I must admit, this “before and after” post is totally casual… and rather impromptu. Sorting through old pictures yesterday, I came across some original snapshots of our Chicago greystone flat — from the first day it was “ours” more than four years ago. Since then in 2013, my fiance and I have taken on a handful of renovations and DIY’s to make it feel more like us. Some bigger projects were tackled right away, while others have slowly evolved over the years. Here’s a look at our place, the day we moved in…
^ From my early Instagram feed, pre-blogging days ^
On the “plus” side of things: We loved how open and wide the living room feels. We also appreciated the amount of natural light that fills the space, hardwood floors throughout, and the circular bow window — in line with the building’s greystone exterior, circa 1910. While the room wasn’t terrible, there were a few updates we had in mind… like the fireplace. Kevin and Tim (my future father-in-law) ripped out the existing red tile and resurfaced the fireplace with marble subway tile (à la Home Depot) along with white trim and a new mantle. We also installed crown molding throughout, finished the window trim and sills, pulled our cable electric and re-did nearly all lighting. Oh, and painting. (LOTS of painting. Thanks to our parents for helping us with that!) We lived in sawdust and paint splatter for awhile, but it was absolutely worth it.
All in all, the room definitely feels more like us — where we’ve celebrated holidays, thrown birthday parties, entertained family and friends, spent countless nights with wine and music, and where we sip coffee together every morning. Beyond the living room, updates were also made to bedrooms, bathrooms, and eventually the kitchen. Would you like to see more of these type posts? I’m no pro, but I think it’s always fun to see a “before and after” perspective. Let me know!
SOURCES:
Wall Color: Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore || Ceiling Color: White Dove by Benjamin Moore || Clock (thanks, Mom & Dad!) || Coffee Table || Rug || Curtains || Pillows || Sofas || Chair || Chandelier
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