Evolving Spaces, Evolving Selves

By Richard Valdez
www.richardvaldezre.com

I’ve always believed that the way we live reflects who we are — and who we’re becoming. Our taste in fashion, food, home design — it all changes as we grow. And just like a great outfit or a perfectly mixed cocktail, the beauty is in the details.

In my thirties, I was obsessed with white-on-white interiors. Creams, ivories, linens — an entire living room bathed in subtle shades of light. To me, it felt peaceful, clean, intentional. I added leather throw pillows for a touch of masculinity, and chintz for softness. It was my personal spin on Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic, filtered through a Ralph Lauren Hamptons lens. Looking back, that room wasn't just décor — it was who I was becoming: focused, ambitious, and craving calm in a busy world.

Back then, my meals were as streamlined as my schedule. I worked full-time, plus a side hustle, so I kept things simple: roasted vegetables, egg salad, baguettes, maybe a sandwich and a glass of white wine. I wasn’t cooking gourmet, I was surviving with style.

Then came my forties — a time of new beginnings. I started working for a powerhouse luxury brand, and for the first time, I could afford to indulge a little. I didn’t start eating out, but I did start cooking in. I discovered the timeless techniques of Julia Child and the perfectly curated living of Martha Stewart. I began building a lifestyle that matched the values I was cultivating: elevated, curated, and full of flavor.

Now in my sixties, my home — and my life — has taken on a distinctly European sensibility. I’ve traded minimalism for layers, quick meals for slow-simmered sauces, and quick fixes for craftsmanship. Whether it’s the way I set a table or choose a sofa, it’s all about timelessness and texture, not trends.

Of course, some things never change. My husband, for instance, has always believed in a 6:00 p.m. cocktail. He swears by his Old Fashioneds, Negronis, and Manhattans — and I’ve grown to love this ritual of his. It’s grounding. It’s old-school. It’s a reminder that some traditions deserve to be kept exactly as they are.

And yet, as much as I’ve evolved, my heart still belongs to the flavors of my childhood. Pork Adobo, Pinakbet, and Arroz Caldo — three Filipino comfort dishes passed down through my grandmothers, each with their own unique twist. These meals hold memories, identity, and love. They’ve traveled with me through every phase of my life, and thankfully, my husband loves them too.

So what does all this have to do with real estate, design, or living well?

Everything.

Because whether you're redecorating a room, planning your next meal, or reimagining your entire lifestyle — every decision reflects a part of your journey. Our homes are more than walls and furniture. They’re mirrors of where we've been… and quiet blueprints for where we’re headed.

So the next time you find yourself lighting a candle, fluffing a pillow, or uncorking a favorite bottle of wine — pause. Reflect. Think about how far you’ve come.
And remind yourself:

You’ve earned this life.
You’ve created something beautiful.
And the best part?
You’re just getting started.