While life may be inherently chaotic, television host and designer Kortney Wilson firmly believes your living space doesn't have to reflect that turmoil. The seasoned home expert, known for her transformative approach to residential spaces, is championing a new philosophy that prioritizes functionality and thoughtful organization over extravagant renovations.
From Grand Renovations to Practical Transformations
When Wilson last appeared at the BC Home + Garden Show, she likely discussed major renovation projects. This year, however, her focus has shifted dramatically. Her new Home Network series, appropriately titled Life Is Messy, explores how homeowners can enhance their existing spaces without undertaking costly structural changes.
"We've moved away from those massive renovations—complete teardowns, rebuilds, and additions—to entering homes and removing every single item, down to a pack of gum," Wilson explains. "We ask challenging questions about how families actually live. It's a more humble process that strips everything back to what truly makes a home functional. Life might be messy, but your home doesn't have to be."
A Career Built on Transformation
Wilson first gained recognition as co-host and lead designer on Masters of Flip, which aired for four successful seasons. She later co-starred in Making It Home for three additional seasons, solidifying her reputation in the home improvement television landscape.
Originally from Ontario, Wilson moved to Nashville at eighteen to pursue country music before transitioning into real estate and design. Over the years, she and her team have renovated well over one hundred properties across the United States. Today, she balances multiple roles as a realtor, entrepreneur, and designer with her own product lines and real estate group.
The 'Life Is Messy' Approach
In her latest venture, Wilson collaborates with co-host Kenny Brain to assist eight Toronto-area families in reimagining their domestic environments. The show addresses common household challenges including clutter accumulation, inefficient layouts, and disruptive daily routines. Life Is Messy premieres on Home Network on April 9.
"Tidying up represents just the initial step, but there's a genuine art to it," Wilson notes. "Otherwise, everyone would do it successfully. After guiding these families from start to finish over an intensive ten-day period—yes, it's accelerated—I truly want to empower viewers."
Avoiding Trend Traps and Considering Resale Value
Wilson cautions homeowners against becoming overly influenced by passing design fads. She emphasizes the importance of practical considerations that align with individual lifestyles and long-term plans.
"People frequently overlook how long they intend to stay in a property," she observes. "Improving your home looks entirely different if you're moving in two years versus remaining for twenty. Additionally, homeowners often neglect practical aspects—where shoes accumulate, where clutter naturally gathers, where family members actually congregate. Those answers should inform your floor plan more than any temporary trend."
She also stresses the significance of resale value in renovation decisions, drawing on her dual expertise as both designer and realtor.
"I might enter a recently renovated house and hear, 'I don't cook on an island,' so they installed a miniature version," Wilson shares. "I'll respond, 'You may have just sacrificed $50,000 in potential resale value.' I evaluate spaces through both lenses. Having worked as a realtor in Nashville for fifteen years, I've witnessed numerous buyers reject homes that lack aesthetic appeal, even when practicality exists."
Transformation Without Financial Strain
One of the most compelling aspects of Wilson's approach is its accessibility. She demonstrates that meaningful home transformation doesn't require substantial financial investment.
"On Life Is Messy, I lead with emotional authenticity—motherhood, marriage, working from home," she says. "Most people don't have $200,000 for a renovation, so the crucial question becomes: can they still adore their home? The answer is absolutely yes. Recently, I assisted a realtor friend who despised her living room. We rearranged furniture, established a focal point, minimized clutter—and didn't spend a single dollar. Reducing clutter remains the most significant obstacle. People observe it on television, but they often lack the courage to implement it themselves."
Wilson's presentation at the upcoming BC Home + Garden Show will delve deeper into these principles, offering attendees actionable strategies for creating more livable, functional, and joyful home environments without undertaking massive renovation projects.
