What Is Divorce Design? 7 Ways to Revamp Your Home

This is the post-divorce glow-up you didn’t know you needed.

Another addition to the post-divorce it-girl checklist is the quietly empowering trend that’s sweeping through the interior world. If you’ve recently found yourself with a little more space — and fewer opinions to negotiate — you’re in the perfect position to embrace this feel-good, self-celebratory makeover moment. This is the post-divorce glow-up you didn’t know you needed.

What Is Divorce Design?

Divorce design is all about taking your home and turning it into something that screams you, or at least gently hums your favorite colors, textures and patterns. It’s what happens when the decorating by committee phase ends, and suddenly, you’re the sole creative director of your surroundings.

Once the divorce dust settles, this means finally painting the kitchen in your favorite shades, ditching the dreaded TV-over-the-fireplace rule and saying goodbye to shower doors you never liked in the first place. This isn’t just about throw pillows — it’s about reclaiming your identity, indulging in personal aesthetics and unapologetically designing a home that reflects who you are now.

Breakups make you feel like you need to shake things up and bring new things in. Whether you’re an empowered divorcee or faking it till you make it, you’re putting up a brave face and gaining back independence. It’s not a lonely path to take. In fact, 27.6% of American homes are occupied by an individual, so you’re not alone.

1. Paint It Like You Mean It

After a divorce, one of the easiest and most transformational ways to reclaim your space is through a fresh coat of paint. It's your chance to repaint not just your walls, but your life, with color.

Go ahead. Indulge in those pinks if Barbie walls are something you’ve always wanted. A soft, muted blush adds elegance without being too sugary. If you want to make a bolder statement, try fuchsia or bubblegum pink as accent walls or on kitchen chairs — they energize without overwhelming, especially when balanced with soft grays or creams.

It doesn’t have to be pink everything, too. You have all the colors of the rainbow to choose from. Try some gorgeous blues, greens, yellows or even black — anything that calls your name and allows you to create a space you truly love.

2. Create a You-Only Zone

Whether it’s a bedroom, a reading nook or the kitchen, carve out a sacred space that’s just for you. Think textures you love, books you actually read and throws you won’t have to fight anyone over. Add candles and flattering lighting, and surround yourself with things that soothe and excite you.

Adding plants also helps the area feel more lively. Choose something low maintenance, like a money plant that grows only 12 inches tall, so you won’t have to keep repotting.

3. Light It Like You Love Yourself

Lighting sets the tone, and lights with preset options may just be what you need. You can have custom lights for entertaining, one for reading and another setting for winding down. Add a signature scent to the mix, like sandalwood or mahogany, to give your space an inviting, unforgettable atmosphere. After all, you deserve a home that smells like a spa.

A well-lit room can elevate even the simplest design. Try warm bulbs, statement lamps and dimmers for that glow-up effect.

4. Reclaim the Kitchen

Your kitchen, your rules. If you’ve always wanted purple cabinets, it’s time to make it a reality. Your ex may have never agreed to paint it anything else than its wood grain, but now that you get full control, you can finally get the space feeling warm, welcoming and yours.

If bright colors aren’t your flavor, consider muted mauve, dusty rose or warm neutrals like taupe. Pair them with open shelving, vintage crockery displays or floral wallpaper to bring charm and character to your culinary corner.

5. Declutter the Emotional Baggage

Toss away the decor items that no longer serve you. Do a full sweep of each room and remove anything that brings up old energy. Replace joint purchases with pieces that reflect your personal taste.

If you’re still feeling sentimental, you can keep a few memories in a keepsake box, and then Marie Kondo the rest. Let go of anything that doesn’t spark joy or feel like you anymore. This is your visual fresh start. Keep only what aligns with your new vibe.

6. Play With Texture and Pattern

Living alone or with just your kids means there’s no one to veto that leopard-print bench or floral wallpaper. This is your moment to play with fun, feminine or totally personal design choices.

Mix animal prints, florals and velvety textures with elegant neutrals to keep things stylish and cohesive. Don’t be afraid to make bold choices. This is the time to express your tastes unapologetically.

7. Find Furniture That Feels Like You

Maybe that oversized recliner wasn’t your vibe. Now’s the time to swap it for plush, comfortable seating that fits your body and aesthetic.

If you’re buying new, go for soft textiles in luxe colors and tones with brass details that bring in shine. If on-the-shelf furniture doesn’t quite work, you can always hit the thrift shop for antique, quirky, pre-loved finds.

Divorce Design Is About More Than Decor

More than paint colors and furniture swaps, divorce design is about reclaiming your space, your preferences and your power.

It’s the ultimate form of self-care that results in soft throw pillows, delicious scents and zero arguments about where the TV goes. Whether you’re making a sanctuary for yourself or creating a new normal for your kids, divorce design allows you to celebrate this next chapter with style.