As a self-professed home design enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by the art of transforming living spaces. But when it came to my own home, I’ll admit – the process was anything but easy. From navigating the complex web of design decisions to balancing my vision with my spouse’s preferences, the journey felt like a rollercoaster of high highs and low lows.
Unlocking the Potential of Our 1956 Gem
You see, my husband, Mike, and I stumbled upon our 1956 home back in 2016, and we were instantly smitten. Sure, the original 1,500-square-foot layout felt a bit dated and lacked natural light, but the mature oak, cedar, and citrus trees that dotted the acre-wide property had us hooked. We knew this was the perfect canvas to build our dream home.
After a couple of years of living in the existing structure and saving every penny, we decided to take the plunge and embark on a whole-home makeover. Now, I’ve designed spaces for clients before, but nothing could have prepared me for the emotional rollercoaster of tackling this project for ourselves. It was a completely different ball game when it was our time, energy, and money on the line.
Designing an Entryway That Packs a Punch
They say you never get a second chance to make a first impression, so I knew the entryway had to be a showstopper. I wanted a space that would make us and our guests feel happy, welcomed, and inspired the moment they stepped through the door.
Channeling my love for reclaimed brick, I opted for a herringbone pattern on the floor, complete with a soldiered border to add visual interest. The vertical shiplap walls, painted in a soothing Table Linen tone by Portola Paints, created the perfect backdrop for our vintage treasures.
Of course, no entryway is complete without a place to stash our keys and hang our coats. I sourced a vintage cabinet to anchor the space, topped it with a leaned vintage mirror and a framed piece of art, and finished it off with a stunning bentwood coat rack from Brass Plate.
Crafting an Open, Inviting Great Room
As you step through the entryway, the space opens up to our great room – a true heart of the home that connects the kitchen, dining nook, and living area. Being a family that values quality time together, I knew an open floor plan was the way to go.
The vaulted reclaimed white oak ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows from Marvin flood the room with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The random-width white oak planks from DuChateau ground the space, while the custom-designed white oak shelving units provide the perfect perch for my beloved vintage collectibles.
Of course, no great room is complete without a showstopper fireplace. After scouring the internet, I finally found the perfect limestone mantel from a vendor in Europe, which we paired with the same reclaimed brick from the entryway for a cohesive look.
Balancing Form and Function
As much as I wanted this space to be a feast for the eyes, I also needed to cater to my family’s needs. That meant breaking a few design rules along the way – like putting a TV above the fireplace, which I know is a cardinal sin in the design world.
But you know what? It’s worked out just fine. We’ve found the perfect balance between form and function, creating a space that’s comfortable, approachable, and made for living. From the vintage leather armchairs to the cozy Winters blankets, every element in this room is designed to be enjoyed and loved, not just admired.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Now, I’ll be the first to admit that this whole process wasn’t always smooth sailing. As my own client, I faced high highs and low lows, and there were times when I wanted to throw in the towel altogether. But with the guidance and support of my builder dad, we were able to trouble-shoot and make things happen on the fly.
One of the biggest lessons I learned was the importance of flexibility and compromise. When you’re working with a spouse, it’s essential to pick your battles and find ways to incorporate both of your visions. And when it comes to designing your own home, it’s crucial to let go of perfection and embrace the beauty of imperfection.
Unleashing the Potential of Your Home
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this journey, it’s that the possibilities for transforming your home are truly boundless. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or embark on a whole-home makeover, the key is to approach the process with an open mind, a willingness to experiment, and a deep appreciation for the unique character of your space.
So, if you’re feeling held back by the fear of asking or unsure of where to even begin, I encourage you to take that first step. Reach out to the incredible team at ABC Home in Aberdeen, UK, and let them guide you through the process of unlocking your home’s true potential.
Who knows – your 1956 gem could be the canvas for your very own dream home makeover. The only limit is your imagination, so why not let it run wild?
