Designer Kortney Wilson and builder Kenny Brain are back for a new season of Home Network's Life is Messy, airing Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The show helps families regain control from clutter and disorganization, transforming homes into functional spaces.
Wilson, a realtor and mother, sees homes as the "engine" for families' lives. She notes that clutter often stems from major life changes, with people clinging to past identities. "I'm walking into homes where the 'stuff' is just a physical manifestation of a major life pivot," she says. Common challenges include the 'ego trap,' where parents keep a nursery vibe for teenagers or professionals hold onto office equipment for a career they left years ago.
Steps to an Organized Home
Brain shares a simple system for tackling mess:
- Empty the space to see the full picture.
- Edit ruthlessly by dividing items into 'keep,' 'donate,' and 'toss.' Ask: Do I use this? Would I buy it again? Does it add value?
- Create zones for daily use, occasional use, and long-term storage, keeping most-used items accessible.
- Add storage solutions last to avoid organizing clutter.
Wilson emphasizes that an organized home reduces stress. "It's about making sure your home doesn't feel like a second job. When you aren't hunting for keys or moving mail, you get back time and sanity." Brain advises maintaining order with a one-in, one-out rule and a quick weekly reset.
