The Lifestyle Edit: Coco Tran

THE LIFESTYLE EDIT 04: COCO TRAN

Coco Tran lives in Sacramento, CA, where she works as a photographer and a designer. We fell in love with her custom home that she's currently building and the muted palette of her wardrobe. Read on for a peek into her daily life and what this year has taught her.

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Take us back on the journey that lead you to become the person you are today – what events from your past have shaped your life?

Growing up in the Czech Republic, moving to the states, and being a first generation immigrant in two different countries. I had a great childhood and such fond memories growing up in Czech. I think the constant change in life made me more open minded, adaptable, and it gave me a different perspective on the meaning of life. I’ve always been independent, unafraid to try something new, and a creative and I think it’s because of my upbringing in a different country that shaped me into the person I am today.

What does your day-to-day look like?

Every morning, as soon as I open my eyes before I reach for my phone or any of that, I start my morning with a smile (sounds strange but it does put me in a positive mood) and then mentally list three things I’m thankful for. I started practicing this a year ago and I love it, it sets the tone and intention for the rest of my day.

If I’m not traveling or going to work, I’m usually up by 8am. I check my phone for e-mails and my to do list. I’ll drink a glass of water and make a matcha latte. In the afternoon I’m usually on the computer or phone working on a deadline or creating content, and by evening I’m usually thinking about what to make for dinner. 

You’re currently building a custom home which is so exciting! Where do you draw inspiration from?

Yes, it has been very exciting to go through this process. We were fortunate enough to have a large lot and a backyard with more land to build an additional dwelling unit.

Our inspiration came after I’ve been introduced to the fire movement (financial independence, retire early) early last year, and drawing from the principles of the movement to be more intentional about the largest expense we had, our mortgage, we took the plunge once it financially made sense after running the numbers. Now we have lived in our new home for 3 months and we are renting our primary home.

For my design inspiration, it was through experience from living in our first home and knowing what worked and didn’t work for us.  For this home, it was all about good spatial design, good light, and efficiency. Although I had the flexibility to design our home, I had to make it work for us within a 749sq ft footprint. After I designed a layout that worked best for us, came the fun part of picking out the finishes and appliances. I drew a lot of my inspiration from my travels. 

What is an item you dream of having in your home?

I have been intentional about our purchases and what I bring into our home. Although, like anyone else, I had a list of dream pieces, most are vintage furniture pieces.  I’ve realized the way social media will influence your taste and budget quickly if you let it. I stayed true to what I’m drawn to: minimal, lived in, airy spaces. 

My husband Thomas and I both value simplicity and minimalism. When we began moving to our new home, we both agreed that we will be both intentional in making our house feel like home, only adding pieces that we love and will last for years to come. 

You designed your coffee table with Öken House Studios, a small business based in the area where you live. How important is it to you to support local, small businesses?

It is important to me. Maira was wonderful to work with! It was so fun to design a custom piece while supporting a small business. I hope to design more in the near future. I’m in Sacramento, and there are so many wonderful creatives and artists here that own businesses. Truly so happy to be in this bountiful and beautiful city.

We were drawn to your Instagram because of the beige tones and your effortless styling. How would you describe your style?

Thank you, it’s a mixture of comfortable, minimal, and high quality basics that I can mix and match throughout the seasons.

What is one thing you wish you had more time for?

Reading

Reflecting on the year that has passed, many changes have come about for us. How have you changed in the past year?

I see this past year as a vehicle to get in touch with the important things, bringing clarity to what is most important and many reasons to be thankful for what I have. I’m thankful for the lesson on grace, patience, and resilience this year has taught me.

As the new year rolls around, what do you think 2021 has in store for you?

I’m not sure what tomorrow will bring, but I hope a lot of travel, new experiences, and adventure.

Xx 

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Coco wears our Pierrot Jacket and Pierrot Pants in Cream.

Find Coco on Instagram for style inspiration and pictures of her home.