Archives for July 2016

First impressions is not exclusive to good shoes and handshakes–they matter in a home. With only so many New England months to tackle the exterior we’ve been focusing our attention to lightening the color scheme and adding the right details. The flow of what outwardly appears continues to the #entryway.

Design techniques used on the front entrance are applied to the interior. Simply framed prints of eggs following the line of the staircase are clean, calm and keep to the neutral color scheme. Invest in a chandelier or quality lighting, which takes the drama above, dazzles the eye, and keeps your space clutter free. Bay windows are always appreciated to seat more guests and add a dash of color and style with thoughtfully appointed upholstery. Even better is to create storage beneath for valued organizational space in a small home.

A small entryway is simple and welcoming by selecting the right accents and neutral colors. (Rug from Dash & Albert).

A great chandelier adds impact. This simple beaded piece with rope trimming by Au Courant Interiors is not so fussy like a crystal or brass chandelier. Choose pieces that are small and practical, such as movable chairs, cushions and foot stools.

We painted the entryway door in the same shade of icy blue as the porch walls. The result is unexpected and happy.

Paint a door a vibrant shade, which is less of a commitment than an entire wall.

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With a year to mull over paint colors and hardware you’d think we would get it right. As with every design project there is some trial and error. Unfortunately my budget is not a fan of trial and error. The current before and after of our home’s exterior makeover does show improvement, and for readers treat it like a “count the differences” exercise in those children’s game books my son adores.*

We secured the right painters, who powerwashed the shingles with a bleach cleaner. We changed the paint color of the porch from dark blue to gray, door from red to yellow and trim from light blue to white (with plans to add shutters–more to come on that project). The yellow door makes me smile, which was an impulse change after thinking it would be blue–still have the paint can to prove it.

The other color in flux is the stain, which had an orangish reaction to the wood. Learn from my mistake–do not paint the entire project until you are satisfied with a test patch. Currently considering white based stains and any feedback is appreciated.

White based stains from Benjamin Moore in consideration.

Finishing details with the hardware and accents complete the styled look.

Ellie will never refuse a photo opp and loves the new porch.

Doormat made from recycled lobster rope is good for the environment, good for style.

Making a yellow entrance.

Classic adirondack chairs are updated and durable in their plastic reincarnation.

Sand dollar door knocker is jewelry for the home.

The right hardware is a simple way to update the look.

Pillows weave in color and comfort.

The door knocker is by Michael Healy. Yes, door knockers now have designers for those who care about such things. Packaged in a lovely box and felt satchel, it felt like opening a piece of jewelry. It is in fact jewelry for the home. The floating house numbers were a quest to find as most available have a dated feel. Made from recycled plastic, the Pollywood adirondack chairs have a modern feel and are made to endure. Pillows in our color scheme bring in whimsy and comfort. The nautical inspired front light updates the look. The doormat from Cape Porpoise Trading Company is made from recycled lobster trap rope–good for the environment and good looking always earns high points for the ecologically design friendly group.

*Answers to before & after changes: 1. Porch brackets removed 2. New paint color for trim, porch and door. 3. Lighter stain 4. Door knocker and house numbers replaced. 4. Addition of pillows and doormat 5. Ellie in different positions.