contingency plan

this is the amazing house* (Sorry, MLS removed the image!)

I found a house. One that I want to buy, should we get a definite "no" from the city on our house-building dreams. It was built in 1963, and while it has some unusual updates that I would want to un-do, it is kind of a gem.

I mean, check out those floor-to-ceiling windows, and that covered balcony? It has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, a very private backyard, and a two car garage. Plus, nearly all of the basement is storage (perfect for my hoarding-self).

I would want to make a few updates immediately. Remove the crown molding from the main living area.

the main living room has brick walls and floor to ceiling windows, and crown molding

Replace the turned-wood banister with something modern and chic, and remove the carpet from the stairs.

the old ugly banister

what I would choose instead (source)

Completely redo the kitchen, removing the dropped ceiling and possibly some walls to open it up. 

the ugly kitchen

the feel of what I would choose instead (probably from Ikea) (source)

Replace the outdoor railing with something modern and chic.

the new railing, that doesn't fit the style of the house at all

the kind of railing I would choose (source)

There are other little things. Make a garden in the backyard. Replace the garage doors. Remove the deck carpeting. But really, I see so much potential in this house. It probably not going to happen, but a girl can dream, can't she?

*All house pictures taken from MLS listing.

turn a trick

Here's a collection of clever things I want to remember when we build (or buy) a home. All of these images are taken from one of my Pinterest boards. You can view them there to find the original sources.

ventilated drawer to store non-refrigerated foods 

ipod wall dock to play music over speakers throughout the home 

 pull-out cutting board above your pull-out green bin/garbage can 

in-wall, between stud storage for small bathroom items 

plug in bathroom drawer for hair styling tools

textures.

wool

burlap

sheepskin

wood

velvet

white.

turqoise.

easy being green.

mellow yellow.