Reno Questions
Well a lot (and less than I wanted/expected) is going on in my renovation. The good news is that . . .
My kitchen is up to code electrically
Plumber has come and changed one pipe for my sink and moved the pipe for my stove (awaiting inspection)
After that, sheetrock and plastering can happen on kitchen walls and ceilings (where electrical was pulled)
Kitchen cabinets are done and ready to be delivered (after sheetrock and plastering) and installed
Appliances are in stock and also ready to be delivered (after cabinet installation)
Countertops have been delivered and can be installed after cabinets and/or appliance installation
My dining room can turn back into a dining room (when I have a place to put food, cookware, dishes, glasses, etc.)
Backsplash is picked out and in stock. Install to come later . . . maybe August?
Light fixtures are starting to be switched out (this week – stay tuned for pictures)
Bottomline is that it’s slow and steady progress. With every step you make, it’s not uncommon to take a half step back. The joys of renovations!
Having said that, I’m working on other interesting and challenging projects for clients that are coming together like a great puzzle. Finding and putting the pieces together and watching it come together is hugely satisfying.
Here are a few things people have asked me recently that I thought you might want to know my responses to.
What should I do with a large blank wall?
There are two rules of thought here.
I love a huge piece of artwork on a blank wall. Fortunately, you can find these more easily now than ever before at reasonable prices. Look at places like Homegoods, local art colleges, Minted, Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores.
The other option is to do a gallery wall and I think displaying family photos among decorative items. If you have a family and/or friends – show them off. It’s what makes a house a home. You can fill the gaps between the photos with decorative items, pictures from travel, or anything that has meaning to you. Map it out on the floor before you hang anything. Also remember to not space things too far apart. This is true for hanging a group of photos alone together as well.
Where can I find really unique items for a reasonable price?
I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. Check out antique stores (not all antiques look “old”, thrift stores, ebay, etsy, Facebook Marketplace, Craig’s list, and if you’ve got more money to spend, check out 1stdibs and Charish.
Every room should have at least one older (antique or vintage) piece of furniture, artwork or accessory to give the room a curated look that takes time to create. It doesn’t have to be stuffed with antiques, but having one here and there is a good thing.
Lighting – ceiling or lamps? Or both?
In an ideal world, you could have both. Table lamps create more ambiance and visual interest in a room, so use them often. I don’t always think things need to match, but in a room like your living room or bedroom, I’d have two matching lamps.
Spend wisely on big ticket (and piece) items!
Make sure when buying large furniture pieces like a couch, kitchen table or bedroom set that they are pieces you truly love. The same is true for area rugs. Rugs are often overlooked and an afterthought when ideally, they should be chosen in the beginning of the decorating and design process. Rugs can determine paint color and the colors of larger pieces of furniture. These items will last a long time, so you want to make the best effort to choose wisely from the beginning . . . or when you start the redecorating process.
Function first!
I love form (great design), but nothing beats having items in your home that are functional (have form) and help you live a comfortable life. Is your side chair comfy? Aesthetically pleasing is always a plus, but if something is impractical or doesn’t feel good (comfy) doesn’t make sense. What do you need a room and the pieces in it to function well for you? Then buy the pieces that ideally have function and form!
Hope these tips are helpful. If you have any questions on decor, renovation or redecorating – you know where I am! Please reach out to me directly at nmichaels@nancymichaelsinteriors.com