Home design goes far beyond styled photos, but alas, as (mostly) visual creatures, we love a good photo.

What might not be immediately apparent in the photos are the $3 DIYs, the organization tricks, the strategic placement of pretty things (usually to hide ugly things), the use of raw, repurposed, and natural materials, the thrifted finds, and the hours of decision-making about furniture arrangement.

There’s no need for your home to look like a magazine cover, as long as it works for you.