Hi Everyone,
Oh, what a week it’s been. And, really, most of it has been fantastic.
My 6′-2-1/2″ 34-year-old boy-man* son, Cale, was here for three days, left his car behind my building, and then left for two days by train to “gig” and see friends in NYC. Then, he came back Thursday evening.
He decided not to go to Aikido (his passion) Thursday evening, but instead he went to the Boston Public Library steps, a popular, albeit unofficial, skateboarding venue. Yes, he still skateboards.*
Forgetting that he was in a big city, just feet away from the CVS store where they lock up the ice cream. (no joke), Cale left his fanny pack on the steps while he skated around.
Oh, you know what I’m going to say next. Of course you do.
Fortunately, Cale’s wallet was home, and his phone was in his pocket. Unfortunately, before he left for NYC, I made two sets of my house keys and gave one set to Cale. On that set of keys was also his car key, which was in the stolen fanny pack. I said unfortunately because he wouldn’t have taken his car key if he hadn’t had that set of house keys.
Oy, is right. However, he worked it all out, and yesterday, a locksmith came and made a new car key. It could’ve been so much worse.
On Friday, Cale and I visited the oldest timber-frame home in North America, dating back to 1637.
It is the Fairbanks House in Dedham, MA, just outside the Boston city limits.
I did take some photos. It was quite interesting. As you walk into the main parlor the ceiling is maybe all of six feet tall. Being Cale is 2.5″ taller, plus his hair, he had to stoop over.
After the tour, we went to Cale’s favorite Aikido Dojo of all time in Hyde Park, a neighborhood in the southernmost part of Boston, about eight miles from me. Usually, when Cale visits, he spends most evenings there.
I promise this has a relevant point, so I’ll get to it.
After the class, we went out with a bunch of the other adult students for dinner. This weekend is a seminar and people came from as far away as Montreal. Sitting near me was a guy who I found out was a GC.
Uh-huh. A builder.
His name is Robert. Robert from Chicago.
Of course, his name is Robert.
If you’re just tuning in, Robert is also the name of my GC.
This was my “sign” that I needed to pay close attention to what he said. Let’s call him R2 so we don’t get confused.
Oh, it was so much fun talking “shop” with this gentleman. However, when he told me he could stand back and see if something was a 1/8″ off, I knew we were birds of a feather.
I showed R2 my bathroom, and he was horrified. The plumbing placement was never fixed, nor was the placement of the sconces, including the one over the toilet. Referring to the floor, he said, “You better fix that now, or you’ll be kicking yourself.”
Sorry, hun. You’re too late. I’m already kicking myself.
However, when I explained the situation and how long this has been drawn out, as well as the fact that it’s imperative that the floors are finished downstairs, he softened his stance.
The reality is that the floor is already down. It will be finished, and everything can be moved downstairs so they can finish the upstairs, and then things can be moved where they need to be.
I very much need to wrap this up! My renovation end date is August 30, 2024.
If it’s still intolerable, (after the floors are finished downstairs,) I can have only the bathroom floor ripped up. That will mean some of the trim will need to be redone, but nothing that will take more than a day at the most.
Then, the floor can be evened out, and it can be tiled.
Look, it’s just one of those things. Yet, the floor being so terribly uneven should never have happened. I can’t wrap my mind around why no one bothered to fill me in on the fact that the floor slopes three inches from one side of my unit to the other.
I was unaware because there were floor saddles before the renovation, and the tile bathroom floor had been leveled.
While I like the rendering I did a few months ago (see above), I felt it wasn’t right when they temporarily set up the vanity. Afterward, looking at the images, the direction I need to go in is clear. This bathroom has much more of an art-deco vintage feeling than this more old-world style.
That is, art-deco-vintage-influenced. You’ll see what I mean in a sec.
I found an app that allowed me to put down a Spicher & Co. floor mat, which is sold at Rugs Direct. I think I saw one on Instagram a few months ago. Anyway, it was in this woman’s kitchen and looked like tile. She said everyone who comes in thinks it’s tile inlaid into her wood floor!
Once I put that in, I knew this was exactly the look I needed to go with. For a while, I’ve admired these art-deco-style sconces on Etsy. There are several companies, but I asked the guy at the ones that cost the least and he got right back to me. I wanted to know what type of light bulbs they took.
By the way, you’ll be seeing everything shortly and there is a mini widget at the end of the post which links the images to their source.
What about those crystal sconces you were going to use?
I can return to putting the Visual Comfort Huntingdon sconces in the upstairs bathroom as originally planned.
I’ve long been fond of this bathroom above, from at least 12 years ago. This is the lady’s room at the Ralph Lauren store on Madison Ave. in New York City. What makes it so fantastic is…
Can you guess?
The wainscoting, Laurel?
Well, yes, the wainscoting is an important feature. I was trying to get mine to look like this in my bathroom. I know. I’m grateful for what I have.
Anyway, aside from that, it’s that hunky black mirror that elevates this cool bathroom. The grab bars, not so much. Alas, they had to put them up because of code. I wish they could’ve been lucite, like the wonderful vanity legs.
Isn’t this going to cost a lot extra to change the floor to tile at this point?
That’s a great question. Well, I’ve already paid to put in and have the wood floor finished.
What about the rest of the uneven floor downstairs?
Thank you. Another great question? ;]
While it’s off, the drop isn’t as abrupt and not nearly as noticeable. What also ticks me off is the wainscoting in the hidden doors by the toilet is one inch smaller than the panel only a few inches away inside the WC niche. Please see below. They are all supposed to be 19″ high.
R2 asked me, “How often do your builders read instructions?”
I said, “Never.”
Yes, he laughed out loud, and quite loudly, too.
I don’t know for sure if I’m going to fix the bathroom. I think I will try one of the mats first after the wood floor is finished to see how it looks and, more importantly, how the floor feels. I’ll hold off installing the vanity and toilet until I know for sure. I can get by with just the upstairs bathroom for a little while longer.
In the meantime, I did another rendering of an art-deco-inspired bathroom.
I love the antique Louis Phillipe mirror. It complements the lines of the vanity and looks genuinely old. I have to say the shower looks so elegant now that it’s walled in, and with the marble jams.
Yes, I know I was going to mirror the entire back, however, I think this is better, and adds a lot of character. After all, this is going to be a focal point of the lower level.
Please note: The only accessory is B&E’s level leaning by the shower. Isn’t that hilarious? I say that because NOTHING is level in this room!
If I do end up redoing the floor, this most likely won’t be the exact pattern, but something similar.
Below is a mini widget with images that link to the sources for most items in the rendering.
Oh, I almost forgot. Below is the schedule I made the other day that includes the renovation end date.
I sent it to all four of the contractors on Thursday afternoon.
However, Robert, my GC didn’t respond even though I followed through with a friendly text Friday morning.
Perhaps he didn’t like receiving a schedule. Well, again, he can’t have it both ways. He has done a poor job of managing the schedule. If I tell him that, he’ll say it’s my fault. If I take the reins, then I’m “micromanaging.”
No, darling, there is nothing micro about what I’m doing. Don’t you want to get paid?
This Friday will be 13 months since the renovation began. It’s ridiculous.
More news about the floors this coming Monday or Tuesday!
xo,
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Related Posts
Laurel’s Home Renovation 2024 – News & Deets!- The First Renovation Tour Of The Upstairs Living Areas! (Parts 1 & 2)
- Floor Stains, Finishes & Stencil Patterns for My Entries & Kitchen
- Happy One-Year Renovation Anniversary + Lots of News!
- Renovation Woes and Then the Contractors Went on Vacation Parts 1 and 2!
- Finalizing the Primary Bathroom Design (Parts 1 & 2)
- Hardwood Floor and Primary Bathroom Update!
39 Responses
I just want to comment as a long time , but silent follower, How much I’ve enjoyed watching your beautiful Reno take shape. You are a gifted designer with a fabulous eye for detail.
I will never be as close to such a fantastic show as I have been to this one and I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity. Thank you so much.
Hello Laurel, I’ll try not to drop any marbles if I stop by. Of course there are a few problems, but I think you are having fewer than most with renovations–of course that is because you are keeping a close eye on things, and have such a solid design background (and good taste) to begin with.
.
The Boston Public Library is a magnificent building, but I would not put anything down on its steps. When I lived in Boston I got a card and went there every so often, but noticed that its collection was quite damaged–pages and photos torn out of many books. I don’t know about today, but I certainly would never trade Boston’s library for the magnificent (building and collection) Cleveland Public Library.
–Jim
Oh how exciting for you… the end is within sight! Oh how dreamy it will be for you to go up and down that beautiful new staircase. Oh! The delights of making a cup of tea and a muffin in your elegant kitchen. Try out those fixtures while you are at it…. Because you can! Next try all the hidden doors – they are all yours! Oh! Go look at the secret garden and see your new AC unit tucked so discreetly in the corner as it should be. Oh! To not have to be sweeping, dusting and vacuuming every day unless you are a nut! I imagine you will be swooning and singing around your the grandeur of your new dream home every day starting very soon.
I have the exact vinyl rugs & the same design in my kitchen. One is a runner (8’x3″) in between the kitchen sink & island and the other 2 are in front of double glass doors leading to pool area and garden from the kitchen. The rugs do give the appearance of a tile inset in the hardwood flooring. Love mine and I got them from Rugsdirect as well. Easy to clean but they can stain. Even if I have to replace every couple of years they are worth it to protect hardwoods & love that you can order custom sizing!
Hi Laurel!
The Louis Phillipe mirror and the reeded sconces are a sexy little juxtaposition! It echoes the gorgeous stair railing. Hang in there Laurel!
Note to Tiger mom: I copied and saved your comments with the hope that I never have to use the information – thank you!
I have to echo what Nina said – my first thought was that I’d have to change my locks or I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night. But I am also wondering how many others have the current door keys – didn’t you have to give some to the contractors so they could get in?
I think Tiger Moms advice to hire a building assessor as vital if you want to make progress now. And although I love your schedule initiative you need to include meeting dates and times with your GC (and others) to discuss progress and how to meet work progress delays (if any) such as working weekends or longer days.
All strength to you Laurel! A clear eyed qualified assessor will be worth the cost. xoxo
I had red flags go up the second time you called your GC a “doll.” I’m sure charm helps him work with, or manipulate, his female clients since it can mask poor communication skills. It only goes so far, as you’ve found despite your background. Lots of great advice here. Making me very leery of undertaking any major renovations! Hang in there and get what you’ve paid for.
Been thinking about this all day and just have to say it: You think it was a coincidence that R2 just happened to be seated next to you at this point in time during this renovation project? I think not! Please listen to him (and your gut) and fix the floor before you go any further. WWR2D?
After being well past 6 months of contracted completion date I stopped paying the GC, moved back in a my down to studs renovation. Every comment, excuse, etc., your GC gives you I was given and more. It’s not until finishes and all the “visual” details go in that the sinking feeling you had during construction are confirmed. With the advice of realtor and good friend I was advised against legal proceedings as it’s usually an expensive lose for the homeowner. Instead he recommended a home inspector accredited to testify in court to complete a whole home inspection.
His report included all category’s of the project and noted all work not up to code or standard practices. Armed with this report I meet with GC and said he has the option to make all the repairs using the GC of my choice to oversee the work or hire an attorney. I would pay GC2 and deduct from remaining contract fees. He agreed with the caveat to use his subs. I agreed knowing GC2 would be babysitting them. I became the project manager as GC1 rarely showed up but after 18 months I was left with the confidence that the “mechanics” of the house were sound and in proper working order. Lots of mistakes were just too much to fix and make my stomach hurt to think about but you just have to put some behind you or pay to fix. I did consult with attorney who agreed I had a good solution and said it was much better than having a law firm oversee the work. I have learned so much, unfortunately Im not in a financial category to ever put this knowledge to use and build another project.
You’re almost there!! Decades ago, a (female, of course) painting contractor included an end date in our agreement. If the work wasn’t finished by that date, the cost was reduced by half. Ever since then, I’ve insisted that a start and end date be included in every work contract, with consequences spelled out. It’s obviously way too late for you this time, but maybe next…
Laurel, I am a longtime follower and have watched this project throughout. My husband and I were married young and poor (nurse and firefighter). He had to teach himself any skills needed for home repair and improvement, library in the old days before YouTube. This has served us well over 48 years. This past year at about the same time you began your Reno we entered into a vacation rental project with our daughter and husband. How quickly things can take a spiral that is hard to recover from. While we had a construction crew for big projects like removing walls and installing beams, my husband has been the GC as well as the workforce. It has been too demanding and time consuming for us all. Just as we were crossing the finish line we had a water supply line fail and run undetected for 2 days. The entire lower level was ruined. Now 6 weeks later we are again trying to complete the work. We are getting there without a divorce and hopefully maintaining a good family relationship with our daughter and you will bring your lovely home to completion as well. I admire your fortitude and patience dealing with the GC and the trades while maintaining such a detail oriented design. Everything is just beautiful and all will be well. Sherry B
I have a Spicer & Co floor mat and I love it. It isn’t quite good enough to pass as tile but it is pretty darn good. I agree with the others that you should really have that bathroom fixed to your specifications by current Robert even if you’re sick of dealing with him and want the project done. It is a matter of principle–you paid for something you didn’t get, you shouldn’t have to pay someone else to fix it.
I had a GC who yelled at me (the customer) and my wonderful decorator!Desperately wanted to fire him, but we were so deep into the project that I didn’t. You WILL finish on time, or close to, I bet. Also bet you will change that floor, cause it will drive you nuts. But what a beautiful home
you have created; it has been wonderful to follow your project, and I know you will love living in the elegant spaces you have created! Thanks for sharing it all with us. Anne Rogoff, a fan.
Another upvote for Tsippi’s comment. Please focus on leveling the bathroom floor. No matter how beautiful your bathroom, it is a WET room with potions and lotions in addition to water. The slipping danger is very real.
I know you are anxious to be ‘done already’, but please spend the extra aggravation to make sure your beautiful bathroom will be safe for the duration.
I adore those Spicer & Co floor mats and the only reason I haven’t bought any yet is that I love all of them! 💗
Laurel, I totally agree with Tsippi. Your floor must be level. It’s really important as you age. I won’t say how old I am, but I’m really old. I have fallen more than once. I fell in my bathroom because I was using a facial oil that spilled and thought I cleaned it up but hadn’t gotten it all. Regardless of how I fell, the floors were even and I slipped, it was not fun. You are creating a gorgeous environment. Don’t you want that environment to be safe? Also, what if someone else is using your bathroom and falls? Then either you have an insurance claim or they sue you. You’re taking care of yourself in so many wonderful ways with the aesthetic choices your making, creating a wonderful social circle, staying connected with your children as well as taking care of yourself economically. Correcting the floors is simply an extension of what you are already doing so well. You deserve a safe home as well as a beautiful one.
Hi Laurel,
The picture of Cale made me chuckle. Touring the Fairbanks wouldn’t have been a problem for me. I’m only 5ft. 😂
I love the new plans for the bathroom. Dare I say even a bit more than the original plan? My favorite mirror ever has always been a Louis Phillipe. And when I had my bathroom renovated I made the mistake of listening to my daughter & bought a marble Star & Cross tile. What I originally wanted was a vintage hex tile installed in a pattern like the mat you found. I should have listened to my gut. 🤦♀️
I have about had it with R1. He’s in the wrong business if he can’t handle his clients needs.
We remodeled 2 bathrooms and 3 closets. The remodeler also fixed the popcorn ceilings in the whole house, the floors (carpet everywhere including around the toilets.) There were lots of electrical and plumbing surprises behind the walls. Ours was not nearly as complicated as yours and our guy was sick of us. They should be builders instead of remodelers. Or just flip houses. I hope R1 doesn’t read your blog, it seems his wife or daughter, if he has them, would.
Yes, to the LEVEL tiled bathroom floor. Also, I love the new art deco inspired look, especially the sconces. May just be me, but something about it reminds me of the perfect stair and banister railings. IMO it adds a very aged layered feel. Everything is evolving beautifully!
You have such beautiful taste and such incredible vision. Thank you for your posts.
Laurel, You might consider changing all of the locks to which you had given keys to Cale. Often the perpetrators will follow the person from whom they stole the bag and use the keys at a later date to enter – break in – using the keys. Hopefully, they didn’t know who the bag belonged to. Glad to see your schedule and can’t wait to see your fantastic home when all done!
Hi Nina,
That did occur to me, too. But no one followed him. I am ordering new door knobs and will have new locks but I need the guys out of here.
Laurel,
Please tread softly. Your GC has given all the signals may just walk out on you especially after saying he is not making any money on this job. Hope you have an e&o policy and a good attorney.
Sounds like you have held back funds. Good. You may need to use elsewhere. You said your guys do not read your blog which is why I am saying this. LOL.
Hi Hazel,
It might appear that way, but it is highly unlikely that he’ll walk out. We worked out the money. He’s probably away right now.
I’m so sorry for all the trouble.. Having already done a remodel with floors that were 1 ½” off. I feel your pain. Tile made it trickier b/c if there’s any movement at all, the grout with crack/crumble. My GC used additional wood stringers to “float”
The subfloor and allow for movement. Just sayin.
Hi Laurel🌸. That last 10%….! Love the mirror for the bath… But with new config., you lose the reflection of your scones in your mirror…. Is there a sconce out there that would still fit design wise, but would also reflect in your mirror? Would putting mirror near wainscot panels (or on wainscot panels?), close to the corner help reflect the sconce light?
Hi Juanita,
The mirror will still reflect the sconce light to some extent, and it will also reflect the hall lights, ceiling light and indirectly the shower light and WC niche light. Even with no light, the hall light with no other lights on sends a lot of light into the bathroom.
It too bad, in these days of Zoom meetings, you can’t Zoom in the GC from Chicago! I’d almost hire him to GC your GC! 😊
We live in an old house with sloping floors…maybe not 3 inches, but significant. The flooring surface is smooth, so the biggest inconvenience is that things that get spilled run, instead of puddling, but we haven’t ever had tripping issues. I’m sure it’s different if you have a threshold, but it looks like only the shower area has a threshold?
I like your schedule! Tuning in for sure on August 30!
All I can say is my son-in-law is a contractor and he chose this for the name of his company…Level Home Improvements. Level ! That’s how important it is to him.
Laurel, take it from an RVer: Every inch you are out of level dramatically increases your risk of tripping and falling. It is particularly dangerous if you are stepping off of something like a ladder, but I’ve tripped standing at my sink making my morning coffee after I hadn’t been able to get completely level the night before. Make your floor level, Laurel. The cost will be less than having to hire help because your arm is in a cast or, worse, because you have a broken hip.
Laughing at Cale at the Fairbanks House! I live on the other side of Dedham. Hope you didn’t get stuck in the trial traffic. You have a lot of patience with your GC. The schedule looks more than reasonable, but he’d have to read it to follow it. LOL. When your memory of the “inconvenience” fades, you’ll still have a stunning home to look at!
Hi Candy,
No, the traffic was light. I did send the schedule along with an email, also color coded, lol reiterating the key points for each sub.
WOW how old is your son’s car?? Everything we own takes an act of congress to get the code to the chip released.
Hi Linda,
His car is very old.
Amen, your money! you have been extremely “kind” about the whole process.. Your GC needs to put his big boy panties on and get it done!
Good morning Laurel,
So glad you can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel-hopefully, your GC and subs will see the same light!!
As far as the floor, fix it to YOUR satisfaction, whatever that may be-you have to live with it.
Laurel,
I vote for having the tile floor installed right away. It will solve the problem of the extremely annoying uneven floor and it will look fabulous!
Hi Janet,
My hardwood floor guy is on vacation. However, I’m going to speak to him. I don’t want to hold up the rest of the floors. And there is a window where new bathroom floors could go in. I just wish I had a different GC. I’m sick of his acting like he’s being inconvenienced when it is the other way around!