The lakehouse is far from “done,” but with the completion of the kitchen makeover and dining room credenza, the open concept living/dining/kitchen combo is probably already unrecognizable for the former owners. Today I wanted to share a quick tour of all three spaces together, because so far you’ve only seen them discombobulated. While I’m at it, I might as well chat about my ideas for what’s next – and what’s getting in the way of my plans.
First, though, there’s a sweet and simple change that I’m way too excited about. Where there was once a redundant light switch, there is now art (the watercolour painting of chairs from Paris). The dining room light was controlled by a switch beside the patio door as well as a switch on this wall and we really didn’t need two, so Hubby worked his electrical magic and removed this switch which we covered with a blank wall plate. He’s not an electrician, so there’s no tutorial, but we did do everything to code and it’s been safely hidden. The painting was strategically hung to cover the blank wall plate. Moving from a townhouse with more rooms and three floors to this single level open concept space has meant a serious wall shortage – bad news for our burgeoning art collection – so I’m happy to have reclaimed a wall.
Here’s a quick reminder of before:
Sometimes I forget how much it has changed. I wish I could accurately capture the brightness and liveliness of the lakehouse but my pictures just don’t do the house justice. I’m still learning how to properly photograph a space flooded with light (what a fabulous problem to have).
Here’s a flashback to a year ago:
There are still so many things I’d like to do in this space but I have to keep an eye on our budget. We have to buy a new furnace this summer and get a land survey – both of
which will cost thousands. And both are un-fun ways to spend cash (although not freezing my butt off next winter will be fun). Still, I’m on the hunt for new dining room chairs or the perfect fabric for the ones we have because I’m really tired of the brown leather. Similarly, I’d like to make a smaller, more mod ottoman. Do you know I have a secret sofa? This mid-century sectional is languishing in the garage but I’m still waffling about spending the cash to have it recovered because our cream leather sofa is in perfect condition. But a sectional would mean more seating so I’m saving up for the fabric and upholstery job, despite my reservations. Hey, I’m sure I could always spend the money on something fun like shingles or pumping our septic tank…
Ultimately, budget can’t stop us and we’re steam rolling ahead with some smaller paint and upholstery projects in here, as well as tackling projects all over the house.
This looks amazing, so much better! I love the mid-century sectional and think it would look perfect in the space. Maybe you can sell the current sofa to finance the reupholstery?
I wish I could sell the sofa!! My mom wants it and I don't have the heart to ask her for money. She's done so much for us financially… But I could sell the ottoman and some other things to offset the cost. That's always a great approach, great idea!!
Is your house just the one bedroom? I never hear you speak of a guestroom or office like you did in the townhouse. I'm hoping you are just saving some awesome turquoise surprise for us lol.
It's a two bedroom but the second bedroom, the office, has had little done to it. I blogged about the turquoise office nook:http://dans-le-townhouse.blogspot.ca/2014/03/a-good-look-for-office-nook.htmlAnd the Ikea Expedit:http://dans-le-townhouse.blogspot.ca/2014/04/artful-expedit-hack-20.htmlBut nothing else. I should photograph it and share my plans! Thanks for the reminder.
oh riiiiiight, I did remember that post about the nook but for some reason I was thinking it was just an awkward space in the master. Duh.
Incredible! I really love how it's turned out. And that sofa has loads of potential- one day.It's hard to believe how much you've done in such a short time.
Thanks!! It feels like it's taken forever to get to this point. I'm happy it feels quicker from your perspective. I worry that I might be too pokey of a DIYer to warrant sharing it, lol. Too much of a snail's pace.
The modern look you gave to the dining and living room is phenomenal. The transformation that took here in the short amount of time is outstanding! All the colors make the atmosphere in the home lively and full of energy. Love it!
Thanks!!