When I start a project with a client I always start by asking several important questions. These questions really direct the outcome of the project and the client’s satisfaction level. When I began designing this particular project for my own family, I asked myself the same set of questions.
- What do you want this space to feel like when it’s completed?
- How will you use this space/ What needs have to be met within this space?
- What type of budget do you have?
My design aesthetic has really evolved over the years and spaces in which I’ve lived. I’ve had stages of bright colors and bohemian whimsy, stages of antique-heavy, stages of light and airy, all with plenty of white. As I’ve gotten older, my tastes have narrowed and I’ve found a comfortable space somewhere in the middle of all of those things. I like light colors, white cabinets and beautiful wood. I love age and character and a sense of history, but I also appreciate simplicity and a touch of modern. When this home is completed, I hope that it feels inviting, warm, lived-in and as though it has evolved over time.
Creating efficiency within limited space is key to making this house work for us. The footprint is rather small, with square footage of the first and second floors totaling about 1800. The basement adds about 700 additional square feet. The living room is smaller than any other we’ve had (plus, the doors!) and it is (in my opinion) the biggest drawback of this house. However, the space in the basement to create a “Rec” room helps to make up for that lack. With 4 children and 2 adults, there are many needs to be met! We love to entertain and when our families or friends are over, we have to be able to seat 10-12+ easily for a meal. As well, as a homeschooling mom, I want to carve out dedicated storage for all of our supplies, although the space we use to “do school” varies with the day’s tasks and our preferences of the moment. So I’ll want to have several places for working rather than just one place. I also love books and so there will need to be space to store books as art+easy use. Everyone needs a “getaway” spot in order to escape the rest of the family when time alone is needed. So having various cozy nooks will be important for overall functionality.
Budget constraints are also a major determining factor for the project. While our main renovation goals are covered in our construction mortgage, there are plenty of additional projects we plan to work on as time and money allows. It’s always hard to be patient, especially when you’re in renovation “mode” and just want to get things done!
Mood board created with Big Huge Labs Mosaic Maker.
Photo sources from Top left corner, moving clockwise:
Light Fixture
Living Room
Soapstone kitchen- Lucky magazine from February 2012
Stair Banister
Window Seat (original link nonfunctional, found on Pinterest)
Grey Shelves in the Living Room
White Subway Kitchen
Vintage Rug
Soapstone
Dining Table
Cream Ikea Kitchen
Blue Front door
Center:
Barn wood hood