About

Inspiring Millions

Rita Wilkins, the "Downsizing Designer," transformed her life by moving from a spacious 5,000 square-foot home to a serene 867 square-foot apartment, discovering joy in simplicity. Her inspiring journey has touched millions, advocating for a life rich in experiences over possessions. Today, Rita's work as an interior designer and speaker continues to inspire a global minimalist movement towards decluttering, intentional living, and true fulfillment. Read her full Bio below

Rita's Story

Rita Wilkins, widely known as The Downsizing Designer, is a nationally recognized public speaker, author, and lifestyle influencer dedicated to helping people reimagine their lives through minimalism and intentional living. Rita's journey toward a simpler, more meaningful life began when she downsized from a 5,000 sq. ft. home to an 867 sq. ft. apartment in Philadelphia. Inspired by a transformative trip to a third-world country, where she witnessed profound happiness despite material scarcity, she gave away 95% of her possessions and has never been happier living on just 5%.

Her powerful message, as shared on the TEDx stage with "Downsize Your Life: Why Less is More" and in her bestselling book "Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom", continues to inspire individuals across the globe to live with less and experience more freedom.

With over 40 years of experience as an interior designer and lifestyle expert, Rita's approach is centered on helping people break through personal barriers and redesign their lives with intention. Her influence resonates strongly with the growing older demographic, including her collaborations with "60 and Me", and her TEDx story continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Rita remains passionate about inspiring others to pursue their passions, live authentically, and embrace the power of intentional downsizing.

A Letter from Rita

Hi! I?m Rita Wilkins, and I am so glad you?re here.

After many years in the design world, I?ve learned that the most beautiful spaces are those that truly reflect who we are. My own downsizing journey not only transformed my home but also reshaped my life, and now, I?m on a mission to help others find that same sense of freedom. It?s not about giving things up?it?s about gaining so much more.

Whether through my writing, speaking, or YouTube videos, my goal is to inspire you to reimagine your life and live with more purpose. Downsizing and decluttering aren?t just physical acts; they are deeply emotional steps toward creating space for what truly matters?joy, connection, and freedom.

As an interior designer, I help clients "see through walls," creating spaces that fit how they live, work, and connect. As a lifestyle designer, I guide people to break personal barriers, reimagining their lives to align with their passion, purpose, and ?why.?

I believe that living with less opens the door to living with more meaning, more love, and more happiness. It?s never too late to start. Whether you?re just beginning your journey or you?ve already embraced a simpler lifestyle, I?m here to guide, support, and cheer you on.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Together, we?ll design a life you love? with less.

Warmly,

Rita Wilkins, The Downsizing Designer
P.S. Remember, it?s never too late to design and live the life you?ve always dreamed of.