What You Can Expect With The “New” House…And On The Blog
Hey, everyone! I know it’s rare for me to post on Saturday, but I just wanted to pop in and share some thoughts with you.
As you can probably tell, I’m so excited about our house!! My mind is going about 90 miles a minute, continually jumping from one idea to another to another, and I just wish I could tackle everything at once! But obviously, I’m just one person, so turning this house into my vision of home will take quite some time.
As I look around and dream and plan, I’ve been thinking about how things may change — how I might change, how my decorating may change, how my fiercely independent personality might need to be tempered a bit, and how the blog may change.
I know it frustrates blog readers when they get used to a blog being one way, and then all of a sudden things change. I don’t want to do that, but I also know that realistically, some things will have to change. So here’s what you can expect as we get moved into our house, and I finish up the condo and get it on the market, and then turn my attention completely to the house.
1. There will be plenty of DIY!
I think the main reason that most of you visit me is because you enjoy low cost DIY ideas. And if that’s the case, then you’ve got nothing to fear. I’ll be doing loads and loads of DIY in this house, as you’ve already seen by me ripping out all of the carpet last Monday.
Anything and everything that I’m capable of doing on my own, I will absolutely do on my own. I love doing DIY projects, and I certainly have no intention of giving that up.
2. There will be professionals involved.
This is where the house will differ from the condo.
In the condo, I think I hired professionals three times– once to install a faucet (and that was because Blogher and Moen picked up the tab), once to cut out the sink hole in my butcherblock countertop for my undermount sink (which I quickly realized I could have easily done myself), and once to help me open up the closet and the walls in the hallway to create the cabinet nook opposite the washer and dryer closet.
Other than those things, and then the handful of projects I’ve had friends and family help out with over the years, I’ve done the overwhelming majority of the work myself. But of course, the condo didn’t require any actual structural changes. (Or rather, I wasn’t allowed to do any structural changes, because believe me, I sure did want to knock out a wall or two!)
The house, on the other hand, will need structural changes to turn it into what I want. For example, I want the kitchen bumped out into the next room (what the previous owners called the den), and then I want the kitchen sink to go under the long window that looks out to the front yard…I think.
That will require moving the original exterior wall (obviously load-bearing), as well as some other structural changes.
Clearly, that won’t be a one-woman DIY project, regardless of how fiercely independent that woman is. While I want to do as much of the work myself as possible, there’s no doubt that there will be professionals involved.
I might even hire an interior designer. I know that might sound strange considering what I used to do prior to becoming a blogger, but I’ll have one shot at this. One shot to get it right. So while I don’t need (or want) any help whatsoever picking out colors, finishes, hardware, accessories, etc., I very well may want another set of eyes looking at the floor plan before any walls come down and any new floor plans are set in stone just to make sure that I’m making the most of the space that we have in my remodel plans.
And then there’s the yard. The massive yard that this landscaping novice will have to tackle.
Somehow I want to turn this big lot filled with dead grass, random trees surrounded by dead vines, and this massive expanse of flatness into something that’s beautiful and park-like.
But I know absolutely nothing about plants. I don’t know the names of plants, I don’t know what “region” I live in, I have no idea what kinds of plants need sun and which ones can survive in the shade. I don’t know how to take all of this open space and turn it into something with highs and lows, layers, textures, interesting mixes of colors, etc.
So for that, I’ll be relying on a professional landscape designer to help me come up with a master plan to turn this into something beautiful.
I think you get the point, right?
I want to do as much as I possibly can myself. But I also want to be realistic about my limitations. I want to understand that there are some areas where I simply don’t possess the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions. I need to get it through my head that when it comes to major remodels, some things are simply better left in the hands of professional for safety reasons. So I’ll rely on others when I need to, and be content doing the stuff that I feel capable of doing (things that won’t risk the safety of the people who live in and visit our home, and won’t damage the structural integrity of the house).
3. We will be spending considerably more money than we have in the past.
If you’ve been visiting my blog for a while now, then you know I’m cheap. I really don’t enjoy spending a lot of money, and I love making pretty things out of humble materials. It’s almost a challenge for me to see just how little money I can spend to do projects.
But that has been an easy mindset to have while living in the condo. The fact is that this isn’t really the kind of place that one would want to sink a bunch of money into. That would be a foolish use of money since there would be little (if any) return on the investment. We’re right near a college campus, and the condos in this building are often purchased as rental property and rented out to college students.
So yeah…it just made sense to try to make things look as nice as possible while spending as little money as possible.
But Matt and I both agree that this house could very well be our home for a very long time. With that in mind, I don’t want to skimp and be cheap just for the sake of being cheap. I want to save money where possible, use humble materials to create beautiful things where appropriate, and then spend money where it’s needed (and wanted).
And really, one of the reasons that we wanted to purchase a house for around $80,000 was for this very reason — so that we would feel okay spending $20,000 to remove the current sunroom and build a new family room, or to spend $8,000 to extend the front porch and make some changes to the front of the house.
This way, we can end up with exactly what we want, spend money and tackle these major projects as we save up for them, and go at our own pace, while enjoying the benefit of a tiny mortgage. (Seriously, a college student could handle our mortgage because it’s less than half of what apartments rent for around here! When the bank told us how much our monthly payments were going to be, we laughed. It’s about $115 less than the mortgage on our condo.) 😀
4. My decorating style will be different in the house.
I’m still not exactly sure what that means, or what my style in the house will be. I just know that when I look at inspiration online, I’m drawn to things that are more traditional and classic. For example, I want these chairs for my living room (or something like these)…
I picture those chairs used with a beautiful diamond tufted ottoman covered in some rich-colored velvety fabric with turned wood legs. And then I want a traditionally-styled fireplace.
As far as colors, I still love color. I think I’ll always love color. But I find myself being drawn more towards lighter, more subdued colors. And lots of white. Always lots of white.
So I’m not really sure exactly where I’ll end up as far as style and color, but I do know that I don’t just want to replicate ideas and colors that I used in the condo. I want to stretch myself, and challenge myself, to try new things.
That’s about it. Those are the thoughts that have been bouncing around in my head these last few days.
What do you say? Are you still going to hang out with me even if I hire people to do some of the hard stuff, start using different colors in my house, and change my decorating style just a bit?
Please say yes!! 🙂
Addicted 2 Decorating is where I share my DIY and decorating journey as I remodel and decorate the 1948 fixer upper that my husband, Matt, and I bought in 2013. Matt has M.S. and is unable to do physical work, so I do the majority of the work on the house by myself. You can learn more about me here.
Hi Kristi,I think you are on the right track with what you are doing. You are 1 person after all,lol. I am really looking forward to the “new direction”!
I for one will most definitely continue to hang with you. My husband is in the military so we have always rented. But with his retirement in the somewhat near future we are starting to talk about house and HOMES. So I will definitely be here to follow along with you on your journey! 🙂
We are also in the process of building a house – plus an airplane hangar. It’s pretty scary. We are going through U-Build-It where we can do as much or little of the work we want. They are there to help. It’s kinda overwhelming thinking about colors, styles, etc. We are retired and this is quite an undertaking but so exciting. Can’t wait to see what else you put on your blog about it. Hope you have good experiences and a lot of fun doing it.
Kristie, everything you have mentioned is normal. You and Matt are starting a new phase in your life. Making changes to style and colors, is part of the process. Sure, you could keep your style the same, but more often than not, a persons style changes due to the layout and character of a house.
I think what is in store is exciting and smart. Any sensible person would know their limitations and when to get professional help…especially, when knocking down walls.
Enjoy and have fun with the next phase of your blog and house. I will definitely be sticking around and watching what you create. As always, thank you for your honesty and inspiration! 😀
Buying a new( old) home is always exciting!!
Looking forward to seeing what you do to make it your own.
I know you will enjoy doing it as much as we enjoy being a part of the process!!
Have fun & keep the updates coming!!
Yes! 🙂
Hi Kristie, it is very smart of you to involve professionals where needed. Not doing could be dangerous and cost more in the long run. I had our first yard done by a professional 16 years ago and did it on my own since, as I learned over time what works for us and which plants I tend to “kill”. I admire what you have done to the condo and can’t wait to see your new style for the house.
I think that you are going in the right direction. You and Matt are right this will be your home for a long time so you should call in professionals to give you the guidance you want. In regards to your garden, there are lots of things you can do that are not expensive. Knowing where the sunny parts in your yard are is important. Choose plants that are common for you state and the heat. The that grow there will do so much better than ones that need lots of TLC. Know where the shade, especially around trees and plant common plants there. I know that there are lots of books in the Library about plants found in Texas and the ones that withstand drought are the ones you want for sure. I am so looking forward to seeing what you do with this home of yours. BTW I for one think you have beautiful taste, and I would hire you in a heart beat to redecorate if I had another home to move to. 🙂
I’m here. I can’t wait to go on this journey with you. I’m excited to see all that happens. Share away any way you choose.
I will definitely stay with you! I am working on my house right along with you – you give me encouragement every day and keep me going!!! You are a smart lady to use professionals and to do everything else yourself – guess that makes me smart too!
Yes!
Love those chairs! It’s so funny, I was just looking at those chairs. I had checked my email before reading this and had one form Joss & Main so of course I had to open it. I was thinking that they were such a great price and I would totally be all over it if I had the extra $$. I love that site! I scored some beautiful vanity lights for only $30 each while other sites where selling them for $160 or more!!
As for your decorating style changing, I understand! I used to love fancy traditional but now I’m leaning more towards clean lines and simplicity. I used to love neutrals and subdued colors but now I want lots of bright statement colors. I’m even stating to like a little bit of the rustic look. I feel like I can’t keep up with my own taste!
Anyway, I’m excited about everything to come! What ever it may be! Thanks for sharing with us!
Hey Kristi!
Glad I could help pick out your door color! Love it.
Now if you change your mind 20 times between now and when you paint it…
I totally understand! lol
Beth
R U going to be living in your new home while working on it? we remolded an old brick home, 11 rooms, it was about 70 years old when we moved in. We tried to do as much work as we could also. When I think of the $ we saved by doing it our self’s, I so proud of our self’s as you should be.. Good Luck to you and will be watching every thing you do to your new home. Go DIY Gal~!
Thanks for your honesty and for keeping it real. I will definitely be hanging out here for the long haul. I’m looking forward to seeing where your fine creative mind takes you, and therefore us.
How exciting. I can’t wait to see what you do with your new house. Love the hardwood floors.
Yes Kristi, I’m deinitely planning on hanging out with you for a long while yet. It’s like a great big adventure where I don’t have to do anything but click my mouse and admire your hard work.
I’m so looking forward to watching your process and how your ideas develop as your environment changes.
Hi Kristi! I most certainly will be hanging with you!! I think we all evolve throughout time with our tastes and styles anyway….much less looking at a house as more of a “forever” home than a temporary one. I know the feeling–I try to do projects and see just how little I can spend. But our old house (which I knew we wouldn’t be in forever) was kind of my “try out” for some projects. This house–we will be in it for a while….so I want to make sure things are done right….when we have the budget to do them!
You do your thing! I look forward to the end results!! Take your time and enjoy!!!!
I’m sticking with you – I can’t wait every day to check to see what new things you’ve done overnight 🙂 Looking forward to your progress on your new place.
You’ll find every time you move, your taste in decor evolves. I used to live south of you, but moved several hours north.
For interior colors, pay attention to the light in each room for each season in the new house. One of our interior rooms has only a skylight and half the year, we need no lamps until sunset, the other six months we need every light fixture on in the room to feel less like a cave. That issue made some odd color choices in the house make far more sense. 😉
We chose to focus on our kitchen and dining room first since we moved in in October.
Our kitchen needs a redo from its original 1972 self, but that it in the future after some other nagging things like the electrical update, fireplace brick fix(hearth and chimney inside bricks are loose), and the sprinkler system replacement(1972 hydraulic- no parts). We know the roof and gutters will be slotting in there somewhere too because of Tornado Alley.
Outside, watch for standing water areas, slight slopes, and sunlight variances through the seasons. Notice where all the sewer cleanouts are and also the faucets are hiding. Beware of some of those vines and weeds because they could be poison ivy/oak/sumac/whatever.
I greatly appreciate your blog, Kristi, because it is creative and not confusing. To explain:
1. The Who – It’s written in your voice with few breaks in that voice. I appreciate that you keep your posts and your inspiration area separate. I like when blogs feature other people’s work, but it can be confusing when I have to read into a post to find out if it’s the blog owner’s work or that of someone else. When posts are not consistently about the work of the blog owner, I have a very difficult time knowing “who they are,” and getting a grasp of the “who” of the blog.
2. The What – Your posts are organized sequentially, and I very much appreciate when it is written room-by-room. I read your blog like a chapter book, in a way, or watch it like a television series, and my brain appreciates reading your journey in sequence. I like knowing what’s going on, and what to expect next.
3. The How – Your style may change, but your ideas are gold. And what’s more, you share those ideas and how you came about a product so that it is not mysterious and it can be replicated. You blog not only is a chronicle of your house to home (or condo to home) journey, but is simultaneously a user guide, a collection of tutorials, and a style look book.
Quite honestly, my favorite blogs fit this sort of formula in some way, and yours is one of the ones I count! As I’m becoming aware of what I love about other blogs, I’m also trying to add these characteristics to my own. So, I peruse your blog because it is also a source of inspiration for my own blog endeavors. 🙂 I don’t think my interest will change any time soon! =D
Keep up the great work and thank you!
I’m excited for this journey with you. Just think, we could all still own Harvest Gold appliances if our tastes didn’t evolve. I’m glad you’re getting some help and professional advice. Many changes that will be made to this house really need professional input. Plus, I was worrying about how you were going to do all this by yourself. 🙂
I am all in!
Of course we’ll be here! I, for one, am already having so. much. fun.
Kristi, it only makes sense to hire the major, structural jobs done. Many of those will require expertise of building codes, variants in stress on the building itself, etc. DIY can only go so far when it comes to these tasks. You’ll still be the one with the creative flair and talents — leading the way! How can we not follow along? 😉
I’m looking forward to following along! I can’t wait to see the final results! Good luck with all the renovations!
Karen
I will be here — can’t wait to see what you come up with! 🙂
Hi Kristi- So exciting! Would love to follow along with the price breakdowns for some of the contracted work! Sometimes I feel like my fear of estimate (versus the true estimate) keeps me from doing ANYTHING! Like moving a sink, gas cooktop, etc. Love the house!
laura
Hi Kristi,
Is the “white room” finished? Your new home will be lovely. Your landscaping will come naturally I think and you live in a great zone for planting.
Yes! I am a fan because I like YOU. Whatever you come up with will be beautiful and fun. I can’t wait!!
I’m excited for you & Matt and look forward to all your changes.
Of course!! That is exactly how I do it. Do as much as I can…and hire out for the rest. Your blog is one of my favorites…and that’s not going to change one iota if you need to hire a contractor to knock a wall out. 😉
I love your blog, I have been reading it from the very beginning and I’m almost finished and of course I subscribe to you as well. I love your ideas, all of your DIY projects (am going to attempt a couple of them, if they work out, I will post pictures.) There’s nothing wrong with getting professionals when you need them, that’s a wise and smart decision. I will be following every day and I introduced your blog to all of my friends, they are followers as well. Your home will be gorgeous in no time at all, just wait and see.
As for the plants, we used to live in Houston and I can tell you that really the only thing that seems to survive that horrible heat are Zinnias but in the spring and fall anything goes. I did have some flowers in pots that I would move around and they survived the summer heat but they didn’t grow that much until fall and then they went crazy.
Kristi, I am sticking with you, I look forward to your adventures. Just keep having fun and all will be well!
I’m not going anywhere! This is my fav blog. It’s fun and informative. When I lived in San Antonio, my home turned into a Spanish Hacienda as much as I could (from country to western to Tuscan, to Hacienda – whew!) Now I live in East Texas in a more Traditional new home (not my style, really), so the décor changed. I’m getting ready to take away the standard New Home look and try something more fun. So, every time I move, my home takes on several different looks during the years. Yours will also!
By the way, do you have a floorplan for your new house so we can see where everything is? That will generate a LOT of comments! You know I can’t keep my fingers from typing my opinion!!
Okay…just pretend I’m Snoopy. Can you see me doing his happy dance. I’m jumping up and down with joy as I look forward to the journey! LEAD ON!
Your feelings aren’t unusual to me- the condo was not your “permanent” destination and your options/choices were different. The house is “permanent” for you and requires a different set of options/choices/decisions, unless you plan to be one of the people who redecorate a room every year.
I have been in my home for over a year now, mine, not a rental. Many see a double wide mobile home. I see a big double wide home with a huge stick built addition, two huge decks, one of which is covered, and big city sized lot with lots of trees. My home had been neglected by its previous owner due to health issues, so I have been dealing with those and am now to a point to begin looking at the decorating and improving the flow of the house as well. Oh in the last year I also went through a divorce after 40+ years of marriage and working 70-80 hours a week to do what was necessary. I am saving ideas and projects for the home I want to create for me- my own “northwoods cabin” style with a touch of modern.
Your blog has been an inspiration to me. Thank you.
YES – YES – YES! I love your ideas and can’t wait to see what you do. I retired in April and my hubby will retire next March and I want to sell our house and move out of Connecticut (too expensive). I can’t wait to see what you do to this house!
I can’t wait no matter who does the transforming of this space….you are tops as far as I am concerned….I will enjoy it whether you do the work or paid hire….it will all be your transformation ideas…so go girl….
Just more for us to follow, learn & cheer on! Go Kristi, go! 🙂
I say YES. ;O)
Seriously…I’ll be hanging with you whether you DIY or hire. Your blog is you….and your honest gutsy take on making your spot in this world totally you. You’re clever, creative, and full of personality. I doubt that any of that will change because you’ve changed addresses. Thanks for addressing the new twist your blog may take. But, as your reader….really…I don’t see how thing will change much. You are an incredible you….and I look forward to seeing how you make this new house shine! Godspeed!
New to you and your blog but I am already hooked. Looking forward to seeing your dreams become reality.
I think taste in decor changes like taste in clothes or footwear. You don’t wear the same clothes you did 20 years ago, so why would you have the same taste in furniture? Whatever you do will be right. Trust your gut.
I’m with you. We moved into this home almost 3 years ago and the back yard had three pitiful shrubs along the back of the house–complete blank slate. We have always been die hard DIYers but hired a landscape company to design and install a patio and plantings. It was the best money we have ever spent. We would’ve never come up with a creative plan like we got on our own. I think we’ve already enjoyed it our money’s worth in one summer! Can’t wait to see all that you do!
You can count on me to read every word! I’m so happy for you and Matt and can’t wait to see what beauty you create!
Yep. I’ll be here, awaiting each post and eager to applaud your progress!
It will be awesome! I can’t wait to see what you do!
Kristi….. I think you’re very wise to bring in “Advisors”. I am sure you will soak up all their experience and talent and someday use it yourself. As far a not sticking with you, are you kidding…..! I soooooo enjoy and marvel at your creative talent and fearless approach….. I can’t wait to see how you and Matt will turn this so long unloved, little house and make it into your own spectacular little castle…
Absolutely! I will continue to read and visit your blog. We all appreciate this is a much larger undertaking. It’s funny how your style can change when you move. As we search for a home ourselves, my style is changing. Can’t wait to see this new home transform! Congrats and best of luck on the new place!
Kristi, good decision, friend. There are somethings that really need the knowledge of a pro so it can become a “pay me now or pay me later” decision and “later” can turn into a nightmare. I love those old trees and they can be the backbone of a gorgeous landscape. One thing I would advise is to have your trees inspected by a qualified tree service. For this inspection be extra careful in selecting the company and make certain they are well qualified, properly insured, and have an excellent record. I know that sounds like overkill but those trees are huge and worth lots of $$$$. Having a landscape plan done by a pro can actually save you money in the long run and make sure the plan is somewhat flexible. We had a plan done for entire yard. One side of the front yard contained a large tree so plants in that area were all shade loving. Then we lost the tree to storm damage. Well, all we had to do was plant another tree and choose plants that like a sunny spot. They original plan layout made for an easy change. Also, the plan allowed for implementation over time which is very important especially if you plan on doing some of the work. I would advise having your trees inspected by a qualified tree service. Be very careful in selecting a company and make certain they are properly qualified and properly insured. I know that sounds like overkill but those trees are huge and worth lots of $$$$. A problem caught early can save a tree. So can the right kind of pruning. It’s not just for looks but can also play a huge role in the health of a tree. I first did some research online before ever looking for a company and I’m so glad I did because it gave me a super starting place and I found out several important things. From the arborist who did the inspection and pruning I learned that my favorite tree should NEVER be pruned. So, like you, I decided that there are times when using a pro can be invaluable. PS, can you send one of those big trees my way?
So excited for you and can’t wait to see all that you do! I will definitely be hanging around 🙂
Your ideas have always been amazing! I’ve loved the journey with your condo – you did so much for so little. Now, you have a new place with a yard (my first love is gardening and I wish I lived closer to give you a hand) and lots of ideas. I’m in and can’t wait to see your creativity, hard work (with help) and love of this house turn it into a home! Good luck and I’ll be here.
of course we’re still gonna hang out with you! i bet i’m not alone in wishing a big bag of money would land on your lawn so we could see projects begin RIGHT.THIS.MINUTE! One thought for you on moving the kitchen sink so it’s beneath the window: you and I are the same height, so opening that window is difficult without a stool. If you do end up moving the sink under the window, maybe look for one of those windows that opens with a little hand crank and save yourself some aggravation!
Absolutely! I love seeing a mix of DIY and professional. I’m a single girl owning my first house and I too have had to swallow my pride a few times and hire a professional to do things that I simply cannot tackle myself. I work full-time and have to realize that sometimes you just can’t do everything, all the time. It’s smarts a little at first, but then you see the results and it’s worth it!
Hi, Kristi! Busy catching up on all I’ve missed these past few months. Congratulations on your new house and home! I love your ideas and I always appreciate your risk taking/willingness to change! Also looking forward to seeing your transition to light and airy from bold & beautiful! I look forward to following along on this journey with you.
Kristi, you can count on me to stick around! I might not comment a lot but I am always looking forward to seeing what you’ve been up to. Thanks for sharing your progress with us.
Not going anywhere..so excited to see the transformation.
Of course! I am so excited for you and can’t wait to watch you transform your house! I want to tell you also that I look forward to your posts everyday 🙂
Actually, I think that NOT hiring professionals for some things would be very limiting & make the blog topics a bit boring….after all, even YOU are only human & can only do so much on your own. If you just stopped there, it would be very limited.
Wherever you go with this house, I’ll be following!
Congrats on the new place! Looking forward to all your DIY projects! 😉
p.s. I shared a link to your before and after breakfast room on my facebook page today! -so awesome! https://www.facebook.com/JulieLovesHome
Julie
Looking forward to an AWESOME transformation…even if you are aren’t doing it all yourself! It’s amazing to watch beauty and style be restored to a home!