Someone once said that a really good declutter of your life is as good as a remodel (and so much easier and cheaper). Now as an architect, I don't know that I totally agree with that. A remodel can improve your layout, add natural light, introduce in beautiful new surfaces and generally custom fit your home to your life. A solid decluttering job can't do any of those things. However, sometimes a serious declutter is as good as an addition. Pare down your stuff BEFORE you plan your remodel so you don't waste valuable time, effort, and MONEY making more room for your things instead of creating a home you love.In Today's Episode you'll hear ...Real talk: you're going to need to declutter before your remodel anyway ... you'll have to get ALL of your stuff out of the way before you can start swinging a hammer for demolition! [1:45]Two fun stories of my rolling stone past: that time I lived in a tent for five months, AND that time I lived in hostels along the Mediterranean coast for five months ... and what both adventures taught me about living with less [2:37]Parkinson's Law applied to stuff in your house [4:45]Two quick tips to make your kitchen bigger ... overnight! [6:31]A little shout out to all our friend, Marie Kondo, with my thoughts on why her methods don't always work for Americans [9:17]My personal decluttering hero: Marla Cilley, aka FlyLady and her magical 15 minute burst theory of doing everything [9:53]Find links and complete show notes at midmod-midwest.com/206!