Hi Everyone,
This is part 2 of the upstairs house tour. It was originally all one video, but it was over half an hour, which became a bit difficult for me.
So, if you’ve already read and watched part 1 please click the link below to skip to part 2.
Part 2 Begins Here
Hi Everyone,
Today, we’re going to have a renovation tour of the upstairs. This video was made two weeks ago after the hardwood floor was screened but before the new finish was put on.
I’ve divided the video into four parts, roughly nine minutes each. However, today, there is only time for parts 1 & 2 There is a version with ads that help support me and the running of this website. And, for those who can’t tolerate the ads or are having trouble seeing the video, there’s also a YouTube version.
But first, for those wondering what horrible thing happened at 9:30 at night on October 9th, please go back to the previous post to find out. (No worries. I’ll wait for you to come back.)
Okay, and now for the renovation tour. But before we begin, I’d like to point out a few important things.
I find it easier to walk, talk, and show things by holding the camera vertically. In any case, I am usually zeroing in on details.
I’m sorry. I know that on occasion, some words get dropped, and it would be better if I wasn’t relying on my phone’s microphone.
Also, these are not the last videos I will be making.
After each video, there will be a brief commentary to clarify or correct something I said or to share an image(s) showing an area as it was before.
Please note that you’ll see lots of shots of the floor. This is the floor after it was screened, so it doesn’t look as plastic as it did. However, you can see how poorly the new wood blends in.
Okay, first up is video number one. It starts in the kitchen, and please forgive the ragged beginning. This is me, unscripted and unrehearsed.
Okay, let’s look at the old entry, mostly mid-renovation.
Above is the old entry about 14 months ago. Please note that all of the old floor in the entry AND to the left of the saddle was ripped out and thrown away. Between that and the wood needed to make the new stairwell, there was plenty of wood to make the repairs. Sure, they could’ve replaced a few of the boards with new wood, but not 20% of the floor, like they did.
Okay. Above is the front door, as it was before the guys fixed everything. They had to take the entire wall down to the studs, which was scary to see. (below)
Above, the guys had to do a number to make the wall right. That arch was original to the home. This was a reception area between the front parlor and the formal dining room.
Okay, let’s look at part 2.
We’ll see the den and talk about the paint colors. There’s also a lot of talk about the formerly horrid vestibule.
Below is how the trainwreck vestibule looked several months ago.
Eegads!
I am completely horrified when I look at these pics! How on earth did I live through this?
Okay, and I turned parts 1 and 2 into one video for those who want to see the renovation tour on YouTube.
I hope you enjoyed part 1 of the renovation tour. I should be back either Thursday night or Sunday morning for part 2 which will be two more videos.
xo,
*********************************************************
Part 2 Begins Here
October 20, 2024
Okay, now we’re ready for part 2. Like part 1, there are two shorter videos with ads (videos #3 and #4). The ads help me earn a living! However, for those who can’t see the video or are allergic to the ads, lol, a version of the entire part 2 on YouTube is also coming up.
Before we view video #3 of the renovation tour, a quick review of the den wall colors.
The North Sea Green wall color above looks deeper than this, but not always. Sometimes, it’s quite vivid, and other times, it’s more gray, blue, or green. It’s never the same!
The ceiling and frieze are Benjamin Moore Mayo Teal.
North Sea Green does look this dark on this small wall, but mostly, it looks much brighter than this.
This is a good example of how it often looks during the day.
Above is a nighttime view. (with a 24″ cutout of the chandelier)
We’re going to go over the mouldings, both original and new, and the fireplace mantel and insert. We’ll also be talking about the painting I’d love to copy, which I’ll share again after part 3, which is coming right up!
Even though I took this from an angle, I could straighten it out in my photo editor. Below is the original photo.
And, below is how the painting will look on my wall.
Whenever I talk about reproduction art, it seems a couple of people get hot under the collar because I haven’t employed a “starving artist” to paint the artwork. Yes, I could hire someone, and maybe, in the end, that’s what I’ll do. However, I’ve long loved the idea of creating a large, high-quality reproduction on canvas. So, let’s look at it as an experiment for now.
While I’m here, I didn’t say anything in the video when I picked up the 30″ round tray.
I bought that to see how a 30″ diameter alabaster bowl would look in the living room.
Even though I just wrote a post contradicting this, a 30″ bowl will be huge! The average size of the vintage alabaster chandeliers I’ve looked at is about 19″ in diameter. Mine is already on the large side at 24″. I also looked at some new pieces.
In the end, I’m happy with this decision to do the 24″ size, and I can use the price difference for something else. The chandeliers are going to be beautiful.
Okay, please enjoy the last of the renovation tour with video #4.
For those who’d like to see parts 3 and 4 of the renovation tour on YouTube, please see it below.
I hope you enjoyed this renovation tour of both the upstairs and downstairs, here, if you missed it.
So, now that we’ve had the complete renovation tour, what else is going on?
Well, there’s a lot. I’ll be sharing more very soon! Plus, there will be many more tours that focus on specific aspects.
In the meantime, Boston began early voting TODAY, October 19th. For early voting, one can vote wherever it’s convenient and anytime the polls are open. So, today at about 5:30 PM, figuring that the crowds would’ve died down by then, I marched myself over to the Boston Public Library.
I just waltzed right in—no waiting. I picked up my ballot and then went to fill it out by hand, which I’ve never done before. But it all only took a few minutes.
It’s all done. Well, that sure felt good! Then, I took myself for another long walk. I’m trying to do that at least five times a week.
Alas, it’s my late mommy’s 102nd birthday. Lee passed away in August 2019. I was very lucky to have her for so many years.
xo,
***Please check out the recently updated HOT SALES!
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To facilitate this, some readers have asked me to put
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Please click the link before items go into your shopping cart. Some people save their purchases in their “save for later folder.” Then, if you remember, please come back and click my Amazon link, and then you’re free to place your orders. While most vendor links have a cookie that lasts a while, Amazon’s cookies only last up to 24 hours.
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Related Posts
Laurel’s Home Renovation 2024 – News & Deets!- Hardwood Floor and Primary Bathroom Update!
- 14 month Renoversary! and I’m Back In My Bedroom!
- Happy One-Year Renovation Anniversary + Lots of News!
- The Hidden Bathroom Doors Are Installed, but there’s a Problem
- The Paint Disaster Downstairs & What I’m Doing About It (Parts 1 & 2)
- Renovation Woes and Then the Contractors Went on Vacation Parts 1 and 2!
45 Responses
Hi Laurel, thank you for taking the time to make the videos. It is really helpful to understand the scale of your home. The curved cabinets in your kitchen might be my fav thing I’ve seen in a long time! Beautiful!
It looks gorgeous even when empty I can’t even imagine how lovely it’s gonna look after you furnish and style it. Can’t wait!!
I love following along with your renovation journey! The transformation of your home is so inspiring, especially for those of us who recently worked with home builders. It’s amazing to see how a space can evolve with just a little creativity and hard work. Can’t wait to see the final reveal!
Your home is gorgeous! I wish I could hire you. Looking forward to seeing it, furnished with all the finishing touches.
Thank you for sharing and thank you for the videos. I don’t mind the ads, but the problem that I have is that sometimes they will play and sometimes they won’t. I can always get the YouTube versions to play.
Laurel,
I have not followed so closely on all of your emails. But this last video I have heard you say how you love your fireplace and are so pleased and happy. Also on the skirting or baseboard around the room. I hear your exasperation on little things. The lighting in the den, do you really use the recessed lighting? I only use mine when I drop something and need brighter light to find something. Also my electrician when I mentioned it was too bright for me in my hallway he did something that changed the light to be softer without changing the bulbs. I wish I watched him but it is so much better. We can all finds faults when we are doing construction especially if you are a perfectionist. But most people will not notice the difference if the sconces should have been moved.
It looks wonderful. One question are you putting wallpaper or a different paint color in your glass cabinets in the kitchen? Just wondering.
As an interior designer, you know the value of continuity – remove the farmhouse pendant in the kitchen as it does not fit. Use a smaller matching alabaster light & the same in your entry space, coordinating with your main salon overhead lighting.
Hi Leonard,
lol – Yes, I know the value of continuity and I’m fine with my selections, even if you’re not. I would never tell someone else what to do in their home and that included my clients.
Dear Laurel,
Just to inject a bit of humor into the whole thing I am quoting you. When you were talking about the painting crusader or whatever it was your comment at the end will stay with me forever.
“Be careful who you are killing” I am still laughing. Sorry, I have a New Jersey sense of humor.
Laurel, just watched your second video on the living room and den. Gorgeous!!! Was wondering what you are thinking for window treatment! Your living room windows are so lovely, I would hate covering all that millwork, yet you do need some privacy in Boston. Anyway, your tours are a treat. Thank you for sharing.
Re: your response to Gabrielle and your ceiling lights
I don’t know. I’ve had multiple people try to convince me 6″ will make a huge difference. I don’t always see it though.
Hi Laurel,
Your videos gave me a true sense of your layout. I realized you’ve shown the floor plans many times. I guess I didn’t grasp it until now. 🤦♀️
You mentioned putting a coat of varnish on your painting. I’ve also read of folks using Mod Podge on printed artwork to achieve that antique look.
You did a beautiful job Laurel!
Beautiful, a true labor of love ! Now I can’t wait to see it all furnished and accessorized! (Then you’ll be bored, lol!)
AN IDEA FOR YOUR ENTRY DOOR WALL: I know that you would have loved to center the door on that wall (which was not possible), what if you installed a custom sized mirror to fit the space to the left? I believe that would disguise the wall imbalance and also provide a quick opportunity to check your presentation on the way out!
Hi Lorrie,
That’s not a bad idea except that there will be a mural inside the panels. Plus, it’s just an awkward situation. I felt by painting it all out, it was the best solution.
Great renovation! The rooms look bright, fresh, and comfortable now!
I do not at all mind the ads in your videos as they help provide the necessary revenue for you to continue the blog (as Janet C. said). I watch both your videos and the YouTube videos for a double treat! You have done tremendous and inspiring work on the reno design. Thank you for sharing it. It is beautiful.
What a treat! Loved these videos. I completely understand about the front door and preferring it to be centered but I see an opportunity for 3 small, charming paintings on the left-hand side of the door. Congratulations! You are in the home stretch.
“Yikes” on the entry lighting. Can you utilize a warmer bulb?
Hi Karen,
This one is warm @ 2700 kelvins and a CRI of 90. The issue is the single light makes shadows. However, one way or another, I’ll make the lighting lovely in the entry.
Absolute perfection Laurel and well worth the wait. Also thank you for sharing your journey of your beautiful home and with wishes that you find happiness within its walls. -Brenda-
It was pure joy watching your latest videos!!! Seeing the before and after images of the renovation is so spectacular.
I share your disdain of LED lighting, but I found a small independent lighting store in my area who has a very knowledgeable staff, and they know which brands and types of LED lights more closely produce the lighting effects I want. I find better results in working with them and never rely on electricians, who usually know NOTHING about LED lighting effects. There is probably an LED light for the bathroom vestibule that will not produce grey light when dimmed.
The living room floor after Chris’ expert retouching looks fantastic.
I am a fanatic about scale and proportion, and you certainly excel in this area!
I marvel at your determination and perseverance in going through the extensive renovation, and I do not at all mind the ads in your videos as they help provide the necessary revenue for you to continue the blog.
Can hardly wait to see the harlequin painted floors completed – they will look wonderful!
Thank you for sharing. I thoroughly enjoyed the video tour link with ads. I love the petite demilune table in the entry. I think a narrow tall mirror would look lovely above it, so you can check yourself out when you leave and wow yourself when you walk in, LOL. The pair of sconces in guest bathroom are STUNNING even with styrofoam bits. And that kitchen, sigh…it truly is a piece of art. The curved cabinet, those back cabinets lit up and the wonderfully tucked in refrigerator. My only negative comment is can you hide the microwave (I think that is what the blue box is next stove on counter) and were you going to put up a narrow shelf above the sink like the Devol kitchen look? and your den, swoon. I bet watching a movie or binging on Netflix will be so cozy in that dark room at night!!
Hi Lorrie,
No worries. The microwave is temporary. I am using that part of the pantry as interim storage until I can get things more organized.
Laurel, oh wow! The place is so great. I watched your video several times now. I cannot decide which I like best. I like it all. You have created a beautiful home for yourself. I cannot wait to see the next 2 videos as well as how you plan to decorate. Your renovation journey is such a delicious treat to follow. P.S. So I also need my kitchen to be neat especially when I come down in the morning for coffee. My husband is my clean up crew after dinner and insures all the counters are clear and there are no dirty dishes in the sink. 😉
What an incredible transformation! I love following along, and listening to you discuss every detail. I can’t wait for your updates – you truly are a visionary – brava!
Your place is stunning. So is the staircase railings, I so wish you did not have to hide it behind a sofa. Would your sofa fit in the Den? At any rate it is going to be absolutely beautiful. Your grace under fire is top notch as you went through a lot of messes throughout the entire process. I think a lot of people, in fact, most people would have collapsed or gone the shoddy shortcut way. Fine decorating Laura. You are a class act.
Hi Roslyn,
Thqnk you. The railing won’t be hidden. The sofa starts about half-way in from the L side of the guardrail. Then, there will be a path behind the sofa. The sofa is also quite low compared to the typical sofa.
Such a beautiful transformation!! It’s been so much fun to follow your progress!
Well, this was fun. Thanks for the videos. I also wonder how you lived with the awful moldings originally. Now they’re beautiful & so crisp. The den is my favorite room. Your color choice is so good.
The floors are looking great. I’m so relieved they were fixable.
Since you don’t have furniture currently I’d imagine you’re spending most of your time in your bedroom.
Now comes the fun part…decorating! I hope you have some funds left. 😂
Thank you, Mary! I’m working on it!
Good morning!
I’ve been snowed under by filing extended taxes (finished yesterday) , so today was treat to myself – Tour with Laurel!
Here are my thoughts/questions:
1) When you showed your staircase, I always thought your vestibule on the right, where your bathroom is, was the entry door. Your video finally showed me the difference! And now I can visualize the space so much better – thank you! (I’m sure I’m the only one who couldn’t see it 🤪)
2) it looks like the doors to the den are painted the same color on both sides? I missed that detail if it was discussed earlier. Does that color make it difficult to choose a sofa? I remember seeing the fabric swatches, and I wondered if two large blue sections in the living room would fight for the focal point (though I think you mentioned the den door is usually not closed, right?)
3) In the video, when I saw you switch from wide angle to regular in your living room, and the regular view changed the shadows, so the regular looked more detailed. I could see all the trim and moldings, and it was stunning! You’ve done a beautiful job insisting on excellence!
4) Regarding the two light fixtures in the living room & den …. could you do the same fixture and do 24″ in the den, and 30″ in the living room? I just wonder if the 6″ discrepancy would be minimized by the different room sizes.
One thought I had on that was seeing if a ReStore ( Habitat for Humanity) or a thrift store might have an old light fixture with those dimensions that one of your sweet contractors ( I’m sure you know who) could mount temporarily and then you could visualize. I’m sure it’s a bit of an expense, but a cheap fixture for diameter would save buying the wrong one in alabaster- just a thought. It woukd be a shame to have a regret on such a large, visible item.
5) Videos: I watched your YouTube without ads. Now I’m going to pull up my computer, turn on the videos with ads, and have it in the background while I do other things. If I watch it more than once, does that generate revenue for each view??!! Happy to show it again to my husband – he enjoys seeing it from a carpenter’s perspective. He did trim carpentry before we were married, and his boss said, “Tom, you have a greatwork ethkik [sic], but you’re a slow a–!” Maybe that’s the secret to great work 🤭
I just love your pretty flat! And I can’t remember who said it, but in hearing you talk about your kitchen, I heard once that beautiful things often inspire us to keep things clean & tidy – which is probably why I adore your white floors! They set everything off so beautifully.
Thanks for the tour!
-Gabrielle
PS: my treat to myself after finishing my taxes is buying one of your guides! Woot-woot!!
Hi Gabrielle,
1. You’re not the only one. Visitors often try to leave that way. The two doors are facing the same direction.
2. Under normal conditions, the den doors are never closed. In fact, the door facing the living room was never attached. The only time they are closed is if there’s an overnight guest at night.
Oops. I wasn’t done. I have thought very long and hard about the sizes for the light fixtures. Maybe you missed the black tray. After seeing the 30″ in the living room, I am positive that it’s too big for this space because I don’t want it to be a focal point. All of the antique chandeliers like this I found on First Dibs are between 16″ – 20″ with a rare exception.
A 24″ bowl is not small and there’s a huge difference between 24″ and 30″.
The navigation links in your posts were incredibly well done. Wow!
I loved the tour and peak into the upstairs bathroom. It is amazing to me that some tradespeople think that slapping things up any old way is going to be acceptable. Here you are in Boston, with tons of beautiful (expensive) old homes/buildings, that have been remodeled and updated and it seems that it is still almost impossible to have things done correctly. AND that you are somehow overly picky if you want them done right!!
Hi Maggie,
You are so right!
Well, I am still confused! What happened at 9:30?! I rewatched and read but I don’t know. Your project is absolutely beautiful and I really appreciate the colors and moldings. The staircase is such an incredible improvement- beautiful. As someone who loves details, I really appreciate your attention to them. I hope you live a happy life in your beautiful home. Lots of good luck wishes to you. Thanks for the tours.
Hi Bert,
It’s near the end of the last post.
Can you please advise the paint color of walls, molding and ceiling for your downstairs entry/staircase area?
Hi Margaret,
The walls (matte) and all moulding/doors (satin) are Benjamin Moore Knoxville Gray hc-160 The ceiling is Benjamin Moore Newt Green 2149-10 in the Matte finish. We used the Aura formulation.
What a transformation! 2 questions…What is the wall color in your secondary bath, and are those speakers mounted in your LR wall that backs up to the den? Thank you for sharing your design insights throughout this project.
Hi Debbie,
The wall color that came with the apartment is Benjamin Moore Marilyn’s Dress which coincidentally is one of the Laurel Home Paint and Palette Collection colors.
The speakers also came with the unit. I wanted to get rid of them but was advised not to.
You’ve done a great job under a lot of adversity! The floors turned out beautifully! As you said, the camera and a Phone changes the look of the dimensions. How much actual living space is on your upper floor? Just curious-kudos to your results!
Hi Deb,
Thanks so much! Upstairs is 790 square feet and downstairs is 425 sq feet.
Thank you for the great videos. Everything is absolutely beautiful! I hope you love, love, love your home now.
Hi Beverly,
I love it more than I can say.