How to Make Your Home Yours After Moving to Puerto Vallarta
Moving to Puerto Vallarta is a change in rhythm, perspective, and lifestyle. You might be freshly unpacked or still learning your way around neighborhoods like Zona Romántica and Fluvial, and it’s completely normal to feel a little out of place at first.
The good news? Turning your house (or condo or casita) into a true home doesn’t require a massive renovation or all-new furniture. With the right mindset and a few design tricks, you can begin to create a space that feels like you, even in unfamiliar surroundings.
Here are a few practical and heartfelt ways to settle in, design with intention, and start feeling more at home after moving to Puerto Vallarta:
Let Go of the Pinterest House
First things first: if you moved here from the U.S. or Canada, you’re probably used to a wider variety of furnishings, faster delivery times, and a little more control over the design process. That’s not always how it works in Puerto Vallarta.
Here, things are handmade. They take time. They often have quirks. And that’s part of the charm.
So, instead of chasing perfection, embrace personality. Curate a space that feels layered and lived-in, not showroom perfect. Your new home might not look exactly like the one you left, but it can feel even better with time.
Start with What You Already Have
When people move abroad, they often feel pressured to “start over” with all new things. But bringing a few familiar items with you—like a favorite throw blanket, framed photo, or piece of art—can go a long way toward grounding you in your new space.
If you didn’t bring much, consider what feels like home to you. Is it texture? Warm lighting? A cozy reading chair? Focus on adding those emotional elements first.
Layer in Local Pieces with Meaning
Puerto Vallarta is full of incredible artisans and makers—from woodworkers in nearby towns to ceramicists and textile artists. One of the most rewarding parts of moving to Puerto Vallarta is infusing your home with pieces that tell the story of where you are now.
Look for handmade chairs, woven lampshades, or clay pottery that reflect local design traditions. These pieces not only support the local economy but also add depth, texture, and authenticity to your space.
And don’t worry if your style is more modern or minimalist—you can still blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. That’s where the magic happens.
Don’t Rush the Process
Designing a home is a journey, not a sprint—especially in Mexico. Custom pieces can take weeks (or months), shipments might get delayed, and renovation timelines often stretch.
Give yourself permission to live in your space before making big decisions. Notice how the light moves throughout the day. See which corners feel inviting and which feel ignored. Your home will begin to tell you what it needs—if you let it.
Make Small Changes That Feel Big
You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest impact:
A fresh coat of paint in a color that reflects your style
Curtains that soften the room and filter the Vallarta sun
Swapping out generic light fixtures for something sculptural or handmade
Styling open shelves with books, baskets, and beautiful everyday items
And if you need help making decisions, my Color Your Space with Confidence consultation is the perfect place to start. In just one hour, we’ll create a cohesive palette that works with your lighting, architecture, and lifestyle.
Embrace the Puerto Vallarta Pace
Living here means adjusting to a slower rhythm, and your home design journey is no different. Sometimes, the best design decision is simply taking a breath and living in the moment.
You’ll find that the more you lean into Vallarta’s laid-back lifestyle, the more your space begins to reflect you—calm, grounded, and inspired by your new surroundings.
Moving to Puerto Vallarta is a big step, but creating a home you love here doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on layering in meaningful pieces, embracing local style, and giving yourself time. Your space will evolve, just like you are.
However, no matter how much you plan and research, there will be times when you need help. So please feel free to reach out and book a call with any of your design and renovation questions. Subscribe to our newsletter for everything related to interior design in Mexico and beyond!
