Condo renovation: Living area

The final space upstairs is the living area, which got a bit constrained when there were 4+ people in the unit.  The first "before picture" isn't our actual unit (we were blessed with the lovely green couch with the golfer pillow), but it otherwise it's identical to our unit (even down to the faux plants).  

We were inspired by a friend's recent build in Southern California and put up paneling on the main wall. It definitely gives texture and interest to the space.

We're still waiting on two chairs and footstools to arrive and eventually will get around to getting something of interest on the walls.  At the moment, I'm leaning towards horizontally hanging 10-20 wooden golf clubs above the sofa.  We'll see though...

In the meantime, we were excited to find the bright yellow wooden waterski's at Lanier's (see in the corner by the slider?), a vintage leather megaphone, a few wooden rackets, a 1960's wooden skateboard and a turquoise ball hopper as well.  They probably won't end up where they are now, but they definitely add a bit of youthful whimsy to the space.

So there's the living area.  It will be nice to get a bit more seating in the space for the next visit, but our monster couch (at least 7 ft long) was well used on our recent trip.

Thoughts/comments?  What would you do to the space?

Condo renovation: Master bedroom

In a vacation condo, you want to make sure that you've got a cozy place to rest, relax, and sleep in.  Once again, the existing room wasn't horrible, it just wasn't the what we considered cozy.

We really liked the Restoration Hardware light wood theme at the moment, but it's just so expensive.  After many trips online, I couldn't seem to justify the cost for a king size bed frame.  I turned to my fellow design blogs and was intrigued by this image posted on Apartment Therapy where old shutters were used as a head board.

While visiting one of my favorite furniture shops in Miami, Victoria's Armoire, I came across an antique Indonesian and the wheels started to turn.  Surprisingly, Mr. Big was all over the idea and everything fell into place (or was nailed into place!).

Against the muddy paint from Restoration Hardware, the headboard definitely grabs your attention, especially when viewed from the main living area.  The room looks a bit darker than it actually is in these pictures, but it definitely has a cozy, hunkered-down feel to it.

Across from the bed, we have this beautiful early-1900's chest from Hungary.  I love the simplicity and rustic feel.  Mr. Big still is trying to convince me to give it a paint, but there's no chance that he'll win that one.  Good try though!

Yet again, we were pulled towards the Restoration Hardware furniture line because we loved their Zinc Nightstand.  Wouldn't it be great on either side of the bed?  But the price was just crazy $$$$.

So we picked up these very stylish, yet "in need of TLC" side tables for a steal at a Kissimmee antiques shop, Lanier's.  We were surprised to get them home and find out that they are actually Hendredon side tables.  What a find!  With the help of the very detailed instructions at Freckled Laundry, we plan to update these babies to have a similar finish (this is obviously one of our outstanding projects).

In the "before" photo at the start of this post, you can see that there used to be a tub in the corner of the room.  While it seems like a great luxury, we really never used it in the 7+ years of owning the condo.  So it was "bye, bye tub" and the space was updated with a locking owners closet where we can leave behind enough to avoid traveling with luggage.  What a treat! And of course, I returned to Container Store for this because I find their Elfa system so practical and space conscious.

While the picture below is not of our actual unit, it is identical to our Master Bathroom except we didn't have the lovely wall paper.  If the room was getting an update, the bathroom was certainly going to follow.

I couldn't get the color to come out quite right in the bathroom pics (no natural light), but it's painted in Restoration Hardware's silver sage (or actually an exact match...to save $$ of course).  The big mirror was an antique find from South Florida.

We have a little bit of work left on the bathroom walls, but we'll get there.  At least it's starting off in the right direction.

So there is our cozy new resting area.  We've loved it so far and look forward to many restful nights.  Once again, suggestions/comments welcomed!  We do need to get the sports/amusement theme in here subtly, but I just haven't figured out how yet.  Maybe some fun pillows and wall pieces?

Condo renovation

Apologies that it's be so slow on this site...it's really been due to the fact that most of our main home has been completed (and shared!) already.  But as I have alluded to over the past few months, Mr. Big and I recently undertook a renovation of a vacation condo.  No, we can't seem to just sit still...

As a bit of background, the vacation condo was originally designed and decorated by the resort in which it resides.  It was really never a style that matched either of our preferences, but it worked and was comfortable enough.  But most importantly, it was required to allow us to rent the unit to resort visitors (to ensure consistency with all other units).  Recently we decided to take the unit out of the rental pool to keep just for ourselves, which allowed us the opportunity to renovate it if we wanted (imagine how quickly these wheels started spinning...).

While not everything is entirely completed, it's probably far enough along to share at this point.  You may have to imagine a few chairs, pictures on the walls, etc., but hopefully you'll get the gist of it.  Because it's a vacation get-away, we attempted to go for a cozy cottage, vintage, comfortable feel layered with a bit of a sports/recreation theme.

So let's start with the kitchen.  It started out looking like this:

For a rental unit, it worked satisfactorily.  Behind the upper cabinets in the last picture was a wall.  On the opposite side, there was an owners closet and hallway.  While it worked okay, it didn't seem to be the best use of space.  The most significant modification that we made in the renovation was to remove that wall and owners closet to open up the kitchen.  Ta da!

I hunted high and low for appliances on Craigslist and ebay to keep costs manageable.  It is just amazing the deals that you can find...although it does take time to find them.  I used the Ikea kitchen planning tool to determine the cabinetry layout, but at the last minute, Mr. Big went with a local cabinet supplier.  He did a good job and everything seems to fit well.  

And in a fairly substantial style change from our main house, we did a lot of open storage.  Over time, we'll fill up with some more colorful finds from my new-found antiquing hobby.  I'm shocked to find myself enjoying all the "stuff" out, but it really does contribute to the more cozy feel of the condo.  It reminds me of my grandmother's open shelves that always had fun colorful treasures within.

You can also see in the "before" photos that the dining table was previously in the living area, which resulted in a bit of a cramped space.  We went for a big picnic-type table in the kitchen, which leaves substantially more space in the living area.  The Emeco Navy chairs came from a local restaurant that was closing down.  They are so light and versatile that they move effortlessly throughout the unit.  What a great find!  And an extra large vintage salmon poacher serves as our "junk drawer" holding all our scissors, tape, and just general necessities.

It's difficult to see in the larger photos, but we went with a painted brick paver backsplash in the kitchen.  I was inspired with the beautiful job that Kim at The Twice Remembered Cottage did with her kitchen.  It adds to the vintage, imperfect feel that we were seeking for the unit.  And one of my favorite antiquing finds was this traffic sign from Napa, reminding us to slow-the-heck down.

This last image shows how we removed the walls between the kitchen and living room to open the space up.  We're really pleased with how much larger the unit feels/looks.  The style certainly is not for everyone, but it's working so far for us.

I'd love to hear any further suggestions or comments that my talented family and friends have.  Let us know what you think.  More photos to come, but this is the start!

Drive by

Just a quick something to drop off so I don't let it permanently drop off my radar screen. Really intrigued by Restoration Hardware's Belgian Farmhouse Floor Lamp. Not the price though, of course...

Coffee tables

Just speeding through to share a few unique coffee tables or alternatives. Any favorites? We're looking for something vintage looking, perhaps with a slight industrial feel.

From Perch

From Serena & Lily

Love our mac

Yes, we've turned into a home of mac junkies. I don't really recall how it happened, but it's far too late to turn us back now (Mr. Big loves that store...). These skins from Karvt are actual wood and are available in loads of different wood species and stains. Fab!

Ideas for costal decor - part II

I can't seem to turn the faucet off! In just browsing through some photos online, here are a few more decorating ideas for a coastal decor that just feel right.

These three pots of grass on the table are beautiful. I love the natural terra cotta against the dark wood. And white slip cover couches and chairs feel effortless. I suspect that the covers could be easily bleached and thrown in the washer in the case of little fingers. (Does anyone have experience with this?)

From myhomeideas.com

I love the spray of tall grass on the kitchen countertop. It give s a bit of volume with the high ceilings and again adds a natural element. The very modern piece of artwork is great in this room as well.

From coastalliving.com

Similarly, the tub filled with lots of palm fronds feels "easy breezy", yet adds just a bit of depth. Imagine how dry this room would feel without them.

From coastalliving.com

And again...palm fronds in a glass vase just couldn't be easier. I like the combination of a few on furniture and some on the floor.

Source unknown

Another example. Actually the consistent key appears to be just a few arrangements, glasses vases, and fronds (which you can now get in very lifelike silk versions for maintenance free living). And check out how cool this coffee table is with the big blown vases on top.

From coastalliving.com

These are perhaps a wee too dramatic for everyday living, but could be good on the ground or would be bold as a centerpiece for a party.

From coastalliving.com

Could you imagine having a hanging daybed on your front porch? Pillows and a mattress covered in Sunbrella would hold up to the elements. And while I probably wouldn't put the rug at an angle, it sure does add to the cozy feel.

From coastalliving.com

Rooms with neutral bases can easily be updated by the season with pillows and throws. This quick dash of tangerine is quite fun.

From coastalliving.com

Everything I've picked up above is probably very obvious to those of you doing coastal decor, but it's a bit neat for me to look at something new for a change. Any more sources for ideas on finishing touches? I'd love to hear about them.

Ideas for coastal decor

A good friend recently built a beautiful new house reminiscent of Diane Keaton's home in "Somethings Got to Give". They have beautiful grey wood floors, white plank walls and dark wood accents, including amazing beams across their ceilings. And of course, there is the gorgeous white kitchen with rough black granite countertops. For a family with two little boys, its completely liveable, with just the littlest touch of elegance to it. Although I'm not there to go shopping with her, I couldn't help doing a bit of etsy browsing on her behalf. Maybe something here will catch her eye.

We're starting a bit nostalgic, but I could really see these recycled Coke glasses in her kitchen, which is emphasizes family time. Imagine how cool her boys would find them, especially when friends come over. And when not in use, they would add just a peep of color and humor through her glass.

From etsy seller angelicglass

Keeping in the same vein, I could see a collection of blue glass jars in many places in her home. While it would be easy to put them in the kitchen, they could look great on shelves or countertops in their office, living room, or boys play areas. I think the key here would be to have 3 or 5 in varying color/shapes to make it look like a collection.

From etsy seller jwhite2

And for outdoor dinner parties, a modern table could be beautifully illuminated with some painted mason jars. Just enough to give a quiet nod to the kitchen inside.

From etsy seller alyssaettinger

These large pebbles make me think of the beach. A nest of these could be really cute on a bathroom countertop with family members names, or if more humor is desired, "wash up before dinner".

From etsy seller sjengraving

They have this great area outside their boys' rooms for them to congregate. They will soon be riding their bikes all over the street. This image reminds me of boardwalks and the big packs of bikes that you find outside seaside cafes. It would be great in a common area like they have. The modern aesthetic could appeal to mom and dad, while an image of bikes would likely never disappoint a 5 year old.

From etsy sellerbicyclepaintings

In the same vein, this photo of a beachside swing set would be great in a common area or playroom. It keeps with the nostalgic, youthful theme, while not getting too "goopy". It leaves a bit to the imagination. Can't you just imagine yourself there right now?

From etsy seller JP Greenwood

A sign like this would be really fun in the boys bathroom (which is shared). Or even better, put it next to a guest shower/bath and give your friends a good laugh. Another idea would be to put it above dog water bowls (even if outside). Maybe a bit corny, but I got a laugh out of it.

From etsy seller johnwgolden

A large black and white image of the two boys would also be great in a play space. It also has a nostalgic feel, without being to obvious or sugary sweet. There is no question that their two boys would have a great pic to turn into a great wall piece.

From etsy seller phunklab

Turning our focus to "big kids", these would be pretty pieces on a cabinet top, hanging on the wall, or on a side table. But be warned, I've found that Mr. Big ties to use these types of bowls to store things (mail and paper). The nerve! How dare he think that a bowl is for using... :). Nonetheless, I like how modern the first piece is. To make sure that the house doesn't get too beachy, a few items like this would keep balance.

From etsy seller steeltoehome

From etsy sellerisabelleabramson

Personally, I find that it's really nice to have a few natural elements to keep the house feeling fresh. Etsy seller floresdelsol always has something captivating on her site.

Etsy seller floresdelsol

Etsy seller stemsandthings

Returning back to the coastal decor, a few pretty shells always look nice in a wooden bowl or on a wooden tray. With youngsters in the house, clear tack may be necessary to keep them in place without breaking, but it would be worth it.

From etsy sellerblueroompottery

Or combine them on a table top with a few more modern vases and it will keep them from getting too beachy.

From etsy seller sarapaloma

As long as it's not overdone, a few pieces of coral also is dramatic. Similar to above, I would mix them in with some more modern elements. There are beautiful cabinets in her formal living room that are begging to be filled. However, sometimes these areas can be intimidating...if not done properly, the glass cabinets can look cluttered. A few pieces of coral, combined with some shell topped clear bottles would look right at home.

From etsy seller seashellcollection

From etsy seller seashellcollection

From etsy seller peacockstainedglass

Pillows are always good for a quick pop of color without a huge price tag. This pillow has a beachy feel without being too obvious. It could go on her current sofa easily to lighten it up and give just a hint of color to her living space.

From etsy sellerantracitproduction

With beautiful wood paneled walls, I would be worried about hanging artwork. It would have to be artwork that is worth potentially damaging the walls for (in my case anyway). While the kids artwork will likely be a bit more playful, more modern takes on coastal images can keep the house "current" (no pun intended).

Both from etsy seller AaronOverstreetArt

And after building their house from scratch, there is no doubt that they have a special feeling for the home that they have created. I love the idea of framing your front elevation plans or having a handprint of your street view on your walls. Go ahead and celebrate what you've accomplished! This again carries the nostalgic theme through the decor.

From etsy seller theinklab

She has a stunning front entry to her house that is begging to be shown off. Nothing to fancy, but something that makes you feel happy when you walk in the home. Although the space is wider than what is shown below, I like the distressed table with a few special items on top. It wouldn't seem too difficult to have a piece custom made by a local carpenter for the space.

I love the lazy baskets below as well. Add a few sprays of eucalyptus in a tall glass vase for a natural element. Or the hydrangeas in the pail still carry out the casual theme.

From interior stylist Atlanta Bartlett

Above the table, I like the idea of framed sea fans. I saw this recently at the Catch restaurant at the Casa del Mar (see two posts below). Please excuse the personal photo, but the sea fans are framed behind me here. I loved the texture that they added to the room. They worked perfectly in the restaurant as it was right on the beach. However, they were really cool, rather than kitschy.

With the width of her entry, she could easily have two rows of three or four framed fans. With each one being slightly different, they really do look like pieces of art. How beautiful is this?

Sea fans available from etsy seller seashellcollection

So, I may have gone slightly overboard, but that's only because I wish I was there to have fun finding stuff for her house with her. Hope that there might be something in here that would work.

Anyone else have good resources for modern, yet coastal decor that she can look at?