Removing all of the window coverings and applying a fresh coat of paint does wonders for freshening up our newly purchased condo. We swap the unstable fan (if you look closely, it’s missing a blade) for a sleek new nickel one. We also cart the 20+ year old air conditioning unit to the dump and replace it with a smart A/C.

The side tables and coffee table arrive early, and I pick up a gray ‘poof’ from the on-island Target. While we wait for the sofa to arrive on the slow boat from the mainland, we improvise, using the patio furniture to mimic a traditional living room setup.

After much deliberation, we make the decision to cover the tile. It’s slippery, and according to a real estate agent who surveyed the condo, it was supposed to be wall tile. LVP flooring is wildly easy and cost-effective to install; we opt for a warm beechwood look.

We work with Cheri at Aloha Blinds to identify, order, and install the perfect, modern, minimalist window covering for the large lanai doors.

Several Wayfair/Amazon orders later, along with many shopping trips to local boutiques around Kona for all the finishing touches, the living room is complete and guest-ready.