Good evening everyone! Every now and then like to change things up and post in the evening. Hope your 2026 is off to a good start. Here it has not exactly been smooth, between world events, at home with the flu (like a lot of America)….let’s just say its been an interesting start. I started Tamiflu but a day or two too late to work, I think. Dr said it can last up to 10 days so I am on day 5, hoping it will be sooner! I am hoping the second week of the new year will begin with the bang I was hoping for Jan 1st:)
Haven’t done a renovation update in a while. Plenty going on though it seems to slowdown in the winter, which it technically does not, we have full crews working 5-6 days a week. I don’t get over there as often, once every few weeks during the somewhat boring part (all the mechanical, electrical, plumbing,etc..) but once we get to the more exciting parts, I have a feeling I will be going over a lot more often.
The biggest news is that we totally changed up the front face of the main entrance. The original entrance was actually the back of the house with a portico and grand large columns. So we started toying with the idea of doing that to the front. The house is very long and once the new addition was added, it somewhat took away from the focal point of the main entrance, it almost got lost because of how wide the house is and felt “flat”. This was a big unplanned step which involved back to the architectural review board and involved weeks and weeks of planning, but was it ever the right idea! I mocked it up on AI and we are just thrilled with this decision. It is almost hard to imagine that we came close to not doing this. So they are working on that now, the cement has been poured for the portico, the completion of that part of the roof will get done in the next week or two and then the columns/bluestone/steps will be added. To be continued…
We finally have put the last details on the kitchen. There was one elevation that was not squaring with me but as soon as I saw the hearth, my heart skipped a beat and I knew it the minute I saw it. We then had to figure out what to do on either side since the hearth is quite large and taking up most of that wall. After a lot of back and forth, we have finally come up with a solution we are all super pleased with…..finally.
AI has continued to be a trusty friend in bringing many of these ideas to life and its been such a lifesaver especially when it come to being able to plug in colors of flooring options…
And here it is (as per AI) with the new portico/columns- (there is only one dormer on each side of portico, sometimes AI goofs)
Here is the hearth- first it was proposed to do two thinner side cabinets with glass (to me, it made them too thin and out of proportion with the expanse of the hearth) This image shows them wider than they would be.
Then we toyed with the idea of a double glass cabinet on the right, with a door entrance on the left. I and many others liked this but my husband did not care for it. A small part of me who always love symmetry was not totally at peace with it but i liked it better than the option above.
Then my kitchen designer suggested making them solid wood which would almost look like a continuation. of the hearth and this was love at first sight. It made such sense.
Almost sure I will go with a Bluestar range- if anyone has one, would love to hear your thoughts!
Then I played around with nickel vs unlacquered brass or antique brass hardware and to my surprise, I am really leaning towards the unlacquered brass as it really warms up the cool tones. Thoughts?
Next thing is the mudroom. I see lattice doors there with one wall of panels and hooks with drawers on bottom. I worked with a designer to create this mudroom and put it in AI and really love it. I put in three color options. Think I know which I will go with but its always fun to get our opinion too. I actually really like the brick herringbone floor but tried a few other flooring options as well.
Ivory-
Light blue-
Soft green-
And this is kind of frivolous which really is funny considering how many major decisions I have on my plate but I have long wanted to purchase a set of antique Gustavian dining chairs. I had bid on a gorgeous set about a year ago on 1st Dibs but the bidding just got too high to justify.
I ordered the soft blue velvet chair as many of you have seen, but somehow in my mind I still daydream about those Gustavian chairs! If I were to find a set, I would be tempted. Its not as easy as you thinking finding a set of 12 in great condition but my radar is always on. So just for fun, wanted to see what they would look like, what do you think?
(these were not the original chairs I bid on but a similar look, the ones I bid on were dressier looking)
______________________________________________
So, that’s the latest, Not much in the way of construction photos as its been really cold so I haven’t been there much. Besides, this is the fun part! Would love to hear is something caught your eye. Thanks as always for stopping in, wishing everyone a wonderful evening. I look forward to sharing more of the journey as we move along…
SECOND DAY OF OUR INCREDIBLE PRESALE ON OUR INCREDIBLE TABLETOP RECHARGEABLE LAMPS! PRESALE PRICES ARE LISTED
I absolutely love my Bluestar range – have had it since our kitchen remodel in 2019. Ours is entirely gas (range and oven). It was a bit of an adjustment for baking at first, but I prefer it over electric now. I would buy another in a heartbeat!
Oh my goodness, just purely beautiful choices. The solid cabinet doors on either side of the stove are the perfect choice, I think it lets the stove and gorgeous Delft tile shine! Just putting my thoughts out there on the mud room (from someone who has built five houses over the years), would you consider leaving the lattice doors off on the short wall with hooks for a quick coat hang? I really love the solid wall of lattice doors, hides the clutter! Really enjoying following along on your renovations, thanks for sharing, and really hope you feel better soon!!
Looked at it, its not for me. Very pretty, But does not have near the power of the Bluestar, plus I love a glass oven door and the fact that I can custom color:) I have also been asking around a lot and just keep hearing so many rave reviews for the Bluestar.
I like the ivory mudroom. You can always add blue to the window seat. Then you can also change it to other colors if the mood strikes. :=) Like the range as well.
Hope you are feeling better soon. Love the chairs. Makes it look airy. I know you stated you want antiques, however, have you thought of having them made and to use in the meantime until your dream ones show up? I prefer the ivory in the mudroom and the brick floor is timeless. I like the nickel for the hardware in the kitchen.
Hi I did actually look into, i did have one made, it actually came out pretty close to what I had in mind and its something I am considering down the road if ultimately i cannot find a big set. Also leaning towards the ivory
Love the choice made to flank the hearth. Looks fantastic and really adds to the statement! The lattice doors are a fabulous touch. Suggestion – consider making some of the bottom drawers double wide v single. I e been surprised how happy I am i did three double wide V single
I like the ivory mudroom, unlacquered brass, and Gustavian chairs. Really like the portico. I had a portico added to our last home and it made the home look so good. I don’t like small entryways.
Thanks for your feedback. I agree a portico done right can be really transformative and we are in great. hands with our very talented architect and very experienced builder so feel really good about this decision.
I think ivory wins hands down in the “mudroom”—which I don’t picture seeing much real mud! I love, love the columns and what you did to the front—it is a gorgeous upgrade!!
Blue Star is THE range to purchase. This fall we completed an addition on our home and I decided upon a Blue Star range. My sister had one and loved it. I had thought that perhaps I would purchase a French or Italian range, but when I went to the appliance dealer, after asking how I cook, he told me that I “couldn’t have” the French or Italian ranges, because they wouldn’t meet my needs. I am thrilled with the Blue Star and was delighted to be able to choose a color. Besides the beautiful way the Blue Star performs, the top is entirely cast iron and extremely easy to clean and maintain. I wouldn’t have any other range. Also, I chose Armac Martin hardware in the aged brass (BEL) along with Rohl faucets in unpolished brass on Shaw farmhouse sinks. The combination is beautiful together. These were difficult decisions, but I couldn’t be more pleased. Interestingly, I had wanted Delft tile behind the range, but for a variety of reasons needed to choose differently. My countertops are leathered Taj Mahal. Very pleased. I’m an interior designer and have developed many kitchens. Making decisions for myself is always the most difficult. Good luck!
Makes me so happy to read this!! I have spoken to several and not one person had a bad thing to say, in fact they were all thrilled. Appreciate the feedback.
I love all your new changes. I hate to be negative since I know your taste is wonderful and I am not much of a decorator but If I had to pick a color for the mud room I would go with ivory but I am not sure I like the lattice. Something is off.
No worries, I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. We love lattice and really happy about the choice. Remember this is AI not actual so there is some nuance to what you see. We have seen similiar projects in person and they were gorgeous. Agree about the ivory!
Hi Tina, First time chiming in with a comment. I like both the ivory or the light blue color for the mud room .While the light blue is a cool color, it never the less warms up the room compared to the ivory. I don’t care for the green. But here’s my biggest feeling about the room…. I really don’t care for the lattice. A lattice panel on either side of the window seat as a decorative feature I think would look very nice, and with the window seat would create a statement wall. But I find the entire adjacent wall of lattice cabinets to be too much. It makes be think of an outdated Florida room. Or, and I hate to say it, but I look at it in the images you posted and I think of a solid wall of cold air returns! I think beautifully painted solid wood panel cabinet doors would be much more attractive and more timeless.. Let the two panels flanking the window seat carry the day. Just two cents from a California Designer.
Thanks for your input. We love lattice and feel really confident about our decision. There will be some solid wood panels on either side of window seat and adjacent wall with coat hooks (not shown) so its not a sea of lattice:) Have a great day.
Theres not a way to show you I purchase the professional edition which has many more options. You need some time to really play with it, there is a learning curve and they don’t always get it right so you have to be patient. It is improving every day, there are also many other new AI platforms specifically geared towards home/interiors. I haven’t had a chance to check those out as this is working for me fine for now.
Whoa! So. much to love here, and loads of great ideas. LOVE the front entry, it is so grand and such a wise choice.
Adore the lattice and ivory gets my vote, I think the brick looks great just not sure how comfy it is on the feet. Pavers or bluestone could be nice too, even black and white checkerboard?
Those chairs in your dining room are fabulous. Stay in the hunt- I bet the right set will popup! If you are like me, and I think you are, I am a dog with a bone when I really really want something. This is such a fun project to follow!
If you can not find the Gustaian Chairs you could also use the French Ballon chairs or Classic Shield Back Chairs sprayed in Ivory or White Antiqued with a Brownish mixed with Ivory Glaze… I know why you want those chairs they are simply gorgeous…They make the room….Just beautiful…
The new portico completely changes the home making it so much more majestic. I vote for boothbay gray cabinetry in the mudroom. I saw an artisan home with this and it was beautiful. Is there room for a small “island cabinet” with drawers for keys, gloves etc. Walnut top? Everything is beautiful.
I’m so sorry you’re down with the flu. Everything you’ve shown with renovation is beautiful, but I prefer the light blue or soft green in the mudroom. Either of the soft colors would serve as a neutral backdrop while allowing for bright pops of colors in the accessories.
I hope you’ll be on the mend quickly!
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Good evening everyone! Every now and then like to change things up and post in the evening. Hope your 2026 is off to a good start. Here it has not exactly been smooth, between world events, at home with the flu (like a lot of America)….let’s just say its been an interesting start. I started Tamiflu but a day or two too late to work, I think. Dr said it can last up to 10 days so I am on day 5, hoping it will be sooner! I am hoping the second week of the new year will begin with the bang I was hoping for Jan 1st:)
Haven’t done a renovation update in a while. Plenty going on though it seems to slowdown in the winter, which it technically does not, we have full crews working 5-6 days a week. I don’t get over there as often, once every few weeks during the somewhat boring part (all the mechanical, electrical, plumbing,etc..) but once we get to the more exciting parts, I have a feeling I will be going over a lot more often.
The biggest news is that we totally changed up the front face of the main entrance. The original entrance was actually the back of the house with a portico and grand large columns. So we started toying with the idea of doing that to the front. The house is very long and once the new addition was added, it somewhat took away from the focal point of the main entrance, it almost got lost because of how wide the house is and felt “flat”. This was a big unplanned step which involved back to the architectural review board and involved weeks and weeks of planning, but was it ever the right idea! I mocked it up on AI and we are just thrilled with this decision. It is almost hard to imagine that we came close to not doing this. So they are working on that now, the cement has been poured for the portico, the completion of that part of the roof will get done in the next week or two and then the columns/bluestone/steps will be added. To be continued…
We finally have put the last details on the kitchen. There was one elevation that was not squaring with me but as soon as I saw the hearth, my heart skipped a beat and I knew it the minute I saw it. We then had to figure out what to do on either side since the hearth is quite large and taking up most of that wall. After a lot of back and forth, we have finally come up with a solution we are all super pleased with…..finally.
AI has continued to be a trusty friend in bringing many of these ideas to life and its been such a lifesaver especially when it come to being able to plug in colors of flooring options…
_____________________________________________________
So here is the house as it stands-
And here it is (as per AI) with the new portico/columns- (there is only one dormer on each side of portico, sometimes AI goofs)
Here is the hearth- first it was proposed to do two thinner side cabinets with glass (to me, it made them too thin and out of proportion with the expanse of the hearth) This image shows them wider than they would be.
Then we toyed with the idea of a double glass cabinet on the right, with a door entrance on the left. I and many others liked this but my husband did not care for it. A small part of me who always love symmetry was not totally at peace with it but i liked it better than the option above.
Then my kitchen designer suggested making them solid wood which would almost look like a continuation. of the hearth and this was love at first sight. It made such sense.
Almost sure I will go with a Bluestar range- if anyone has one, would love to hear your thoughts!
Then I played around with nickel vs unlacquered brass or antique brass hardware and to my surprise, I am really leaning towards the unlacquered brass as it really warms up the cool tones. Thoughts?
Next thing is the mudroom. I see lattice doors there with one wall of panels and hooks with drawers on bottom. I worked with a designer to create this mudroom and put it in AI and really love it. I put in three color options. Think I know which I will go with but its always fun to get our opinion too. I actually really like the brick herringbone floor but tried a few other flooring options as well.
Ivory-
Light blue-
Soft green-
And this is kind of frivolous which really is funny considering how many major decisions I have on my plate but I have long wanted to purchase a set of antique Gustavian dining chairs. I had bid on a gorgeous set about a year ago on 1st Dibs but the bidding just got too high to justify.
I ordered the soft blue velvet chair as many of you have seen, but somehow in my mind I still daydream about those Gustavian chairs! If I were to find a set, I would be tempted. Its not as easy as you thinking finding a set of 12 in great condition but my radar is always on. So just for fun, wanted to see what they would look like, what do you think?
(these were not the original chairs I bid on but a similar look, the ones I bid on were dressier looking)
______________________________________________
So, that’s the latest, Not much in the way of construction photos as its been really cold so I haven’t been there much. Besides, this is the fun part! Would love to hear is something caught your eye. Thanks as always for stopping in, wishing everyone a wonderful evening. I look forward to sharing more of the journey as we move along…
SECOND DAY OF OUR INCREDIBLE PRESALE ON OUR INCREDIBLE TABLETOP RECHARGEABLE LAMPS! PRESALE PRICES ARE LISTED
CLICK HERE
The kitchen hearth with the solid wood cabinet doors looks great. That wall is stunning. The dining chairs are worth the search.
Thanks I really like the solid doors as well, I think its the way to go. And also agree about the chairs! Will always have my radar on!
Love the Gustavian chairs and hearth/cabinet choice. Mud room, I think the Ivory blends better with the floor.
Thank you agree leaning towards the ivory
I absolutely love my Bluestar range – have had it since our kitchen remodel in 2019. Ours is entirely gas (range and oven). It was a bit of an adjustment for baking at first, but I prefer it over electric now. I would buy another in a heartbeat!
Love hearing all the good feedback about Bluestar! Thank you!
Is 18” enough on each side of the range for prep and cooking? Seems tight to me for someone who cooks.
The design looks gorgeous!
This is conceptual we are still fine tuning the details, in fact have an appt tomorrow to hopefully wrap it up.Thanks for your feedback.
Oh my goodness, just purely beautiful choices. The solid cabinet doors on either side of the stove are the perfect choice, I think it lets the stove and gorgeous Delft tile shine! Just putting my thoughts out there on the mud room (from someone who has built five houses over the years), would you consider leaving the lattice doors off on the short wall with hooks for a quick coat hang? I really love the solid wall of lattice doors, hides the clutter! Really enjoying following along on your renovations, thanks for sharing, and really hope you feel better soon!!
Hi the short wall will be panels (solid) with coat hooks, its not shown. Thank you!
I think the La Cornue CornuFe’ 110 would be beautiful in Provence blue.
Looked at it, its not for me. Very pretty, But does not have near the power of the Bluestar, plus I love a glass oven door and the fact that I can custom color:) I have also been asking around a lot and just keep hearing so many rave reviews for the Bluestar.
I like the ivory mudroom. You can always add blue to the window seat. Then you can also change it to other colors if the mood strikes. :=) Like the range as well.
Hope you are feeling better soon. Love the chairs. Makes it look airy. I know you stated you want antiques, however, have you thought of having them made and to use in the meantime until your dream ones show up? I prefer the ivory in the mudroom and the brick floor is timeless. I like the nickel for the hardware in the kitchen.
Hi I did actually look into, i did have one made, it actually came out pretty close to what I had in mind and its something I am considering down the road if ultimately i cannot find a big set. Also leaning towards the ivory
Love the choice made to flank the hearth. Looks fantastic and really adds to the statement! The lattice doors are a fabulous touch. Suggestion – consider making some of the bottom drawers double wide v single. I e been surprised how happy I am i did three double wide V single
Yes re drawers I do. like the idea of longer drawers (easier storage) this was just AI generated and conceptual. Thanks for the feedback.
I like the ivory mudroom, unlacquered brass, and Gustavian chairs. Really like the portico. I had a portico added to our last home and it made the home look so good. I don’t like small entryways.
Thanks for your feedback. I agree a portico done right can be really transformative and we are in great. hands with our very talented architect and very experienced builder so feel really good about this decision.
I think ivory wins hands down in the “mudroom”—which I don’t picture seeing much real mud! I love, love the columns and what you did to the front—it is a gorgeous upgrade!!
Thank you. I also don’t forsee a lot of mud either however with Phillip you never know:)
Blue Star is THE range to purchase. This fall we completed an addition on our home and I decided upon a Blue Star range. My sister had one and loved it. I had thought that perhaps I would purchase a French or Italian range, but when I went to the appliance dealer, after asking how I cook, he told me that I “couldn’t have” the French or Italian ranges, because they wouldn’t meet my needs. I am thrilled with the Blue Star and was delighted to be able to choose a color. Besides the beautiful way the Blue Star performs, the top is entirely cast iron and extremely easy to clean and maintain. I wouldn’t have any other range. Also, I chose Armac Martin hardware in the aged brass (BEL) along with Rohl faucets in unpolished brass on Shaw farmhouse sinks. The combination is beautiful together. These were difficult decisions, but I couldn’t be more pleased. Interestingly, I had wanted Delft tile behind the range, but for a variety of reasons needed to choose differently. My countertops are leathered Taj Mahal. Very pleased. I’m an interior designer and have developed many kitchens. Making decisions for myself is always the most difficult. Good luck!
Makes me so happy to read this!! I have spoken to several and not one person had a bad thing to say, in fact they were all thrilled. Appreciate the feedback.
I love all your new changes. I hate to be negative since I know your taste is wonderful and I am not much of a decorator but If I had to pick a color for the mud room I would go with ivory but I am not sure I like the lattice. Something is off.
No worries, I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. We love lattice and really happy about the choice. Remember this is AI not actual so there is some nuance to what you see. We have seen similiar projects in person and they were gorgeous. Agree about the ivory!
Hi Tina, First time chiming in with a comment. I like both the ivory or the light blue color for the mud room .While the light blue is a cool color, it never the less warms up the room compared to the ivory. I don’t care for the green. But here’s my biggest feeling about the room…. I really don’t care for the lattice. A lattice panel on either side of the window seat as a decorative feature I think would look very nice, and with the window seat would create a statement wall. But I find the entire adjacent wall of lattice cabinets to be too much. It makes be think of an outdated Florida room. Or, and I hate to say it, but I look at it in the images you posted and I think of a solid wall of cold air returns! I think beautifully painted solid wood panel cabinet doors would be much more attractive and more timeless.. Let the two panels flanking the window seat carry the day. Just two cents from a California Designer.
Thanks for your input. We love lattice and feel really confident about our decision. There will be some solid wood panels on either side of window seat and adjacent wall with coat hooks (not shown) so its not a sea of lattice:) Have a great day.
I like the lattice. It is beautiful and also allows air flow to the clothing and shoes inside.
PLEASE show us how you use the AI.
Your house is going to be gorgeous. Thank you!
Theres not a way to show you I purchase the professional edition which has many more options. You need some time to really play with it, there is a learning curve and they don’t always get it right so you have to be patient. It is improving every day, there are also many other new AI platforms specifically geared towards home/interiors. I haven’t had a chance to check those out as this is working for me fine for now.
The double columns in the front entrance look way too heavy–maybe one on each side would look better.
This was AI generated and is conceptual. Those are not the exact columns, we are very confident however with our decision.
Whoa! So. much to love here, and loads of great ideas. LOVE the front entry, it is so grand and such a wise choice.
Adore the lattice and ivory gets my vote, I think the brick looks great just not sure how comfy it is on the feet. Pavers or bluestone could be nice too, even black and white checkerboard?
Those chairs in your dining room are fabulous. Stay in the hunt- I bet the right set will popup! If you are like me, and I think you are, I am a dog with a bone when I really really want something. This is such a fun project to follow!
Ivory lattice is gorgeous.
Beautiful front entrance.
Coming along beautifully!
BRILLIANT…THAT WOODEN HEARTH IS A GAME CHANGER ALL RIGHT!!! BEAUTIFUL!! franki
ps feel better…although dreary outdoors… ❤️
If you can not find the Gustaian Chairs you could also use the French Ballon chairs or Classic Shield Back Chairs sprayed in Ivory or White Antiqued with a Brownish mixed with Ivory Glaze… I know why you want those chairs they are simply gorgeous…They make the room….Just beautiful…
The new portico completely changes the home making it so much more majestic. I vote for boothbay gray cabinetry in the mudroom. I saw an artisan home with this and it was beautiful. Is there room for a small “island cabinet” with drawers for keys, gloves etc. Walnut top? Everything is beautiful.
I’m so sorry you’re down with the flu. Everything you’ve shown with renovation is beautiful, but I prefer the light blue or soft green in the mudroom. Either of the soft colors would serve as a neutral backdrop while allowing for bright pops of colors in the accessories.
I hope you’ll be on the mend quickly!