OK I exaggerate (but only a little) - this is not actually what my house looks like. But at times it sure feels like it.
We moved to our current home just on three years ago. Just after we had invested much time, love and of course significant investment into our previous home in order to turn it into a family home we all absolutely loved. On a whim Brunnel thought it might be a good idea to move, you know mix it up a bit, uproot to a spot around the corner, a bit of a challenge for us all.
We exchanged our lovely character-filled-but-made-modern 1860's cottage for a circa 1900-but-made-over-in-the-80's (complete with stencils, swags & grecian columns) dump - with a view, and potential, as the estate agents would say. A beautiful view as I am reminded every day as I gaze at it. It allows you to forget about the house.
Before we moved in, my Dad spent two weeks painting almost everything white throughout. We kept a few subtle reminders of the ode-to-the-80's - the burgundy altar bathroom, and the temple bar (don't ask). I thought these might spur Brunnel on in my quest to renovate. I should have known better. Since then nothing. Except every now and then another piece of the house falls off. The kitchen has gradually become more, shall we say, open plan, as the cupboards fall off. We fall through the rotten deck quite regularly - well Brunnel does, which is a relief. The other night it was the roof flapping around. The guttering fell off some time ago. Brunnel pretended he couldn't hear anything, but did call for help the next morning when he couldn't ignore the flapping roofing iron. (DIY is not my husband's thing - except he has learn't how to replace rotten decking).
In store I am surrounded by amazing design. My customers frequently wonder 'how gorgeous must your home be'. Mmmm I say - quietly - if only you could see.
Anyway, that's all about to change. We have a meeting today with our architect. He says he has a 'few ideas'... That's good I said. I thought that was what we were paying you for. No pressure GC, but I hope they're good! And you know we have to work within Brunnel's budget... It will be a work in progress for a long time yet, but at least I feel we are on the way!
Amanda xx
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I know exactly how you feel, my lovely old house, a big DIY job is falling apart around us. I love it though! Goodness only knows when or how we will afford a new roof or bathroom. It has a lot of character.
ReplyDeleteI blog about it..mollysmaison.blogspot.com
ps, I love your shop and when I get to Wellington it's the first place I go. Unfortunately won't get to WOW this year...
Cheers, Sarah
How exciting, and I know the result will be awesome,just like your last home. Looking forward to progress reports.
ReplyDeleteOh gosh, you are so patient! You deserve a medal.
ReplyDeleteIt is good to get things moving or to feel at least your headed in the right direction. Keep us posted :o
xxx
First progress report - Brunnel fell over at prospective cost, and had to go out for a large scotch or 4 in order to recover.
ReplyDeleteAmanda
Felt shock at seeing that first image - but how exciting! Do keep us posted!
ReplyDeletexxxLOL LOLA:)
You know I couldn't possibly comment on this post Amanda. Suffice to say don't drop the ball with this - Brunnel will thank you later!
ReplyDeleteMillie ^_^
Just going through some of your old posts...I know how you feel. I managed to get the downstairs decorated when we moved in and haven't been able to get Mr B to stretch to anything else. So we are still living with gross second hand flea bitten carpets through out the upstairs and if I want anything painted I have to do it myself. Would love to know how thing are going now with your little house. B x
ReplyDeleteThat is how my house looks after our earthquakes over 800 aftershocks :)))
ReplyDelete