like the way the room looks now…best version of it. It’s functional and stylish.

[@ginamcdonald7854]

I love the smells of books, not ones that are so old they’re mildewed, but just reading a book and the smell as you turn the pages!!! It’s why I refuse to use a tablet or kindle to read!

[@staciearagon5394]

I'm happy to see ranger put himself in the keeper pile!

[@gigieyre]

This is what makes your marriage work. You both allow each other to display or get rid of what you choose. Your husband knows that you are striving for a "neater" or clutter free home but he still wants to have the things that bring him joy. Good team work! You may not think that your children will remember stuff like this, but they will!

[@heathergruenberg3273]

It is so organized and you can tell Andy is really really happy! The room looks so inviting...great job!

[@karenstairs8273]

I understand Andy's putting the books kept on the shelves because they are out and neat. I understand Erica's way because it is so pleasing to the eye. I'm glad that Andy now has his books where he can read them...and you both love reading and your children have great reading role models ...That is a great thing!

[@socalgal7830]

Beautiful room. Erica, you have really outdone yourself in bringing in sentimentals in a multi-functional space. The room is definitely a blending of two styles which is an extra bonus because it speaks of love, devotion and respect for each other. Kudos to Andy for the successful declutter session. I'm inspired by his systematic and through thought processes. My favorite scene in this episode is Ranger strealing the limelight at 15:45. He definitely is special part of your family and I look forward to his participation in each of your videos. Thank you for sharing real life with us.

[@madzabinga8382]

That room looks so nice! It's so cozy! I don't think that all book storage needs to be eye catching. They are organized and serve their function. I think the only other way you could have avoided the "visual clutter" issue, would be to have used shelves with doors. Also, don't be afraid to style the shelves with the books. Because they are pushed to the back, you can use the space in front of the books to put up art, or small plants, and framed photos, and have the books be the backdrop. You might like giving your eye something to focus on by drawing attention to certain areas of the shelf with decor elements.

[@tonietteh2015]

I think it looks fantastic! I love the look of books out in a living space so they can be easily accessed and read and re~read, and soon the kids can start reading dad's favorite series too ☺️

[@sharonsomers5513]

The library looks great. Andy seems so happy his books are out of storage 👍

[@itoshiibaka8267]

So glad you were able to give the play table to a shelter ❤

[@cherylsaylor5222]

What a lovely room to find peace. When I was growing up my favorite place to go to was the library and be surrounded by books. Now ,I have a dedicated bedroom that holds three bookcases filled with our favorite books. It’s the most peaceful room in the house. Great job on your bookcases,may you find the next great story just around the corner!

[@LoveLeeMeJenny]

"Old books" is one of my absolute favourite smells. Love it! 😍

[@LoriJantzi]

Suggestion... place your shelf in the middle and Andy's on either side. It will balance things out esthetically and create a good compromise.

[@simplynej]

Using and displaying sentimental items is the BEST!!!!

[@MelindaLee]

OMG I love Ranger more every time you give us a new video. I can't help it, he's just so much part of the family and "keeping guard" of his lovely world. Love it.

[@susieq2334]

💗💗

[@jemma50]

Ooh, Erica! I love your top!! Sooooo pretty! ♥ The first one - white with flowers on it. :)

[@diamondfire8479]

Seeing how excited he was to put the library together made me so happy for him. I too aspire to have my own library ; I’m one shelf down already. The final result looks amazing you guys. I love how you facilitated the whole project with your organization skills

[@meun96rd]

Love that Andy has his favs out on display! Minimalish at its finest! I would place anything you don’t want Ranger to redecorate up higher like Andy’s grandmothers item

[@lydiagibbs9106]

I think the success of minimalism is to declutter, declutter......and then stop buying stuff. It can become a cycle and repetitive having to continue to declutter. Loved how the room turned out! Good job.

[@herzzr2362]

The library look is beautiful. My husband has hundreds and hundreds of books, many first editions and signed. Our entire home is like a library. It was a bit much for me at first, but seeing the joy it gave him gave me joy as well.

[@berenicemartinez9238]

It’s great for ur kids to see their parent loving books!!

[@simplejoyfilledliving]

I love how functional the room is now!

[@dragonsflame474]

I just finished building my bookshelves and now am ready to sort and put away books and I ***can't*** wait!!

[@melissabaugh691]

I love how you continue to flow with the changing functions or plans for your front room. Helps me remember its ok if you change the plan, because it's YOUR plan.

[@barbkandel777]

Erica, you and Andy did such a great job repurposing this room. It looks fantastic and it's so functional! Great job, guys!!!

[@mariebaker7845]

The room looks great - well done, both of you!

[@leslieaz8361]

It was so fun watching Andy help with this project. He seems like a very nice person and a very supportive husband. You guys seem like a wonderful couple! God bless you and your family.

[@sailorgirl2017]

Totally agree with your husband!! Books have a beautiful smell. It's one of the characteristics I look for a long with the "swing" of a book. How it moves when I sway it back and forth. Get into his jam like he supports yours, sister.

[@tallulahsmom2964]

Andy and Erica, My son would get along great with Andy. He loves books and loves to read. He told me that when he gets his own place he will have a room for his own library. He was homeschooled and is now a recent college graduate. He graduated with a 4.0. I am so proud of him. My son worked his tail off to accomplish this, so yes, this one time I will brag. I also believe that it was his love of reading that helped him though college. I miss those days of homeschooling my kids. Enjoy this because the years really do go by fast. Have a great weekend.

[@wereno3769]

❤️❤️The Wheel of Time is my all-favorite series. Glad to see it got pride of place in Andy's library. I too have the first editions and wouldn't part with them.❤️❤️

[@pvg1236]

LOL! Just started and the attitude you both have has made me smile. Nice way to start a work week. Thanks!

[@debbiemclean1090]

I'm with Andy with the books, even though I'm a minimalist, I love my books xxxxxxxxxxx

[@jennifercleans1652]

I sat small battery operated candles with remote & timer in my small lamps. Great omniscience. I love the makeover:)

[@jennifercleans1652]

@Dana MI-nimalist damn auto correct

[@megaamold9597]

Hello! I’ve been a subscriber for a few years, and watching you all process items physically and emotionally has been amazing. It’s come full circle in this room, you both looked so at peace and happy at the outcome ❤️

[@spatzimaus1]

Looks great! I love Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time Series!

[@glendaw5221]

I love it. And I really love Andy. There isn’t a mean bone in that man’s body!! Erica, your shelves look great. Y’all are a special couple.

[@CULady]

Love the room! Great job! Maybe do the minimalist shelf in the center of the two of Andy's so it'd balance looking and that ought help you Erica❤

[@simplynej]

I absolutely love how much your husband is also involved in the process. It's amazing how much motivation that one simple thing adds for me. :-) :-)

[@cindygray8322]

Andy "I want you to catch it." Ranger " I want you to toss it to me" LOL!!

[@LeafLikeOnATree]

I tend to be overwhelmed by books on bookshelves. I hide all ours in closets 😂. With that said, I think he did a really good job. It felt like an organizers library rather than books haphazardly put on a book shelf. You can tell he really took pride in displaying his collection. I say it looks awesome!

[@cheriebrittin7627]

I completely understand Andy, the smell of old books, the library, the joy! Good job, to you both! Adore your family! ❤️

[@michellebiggerstaff6841]

I am a book person, and a Kindle person. I have a TON of books on my kindle, but I also like actual books too. Each shelf has a reason. Is it perfect? No. It's a work in progress. It's in my office though, so noone else can complain about it. I'm a cricket, and noone else is, so finding the balance/compromise is the most interesting part of cleaning/decluttering/organizing for our family. Good luck. Looks good.

[@krystalrubusch6309]

As a book lover and a minimal shelf lover, I love the layout. My book heart feels full❤. And my anxiety brain loves that there is minimal clear shelf holding sentimental things. Almost symbolic of a mind a peace with the sentimental past and also full of want for future adventure and sci fi. Love it!

[@karenhoward8542]

I love his shelves! Possibly because I, too, have a bunch of series of books, both fantasy, science fiction and many others. kmh

[@courtneyelizabeth4710]

I'd transfer the minimal left shelf to the middle so it's in the middle of Andy's books. You'd have Andy's on either side and the minimal in between. May make it feel more balanced for you :) Love the room!

[@debsmith7460]

First, there are just some really funny moments in this video, like Andy sipping his drink at the table while Erica worked. Made me laugh. Second, this is a really well edited and produced video. Nice job! Next, I love how you guys are constantly re-doing spaces to work for your family at the moment you are in. Evaluation, reflection, and adjustment is the key to a continuous improvement mindset and how you keep your home and family life relevant to the actual needs and wants of your family. Well done! Lastly, you have already gotten other suggestions like this, but I think you need to look at the 3 shelves as a whole. Move heavy stuff (bigger books, etc) to the bottoms of all three. Create some visual white space at eye level for Erica. I think there are some tweaks that would make this work better for both of you! Love your team work and how you model give and take in your marriage. Thanks for the video this morning. Very inspiring!

[@lnwmelon]

What a pretty rug! Good job on your new living room. It looks beautiful!

[@Alexia-rq3mj]

I love that you have your father"s lettters.

[@ambercochrane5594]

I love Andy's book shelf the best.it looks so cosy in the reading corner.

[@lovemyhomelife2152]

I love watching your dog when you do these videos!! 😂😊❤ Great decluttering.

[@susannatiirikainen]

I just love Ranger! Absolutely adorable dog!

[@debbiehawkes7120]

I think it’s looks great guys. Happy for you Andy and you’re being very obliging to make Andy happy Erica. Lovely couple.

[@suzannezortman5568]

It turned out just beautiful and the idea of surrounding yourself by things you love and cherish is just an amazing way to live. Its no longer clutter!!!

[@nancycosgrove4005]

I love how the room came out

[@lhumpy190]

That room is looking really cosy. You have done so well. Love the rug. Very pretty.

[@andreamcgeown2476]

The room looks great! I love how involved Ranger was in the whole process :)

[@Raxx777]

Looking great- love how the pup wanted to be involed.