Awkward layouts. Drab flooring. Temporary living. That’s how most military families view on-base housing.
But not Army wife Lisa Song; she sees potential.
Song has made her Fort Irwin base housing feel like home through DIY and design. Believing in creating a cozy place even in a temporary space, she has made a welcoming environment in both her Southern California home and her online community.
With parents in the real estate industry, Song shared about growing up going to design rooms. Now, she uses this passion to transform lackluster base housing and share her creativity in a hands-on way.
1. Decorate for now, not someday
The family hasn’t always lived on base during her husband’s 15-year military career. However, Song saw base housing as a creative design opportunity, and didn’t want to wait until she owned a home again to decorate how she likes.
“I don’t want to delay happiness or feeling at home in my space, no matter if it’s a home I own or a rental. Yes, it’s temporary. But it’s still our life, so I’m going to make the most of it,” Song said.
“People think military housing isn’t the best, that you don’t know what you’re going to get. But I stayed sane coming here knowing I’d have a creative outlet to dream and envision the things I could do,” she said.
2. It’s okay to add personality to the beige
“There’s a stigma that military housing is dull or unattractive. But I see it as a challenge. Wall decals have come a long way and are super renter-friendly,” Song said.
She shared that you can even disguise ugly vertical blinds with the right curtains.
“Switching out light fixtures makes a big impact. You can add window treatments, or paint an accent wall,” Song explained.
3. Start small
Many people assume large DIY projects are expensive or time-consuming. But it doesn’t all have to be done at once or in the most expensive way possible. Song suggested making improvements based on what bothers you most, and to shop using reviews and sales.
“Start small… There are so many things you can do that are budget friendly,” she said.
4. Don’t rush
Song says she goes to the main areas first, then the kids’ bedrooms. She recommended investing in timeless items, not buying things just because they’re trendy.
“Take the time to see what you can do to make it more your space. It’s taken me a long time. I don’t think I would have been happy with the outcome if I rushed. Your home shouldn’t feel rushed,” she said.
5. Use your resources
“I use several resources during the initial design process. Pinterest is my best friend in the early planning stages,” she shared.
Song bases her designs on mood boards done in Canva. She also uses Google Lens for inspiration.
“When I’m designing, I upload wallpaper, furniture, and other items I have or want to see what works and what doesn’t.”
6. Design with your family in mind
Whether you have one or four design opinions to accommodate, your family matters, too.
“Even I struggle with this sometimes,” Song laughed. “It’s okay to have different styles in your home. You live there. It doesn’t necessarily have to be cohesive.”
“I want my children’s rooms to be colorful and fun. Their rooms will always be my favorite to do. Giving them a space where they can grow and imagine is so special to me. Seeing their faces light up when I show them is so fulfilling as a mom.”
Song offers one line of caution for home design: do not to compare your home to anyone else’s.
“Comparison is such a thief of joy. Whatever you are doing for your home and your family, let that be enough for you.”
