Category: renovation

Staying organized during a renovation. And Sane

Renovating can quickly lead to clutter and chaos if not managed properly. Staying organized during a renovation requires organizing to stay on top of things and avoid clutter :

Used with permission from Casework

Create a Detailed Plan:

Outline each step by breaking down the renovation into phases and set clear timelines for each.
Designate spaces and decide where materials, tools, and items will be stored throughout the renovation.

Declutter Before You Begin:

Purge unnecessary items by sorting through belongings and get rid of things you no longer need before the renovation starts. Consider renting a storage unit for temporary storage or using a designated space in your home to store items that need to be out of the way.

Used with permission from Casework

Use Temporary Solutions:

Procure portable storage containers like bins, boxes, or portable wardrobes for items that need to be temporarily relocated. Label everything! Clearly label all boxes and containers with their contents and room destination to avoid confusion later. Also check out this article on Porch with lots of tips on staying organized during renovation.

Organize Materials and Tools:

Set up designated zones and set up specific areas for materials and tools. Keep them organized and accessible to prevent them from being scattered around.Establish a daily cleanup routine for tidying up at the end of each day to maintain order.

Used with permission from Casework

Minimize Furniture and Decor:

To protect and store your possessions, move large furniture and decor items to a safe location to prevent damage and reduce clutter. Cover remaining items with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect any items that can’t be moved.

Set Up a Temporary Living Space:

Create a functional area and designate a clutter-free zone where you can carry out daily activities away from the renovation mess. Keep essentials handy and store daily essentials in this area to avoid unnecessary trips through the renovation zone.

Used with permission from Casework

Stay on Top of Waste Management:

Rent a dumpster and have a plan for disposing of debris and waste materials as the renovation progresses. Arrange for regular removal of trash and debris to keep the work area clean and manageable.

Use Vertical Space:

Shelving units and temporary shelving can be used to keep tools, materials, and supplies organized and off the floor. Hanging organizers and wall-mounted hooks or pegboards for hanging tools and supplies.

Used with permission from Casework

Protect and Isolate Non-Renovation Areas:

Install temporary barriers, such as plastic sheeting, to separate the renovation zone from the rest of the house. Limit dust spread and use air purifiers or close off HVAC vents in the renovation area to prevent dust from spreading.

Stay Flexible and Adapt:

Regularly reassess as the renovation progresses, reassess your organization strategies and make adjustments as needed. Tackle clutter immediately and address any clutter or disorganization as soon as it appears to prevent it from becoming overwhelming.

Staying organized during a renovation

By following these tips, you can keep your renovation project organized, minimize clutter, and maintain a more manageable and stress-free environment throughout the process.

September 4, 2024
How To: Updating Your Old Wood Ceiling Beams

Are your wood ceiling beams looking outdated? Don’t worry. You don’t have to go through the expensive process of replacing them. Various simple and cost-effective ways exist to update your old wood ceiling beams and bring them back to life. Here, we will guide you through how to update your old wood ceiling beams, from preparing the surface to finishing off with a protective coat of sealant. Read on to learn how to quickly and affordably update your wood ceiling beams!

Assessing the condition of your old wood ceiling beams

Before updating your old wood ceiling beams, assessing their condition is important. Inspect the beams for any signs of damage, such as rot, cracks, or insect infestation. Determine if any structural repairs are necessary before proceeding with the update. Look for discoloration or fading in the wood, which may require additional sanding or treatment. Understanding the condition of your beams will help you determine the best approach for updating them and ensure that they remain not only safe, but durable for years to come.

Photo by Andrea Davis on Unsplash

Choosing a new finish or paint color

When it comes to updating your old wood ceiling beams, choosing a new finish or paint color can make a big difference in the overall look of your space. Consider a clear varnish or stain to bring out the natural wood grain if you’re looking for a more natural look. For a more modern look, a white or black paint coat can be a bold choice. You may also consider adding a pop of color to match your decor or metallic accents for glamour. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements your existing decor and style.

Photo by Andrea Davis on Unsplash

Sanding and prepping the surface of the beams

Once you have assessed the condition of your old wood ceiling beams and chosen a new finish or paint color, it’s time to sand and prep the surface. Start by using medium-grit sandpaper to remove any existing finish or imperfections. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain for a smooth and even surface. After sanding, wipe down the beams with a damp cloth to remove dust. Finally, use fine-grit sandpaper to further smooth the surface and ensure the new finish or paint adheres properly.

Photo by Andrea Davis on Unsplash

Applying the new finish or paint to the beams

Once you have prepped the surface of your old wood ceiling beams, it’s time to apply the new finish or paint. Start by applying a primer coat to ensure the finish adheres properly. Once the primer is dry, use a brush or roller to apply the chosen finish or paint color evenly to the beams. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying additional coats if needed. For a more rustic look, consider using a stain instead of paint to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

Photo by Julia Kun on Unsplash

Optional step: adding decorative elements to the beams

Consider adding decorative elements if you want to take your old wood ceiling beams to the next level. This can be anything from carving intricate designs into the wood to adding metal straps or hardware. For a unique touch, you can also paint patterns or designs onto the beams. Just remember to keep your home’s overall style and aesthetic in mind when choosing decorative elements to ensure they complement the rest of the space.

Updating your old wood ceiling beams is a great way to refresh the look of your space and add character to your home. By assessing the condition of the beams, choosing a new finish or paint color, and properly prepping and applying the new treatment, you can transform your outdated beams into a stunning focal point. Don’t forget to consider adding decorative elements for an extra touch of style. With time and effort, you can enjoy the beauty of your updated wood ceiling beams for years. Thanks to Reclaimed Michigan for Consulting.

July 28, 2023
Gorgeous renovations with a reverence for history

I love a historical home, but owner turnover throughout the years can mean a lot of poorly-planned and poorly-funded DIY projects that don’t do justice to a homes historic elements that make it special and beautiful. That’s why when I stumbled on Classic Homeworks out of Denver I was happy to see the care and attention they take to preserve the historical details of a home but also update it for a modern family and modern lifestyle.

As you can tell, I was really impressed with the work they do with kitchens!

What do you think makes a good renovation?

March 19, 2018
Chic Bathroom ideas

Chic bathrooms

Hubby and I will be giving our master bath a little refresh next month. Nothing major just re-caulking, painting, a new pendant, and new hardware for the vanity. I still thought it would be fun to find some chic bathroom eye candy for motivation and any potential last minute ideas.

Loving the dark matte tile with the wood and marble vanity.

What do you think of the coral pop of color brought in my the mirrors?

Clean and classic white bathroom.

Not crazy about the floor tile in this one but I love that shower!

Another classic bathroom with a modern twist.

Loving the concrete wall.

via DecorPad

January 25, 2018
Modern Farmhouse tour

Modern Farmhouse

Talk about bright and airy! The overall white walls in this home and amazingly high ceilings say anything but dark old farmhouse. I would have loved to see images of this home prior to the renovation. The house is in New South Wales. The couple fell in love with it’s character and decided to give it a modern coastal feel while paying homage to it’s farmhouse roots. I’ll stop talking and let it speak for itself.

Love this outdoor dining space. The rustic table with the white chairs is dreamy.

Simplicity at it’s best

I love it all! How about you guys?

All image via Adore Home Magazine

December 12, 2017
5 Tips for Buying Home Renovation Materials

Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibility. If something happens or there’s a disaster, it falls squarely on the homeowner to take care of it. On the other hand, being a homeowner means you get to decide if you want to do renovations, which can be a really exciting experience.

Obviously, some renovations are strictly aesthetic but others (such as roof repair, security system installations, etc.) can improve your residence and low the cost of your homeowners insurance. Whether this is the first of your renovations or you’ve done this a hundred times before, here are some helpful tips for buying renovation materials and getting your home project done within budget.

Avoid trendy styles to get cheaper materials. If there’s a style that seems to be everywhere when you’re making plans for renovations, you might start thinking it looks amazing. Until you see some of the price tags. Of course, the hottest options are going to be a bit pricier, not to mention you might end up with a new kitchen or bathroom that looks dated in five years. Staying away from styles seen as trendy is not only a good way to save money, it can keep your renovation project looking classic.

Shop small, buy big. Smaller stores can offer discounts that larger corporate stores can’t. It pays to shop around and see what’s out there instead of just going to the closest ‘big box’ store. If you’re going to buy a lot of material at an independently owned store, you may be able to build a relationship with the owner and receive a discount. Buying in bulk also keeps your costs low and is an easy way to get a few dollars shaved off an order.

Look for materials at various suppliers. This doesn’t mean just looking through Lowes then going to Home Depot. There are a lot of different places to find discounted or gently used materials for your home renovation projects. Sites like PlanetReuse or The Habitat for Humanity Restore are great resources for wood, fixtures, even furniture. Make sure you’re still buying from a reputable source and know what to look for in regards to damage or use.

Ask any question you can. Doing your own renovations can be really exciting but you want to make sure you know you’re doing it correctly. A mistake during renovations can lead to a bigger problem down the line and before you know it, you’re troubleshooting a problem that didn’t need to happen. If you’re unsure about something, ask a pro. If you’re still unsure after that, hire a pro. Using a contractor for jobs that might be riskier or have the potential to be a disaster if gone wrong can save you money in the long run. You might need a contractor for every little thing but if you don’t feel absolutely positive about what you’re doing, ask questions and hire help.

Get packaged deals. Buying a lot or most of what you need from one vendor can help cut costs too. Getting most of your materials in a large order often results in discounts being offered, especially at independent retailers. Independent retailers like to retain customers with exceptional service and if you’re a customer who is spending a lot of money and doing a big project, a store owner can offer you a discount to help you out and keep you happy.

Projects of any size can be a challenging and rewarding experience. Saving money on supplies or by doing your own labor keeps some cash in your pocket for the next project because you know there’s always going to be a next project. Just remember to ask questions, look for deals, and to buy quality material that will last. Make your home yours and do it right!

November 14, 2017
Fixer Upper: Small Town Charm

Fixer Upper

I’m not really a religious watcher of any show. We have Roku in our house, not live TV, so I tend to binge watch something for a couple weeks or so and then I forget about it. I had watched Fixer Upper before and liked it but started again recently. While I generally really like what Chip and Joanna do with their projects, there was one home in particular she did that I absolutely loved. It’s from the episode “Small Town Charm”

The Kitchen

I’m going to start with the kitchen because that is what I really, really loved about this renovation. The large island with the wood counter top and apron front sink is now in my “dream house” file. The murky blue subway tiles are gorgeous too.

The antique doors are to-die-for and the type of element that really brings a home to the next level.

Gorgeous kitchen, right?

The Staircase

Another element of this home that made it stand out to me is the beautiful staircase. I love how it’s open at the bottom and keeps the entire bottom floor feeling like one big space.

The landing of the staircase gives one a view of most of the first floor!

The top of the staircase

Staircase from the dining room.

The iron grate and railing has so much charm!

The Living Room

Love the mix of turquoise and tan leather in the living room

The Master Bedroom

Love the color accent colors in the bedroom and the dresser!

Read the whole story and see all the photos at HGTV

Turns out, I had seen this home before and featured some of it in another post, Beautiful Interiors (and great tips) from Fixer Upper’s Joanna Gaines

September 27, 2017
New York City townhouse modern design and traditional bones

House Tour! An 1850s New York City townhouse!

Architect Ambler had grown out of his apartment when the 400 sq ft. studio next door came up for sale. It seemed like fate so he bought it and worked to combine the two into a unified New York City townhouse perfect for displaying his collection of vintage and modern art and furnishings. Combine that with subtle renovations in line with strict landmark district regulations, you end up with a beautiful classic modern contrast.

What attracted me most to this space is the beautiful arched window. It acts as a frame out to the street. In New York City you often have to be willing to welcome street life into your home as art through your windows!

So much natural light is a blessing on street level. I love the modern furniture, like these black leather chairs, combined with classical elements like the arched windows.

The townhouse feels like a museum with all of the modern art and interesting furniture.

How beautiful are the antique mirror closet doors.

The den and the chandelier in the office are one of my favorite parts of the house. The technique of leaving the top 12 inches of the wall unpainted really create an illusion of height.

The real showstopper in the townhouse are the gleaming herringbone hardwood floors.

Ambler honored the traditional bones of the house in all of the renovation except for the kitchen and baths, which he intentionally wanted modern.

via Lonny

February 14, 2017
Early American Colonial interiors that we could still live in today

I grew up in an 18th century farmhouse, and we just went to Annapolis yesterday, so I was feeling inspired to look up some colonial interiors. Here are some gorgeous examples of colonial exteriors and colonial interiors. Some are authentic and others were renovated or new builds made to capture the colonial aesthetic.

I love this color palette. It’s quiet but rich at the same time. The wide plank flooring is also amazing.

via Pinterest via Busyboo

A classic colonial home.

via Pinterest via Steppingstone Journey

The wainscoting, wide plank floors are gorgeous in this Pennsylvania museum house.

via Location department

This house has a modern look due to the clean lines and monochrome palette even though it’s early American!
via Pinterest via Amazon: Early American Country Interiors

An 18th century NJ farmhouse with a red dutch door. It was for sale last year but was snatched up pretty quickly.

via Pinterest via Content in a Cottage

This home along the Hudson was renovated. Reclaimed wood planks are the flooring, and hand-hewn beams with plaster fill in are the ceiling.

via jbmarchitect.com

I think what’s so appealing to me about colonial interiors is that it harks back to simpler life. No cords, TVs, phones beeping, etc. I imagine that life was no piece of cake for early Americans though.

via Pinterest via The Vintaquarian

September 26, 2016
Ali Cayne’s light-filled family friendly NYC townhouse

I was pretty darn excited to run across this house tour on Domino magazine because I’ve seen and featured rooms from it individually in previous posts (her bathroom is one of my favorites)! Ali Cayne is a restauranteur who moved to a downtown Manhattan townhouse and took the opportunity to update it to be a warm and inviting family home for her and her five children.

Ali really made her subway tiles pop by using a dark grout (darker grout also hides stains better than white).

What an oven!

Open shelves full of beautiful dishes looks like a chef’s delight!

I love the light gray cabinets with the brass cup pulls.

Not only would I be thrilled to have a dressing room, but a dressing room white built ins and herringbone hardwood floors?

The Greenwich Village townhouse has amazing bones, and the renovations really are a breath of fresh air.

I don’t usually love accent walls, but I love a dark accent wall in a master bedroom.

This dining room is heaven. A white gallery wall, and beautiful dining table and chairs.

I like the glam version of a sawhorse desk. The giant inspiration board is great too.

Ali’s workspace is also light filled and features built in bookshelves.

This is the bathroom I’ve posted before. It is an all time favorite.

Read and see more at Domino Magazine.

August 22, 2016