Home is more than four walls and roof. Home is a door opening to you, your family, your pets, your lifestyle, your neighborhood, your community, your city. It’s all encompassing on so many levels.
Arriba, Arriba!
Transforming your high rise balconies into a comfortable oasis can easily be done and is a nice DIY project for the summer!
One of the things I love about the architecture here in RVA is it’s balconies. I love a good balcony and there’s nothing like sipping coffee or having a glass of vino from it as you overlook your domain. Many of the Fan apartments I lived in during my residences in Richmond have come donning balconies. Many of them left significant memories of hangs with friends, late night romances, and a proper setting for reads and contemplations.
I used to put a chair out there and maybe some makeshift table to collect ashtrays, bottles, and accouterments fit for a college student. I haven’t had a balcony since my days on Avondale in Bellevue, the only thing I miss about that rental. The balcony now resides on my wish list of things I’d like when purchasing a home, especially one that my Queen’s Quarters leads to.
RVA is seeing a boost in its Condo living in the city and most of these units do come with their elevated lookouts. The balconies seen in our neighborhood’s Revival, Colonial and Edwardian styled homes tend to be an easier space to decorate just by sheer size. It would be equivalent to decorating your deck or patio, but our city dwellers have a smaller platform to work with. Not to worry, one can turn these into cozy lifted oases fit for Juliet herself. However, although our city dwellers have a smaller space to work with, there are many options for creating a unique and comfortable space to look down upon.
FLOORING
Flooring tiles and rugs can create beautiful textures and colors for your balcony flooring and can range from super affordable and interchangeable to super luxe and very expensive. tiles are great for mixing and matching and rugs give an added comfy feel to your outdoors. Check out these cool floorings to bedeck your box.
IKEA: RUNNEN
OVERSTOCK
GRANADA TILE: SERENGETI
RUGGABLE
WAYFAIR: MISHA
FAB HABITAT
You can coze up any balcony on a budget! Check out this cute and affordable makeover.
LIGHTING
Hopefully your balcony is equipped with some electricity, but if not there are some nice LED options. Lighting is a nice addition to your balcony space, it creates the mood and ambience up there. Do you want a party platform or a romantic rendezvous? You have a few options for the ultimate elevated experience. Places like Walmart and Target have solar powered lanterns/lighting which are decorative and affordable. There is always the string light option and I will say there has been a few that are a bit different than the plain ole bulbs of yore. I personally love a combination of candles and decorative lanterns. You might also want to think about making lighting interchangeable perhaps to satisfy your holiday expressions.
PRIVACY
“I always feel like, somebody’s watching me…” Rockwell said it best. I have to say this is my favorite addition to any balcony. We have all been there. You get up, you want to do a nice long stretch and take in the outside air and you don’t want to get dressed doing it or perhaps you are trying to have cuddle time with your mate, but don’t Mr. Jones next door all up in your biz. Curtains are romantic flowing in the wind, but if you want to find something a bit more substantial there are a variety of attachable screens that will tend to not just your privacy, but also your sun intake. If you are looking for something that will add to your balcony decor, try looking for vintage wooden screens at your local thrift shop and paint them with reckless abandon. Here are few ideas you can find just using that good ole google search.
FURNITURE
Depending on how big or small your balcony is will determine how much furniture and what types will provide a comfortable setting. I love the removable and foldable tables/bars you can utilize for eating al fresco. I am also in love with the cool and cozy balcony swings or maybe you prefer a full on hammock up there. Create a raised oasis by adding small tables with lanterns/candles, vertical planters to make your space green and alive, wall niches for succulents or books, or add some art for fun. One of my favorite balcony makeovers it the transformation into an outdoor theater idea. Make a nice sit in movie area, perfect for bingeing and cuddling watching your favorite flicks. An outdoor heater or fire bowl can bring warmth even on those crispy, Fall evenings. YouTube has DIY projects galore from tool-free furniture to high rise pergolas, there’s plenty to explore.
You’d be surprised how beautiful and creative you can make this small or large outdoor space. Decor options are endless. From vertical planters to palette furniture with cushions of modern, vintage, or sleek designs. You can adorn with cozy chairs and bistro tables, add a small cocktail/tea station, or a swing. It’s truly an elevated blank canvas for the taking. Need some inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board for other ideas!
National Homeowners Month
We all wish for the American Dream of homeownership, celebrate National Homeowners Month with starting your very own wishlist!
My dad is laying on the couch, a Kent King hanging from his mouth, green beanie on, newspaper in hand, football on the television while my mom’s sewing machine hums from my pink and white bedroom, altering clothes for the local department store. My brother and I just completed shooting hoops and climbing trees in the backyard and now we crave the Little Debbies! Our orange and white cat Tommy lays spread out on the orange and green kitchen floor waiting to be fed. The scenes from my childhood home varied over time. From crawfish littering the red patio out back while my aunts and uncles, Schlitz cans in hand, scuffled to Zydeco tunes, to the soundtrack from “A Star is Born” filling the house up on a Saturday morning, to the first time I watched in awe from our sun soaked living room, MTV’s first airing, that house held so many good, and not so good memories. And maybe a ghost a two. I remember that house in all its details like it was yesterday.
Owning a home brings with it the feel of the ultimate achievement. Home is where we find comfort and protection. It’s the place where we can put our feet up and dance naked. It’s the setting for birthdays, new beginnings and hopeful endings. It is our blank canvas and the expression of ourselves where we invite others to be a part of. There is nothing like coming home from a hectic day, taking off the work clothes, and sitting on the back patio, beverage in hand. Home is an extension of ourselves. I think that is why it is supremely satisfying to own one.
This month is Homeowners Month, and we want nothing more than to help you to obtain this goal. We have great lenders who will work to find you the best lending options. We have a dedicated and efficient team who will guide you through the entire process and we will all start with one thing—a dream. Your dream. Start putting that wishlist together because even though you think you can’t afford a home to call your own, ask yourself, where are you now? Are you paying $1200-2000 of someone else’s mortgage? Just sayin’. Start putting that plan in place because you CAN do it!
This month ask yourself some questions: If you already own a home, is it the one you really want? Have your needs changed? Do you even like it anymore after Covid? Are you crushing on your neighbors or has Mr. Jones’ dog driven you mad? Did you change jobs? Did your kids just graduate? Are you sick of mowing your lawn? Can you receive the long awaited guests you’ve been missing? Are you ready for a custom built fantasy? Are you NEVER going back to the office? Generational land becoming appealing to you? So many questions, so much pondering to do, but so many possibilities!
So, this month, think about what home means to you and where you want to be. We’re here if you need us! And yes, you can AirBNB the shed! You know what’s great for motivation, a vision. I too have a vision for Home Ownership, wanna see?
Time Will Tell
“Closing walls and ticking clocks, Gonna come back and take you home…” Clocks have adorned homes for ages and the sound of ticking meditates the home…
It was tall, dark and handsome. The solid oak had intricate designs lacing its body as though it told the story of its roots, and whispered the name of whatever forest embraced it once before. The ticks were distinct and gave me solitude in the large house I visited throughout my youth, but it was the pendulum which kept my gaze as I awaited the deep bellow of it’s chime.
I’ve always had an affinity for clocks and watches. The artistry which goes into the wood carvings or the details of a clock face fascinate me, but for me these ticking relics of old bring me the lull to the deepest of sleeps. There is something about a home that is completely silent except for the ticking of a clock. Time is but both a slave and a luxury. I yearn daily to have more of it but only to do the things in which I enjoy, like being lulled to sleep. Old World design has been showcasing its antiquities in home trends as of late and I could not dismiss its allure without mentioning clocks.
Before clocks were common, the words “clockwise” and “counterclockwise” used to be known as “sunwise” and “widdershins,” respectively. The contraction “o’clock,” on the other hand, comes from the 15th-century phrase “stroke of the clock” which refers to the medieval mechanical clocks. - Home Stratosphere
Grandfather Clocks
Named after Henry Clay Work’s diddy “My Grandfather’s Clock” in 1876, the Grandfather clock demands respect and is a stately piece in any home. I like seeing these statuesque time keepers adorning hallways and corners. I have found estate sales are a great way to obtain these and am a fan of the modern versions as well. Don’t want such a ticking tower taking over (say that 10 times real fast), you can always choose the Grandmother. Shorter and often times slimmer, these don’t take up as much room, but can be just as beautiful. It’s the chimes for me!
The Wall Clock
It was the highlight of my day to see the hand reach 3:45pm in high school. There’s something nostalgic about the round school clock in all it’s aesthetic minimalism, yet the significant punctuations they instilled. Nothing fancy, but fit nicely in home offices and kitchens. In addition, it is a great clock to teach time on, wait…they still teach kids what the “little hand” and the “big hand” do right? I however, love wall clocks in all their myriads of designs. From vinyl records to carved wood to molded metals, the more unique the better.
The Mantle Clock
These also remind me of a time of yore. I don’t love these as much. they remind me of being serious and lawyerly. I do prefer the more contemporary and baroque styled ones to put on a mantel or side table.
The Cuckoo Clock
I love good engineering and I love a good cuckoo clock. Our friends in Germany are well known for both of these talents, ask any avid car fan. These days it’s a novelty to have such a timepiece in a home, but these intricately designed clocks hailing from the Black Forest region of Germany, now has contemporary counterparts that fit nicely within modern decor. I love finding ones that have features like running water or dancing figures.
The Old School Twin Bell Clock
These are the best clocks to have on your nightstand. They tick real good and the alarm of the twin bells will make it hard to hit snooze. In my opinion, they are the VW Bugs of clocks.
No matter what your clock style, there is no denying the sound of time and what it can add to a home. It’s a comforting and peaceful antiquity from simpler times where we weren’t always powered by the dings and swooshes of alerts and messages our phones dole out daily.
For more ideas on how to fit clocks into your decor, visit my Pinterest Page:
La Flora Decora
I love getting flowers, but I love having them add to my home decor…
One of the things I miss about New York besides the unlimited fashion catwalk or the music venues or the drive by cocktails, it’s actually the flowers. I used to love walking briskly down the sidewalks and seeing men with bouquets of flowers running to catch the train, or watching women carry their groceries with a simple bouquet of lilies peeking out their bags. There’s something about fresh flowers adorning your dining table or a little assortment on an end table that just brings a little something. As Spring has sprung, this is a great time to enjoy some flower power inspirations, whether freshly cut or fauxtastic.
My only problem with fresh flowers is they die. Some are great dried, but others leave a heap of dead petals behind. Faux flowers used to put me off, they appeared chintzy and dull. Those days are gone. Now you have great choices for faux florals that you can also paint vibrant or muted colors depending on your style or mood of rooms. I collected a few bouquet ideas for you to celebrate the renewal of Spring and to give your home a fresh, floral makeover.
Wreaths
Wreaths are always a good idea to perk up any front door, choose from large Peonies to delicate Rhododendrons. I’m thinking about trying to make one of these, but I’m not the crafty type and if you’re anything like me, you’ll just give Cari a call, and have her make one for you.
Framed
This is an easy way to show off your artsy skill. An age old process of pressing flowers and turning them into framed art creates a whimsical, vibrant, or bohemian accent. I love seeing these framed bouquets as well, looks expensive but really easy to DIY your own.
But this Vazzzz...
I think it’s cool when you find flowers in unexpected containers. A classy vase is always nice depending on the bouquet, but I love seeing flowers hanging on the wall in test tubes, or coming out of a skull head. I also like when flowers are mixed with things like fruit or vegetables. I love putting my flowers in unique vintage bottles and I prefer small little ones around the house. Depending on your choice of flowers will most likely determine the type of display you’ll want and it can be as simple or as robust as you’d like.
Flower Power
Your display will only be as powerful as the flowers you choose, whether it’s faux or real. My favorite types to use are peonies, lavender, dahlias, and hydrangeas. Even roses are good for painting interesting colors. Tulips in the springtime are always lovely because they bring so much color, they look great in kitchens. Try putting some little arrangements in the bathroom or on your nightstand. You’d be surprised at how much it’ll add to your decor and you can do it all year round!
Arrangements
If you are anything like me and your crafty gene was lost in your creation, don’t worry, we have plenty of local floral experts who can arrange some mighty fine displays for your home or events. Whether real, silk, or paper, these local petalmeisters have a real knack for arranging florals, some even have workshops and subscription services.
Local Flower Farms
Don’t forget how many wonderful farms are in and around RVA to buy your fresh flowers. Some even carry dried flowers for your displays.
For more floral DIY projects.
Time to Shine
With just an inkling of rising temperatures, it’s the time when we emerge from our cocoons and start giving the outside of our homes the attention it deserves…
I do believe we will be spending another Spring / Summer in limited social capacity. Yes, I too am over it. While some of you will take the chance to leap onto greener pastures through travel or masked frolicking, others will now start to plan their warmer weathered activities.
As I stare at the dead plants upon which I adorn my stoop and porch with, I can fairly say my gardening skills are less than stellar. Cutting grass for me is quite enjoyable as I see it taking the place of my wasted gym membership (which I’m still paying for by the way). We broke down and forked out a stimulus check to get a pool worth wading in while basking in the Summer heat. It got a little messy in our backyard to say the least. This year, I want to create an inviting, pest free space. A space that doesn’t denote the hint of unemployed and overfilled recycling bins, one that says, “Hello, welcome to our Summer bubble, won’t you come in and enjoy this lavender flavored iced tea.”
All that being romanticized, we have a large yard. Last year I broke down and got my own landscaper who mulches, weeds, and takes care of anything that will put us in the “trashy” category. I also recalled last year’s heavily booked schedules for landscapers, painters, gutter cleaners, powerwashers and roofers. So here’s your little reminder for all those wanting that luxurious looking curb appeal to get on the books now! Here are a few I’ve used who provide excellent service. I recommend one that provides a membership-like schedule.
Landscapers
Arborists
PowerWashers
Gutters
Handy Repairs
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
My Best Cleaners
Some other improvements/refreshes to make during this time:
Resealing/Painting of Decks
Painting the Front Door a New Color
Updating your Roof if Needed
Ordering Maintenance for Your HVAC Units
Buy your Above Ground Pool NOW
Get New Cushions for Your Outdoor Furniture
Paint your Fences
Call Me to Do a Walkthrough for Listing Your Home!
Let the beautification begin! For any all recommendations visit:
The Colors of My Life
Colors are so powerful when it comes to setting a mood, selling or buying a house, or capturing a feeling…
All My Colors (in order): My house exterior, My house interior, the velvet blue furniture I’m dreaming of, the black that comes with the Aston Martin, and Valentino red I love to don as frequently as possible.
You know when you’re dreaming and something catches your eye and it leaves you with such a desire that you want it to become part of you? That’s how I feel about color. I’m sure all you design freaks are in the know that Pantone chose not one, but two colors of the year for 2021. I guess since 2020 was such a dull grey that had to spice things up. Funny enough they chose Illuminating Yellow and Ultimate Gray, how contrary and a good depiction of the past and future.
“Sherwin-Williams sets revenue records as DIY paint sales jump during pandemic.”
I’ve always found yellow to be an abhorrent color. I felt the only places it looked good on were lemons, bananas and the sun, but I’ve started to warm up a little to certain shades. Anyone who is familiar with my brand, knows I am a color loyalist — red and black will most likely be my go-to when choosing representation and clothing. My mother hated my goth phase in high school, “You know in Panama prostitutes wear black!” It gave me great satisfaction putting a sole red bandana in my hair to satisfy her discontent. I did however go through a strong purple phase, especially with hair colors (mom loved that). Each time I wear red I am complimented highly. It suits my passions, my culture, and my eye. Black, well, black says bold, it makes a statement that is serious, yet chic and I like that. I think after my obsession of wanting to fit in, becoming a slave to the United Colors of Benetton, it only seemed logical that my rebellious side take over, leaving black as my only option to convey how I was feeling (angsty) and besides, what color displayed The Cure and Depeche Mode better?
The memory of color is etched in my brain. I can remember the shade of green our 1970’s leather living room couch wore and I remember the electric blue hot pants my neighbor wore on her first day of high school. I recall only choosing the Midnight Blue crayon to shade my Fashion Plates’ designs until it diminished, unusable, and wished they had more than one in there. I still love that color to this day. I know I cringe at the sight of pastels, and coral seems to incite a certain gag reflex in me. I met a girl once who had Synesthesia and I was so fascinated that every time she would see or think of numbers it was a different color. I giggled as I asked her what painting by numbers was like. When I used to see gold in homes, it used to make me think of chintzy, gaudy things, now it has become a marketable trend. I think it’s safe to say that colors can remark an era of time, think turquoise and yellow kitchens of the 1950s, but who knew that a shade of pink could define an entire generation?
Color invokes emotion, memory and sets a mood. It is a factor in why some houses sell and others don’t. If I do a walkthrough for an upcoming listing and the walls are painted with an unattractive color, I tell them they need to paint. I’ve had clients pass on a bid because they didn’t like the color of the house, even though they could very well paint it the color of their dreams. I showed a house once that had a beautiful dining area with Emerald green accented walls accompanied with vintage wallpapering. I had to remind my clients to see the rest of the house before putting an offer, they loved that room so much.
We, as Agents, tend to steer listers towards neutrals, but I don’t hesitate to add color as a future option for my purchasers. It helps them set an individual tone to their home and envision what it could be. We are currently in a moody, vivid trend with home paint colors, which I am loving. I like to see a bathroom that’s painted black with brass fixtures, or a dining room that has a darker shade of blue on it’s walls. I think it pops and creates a unique atmosphere. When I lived in New York, I painted the living room this burnt sienna color and had warm hues and textures adorning it, think Morocco. We never had a guest who stayed awake in that room, there was always at least one person who fell asleep peacefully in a room full of people. I was proud to create that reaction because it meant my home was that comfortable.
Photo by: Homes & Gardens
Trends or no trends, color is an important aspect to home. It helps us express who we are and how we want others to feel. It’s powerful in it’s aesthetic and what it does to your psyche. I view color the way I view art, I feel it. If I walk into a room and I see Drunk Tank Pink, I’m going to instantly hurl. As you can deduce, pink is not my favorite color. Technology has made it so easy to create colors that are one of a kind or mock that of a bird or a classic car you love. So much inspiration, so little space! So, as the weather starts to warm up and you’re making your list of home improvements this Spring, think about how you want your house to look, inside and out. If you are thinking about selling this year, it’s a perfect time for you to be picking out your curb appealing shades. In the meantime, enjoy the blue skies, golden sun, and budding greens we are currently having, we’re due for a more colorful kind of year, no?
If you are thinking about selling your home and need some help guiding you through the process, please feel free to contact me. I’m more than happy to help you get the best value for your property and as quickly as possible.
Virginia is for Courting
Our rocky past has grown into a great love story…
Photo by: Stephen Poore
Dear VA,
I’ve been reminiscing about how we came to be since it is a time of devoted reflection. Do you remember when I met you in 1986. We didn’t hit it off right away. You tempted me with beautiful scenery and a good school, but you also had these weird phrases and your cooking was terrible! I was forced to be with you and so we did not begin in the best of times.
I finally got rid of you after so many on and off again romances. In 2005, I decided our toxic relationship would offer me nothing but a warm barstool and another dead end job, so I ended it and left you for good (or so I thought). For five years I put you behind me, but we still had a connection that my love affair with New York could not fulfill. The fates had other plans for us and as New York left me cold and abandoned, I sought refuge in your arms.
It took me about a year to feel comfortable within you, but as I acclimated with old friends and familiar surroundings, it was your new personality that began to woo me. You had new people in your life from bigger cities like NYC, Dallas, and Los Angeles. You were wearing new clothes shedding the Commonwealth khakis of old. You showed me what it was to discover new territory with parks and landmarks I hadn’t visited before. And then, you gave me great joy satiating my appetite with culinary delights and beer, lots and lots of beer. You started building boutique hotels and gave my friends success in new buildings and businesses. You brought song back into my life with new local musicians and venues and gave me new haunts to meet new people and visit old ones. All the things I hated about you before, you replaced with charm, nostalgia, and hope, but most of all you gave me a new love.
Our union has grown a lot since reluctantly returning to your border 10 years ago, and I am now quite proudly crossing your bridges, strolling your landscape, and seeing you for the first time. It has given me much joy residing in your beautiful city of RVA and providing diverse neighborhoods, thriving communities, and cool things to do. I think you and I have a great future ahead of us…now if you could only stop with the roundabouts, segregated classes, and people obsessed with the Confederacy, you and I can finally ride off into the sunset.
xoxo,
Lady J
My Cousin Vintage
Vintage is the new trend for 2021 and I couldn’t love it more! From vintage cameras to art deco mirrors to jade glass vases, giving your home a new luck can cure any lock down.
Check out my Pinterest Board
WHAT YOU SAID
• Vintage Fabrics for pillows, curtains, etc.
• Taxidermy
• Fenton Hobnail Glass
• Bar Carts
• Hat Boxes
• Pie Safe
• Black & White Photos
• Bar Carts
• Postcards
• Vintage Ads/Magazine Cover Art
• Old Radios, Cameras, Typewriters, Gramophones
• Crochet
I like the sleekness of modern things. The design itself is quite attractive, but to me it lacks depth. It’s like your cousin who wears a Japanese designer whose cuts are as sharp as a chef’s knife, while you prefer the texture, richness and tradition of Chanel. Don’t get me wrong, I love modern design, but preferably not in my home. I’m more of a Refined Industrial gal, I love textures and richness in a room, but I also love traditional pieces that have a history. I’ve always had a love of vintage, even as a child I recall an affinity for homes that had a timeless appeal. Vintage is my go to when I want to start a conversation. The nice thing about vintage decor is that it can incorporate different eras. Some people will continue to love their mid-century credenzas while others will venture to find a Victorian style vanity. I sometimes think I was born in the wrong era.
It is predicted that 2021 will highlight vintage home decor and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Oh to find an oil rain lamp or 1950’s bar cart. We are seeing a revival of art deco styles with peacock plumage and gold trimmings, but because Covid has changed our living spaces, you’re going to find more neutral and earth tones as well as deep moody hues. You can compliment those styles with some really nifty finds around town. I was actually shocked at how many of these local shops there were to accommodate such tastes. What a nice discovery!
So, while we are still cozied up at home, perhaps 2021 will get you motivated to restyle your living and working spaces. A good refresh will change the entire mood of your abode which will lead to inspiration, freshness, and motivation. Items like old typewriters, vintage farm tools, art deco style mirrors, or antique trunks bring a cool nostalgia to any room.
If you are looking for more architectural pieces to add to your home, look no further than Caravati's Inc or Governor's Architectural Antiques. You’ll find unique, historic and detailed fixins from clawfoot tubs to newel posts to ironworks. I have found some beautiful ornate woodwork at these places, including beautiful mantles to transform any den/living room.
Sometimes you can find these things in thrift stores or estate sales, but here are a few vintage vendors here in Richmond to check out:
CLICK PHOTOS TO CHECK OUT SITES
68 Home Studio
BRICK ALLEY CO
MIDCENTRIC
SHEPPARD STREET ANTIQUES
VERVE HOME FURNISHINGS
THROUGH THE GARDEN GATE
Quarantine Chronicles: Dream a Little Dream
When the rental or the home you reside in becomes stale or you’re ready to dream of home ownership, do NOT think it impossible!
I woke up today, staring at the ceiling, looking at the four walls which surround the most sacred of places — my bed. I walk downstairs and drag my slippered feet to the kitchen, opening the cabinet to get my mug for that first morning sip. My counter is cluttered, there is literally some sort of appliance or kitchen utensil covering the length of it. I cringe. Oh yeah, look up at the top of my fridge where I find my step-daughter’s pumpkin from Halloween overfilled with candy she may or may not indulge in. I open the freezer, that is stuffed to the gills with minimal items, my frozen container of pomegranate seeds comes sliding out, only to hit the floor in sudden death. This is where you just sit on the floor depressingly eating the fruity carcass, gently sobbing, “WHYYYYYY?” Why is my fridge not bigger? Why don’t I have enough counterspace to become America’s Next Top Chef? Why must I look at these drab walls? You know, questions to start off your typical Monday morning.
I’ve lived in the house for almost three years. This will be my 34th rental in my 47 years of existence. I’m embarrassed by the fact that I’m a practicing real estate agent, but have never owned my own home. As I peruse Pinterest boards, watch DIY home improvement videos from some guy named Todd and sigh at watching Galey Alix design dream roomscapes on her TikTok. Sigh. It can get depressing, especially right now with our current pandemic crisis. I keep thinking will I ever attain the dream of owning my own home and what is it exactly preventing from doing so?
Truth be told, it’s unfavorable living in someone else’s home, paying someone else’s mortgage and having to live with someone else’s interior. There are times when I want to take out a wall or have an extra room. There are times I want a bigger kitchen or a better landscaped backyard. The dream of home ownership weighs on me heavily. So, I’m doing what a lot of people are doing right now —making a plan.
Photo by Ekaterina Bolovtsova from Pexels
The Timeline
The first thing I’m going to do is figure out a feasible timeline to make my dream happen. For some it’ll be six months and for others it will take a whole year. Think about your credit, your job, your current situation. If you are already in a good place (yeah you, you adult!) then think about when you want to make that move and what is going to required of you. Are you renting? When’s that lease up? Are you owning? What improvements do you have to make to get the most value out of your home to buy a sweet new one?
The Wish List
This is my favorite part. The part where i get to have a list of criteria of all the desired features in a home I want. After living in so many locations from architecture to community, I know the exact things I don’t want in my living space (water pressure is everything!). So when you are making out your list make sure you are covering all details, not just room size and bathroom count. Think about your must haves and hell no’s:
Will I be able to add any structural expansion to this home? If you needed to add an in-law suite or a working garage, do you have the room?
How many ways can I rearrange my furniture? You’d be surprised how many renovated homes have one, maybe two ways to rearrange a room. Rearranging rooms, adding furniture, changing styles are all ways to refresh a home, especially if you are also spending a whole lot of time in it.
Am I walking to Wawa and Kroger or am I enjoying the culinary delights of sitting at an outdoor cafe. Check your neighborhood experience. Some people like the views of stroller lined streets while others prefer the beauty of tree lined ones.
Are you sick of mowing a large lawn? Maybe you want something more low maintenance, like maybe a strip of grass.
No touching! Do you want bedrooms that kiss each other down a hallway or would you rather have them across from each other? Do you want to hide from your children or do you want to hear all that Fortnite chatter? A simple layout plan can change your whole living experience
Do you want that washer and dryer upstairs or downstairs? I personally like to fold and watch my stories at the same time!
Just how close am I to my neighbor? Do I want some distance there? Can you borrow sugar or would you prefer an ATV to get to your neighbor’s house?
Money, Money, Money.
If you are anything like me, money is always the one factor which deters me from my dreams. I find it hard to invest in myself and it hinders a lot of planning. To be perfectly honest, I’ve struggled most of my life financially for many reasons. It took me a really long time to find a career I could actually be successful at. It’s really strange that I can look at my bank account and see savings in there. Maybe you’ve been on that track too. Some of us didn’t have the trajectory of having a 401K and a white picket fence. So, what do you do when you want to buy a house, but don’t have the best finances?
Meet with a Lender or a Financial Planner: This will help you have a plan and one to stick with. They can tell you exactly what you need and how much to put away to get it. Sure, it might take a year, but if you are disciplined and follow the plan, it can happen for you. Usually, it’s as simple as putting away a little stash or paying off a debt.
Research: You’d be surprised how much help you can get when buying a home. There are grant programs and homeownership assistance programs you can qualify for. If you are a healthcare provider, teacher, or “hero” worker, you an also qualify for special loans in addition to first time homebuyer benefits.
Open a House Account: Go to the bank and open a bank account just for housing costs. Start collecting, not just for the house itself, but also for all the things you’ll want for that house, right down to the new dishes. It will give you a goal to focus on and if you just put a little away here and there, you’d be surprised how quickly buying a home can be a possibility. So skip DoorDash tonight, you don’t need yet another pair of yoga pants, put it in the kitty.
Look, but Don’t Touch
Even if you are not ready, looking at homes will give you incentive and inspiration, plus, it’s fun! It will give you a good idea of loves and undesirables. It will also give you a goal financially. Are you looking at $150K houses or $250K? I find that the amount of homes I look at bring me to certain conclusions like, “Hmm, seems the renovation work being done in this particular area isn’t very good” or “it’s the same kitchen over and over again!” You might decide that new construction is the way to go. Here are a few tips when you start out.
Go to open houses. Two reasons: You get ideas. You might see something that’s desirable in a home that you may not have seen before. You may have thought you wanted an open floor plan, but then you have discovered a formal dining room with pocket doors is quite lovely. This is a good way to test out all those things and get inspired without feeling pressure to buy. You can go in and be breezy with a “just looking” attitude. The second reason being if you don’t have a realtor, it’s a good way to interview and get a feel for some with casual conversation. I like to tell people finding a good fit is like finding a good date, if they are easy to talk to, approachable and most importantly knowledgeable, those are good options. Bring a notebook or something to take notes, video, take photos and grab business cards while you’re there so you can look back and add to your vision boards.
Bring a contractor or someone who knows construction with you if you can. This way you can learn what is good construction and what to watch out for when you are investing your money. Some realtors are good at pointing these things out, but some may not have enough experience regarding house builds or renovation features, such as quality, so sometimes these things get overlooked. They might also have insight on costs, especially if you are looking at an older home that’s in your price range but needs some work.
Look in unfamiliar neighborhoods. This doesn’t work for everyone if you are looking for a particular school district per se, but some of these districts are large and sometimes certain subdivisions get overlooked. I love exploring hidden neighborhoods because you never know what gems you can find in them. Take time to walk in them, talk to the neighbors, and see what’s around that could add to your living experience.
Get in the mindset that not every home is going to be a brand new or a complete renovation. Remember when people used to buy houses that other people use to live in? I think some people have gotten used to seeing renovated homes as the standard in homebuying. You could be missing out on homes that have a lot of character and ability to be worked with if you are only looking at reno homes. I showed a couple an old 70’s style ranch they thought would be hilarious to see. It turned out to be the exact floor plan they were looking for with some cool features that could be showcased with a little work. They were pleasantly surprised about the possibilities of a lower priced un-renovated home.
Are you excited now? I am! I can’t wait to put my plan in place. Sometimes it takes just a little hope and imagination to fulfill a dream, an investment, a change. And as always, let me know when you get started, I’m happy to guide your way!
Pass the Gravy, the Year is a Bit Dry
I’m giving thanks to an unlikely source this year…
It’s about that time of year again where we thank our people and we express our gratitude for the things we have. I think it should be practiced everyday — saying thanks, but I know this holiday is reserved for such appreciations. I find it to be a day of mourning really, but I can also find the light of being with family…hm, yeah this year is looking a little slim in that department. I’m basically going to make a nice meal for my immediate family and give blessings to those who have given and sacrificed a lot so that we may eat, drink, and be merry.
There are many things we can be grateful for at Thanksgiving. As I will gaze upon a leafless table this year, missing my Aunts and cousins as we battle for the most backhanded compliments, and my fiancé struggles to translate the abundance of conversations in Spanish around him. “They are talking about me, aren’t they?” I will zone out and continue to imagine a Manhattan waiting for me down a long gravel road. I’ve never been one for holidays, or getting together with family for that matter. I end up exhausted, feeling bad for myself or pissed off. Thanksgiving in particular is not my favorite of American traditions, however I love a day off of work.
This year will be quite different, for when the time comes to give thanks, i will be grateful for an unlikely source — Covid. Now before you gasp in disapproval, or want to hand me to the loony bin, hear me out. Sometimes Aunt ‘Rona needs to come in and upset the table on its end so we look at the mess we need to clean up. I don’t think there is any denying that we have been given an emotional, financial, occupational, mental and historical mess this time year. We’ve been routinely sitting at the same table for so long that we pass the potatoes with assembly line precision, that the taste of turkey, cranberries, and yams seem to have no difference. Now, this American tradition we hold so dear has literally become — dangerous, I cannot miss the irony here.
So while I’ll miss the three separate trips to families homes, the incessant need for my Aunt to comment on my weight, love life, or dress, or my step-father’s niece showcasing her recent “augmentation” at the dinner table, colorful as it all is, I’m thankful for the disorder Aunt Rona has made. As I will look down the table from my first sitting at its head, I would like to bow my head and be truly grateful for these truths:
Thank you, Covid, for time. Time to do more physical activity which had not been present in the last five years. Time to take walks and call my distanced dad and brother more frequently which I take for granted sometimes. Time to text my family overseas to send a little gif or meme and say hello. Time to educate myself in subjects I’ve always been interested in, but never found the time to read about. Time to explore my city and my state finding hidden gems everywhere. Time to save money for the home I’ve always wanted. Time to do my job better and be more creative. Time to bring my Aunt to her doctor’s appointments and get her groceries. Time for road trips and new adventures. Time to reconnect with long lost friends that I’ve loved from afar. Time to love my neighbors by helping them take care of their homes and our neighborhood. Time to purge and cleanse the past. And mostly, time to dream. Time to dream about my future and my quality of life.
Thank you, Covid for bringing lasagna to the table.
I truly believe that chaos comes before peace. There are so many things I can be grateful for including my clients I’ve had an opportunity to build relationships with, and while they get a seat at the table, there are others we should show our utmost appreciation for:
Our exhausted healthcare workers. I have friends on the frontline and I do not think they have had to work harder in their lives. We must continue to give them praise for the work they are doing.
Our educators. I think we’ve seen the challenge they’ve been given and their dedication to our children is apparent. They deserve a lot more than they’ve been given.
Our neighbors. The kindness which has stemmed from this time is remarkable. From delivered goods to mowing lawns to walking pets, it has been nice to receive and give these acts in such a dark time.
So, thank you Covid, as I show respect and honor to those who were here before us and those who have contributed to the well being of others and this planet, let us not forget the true essence of home for the holidays. Let’s be grateful for those moments we take for granted and let’s take this time to work on our progression so that we may all sit together again in peace. Now pass the rolls, it’s cheat day, we have 4 seasons of The Crown to binge and let’s be truly thankful for the one thing I think we can all agree on — this year being almost over.
How to Cozy Up This Season
Warm up your home and get ready for hibernation season with these cozy ideas…
You wouldn’t think Winter was right around the corner with this glorious weather we’ve been having here in RVA, but it will arrive at some point. Take this time to get your home ready for the holidays and the hibernation period by doing these few things to cozy up the place:
Get your firewood now! I have a feeling people are going to be hunkering down this season so get that wood quick for those crisp evenings by the fire pit and those cold winter nights by the fireplace.
Get some blankets for binging. Check out this warm and fuzzy list.
Purchase some door draft stoppers so you can save on that heating bill!
Get some cozy slippers so those tootsies will be warm all winter long!
Update your bedding with darker linens and add some plush blankets.
Change up your family pics to include some apple or pumpkin picking or playing in the snow.
Soften up your indoor lighting, as the nights start earlier, it will help relax and keep the stress away.
Add some scented holiday candles around the house, consider cloves, oranges and peppermint as options.
Remember to buy local for all your holiday gift ideas!
Quarantine Chronicles: Daddy’s Domain
Dads need their own spaces as much as moms need their Lady Lair…
I like the significance of father. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think you need a father to be a great father, but I can truthfully say, I’m glad my dad was in my life because he surely didn’t have to be. I think if my dad had his own space, he would have been able to enjoy more things he was interested in.
The definition of what men should and shouldn’t be is a point of contingency to some. You’ve got dads who play chess and drink single malt Scotch. You’ve got garage dad who likes to tinker all day and drive real fast at night. You’ve got sports dad whose only dream is to watch Monday night football every single day of the week while he eats chicken wings and sips on Bud Light. In today’s world, you also have dad’s who enjoy crafting a good centerpiece. The point is, every dad has interests and every dad likes his alone time (just as every woman does!). So, I thought it’d be fun to show some cool ideas for dad rooms, which in turn made me want a dad room, I tend to have more masculine desires in decor. I freakin’ love whiskey, playing poker and watching soccer! Anyway, check these out:
The Cigar/Smoke Room
I want this one for myself. I truly love smoking and smelling cigars. I also love whiskey. My man brain wish is to have a room like this downstairs in my fantasy home, but you can’t only get to it through a secret door. Jeremy Siers is this dude I just started following and he’s a dad and honestly, he’s pretty rad. He built this custom cigar room in his home all you smoke lovers will enjoy.
The Tinker Room
I’ve got a man who builds stuff and is a natural tinkerer, unfortunately he knows nothing about cars! I think guys who like to tinker long for a workshop/garage of some sort. Besides the right quality tools, I think the key to a good workshop is organization, so shelving and storing is important. A workbench is crucial, make sure it’s a good size and height to work comfortably at. Lighting is also beneficiary, especially for gear heads and a good wireless speaker to keep you motivated. Here’s some great examples:
Sound it Out
Not only do I live with a builder, but also a musician. Musicians absolutely need their own space, for the love of god, take that riff somewhere else! You may be tired of the microphone-filled drawers which have taken over your household (because he just hasn’t found the right sound yet) or when you’re office becomes your shared paradiddle and flam station and you keep knocking into the high hat trying to get to your bottle of wine? These man rooms are great for outdoor areas or basement space so when he and the other “living the dream” boys come over for a jam session, you can send them on their way. PS there are a ton of videos on turning your basement, garage or attic into a home music studio.
Sports/Gaming Bar
Yes ladies, I know some of you are very anti-sports and know when you’re being asked to make your famous seven layer dip, it’s game day. So while he’s hootin’ and hollering at the tv, you can enjoy folding laundry, baking a cake, doing craft stuff, working, calling your bestie, or giving yourself a spa treatment in peace! Make sure there’s a fridge in there so you’ll never have to replenish those White Claws, I mean Bud Bottles. Seriously though, a good sports/rec getaway has a bar area, snacks, a good fridge and don’t forget a gigantic flat screen and comfy seats. If he loves to play as much as he loves to watch, he’ll want to indulge in some gameplay, enjoy some pinball or cue it up.
So as I was going through all these Daddy Dens, i decided I wanted my own proving that just like moms, dads need their self-love space. Whether they are working on restoring a 1967 R60/2 BMW motorcycle, perfecting their Radiohead cover songs, or watching the big game, these are breeding grounds of bonding moments for your children. So, happy Father’s Day to you dads out there teaching your kids how to change tires, play a guitar solo, play chess, bust a move or play Mineecraft, you’re doing an excellent job!
For more ideas for Dad rooms, visit my Pinterest Page!
Quarantine Chronicles: Summer Rising
Summer is on the horizon and as sizzlin’ begins, we want our backyards to be on fire!
Welcome to Summer everyone! It’s definitely not the best intro into it and personally I am finding more peace at home despite the chaos on the outside. I mowed the lawn yesterday. I have quite a sizable treeless yard. I sat back on my small porch, looked out to my domain, and thought —now what? I have this outdoor space that is basically empty and since my pool is officially closed for Summer, what the hell am I gonna do to get my solar vitamin D?
Since most pools, including mine, are either going out of business or closed for the year, I am thinking real hard in investing in some sort of aqua relief. There’s also way too much green back here! So, maybe I’ll plant some vivid marigolds and zinnias. I also have a porch just dying for some pretty sun blocking drapes. It truly doesn’t have to take too much time or money to spruce up your backyard.
We are all trying to manage our money wisely at this time, but we also want to be able to enjoy the upcoming Summer months. It will also give you yet another project to work on whilst being homebound.
DIY DECKS/PATIOS
I don’t have a deck, but I’m seriously considering making this. It’s amazing what a little elevation can bring to a yard and even add resale value to it. It is also a perfect space to create something warm and relaxing.
Build This at Home Depot
I kind of love this. It’s simple, yet enticing.
Pallet Decks
Probably the most easily constructed and inexpensive instadeck!
Pea Gravel
You don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a nice clean space to lounge in. Pea gravel is inexpensive and virtually a simple install.
You can always buy inexpensive Stone Pavers for an easy install under $500.
OUTDOOR SEATING: TIRES
I’m amazed at how easy it is to utilize recycled tires. So many options! From planters to chairs to traditional tree swings, tires can create colorful and comfortable backyard options.
Whether I’m basking, sipping, or lounging, outdoor seating is a must for ultimate backyard hanging. Not only is it affordable to make, but they are easy to move around a yard, you can stack them for height, and you can make some pretty spectacular interchangeable cushions from chic to casual.
COLOR
Adding color to a backyard is easy. You’ll want to stay out there longer if you have some nice vibrant colors to enhance your outdoor time. Add a rug for some texture. Paint some planters. Paint some of your fence and/or pavers. Add a beautiful fabric to your pergola or canopy. You’ll be surprised at the effect.
Decorative Pillows
A very simple way to spruce up your patio furniture is to simply add some lively decorative pillows. World Market has some nice deals and patterns.
Stencilling Pavers
This is a very cool and refreshing idea. You can add stenciled patterns to otherwise ordinary pavers. You can find some very nice ones on Etsy.
Colorful Drapes
Colorful and patterned drapes/curtains on any pergola or porch will not only give you privacy and shade you from the sun, but will brighten your backyard for sure!
SCREENS
I love this idea for added privacy and shade. From recycled window shutters to pallets to organic bamboo, these screens will add that extra oomph to your rear end.
Cool and Modern
Add plants or paint for dramatic effect.
Recycled
This idea is fantastic. Find an architectural salvage yard and get you some old shutters. Bring them back to life with a little paint and voila!
Decorative
Choose decorative metal, wood, vinyl screens.
LIGHTS
Just because the sun goes down, doesn’t mean the outdoor hang is over. Lighting is just as important as any other outdoor decor. Check these cool ideas to lighten up the mood.
LightTape or LED Lighting
Have LightTape or LED lighting installed to light up deck and patio stairs, fences, and railings.
String Lights
I don’t think this trend will ever die. I love walking into a backyard and seeing it lit up by the soft glow of the strands across the yard or patio. Why put the umbrella down? Just add some small lanterns or string lights to it.
For more outdoor and summer yard ideas, visit my Pinterest page!
Quarantine Chronicles: Make Room for Mommy
Moms deserve some peace and quiet, and these days they are probably needing it for their sanity. Check out these great ideas for mom sanctuaries.
I’m sure during this time you mothers out there are just needing a space to call your own. Well, this is the time to start dreaming! I chose these very cool mom spaces where you can retreat, no matter your lifestyle. The way men need their sports rooms, man caves, and music studios, we women need our zen dens, libation havens, and creativity quarters.
Just like men, women have a variety of interests when it comes to how they want to spend their time. I think the whole point in finding your mom lair is to separate from all things work, unless work is how you relax? Additionally, a place just for you. These sanctuaries can be a room in your house, a detached shed or greenhouse, a gazebo a or you can even convert your garage into your own private Momville.
My dream space would include the following:
Journals
A mini fridge
Crossword and Jigsaw Puzzles
Some artwork of my choosing
A lock on the door
Books to read
A record player station
My favorite whiskey and wine
A nice comfortable place to lay or sit
Great mood lighting
Some things to consider in having your mom haven are shelves, a built-in desk, nice lighting and maybe a window, some plants, cushions and a lot of them, and electricity. Moms deserve some peace and quiet sometimes and making space for that is part of self-care, and let’s be frank —sanity. The most important part is to have all those things that bring you comfort and peace in a small getaway.
Check out these cool spaces for inspiration!
Quarantine Chronicles: Come What May
Yesterday was glorious! The sun. The heat. It might seem like everything was normal again—but, it’s not. I was talking with my neighbor and I asked him what all that banging around back there (points to his backyard) was all about. He said, he figured he had all this time right now and was talking to some fellow colleagues and they all started gardens. So, he decided to give it a go by building some raised beds and acquiring a spreadsheet with instructions. Apparently if you search for ‘garden spreadsheet’, a ton of different people have these available. Who knew? I can tell you, I didn’t.
I kill everything. From flowers to succulents, you give me a plant of any kind, I guarantee you, I will murder the hell out of it. I did not inherit this from my mom or my family. My mom is a magical horticulturist. I’ve seen her take the deadest plant and bring it back to life. I’ve seen her cultivate Japanese maples like it was her job. It’s pretty amazing. While my mom was making hybrid-colored roses growing up, she and my dad also maintained a vegetable garden. If there is anything this little pandemic has taught us is to utilize time wisely and who needs the grocery store when organic is freshly picked from your backyard.
For some of you, this may be a new adventure. I thought I’d help out, since I can only grow what’s in my wine glass, by providing some veggies and flowers that are perfect for planting at this time. So, get to growing!
Flowers Ready for the Picking
Hydrangeas
One of my top blooms that make any home radiate beauty and elegance, the Japanese native bloom is legend. According to a Japanese legend, the hydrangea became associated with heartfelt emotion, gratitude for understanding, and apology after a Japanese emperor gave them to the family of the girl he loved to make up for neglecting her in favor of business and show how much he cared about her.
Cosmos
These pretty flowers are fragrant and vibrant. Not only are they ornamental, but its attributes consist of peacefulness, wholeness, and modesty.
Zinnias
The zinnia flower has several meanings including thoughts of friends, endurance, daily remembrance, goodness and lasting affection.
Sunflowers
Tall and any statement to your home, Sunflowers symbolize adoration, loyalty and longevity.
How Does Your Garden Grow
Marigolds
The marigold is also called the “herb of the sun”, representing passion and even creativity.
Carrots
Carrots are perfect for snacking during the heat and the better to see you with my dear.
Peppers
What’s a happenin’ hot stuff? Time to get your peppers for pickin’.
Tomatoes
You say Tomato, I say, how much salsa, tomato sandwiches, and spaghetti sauce will you make during this time?
Cabbage
You’re gonna need something to top that BBQ you plan on grilling or a nice summer Asian slaw will be a nice accompaniment to your outdoor dining.
Herbs
This is a great time to plant herbs like Basil, Lavender, Rosemary, and Oregano. Perfect to enhance your cooking and your libations!
Well, Color Me Quarantined
While the walls close in, it might be some time to add some color to this dim quarantined life we’re livin’…
Written by: Jo Ann L. Breaux
If you are adhering to the Stay At Home mandate, then you, like many others are taking advantage of this time to do home improvements. Time to bring some color while the world is in a dim place. I’m calling it the “Quarantine Period”, A New Dark Age. Time to put that partner to work on the many projects that have been put off because there’s been a lack of time. Let’s start by brightening up our homes! Whether it’s going to be put on the market after all this, or it’s just to improve your current surroundings, here are some of my picks for color trends happening in 2020!
GLORIOUS GREEN
I have a rediscovered love for green. I recently showed a client a home with Victorian fireplaces surrounded by Emerald Green tiles. It was quite beautiful. I always associated green with institutions or peas for some reason, but I’m seeing a hint of it in recent renovations and I have to say, it’s a welcome hue to the grays that have been so popular in the last few years. You’re sure to create some envy with these shades.
Check out my Pinterest Board for other ideas!
I love a lusher green. Current Mood looks great with creams, golds, coppers, and über light pinks.
I like this green in the kitchen, but it works everywhere and gives a nice calm and collected feel.
I love this green for an organic neutral and works well with pops of color.
Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues
It’s always been a dream of mine to have a deep blue dining room. Blues create coolness and the moodier the better. There’s a reason Midnight Blue was always missing from my Crayola box. Your rooms will sing serene, mysterious, and command attention.
Blue Danube is the perfect hue to drama up your entryway or bring a sophisticated statement to your dining area.
Naval is the perfect color to add mystery and richness to your interiors and bring out golds, yellows, and reds.
Light blues are going to be trendy this year as well. Cauliflower blue, pale blue, and powder blues will be adorning walls in 2020.
Moody, Lush, and Coy.
As we see Mid Century “I’m cool and own an Eames chair” Modern take a seat, I do believe we will be seeing more Art Deco and 1920’s accents in interiors as well as deeper colors that create mood and mystique. You’ll see the starkness of blacks and whites making bold minimalistic statements as well. Millennial pink is still dominating with trends in brass fixtures, I’m seeing some trends in Oceanic serenity and ‘come to my caravan’ romance. I hope these will inspire you to take on your quarantined home improvement project and add some color to those all too familiar walls.
House Style: Homes on the Screen
I watch a lot of movies and TV and I do love a good setting especially one where a home is also a character. Here are some picks of my favorite homes from motion picture. There are so many I love!
Sweet Home Alabama’s Historic Plantation Home
I am an avid, if not professional binge watcher of streaming television and movies. From Outlander to Buffy to recently, Dollface, my love of stories is fervid. It is true, my first true love is books, but sometimes I find it difficult to picture the intended setting of some authors. Just as I discover music through motion picture, I also easily discover dream home scenarios and ideas. It got me thinking, what my favorite houses and home decor from TV and movies. Here is what I came up with.
The Sharp Objects | Crellin House
I absolutely loved this house from the first shot of Amy Adams driving up to the gates of the Crellin House and down the winding driveway. I’ve always have had an affinity for Victorians. I don’t know if that comes from my deep southern upbringing or my pull to historical architecture. The features of Victorian’s are some of my favorites, turrets, wide wrap around porches made for cocktail sipping, and I’m a sucker for the ornate.
The other feature in the Crellin House I’m in love with is weirdly enough, the wallpaper. Featuring the Emerald vintage Chinoiserie in the foyer. The de Gournay covered walls make for an elegant welcome. All the rooms, from Adora’s distinctive Ivory, and soon to be revealing bedroom floor, to Alan’s album rich listening room adorned with beautiful built-ins, stained glass windows, and a decorative archway. All it need was a secret doorway. Even Amma’s room, drenched in pink and super sweet would tantalize a teenage girl.
The Preaker Manor as it appears on Sharp Objects.Photo by Anne Marie Fox/HBO
Sharp Objects | Crellin House Entrance Foyer | Courtesy of John Paino and HBO
Sharp Objects | Crellin House Listening Room Foyer | Courtesy of John Paino and HBO
Moonrise Kingdom | Summer’s End
The lighthouse Bill Murray and fam inhabit is a wet dream of a home. The Conanicut Point Lighthouse featured in Wes Anderson’s film Moonrise Kingdom is located on the Narragansett Bay in New England and my absolutely favorite room in the vacation house was the children’s attic playroom donning records and and hidden cubbies. The home so retro, yet warm and inviting. I loved the very large foyer and in true Wes Anderson style the color pallet did not disappoint. Kris Moran is one of my most inspired designers. Having created the Wes Anderson effect, she creates these whimsical homes telling their own story.
Sex in the City | Charlotte’s Park Avenue Apartment
Having been no stranger to New York living, space is always an issue when the desire to live in the big city arises. Charlotte’s apartment was the epitome of elegance and sophistication. I loved the deep rich wood walls and chevron lined floors. The cream and white accents added a nice contrast and of course the sprinkle of antique furniture throughout was well suited for the one bedroom apartment . If one could afford such luxuries in a upper east side abode, this would definitely be of great desire.
Sex Education | The Milburn House
This picturesque Scandinavian style chalet is ideal for a village presence. I love how this house is nestled in a valley with beautiful forest surroundings. I love the set design as well. It’s cozy, eclectic, and lived in with picturesque outdoor areas around the home.
The Waterford House | Handmaid’s Tale
If there was ever a house I’d love to live in, it would be the brick Victorian from Handmaid’s Tale. This fine home equipped with greenhouse and carriage house is a rich morsel of musty books and lush rooms. From chandeliers to elongated windows, every detail fits my aesthetic desires. I’m a huge fan of the conservatory-like kitchen with it’s huge windows and skylight. I’d find every creek and clop of the hardwood floors comforting and timeless. Fred’s office alone is any literate’s or writer’s sanctuary.
