Crystal Chandeliers

There is just something about a large elegant crystal chandelier in a room. From delicate gilded metal to swirled glass and of course, lots of crystals covering it. When I was looking for a chandelier for our bedroom- I knew that I wanted something on the large side to really fill the space. With a peaked ceiling and planks of wood and beams- this room begged for something with an abundance of beautiful details in a grand size that would add that elegance to the room – even when it wasn’t twinkling away.

At the same time- while I wanted something large- I wanted something that felt light and airy- that didn’t overwhelm the room with a ‘heavy’ look. That mix of requirements can be a tall order sometimes- but today I am breaking down the process of choosing the right one. When I saw this particular chandelier- it felt like a pretty perfect fit. It was covered in crystal drops & strands and reaching a width of almost 40″ across- it spoke to me. Loudly. And the best part- it was not outrageously priced- but had the look and presence of a chandelier that was far more expensive.

Of course, availability and prices have most definitely changed since then- but the good news is that you can get that grand look with budgets of all sizes- and chandeliers of all sizes. Today I am sharing a few options for crystal chandeliers- often referred to as ‘Maria Teresa’ or ‘Maria Theresa’ with an H included- and they are basically a crystal lovers dream.

I have a couple of these chandeliers in the house- the one in my bedroom being the largest. I also have a small vintage one in the bathroom. A thrift store find- this is a simple 5 light chandelier that fills this space perfectly.

And I just might have one in my closet as well. I am asked about where to find one like this all the time- and I am also asked about how to choose a chandelier for a space. Size, style, look -etc. so including a couple of tips today as well.

Crystal Chandelier Size

I am sure that there are quite a few very detailed ‘rules’ about choosing the right size chandelier for a room. But you know me and rules. I don’t follow those rules- I follow what speaks to me and makes me happy. I think in general (rules aside) if you have a space with soaring ceilings and a large footprint- you can get away with an over the top large chandelier and have it feel right at home. A smaller bedroom- maybe not so much. But that is just common sense. So, when it comes to size and choosing the right one for my rooms? More important than ‘size’ is the shape of the chandelier.

I love long and lean looking chandeliers covered in lots of crystal goodness. Taller rather than wider almost always wins in my designs. But as you can see- in the bedroom- this one is Wider than it is taller. It works for me because I added a ton of long dangly crystals to the bottom to give it some extra length visually without taking up too much space overhead.

Crystal Chandelier ‘Float’

A great way to sum up the look of a Maria Theresa style chandelier. This style of chandelier ‘floats’ in the room visually. A lot of chandeliers have metal frames or just generally a more ‘heavy’ look visually. One of the things I love about an all crystal chandelier like this style is that you can go big and have it feel like it is filling the room with beautiful light and detail- but not feeling heavy and over the top. If that makes sense. This chandelier floats in the peak of the ceiling and fills the room up with light and crystal reflection beauty.

Crystals on Repeat

One of the best things about this look- those crystals! They are on repeat. and repeat. and repeat. But something you might not know about crystal chandeliers- there are lots of different styles of crystals- with lots of different price points. When I was working with Lamps Plus as an Ambassador- I learned a ton about the different chandeliers that looked just the same- scale, style, frame, size- you name it. But had a wide variety of pricing. It was all about the crystals and what type they are.

Of course, all crystals are beautiful -but when looking for an over the top crystal chandelier at a more budget friendly price-is to pay attention to the crystal type.

Get the Look

Okay- now that we covered a few tips- let’s do some get the look shopping-I have sourced several size chandeliers that have the look. (affiliate links) Next up we will tackle chandeliers that look like those in our kitchen and dining room.

4 light Chandelier

Such a cutie- and perfect for small spaces like the closet or bathroom. The chandelier in our bathroom is vintage- but this one has a very similar look- and the price is crazy good.

Big & Beautiful Chandelier

This is an 18 light 39″ x 32″ chandelier- with lots of faceted details. A big and beautiful one for under $470

Amber 6 light

I love chandeliers that have that golden glow with or without the amber crystals. This one is a charmer. This is a 20″ wide chandelier that has a taller rather than wider look.

Empress Crystal Chandelier

This one looks like a perfect fit and the size is big and beautiful- 30″ high by 28″ wide- and the price is amazing for such a huge chandelier- there is only 1 left around $450

Gold Chandelier Under $120

Such a stunning chandelier and a more affordable price.

15 Light Chandelier

Go big or go home right? This one is under $500 with the coupon savings.

Whether you are going big and bold and beautiful- or dainty and sweet- Maria Theresa style chandeliers are always gorgeous.

Hope this updated post helps you find the perfect crystal chandelier for your space! For more on our bedroom at Christmas- you can find that post HERE.

Happy Friday everyone!

The post Get the Look- How to choose a Crystal Chandelier appeared first on French Country Cottage.

About taking something tarnished and polishing it up  and why those simple and easy projects are not always the way to go.

A Story and look at our kitchen

Would it surprise you to know that I haven’t always been a girl that makes sense?

 I can be honest. I have learned that my way of thinking often doesn’t make any logical sense. I know what I like. I know what I want- but does the method to my madness make sense? Often, absolutely not. And you know who knows it even more? 

My husband.

I am THE best at making that man crazy. (at least I am good at something, right?  

And there was a moment  back.in.the.day when we were young (19 and 21) and working on our first house and I was a basket case of pregnancy hormones and I started falling apart at some random thing and knew that I was a pain in the you know what – and in his exasperation he paused and smiled and wrapped his arms around me and said: 

‘Anyone can have an easy woman…  why would I want that when I can have you?’ 

I had a couple reactions honestly. The first- blubberfest because-he has always been the sweetest man and he loved me even when I was feeling pretty unloveable and was literally an emotional wreck. But that he also had no idea how much more emotional that emotional side could get.  (young love haha- he has since learned!)

Which brings me to this house.

Home

The house we live in now is our 3rd home together. Well 4th if you count that tiny house on wheels that he bought when he returned from Desert Storm that we lived in for a few months. And with each house- there has been a challenge of some kind. Some bigger than others- but none were quite as much a basket case of issues as this one we live in now… kind of like me.

From the day I drove into the driveway- I knew this was not going to be an easy job.  It was ugly and it looked like it should be bulldozed. So Why would I even want to get out the car and take a closer look at something that was already so decrepit and broken from glance? 

The honest answer is that it was at the tippy top of our price range in expensive California and this was the only house that I felt drawn to when I first saw it.  Sure it was tarnished. Beyond tarnished really- it was a the point of when tarnish starts pitting and eating away the metal. And when my husband came to look at it and said ‘No way- this is terrible.’ And I couldn’t disagree- it was. Especially compared to the sweet farmhouse we had moved from in Minnesota on 120 acres that cost less than a brand new car. 

But  I reminded him about what he said back in the day…and changed it to fit the project.

Anyone could take on an easy project-  why would we want to do that when we could tackle this one?

Yeah, I don’t think that thinking went over real well.  The truth is – even after I got him to agree to wander through- he wasn’t so sure.  You see, we had 3 little kids- and my husband worked in another county for several days and nights at a time -which meant it was the kids and I at home for 3-4 days a week by ourselves.

And we knew we weren’t going to be able to buy the house, walk in and throw lots of money at it to fix all the issues- we were going to have to pay to fix each thing as we could. And do each project with little skills.

This house was rough. But I argued it was a diamond in the rough. (Okay- it looked like coal but who is really counting? )

 We originally thought it would take a few years- we would flip it and we could look for another project.  But the more that we worked on things and that tarnish was polished away – I saw the bones that the house had and how perfect they were. And the more I found myself feeling so much like this was the perfect place for us.

And a lot of those first glance elements that we were told to replace in favor in updating and making the house more appealing to the market-  they were the things that spoke the loudest to me. Some of them were not the easiest of things to live with- but we decided that they were not going to be changed.

The Kitchen

One of those things is the original cupboards that were in the kitchen. How do I go from that story to this story about the kitchen? It is a rambling kind of Monday folks-  I have no other explanation.  But I have often been asked how to remodel a kitchen and keep that vintage feeling and look- it definitely helps that our kitchen has those original bones to work with.

We could have replaced the drawers that drop and the doors that never like to stay closed- but  kept those elements that make us crazy and that we love all at the same time.  (Again- my husband knows nothing about this lol.)

7 Simple Ways to Add Vintage Charm

So all kidding aside-  if you have a vintage kitchen you want to be more functional- how can you update  and keep the original vintage character and feeling?  Or  how about adding some vintage charm and touches to your newer kitchen?  And of course- without breaking the bank with a huge kitchen renovation bill?

Here are 7 simple ideas today that I think absolutely can make a difference without changing everything.

1. Change the lighting

This is a simple thing- but you know that ceiling fan with a beer bottle pull in our kitchen when we moved in? (see 2 pictures back for a close up)  Yeah, two chandeliers was a much better fit I think. The chandeliers currently in our kitchen are $20 vintage finds. They aren’t perfect and I have thought about updating them since- but they are kind of part of the story now I think. 

2. Fresh coat of Enamel type paint

Vintage paint has a vintage type sheen you are probably familiar with. It is more gloss/enamel look than flat or eggshell. But it definitely isn’t photo finish type baked on paint. I have found that some of the best paint for our vintage cupboards to keep the look and keep the functionality of easy to clean is a enamel. Oil based if you can do it- but that does require a bit more to it and lots of open windows and no touching for several days- so water based enamel is a good option too.

3. Add an island

We didn’t have an island when we first moved in. It was just a long galley style space with very little counter area. We added one island, then switched it for a second larger one and then finally were able to add the perfect fit a few years ago. It absolutely makes a huge difference in this room and gives us so much more space to work. 

4. Architectural interest

On the ceiling. On the walls. Add some of that old world style interest with wood planks, beaded board or ceiling tins. You can do this more easily with wallpapers that have the look- or put actual planks or tins up.

5. Open Cupboards

Those open cupboard areas on the ends of our kitchen? Originally had doors. One was broken and when I removed it to try and fix it- loved seeing the wood walls in the back and decided to paint it and leave it open. I repeated at the other end for symmetry and voila. 

6. Update your backsplash & Counters

Tiles, beadboard, or even a slab of stone- your backsplash and counters can make your kitchen look totally different. You don’t have to go expensive with a specific type of stone- there are many options for all price brackets. Just remember with a slab- you will need a fabricator to cut and install so that does add a bit to the cost.

7. Change your hardware

Knobs and handles are an easy change- and they are inexpensive as well. I ordered unlaquered brass knobs and pulls from House of Antique Hardware and they were perfect for giving our kitchen that original vintage look when we updated the lucite knobs.

These are all simple ways to give your kitchen that vintage feeling and look without changing everything or having a kitchen remodel bill that runs into the 5 figures.

And up next in their series-  a few ideas for temporary changes for example in a rental kitchen  -without renovating anything.  

Something that completely blows my mind when I look back at this house and kitchen and remember where we started? I knew it could be beautiful & charming. I saw the potential through the dust and yuck. But I had no idea that it would be in magazines. Or that it would be included in 3 books. I had no idea that opening the door to this house would lead to opening the door to writing a blog or books. Which just reminds me to be okay with looking at things a little differently. Even if it makes my husband crazy even now. And yes indeed- you can ask him- I am absolutely even better at doing that than I was before.

In case you missed them – I just released my 3rd book French Country Cottage Christmas (currently on sale for $20!!) And my first book is FRENCH COUNTRY COTTAGE & my second book FRENCH COUNTRY COTTAGE INSPIRED GATHERINGS

You can see more of this grazing table HERE– it is perfect any time of the year!

I have been doing a whole lot of reflecting while dreaming and planning the past couple of weeks. Every time I do a reflection series- it seems looking back at the project comes up so you will see more of that including some before I have not shared yet soon.

Happy almost Friday all!

The post A story & 7 easy ideas for adding vintage charm to your kitchen appeared first on French Country Cottage.

12 Easy Organizing Ideas

Anyone else feeling the big declutter mode this year? The closet is on my to-do list today- and you know, I have so many clothes that I love but that I have literally not worn in a year or two – or dare I say even ever worn. That donate bag is going to be a big one I think.

While I am focusing on decluttering and refreshing- I have also been doing a lot of reflecting, dreaming and planning and am working on my Reflections & Dreams blog post. My daughter and I are doing a manifesting challenge and really focusing our minds- and she is also working on some Slow Living posts for this season to help us all start the new year with more intention. So stay tuned for those posts & more coming your way soon- and today we are looking back at some of the favorites from the year that was- and this organizing blog post was the #1 favorite for January last year.

Organizing Everything

I am on a mission to tackle some more- and get things streamlined, neat and tidy and organized. This week, I am working on quiet stuff- writing that blog post about my reflections, goals and intentions for 2023 and taking a bit of a break before tackling another big project starting next week. We are also on grand baby watch- number 3 is due to be here in the next week and a half- and we will be babysitting Juliette when they go into labor and until they are home and settled. So staying close to home and working on things here for bit. And so it actually perfect for an organizing share- since it is a great time to tackle those things that need organizing.

A Place for Everything

My grandmother used to say

‘ A place for everything and everything in its place’

She was so good about being incredibly organized and always knowing right where exactly what she needed was. Being incredibly organized is not my biggest strength and on top of that- our home is closet challenged. When they built our home as a vacation house back in the day- closets and storage was not a big concern in design- and so that 1 small hallway closet has a big job to do. So if you are like me- and are closet challenged- organizing takes on a completely different thing. The one general closet we have in the house (I kid you not) holds the linens and extra everything. So we have learned to curate the extras, not stock pile cleaning supplies (okay-but soap, sanitizer and bleach are definitely in extra supply right now) and also how to have those collections and extra storage for things while creating a pretty view.

But how do you do that? Storage is storage right? No one wants to see stacks of extra linens all out on display unless you are in a store. And aside from those always first solution go to vintage armoires and cupboards that I have on repeat and you probably do too- what else can you do when those ‘things’ are all out and about to make that storage and supplies look pretty? Sharing a few of the ways we organize and also put on display to do double duty.

Organize by Color

This is a fun one- I love how cohesive even random things can look when organized by their color. And as you can see- we have bottles out and about on display in the laundry room- but they look pretty enough to not drive me crazy.

Things like bottles of soaps, fabric softeners, cleaning supplies and even extra bathroom supplies- look for bottles of a similar color to group on those open shelves.  Simple bottles like simple little  amber spray bottles and soap bottles are perfect for refilling- or you can find them already full in your preferred scent and just refill as needed.

Similar styles and looks in your closet

Similar to the amber bottles above- in the closet- keep things in a color matched cohesive display. This closet is shared by my husband and I and the lack of space is something we both feel all the time in here. Good thing I love classic colors and pieces in my wardrobe and shop more for vintage than clothing. haha. White pants, shorts, skirts, t-shirts etc all folded on one shelf.Black on another, neutrals like blush and grays on another.  It makes choosing your outfit easy-just go to the shelf with all the blush to find what you need for example- it makes display pretty. 

Stack Breadboards

I have a confession. I have a breadboard habit. One that I feed pretty much every time I bump into a pretty cutting board, breadboard, serving board- you name it. So yes. I have a large collection- and a second one starting out in the cottage. So, to store those boards and keep them organized- I stack them up on the counter. You can also display them on the wall for a pretty view too.

Collections in Cupboards

Inside cupboards is less daunting for organizing- things are hidden away with the close of the door. But keeping things tidy and organized makes those collections much easier. I have oodles of vintage china in this old cupboard and layer them by size and style mostly. I committed to not bringing any more random vintage china home after stocking up on various elements for my book Inspired Gatherings. But now that it is 2023- it is a fresh start right?

Baskets on repeat

I love baskets for organizing everything. They are pretty to look at – and they hold all kinds of bits that you don’t know what to do with as well as bigger things that need a place to land. These baskets are similar to the ones that I have in the bathroom armoire as well as the kitchen- perfect for using everywhere. They hold makeup, toiletries, toothpaste, contact solution, you name it.

Collections on Display

Because- who doesn’t love to see all those copper pots, baskets or other collections like these out and about to enjoy?

On Open Shelves

This display is from a few years ago from my first book- the shelves have actually changed since then and I will be sharing more of that soon. But I do love open shelves for pretty things like gilded glasses, stacks of plates and bowls and pretty decor. These can be everyday items you use- coffee cups and cereal bowls- but on an open shelf with some decor accessories- it feels much more like a design.

Add Plate Racks to your Cupboards

So simple and easy- and one of my favorite ways to organize those dishes that you use everyday- while creating a pretty display. Read all about these $8 Display racks Here

Glass Jars and Canisters

Pretty on repeat. Laundry detergent and soap bars. Bath bombs and sponges. Flour and baking supplies in the kitchen. You name it- it just looks pretty in glass jars while storing.

Create a display in an open Cupboard

This is another open cupboard idea. If you have an old sideboard or cupboard that is holding all kinds of things- but nothing looks pretty or organized- take those collections and curate them to create a display. There is something about grouping like elements together while storing them that is so pretty.

Laundry Baskets for other things

Simple and easy- and full of charm. I love to use vintage laundry baskets for everything from laundry waiting to be folded to linens in the kitchen to towels in the bathroom. One of my favorite ways of storing those fresh large bath towels is rolling them up and placing them into a basket under the sink vanity.

Easy Holiday storage ideas

And one for the road- for some easy holiday storage ideas that also can be pretty- like pretty boxes to stack on the shelves-take a peek at my blog post here.

Get the Look

• Wood Plate Racks
• Large laundry Basket
• Large Glass Jars
• Hat boxes
• Storage rack for closet

Disclosure- this post contains affiliate links.

The post 12 Easy Organizing Ideas if you are closet challenged appeared first on French Country Cottage.

#1. Repurpose Christmas garland

#2. The Midas Touch

Gold is always a good thing- and especially when it is on the table.

I am obsessed with that little bit of elegance even the tiniest bit of gold adds.

 For NYE- think party hats, gold rimmed plates and stemware for a bit of the Midas touch.

 

 

#3. Festive bar cart love 

Bar carts are great- they hold all the extra bits like glasses & drink stirrers

and they are a one stop place to fill your glass.

To dress them up a bit for the holiday- look around and see what you can repurpose from Christmas.

For this look, I draped an extra piece of fresh garland on the bar cart

and added a few picks and holiday greeting signs.

 

 

 

#4. Flickering Candles

From mercury glass votives to vintage brass candlesticks to wax drips covering the table-candles are always great for ambiance.
I love those tapers all covered in drippy wax but if you aren’t going to be right at the table- think safety first. Especially if your garland is a bit crispy.
So forget the real candles and use led candles to be safe.

 

#5. Twinkle lights

Background lighting is so great for adding ambiance where ever you set a table

and is often an overlooked detail. Indoors- tack some twinkle lights on the wall or a mantel and outdoors think of the trees and other spots you can add them.

 

#6. A Treat Table

A side table is perfect for setting up as a drink and treats table.
Stack your glasses and treat plates and create a pretty little spot in just a few minutes.

 

#7. All Things Glittered

For an added touch of glitz and glam- add picks for messages and garlands that are covered in a bit of glitter or metallic foil.  And tuck in a few baubles as well.

NYE has a lot of Christmas ambiance included since it is so close- and use that to your advantage and bring those silver and gold baubles into play.

Stay tuned for some NYE table inspiration coming your way.

Shop the Look

Balsam Hill is having an After Christmas up to 60% Off Sale right now- AND you can use FCC50OFF for an Extra $50 off $300.

Champagne Flutes on bar cart above and my Fireplace Village is on Sale for just $119 right now

• NYE Banner
• Gold Bar Cart
• Champagne Flutes
• Wearable Blanket Snugglie
• Rhinestone Booties
• Sequin Skirt
• Disco Balls

The post 7 simple decor ideas for New Years Eve appeared first on French Country Cottage.

]]> https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/7-simple-decorating-ideas-for-nye/feed/ 11 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/french-cottage-bathroom-before-after/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=french-cottage-bathroom-before-after https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/french-cottage-bathroom-before-after/#comments Fri, 12 May 2023 10:54:00 +0000 https://frenchcountrycottagenet.bigscoots-staging.com/2019/02/french-cottage-bathroom-before-after.html You know how bathroom renovations go…   You start with whatever is in place, you dream about what you wish was in place… and then you go about designing that dream space. This bathroom most definitely did NOT look like this when we started. Not.Even.Close.    You might not know but our house was old…

The post Beautiful French Inspired Bathroom Renovation Before & After appeared first on French Country Cottage.

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Bathroom Renovation Before & After

You know how bathroom renovations go…

 

You start with whatever is in place, you dream about what you wish was in place…

and then you go about designing that dream space.

This bathroom most definitely did NOT look like this when we started. Not.Even.Close.

 

 You might not know but our house was old and abandoned with broken windows and lots of grossness (for lack of a better word).  It had never been lived in full time- and was left for vandalism and yuck in the country for YEARS. As in like 60 years. Where who knows WHAT happened.

All we know is that when we bought the house- we were pretty alarmed at some of the grunge and damage in all the rooms which leads us to think it may have been a party house or squatter house even at some point during those 60+ years.

And this bathroom… well this bathroom was what you might refer to as a diamond in the rough.

 

REALLY ROUGH. 

 

 

AS IN COAL. 
THAT WAS QUESTIONABLE IF THERE WAS A DIAMOND JUST WAITING INSIDE.

 

 

Okay- honestly, a diamond in the rough is generous.

This bathroom was a
disaster. 

Remember how I said I see potential to a fault? This house is a perfect example.The Before- was incredibly hard to look past.

Short ceilings, old hodgepodge mismatched tile- including my favorite- ‘Giraffe Tile’ which was a golden yellow with brown spots on the floor, broken shower door, cracked sink, red subway tile on the walls- except for the brown that was on the other wall and then all that water damage and broken tiny window.

 

I actually liked the sink but it was cracked and unusable.
And the large built in cupboard was great- lots of character in the doors –

it really just needed major amounts of cleaning
(ahem BLEACH)  and paint and primer.

We took that apart and re-used it in another room.

But you know what?
That is likely one of the reasons why so many passed on this amazing little old house- because I was the only looney toon who saw a diamond waiting in that very.thick.and
dark.coal.

And the bathroom along with the rest of this old vandalized neglected house….aside from the obvious disrepair it was in-
it just didn’t fit our idea of what a dream would look like. So we dreamed up a new look and waved an amazing magic wand…and this is what it looks like now.

 

And I have to tell you… that magic wand?
THE best investment we ever made.

haha

 

 

 

Okay- so obviously ‘the wand’
looked more like, blood, sweat, tears and A LOT of work. We removed the old and started with a little bit of reconfiguring to make the space work for how we live. And when it comes to tackling any kind of renovation or re-decorating project- I always start with what works and what I WANT the space to look like.

And with this project- we learned more than a few things.

 

 

 

#1. Work with what you have

 

Obviously, unless you are adding square footage or raising the roof, etc. the best thing and easiest thing to do is work with what you have.
For this bathroom, the plumbing didn’t move.
We kept the sink along the same wall as it was originally- where the cupboard was next to the original sink- we added a second set of pipes (my dad is a contractor extraordinaire) for the double sink. The shower is in the same spot, the tub is an addition but it piggybacked off the water heater plumbing and sits in the spot where the water heater used to be.

That door way looking in is where the new wall for the bathroom is which allowed us to expand the space within the original footprint.

If you can work with existing- go for it.

 

 

 

#2. Keep your choices simple

 

Something I feel like I see again and again-
is a small space with a big amount of chaos and patterns.
It is like someone who puts on all their favorite outfits along with 3 hats and 4 scarves
at the SAME TIME.
I know it might be something that is fun to do once in awhile but on an everyday basis where you might want to slowly wake up or relax in the evening-
unless you love overload of pattern and color- keeping that simple backdrop is a good choice. So when designing a space like a bathroom- which is generally going to have a footprint of maybe a few hundred sq ft depending-I like to keep a cohesive and somewhat simple look.
If that is tile, wallpaper, whatever floats your boat- go for it!
I had wallpaper in this bathroom for years- I loved it.
I paired it with simple white beaded board to keep it from feeling overwhelming.
Then you can add in your pops of colors, patterns and details and all your favorite outfits and hats – and then change them whenever you feel like it.

 

 

 

 

#3. Splurge 

 

Something that was a splurge for me- the vanity and the cast iron tub.
I firmly believe that if you cut high end choices in one area – you can splurge in others and have an overall decadent feeling bathroom.
Another splurge- all that marble. On the floor, on the walls, in the shower. (I might be obsessed)
The way that splurge worked into the budget is the next tip.

 

 

 

#4. DIY what you can

 

IF you area a diy kind of person- and really be honest with yourself there- then you can tackle things like doing the tile and save at ton.
BUT *Absolutely do Not tackle anything like wiring, plumbing or moving walls/construction without a qualified person helping you. *

 

 

HIRE all those jobs you are not qualified to do.
DIY can go very wrong- and anytime you are working with plumbing, construction and electrical situations- I have my go to phone a friend to come over and help.
Plus, if you do it wrong the first time- you will be paying twice as much to have it fixed.
Just hire the job out and get it done right the first time and put your mind at ease on if it was done correctly.

 

 

 

#5. Shop online for the best prices

 

Some of the BEST items for renovating are things I have found online.
All the faucets, sinks and even that cast iron tub- all sourced online. My local big box home improvement stores did not have them and the finish, style and sizes I was looking for were not easy to come by. A favorite source for vintage style is Signature Hardware – all of those things mentioned above were from them.

 

#6. Shop Vintage

 

Shop vintage as well- some of the best items come from the thrift store or flea market- and the price can’t be beat. I included several vintage elements in the bathroom to give it that ‘old world’ feeling. The French armoire is a perfect example.
Sourced from Craigslist- I use it to store baskets full of everyday things that I don’t want out and about. The laundry basket under the sink is another- perfect for holding rolled towels and extra rolls of tp behind them.

 

 

#7. Think about functionality- for YOU

 

It sounds simple- but I can’t tell you how many times I bump into a design that LOOKS incredible- but doesn’t work.  A toilet in an awkward spot even though it adds more floor space or a bathtub in the center of the room even though you bump into it when trying to reach the sink.
Remember to think about how you live everyday in that space- and make it work for you.

 

 

 

 

#8. Embrace the quirks

 

Something I had to learn while living in this house- embrace the quirks. There are a lot of things I don’t love about certain rooms, layouts, etc. And some of them could be changed if I spent a ton of money and changed entire rooms-but I choose to embrace those quirks and recognize they are part of the character and age of this home- and that not everything has to be changed.  That shower? I would have loved to have enlarged it and made it double the size it was- but that would have required moving the toilet and redoing plumbing. And that quirky slanted ceiling above it wouldn’t be nearly the same if it was in a different spot.

 

 

#9. Layer what you love 

 

Cozy towels, shades of white, marble on marble, crisp and clean finishes, rich elegant finishes, classic old world style or more modern touches- whatever your dream bathroom looks like- it doesn’t have to be expensive, new or renovated to be Love – layer those elements.
From brass hardware to wallpaper or marble subway tile to beaded board and
sightly over the top chandeliers- I am a big believer in the thought that if a room makes you happy when you walk in- that it is perfect.
So think about what you love and enjoy the process of creating a space that you love.

 

I hope that helps a bit with how this renovation came about.
And something fun- see those sconces?
They are from Lamps Plus (here) 

 

 

 

And some of these photos are from my book- if you don’t have it yet-

you can find it on sale HERE 

And find my new book Inspired Gatherings HERE 

 

Giveaway is CLOSED.

 

 

Disclosure:I partnered with Angie’s List to update this bathroom- but all designs and opinions are my own.

The post Beautiful French Inspired Bathroom Renovation Before & After appeared first on French Country Cottage.

]]> https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/french-cottage-bathroom-before-after/feed/ 69 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/one-room-3-ways/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=one-room-3-ways https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/one-room-3-ways/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2023 12:54:00 +0000 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/?p=32228 One living room with 5 different layouts? Can it really make a difference in how the overall room and seating area feels? Our living room is basically a room that has kind of made me crazy since I first started trying to place the furniture. It is probably something that you haven’t noticed – I…

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]]> One living room with 5 different layouts? Can it really make a difference in how the overall room and seating area feels?

Our living room is basically a room that has kind of made me crazy since I first started trying to place the furniture. It is probably something that you haven’t noticed – I focus on the good points and details rather than what drives me crazy. But make no mistake- there are things that drive me crazy. Today for Friday Favorites- we are revisiting this favorite post of yours and mine and chatting about room layouts and ideas for changes.

The Room

This is a fairly roomy room and is a wonderful size to work with for a living room space. It has a center fireplace and lots of natural light with the French doors and windows. I love the design of the room with the wood planked walls, peaked open beam ceiling and hardwood floors.

Currently- we have the dining room and living room in one room- and to be honest- the center fireplace is actually ‘center’ on one of the long sides of the room- rather than one end- and it creates a bit of a conundrum for furniture placements. This is one of the things that drives me crazy about the space being shared- because to ‘center’ the seating group around the fireplace- the seating needs to be smack dab in the middle of the room. Which doesn’t really leave much space for the dining area on one side -but leaves a lot of extra space behind the other sofa on the other side.

Honestly- the better layout of the room when they were building would have been the fireplace at one end of the long room- seating area at that end- dining at the other. But since this was originally built as a vacation house- I don’t even think the dining room as a separate area was a concern. We are actually talking about expanding a bit to create a separate area for the dining room- which would be perfection for the living room And the dining room. But until that happens- they share the space and the seating group is moved slightly off center of the fireplace.

#1. Living Room as Usual

This is how I usually have the living room furniture set up. As I mentioned I am a big symmetrical furniture kind of girl- I Love two sofas across from each other and the seating group arranged around the fireplace.

But for fun- let’s play with a few different options. Funny note- My husband kept walking in from working with the pea gravel patio install by the cottage while I was moving things and the room looked different each time he came in (and his dusty boots were leaving me all kinds of fun to clean up in between haha) He looked around each time and was a little confused as to what exactly I was doing I think – but hasn’t weighed in on which arrangement he liked best just yet but I know he is voting for chairs and making some changes. Here is a super quick idea of what the room looks like- forgive my terrible graphic skills and the placements kept moving – but you get an idea- and yes- the sofa is offset on the one side- to allow for the walkway behind/in between the table to the French doors which we use all the time. And now of course- we have that big long antique china cabinet in place on the whole wall behind the dining table instead of the chubby cupboard that was there. The large opening to the entry is actually centered on that wall and there is an antique armoire on one side and the mirrors stacked up on the other. Pardon everything looking wonky in the graphic!

#2. Two sofas & Two chairs

Yep, I mean why not just add a couple of chairs in there to create more of a ‘U’ shape seating area? It can work- though to be honest- I would love to have less busy in the living room as far as furniture goes but I have also had this same arrangement before and did like how it felt.

* Side note- these are small side chairs (more like dining chair size) that I bought in from the cottage to show placements- we are actually shopping for a pair of cushy sink in and relax type chairs that we could add to this space. Hopefully this also shows enough of the space- my wide lens is out of commission at the moment- so showing as much as I could capture (standing in the kitchen haha)

#3. Two Sofas & Two Chairs- option 2

Also showing another option for a ‘U-shape’ layout. This makes the sofas feel more like a ‘sectional’ with one on the side and one facing the fireplace. It works with a small table in between.

This is already getting confusing, right? 2 chairs, 1 sofa, 2 sofas, 1 chair etc. In this arrangement- the two chairs then face one sofa on the side and create a ‘u’ around the fireplace.

#4. One Sofa- Two Chairs

Of course, you could flip the sofa and 2 chairs to be on the other side as well.

#5. One Sofa -Two Chairs- 2nd way

Another way of arranging one sofa with the two chairs. This seating group has several opportunities to shift and change the layout to utilize these pieces- but as you can see- the two chairs are in place of one sofa

and then they are across from the sofa by the fireplace. We have done this before with larger ‘fireside chairs’. I love sitting by the fire so this was always a fun way to arrange the room -even with 2 sofas as well. And that is another way to do it- just a lot of furniture!

#6. More Chairs- No Sofa Or 1 Sofa

What about just 4 -6 chairs? To be completely honest, I do like a seating group with just chairs- outside I prefer this around the fire pit. Sofa’s can be cumbersome in a room sometimes- and visually, I love the idea that you can layout 4 chairs in the same symmetrical way and take up less visual space. But- this is such a large room- we would need 4- 6 pretty large cushy chairs to make the scale feel right. So it remains to be seen how the rooms will come together. But also- several chairs with just one sofa works.

Others: Loveseat & seating groups

I haven’t addressed that I am not a big ‘seating group’ type of a person. I don’t love the classic seating group you can walk into a store and purchase to set up your living room. I am referring to the usual ‘Sofa, Loveseat and chair’ all in one group. Don’t hate me- but I actually don’t love a sofa and loveseat together- remember that love of symmetry? That imbalance drives me crazy.

You might notice that I also don’t have a love of sectional sofas. I have wanted to love them. I really have. I have sunken into them and cozied up while traveling and have thought they were amazing and they are great for chatting -but for my style- I haven’t found anything that I feel like would work with the look. I prefer the more traditional look.

But of course – those are both also options that you could bring in and center around the fireplace and get away with a different layout- and frankly might be easier to work with in some ways.

Most Important Consideration?

Regardless of what you style, arrangement or look you think is the ‘right’ way to arrange a room- the biggest consideration and the key is to find what works for YOU and your lifestyle And what makes you smile when you walk in the room- and then just go with it. It is your living room- you need to be happy with however you set it up and how it works best for your family.

Wrapping it up

So, there you have one living room with several different layouts that are easy to swap and change- and that show you just how versatile furniture can be. As much as I love beautiful furniture- I also love comfy furniture and love a room that is visually open and airy in layout- so that balance.

So where am I with on the quest for super comfy seating that speaks to my design sensibilities and fits my space like I would like? Well, we are looking at adding a couple of chairs that are super comfy to sink into and relax. But also as I mentioned -also looking at enclosing a porch to create a dining room area as well- which will give me the freedom to design this room differently and play up those features that I adore about it.

I hope that this quick change visual helps you to envision ideas and options for your own spaces. Which layout do you like the best?

Shop the Look

I linked a couple get the looks for the mirrors- stay tuned for a peek at a new antique French mirror I just brought home next week. Happy Friday Favorites all.

*affiliate links

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]]> https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/one-room-3-ways/feed/ 56 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/how-to-make-barn-door-into-dutch-door/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-make-barn-door-into-dutch-door https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/how-to-make-barn-door-into-dutch-door/#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2023 05:12:00 +0000 https://frenchcountrycottagenet.bigscoots-staging.com/2020/01/how-to-make-barn-door-into-dutch-door.html There is just something about a dutch door that has a whole lot of charm. Dutch Doors  Dutch doors have long been something I have loved-  I think the love affair with them probably started with an illustrated storybook that was a favorite to look through when I was little.  And that love has continued…

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]]> There is just something about a dutch door that has a whole lot of charm.

Dutch Doors 

 Barn Dutch Door

and when we built the barn

adding dutch barn doors to it  was on the list.  Barns traditionally do have those 2 part doors- so it was an instant on the to -do list when we built this.

(this is the Star Barn)

 

DIY Dutch Door 

And taking this regular door and making into a dutch door was a quick and easy project. 

 

 

It was so simple to do- and with just about $20 in hardware.

 

 

 

You need: 

4 hinges –  2 per each door section

A latch to keep the door sections together when you want them together

 (affiliate links for what we used at the end of the post)

 

 

 

 

Since this door was already attached when the section of the barn arrived- 

we had to remove it to be able to customize. 

 

 

 

 This door is a barn door- so not built like a regular door- but it did have the framing board in the center that was perfect for splitting into two sections.

 

 

 

 

Creating a dutch door

After cutting the door in half where those center boards were- 

 my husband simply attached the 2 new hinges so that there was one at the top and one at the bottom of each door section. 

 

Note: 

He left the original large hinges at the top of the top door and bottom of the bottom door. 

 

 

You can see where the old center hinge was and the new added hinges are.

 

Most doors have 3 hinges on them- top, center and bottom. 

You can also use the original hinges of a door- 

you just won’t have the center one being usable after splitting the door.

 

Putting the door back on the barn

He started with the bottom section of the door and attached the hinges to the barn door frame- 

Then repeated with the top. 

Inside the door- there is a latch that keeps them together-or opens each individually 

when it is left open- 

and there is also a silver bolt in place on the outside temporarily- 

but that won’t be staying.

 

 For an additional ‘seal’  you can add a strip of wood across the back inside of the door where the two doors come together – so that there is no ‘breeze’ coming through.

We also added a barn door to the potting shed when we built it. That door was a vintage door that we did pretty much this same process to and created the barn door. We are doing a couple updates on the potting shed so will share more about that soon. 

 

 

 

 

Shop the Look

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]]> https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/how-to-make-barn-door-into-dutch-door/feed/ 12 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/a-love-story-the-front-of-our-home-before/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-love-story-the-front-of-our-home-before https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/a-love-story-the-front-of-our-home-before/#comments Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:37:00 +0000 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/?p=30793 I remember when I first drove up this old driveway and saw the house that would become our home… do you know what my first thought was? Back the truck up. It was not for faint of heart. Honestly, I almost didn’t even get out of the car. But then I shook my head, turned…

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]]> I remember when I first drove up this old driveway and saw the house that would become our home… do you know what my first thought was?

Back the truck up.

It was not for faint of heart. Honestly, I almost didn’t even get out of the car. But then I shook my head, turned the car off and opened the door. I have shared this story before and some of you may remember just how our home looked when we first bought it- and just how much work was in front of us to even make it livable.

Our Home Before

Something I have been seeing and hearing a lot about recently is about social media and perception. The back story to those shares about building that dream home or creating a product line or book look much more like a whole lot of hours of work, grime and grit to get it done. And that doesn’t always come across when sharing a before and after- rather than the whole picture. So I thought about it, and realized maybe I don’t share enough of the backstory too- just the pretty- because that picture perfect is what people want to see. But there is so much more to be shared in the stories. So, I am sharing a bit more of the back story again today and kicking off a new Before & After series that delves into more of that.

The Beginning

It had been a long year since moving back home to California and we had left a pretty idyllic piece of property and house. In Minnesota, we had a sweet old 1920’s farmhouse on 120 acres. It had a big old barn, a 3 season porch with all kinds of beautiful old wood windows and a steep squeaky staircase that led to a second story that offered the most beautiful views out across the countryside. All for the price that cost less than a half of what my car cost.

We had a dream of buying another home and wanted something with property and open spaces but we knew our budget didn’t go far in California. By the time my husband graduated from the academy and landed a job in law enforcement- there were only 2 houses with property on the market that were in our price range. One that had slanted walls that was a kit home from the 1960’s- and one that was an older 1940 house that was $30,000 more. After touring the 1960’s home- we knew it wasn’t the one.

The more expensive and more run down house was pretty much at the top of our scrape it together price range. It was a little 1940’s cottage on several acres & it had been vandalized and neglected for over 60 years. It had broken windows, missing or drooping ceilings that were not secured, no sink in one bathroom and half a dozen different tiles and broken shower in another. There were holes in the walls and single light bulbs hanging from wires to light each room. Well other than the ceiling fan in the kitchen – that actually had a pull to turn it on- a beer bottle pull. You can see it below.

This house…suffice it to say- required a lot of looking past things.

To be able to look past the vandalism and gross factor that was left behind- one also needed a lot of youthful exuberance and energy & really needed to be naive enough to not think about just how much work it would be to even make it livable let alone pretty.

And I might add- one also needed a heavy dose of crazy to want to actually sign on the dotted line and pay a chunk of money to buy it.

And at the time- we had 3 young children. Our youngest was 3 and I was home-schooling my 2 oldest. My husband worked in another county a couple of hours away and he added as many overtime hours as he could to pay for renovations- which meant he stayed out of town for 4 days and nights each week. We knew that putting this house back together again was not going to be quick or easy. We didn’t have a reserve remodeling budget- it took every penny and more just to get the loan- so we were going to have to work as we could with our budget and the heavy lifting on those days when my husband was home.

Give it a Chance

But back to that moment when I sat in my car in the driveway and looked at this broken house. The siding. The windows. The two doors that were kitty corner next to each other- one of which was rotting at the bottom and locked with a padlock. I sat there and after my first thought of turning the car around – my second thought was:

‘Just give it a chance and take a closer look’.

Remember that whole ‘crazy thing? Yep. I definitely had that covered. But there was something… a feeling I had that first time I saw this house & the property and I had to take a closer look.

That Certain Something

The house just sitting there in the middle of this acreage – honestly it looked so forlorn and sad.

As I stared at it, I felt almost like it was straightening it’s walls as much as it could- in the hope that someone would see past all that was broken – and see the worth it had to offer and give it a chance.

Much like people that are worn and weathered over the years- it needed someone to nurture it. To give it a renewed sense of purpose, polish up that diamond in the rough and fill the emptiness with a family and laughter. This property had a magical energy that I can’t explain but I felt it- and I just knew this place was so special.

So I got out of the car & walked up to those kitty corner 2 front doors and I leaned up against the window to peek in- and it moved. The window was held in place by just a couple of nails bent over the frame. But when I leaned in again and was able to look inside-I got a surge of excitement (back to that insanity thing haha) and I called our realtor and told her :

‘I want to see the inside of this house.’

A Diamond in the Rough

My husband took a whole lot of convincing -but my dad who is a contractor & real estate broker thought it was perfect. He is most likely the one I got the insanity from. We had to do a lot of creative financing and part owner carry to be able to buy it. No traditional bank would lend on it after driving by the outside.

The Exterior – Before & After

I never imagined I would ever share the outside of the house with you all. I have always been so embarrassed at where we started- but like all good stories- they start at the beginning. So, this is where the house that inspired ‘French Country Cottage’ began.

When I look at these photos- and then I look at this house now- I realize how far it has come. Above is the view where we now have a small entry room with French doors. And in the next photo- there is that rotting door that had a padlock- it was opening into the kitchen and is next to the wobbly window that I first looked into. What you can’t see here is the second door kitty corner to this one- that led into the living room.

The front of the taller area of the house is below. Up top- is where the attic window is now. You can see that the old growth camelia tree was already pretty big and that is the top of the original 1940 rock fireplace in the bottom of the photo. The siding was rotting and the eaves were all open to the inside of the house and attic- which meant creatures enjoyed the house. I have to be completely honest- I was so embarrassed by the state of the house that I didn’t want to take ANY photos of it all. I didn’t want to look back and remember where we were starting. But my grandmother insisted that I do it.

And I pretty much always listened to Grammy – so I did. Which of course, now I am grateful for them.

We made do with the siding and windows until we could afford them. We concentrated on sealing the missing ceilings and insulating as much as we could so that we could move in. Thankfully, my dad had the skills to help us navigate and make it livable. But it took years and years and years of working on it as we could to get it to what it looks like now. And even now- we have projects we need and want to do.

Never would even have in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that the rooms of this house would be in a book or magazines. That it would inspire my blog- which then became a job that allowed me to stay home with our children and help provide for our family. Or that it would be a place that would nurture and encourage me as much as it has while we fixed it up over the years. The place where our children would grow up, create memories and come back to for the holidays. This house. And all the quirks, issues and fixing up it needs even now – it became the Home we knew it could be. That the lonely house we first saw seemed to dream it could be.

Up Next

Up next – a break down of each room and where we started and details along the way. Like when I decided to build detailed moulding to go around the entire house while my husband was at work. Why. Did I know what I was doing? Nope. There is that crazy coming out again.

And the story about my dad and that yellow jacket infestation and rogue wire (did I mention, the wiring was all knob and tube original when we moved in?) Along with more about the outside of the BACK of the house. Which- I haven’t shared yet and believe it or not- it looked completely different than the front did with a whole lot of I have no idea what in the world is going on. And then the cottage exterior… that was a doozy too.

You can read more of the story in my book French Country Cottage & also in my book Inspired Gatherings

I hope that if you have a similar fixer up home and are wondering ‘what have I done‘ just like I did many, many times tackling this project- that this look back will give you some encouragement to know that You have got this and that it Will be worth the work, blood, sweat, tears and everything else that goes along with loving a broken house. Those old houses have a way of taking care of you and loving you back more than you realize.

Happy Thursday all.

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]]> https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/a-love-story-the-front-of-our-home-before/feed/ 37 https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/shades-of-whitefinding-perfect-pain/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shades-of-whitefinding-perfect-pain https://www.frenchcountrycottage.net/shades-of-whitefinding-perfect-pain/#comments Fri, 13 Jan 2023 08:20:00 +0000 https://frenchcountrycottagenet.bigscoots-staging.com/2016/02/shades-of-whitefinding-perfect-pain.html Back in the day when my daughter was in high school, I was talking to her about needing to choose a color for  a room makeover I was working on. And she said ‘Are you choosing Another shade of white? Our house is nothing but shades of white.’   I frowned a bit and said ‘No it’s definitely not…

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]]> Back in the day when my daughter was in high school, I was talking to her about needing to choose a color for  a room makeover I was working on. And she said ‘Are you choosing Another shade of white? Our house is nothing but shades of white.’

 

#1. Undertone

#2. The lighting

#3. Those names? Forget about it.

• Summer Lily. 
• Sentimental. 
• Pale Bloom.
•  Intricate Ivory. 
• Nice White. 
• Simple White.
• Perfect white.

Benjamin Moore Simply White 

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Five 5 Minute Kitchen Updates

Why 5 minutes updates? Because simple, easy, bite sized updates fit right into the busy summer schedule over here. And if you are like me- you are probably looking for inexpensive and snap your fingers and you are done things to do. But while being easy- these kitchen updates also make big impact on how it looks.

#1. Kitchen Updates – Outlet Covers

This seems like such a simple thing right? And it isn’t ‘decor’ focused- but it is something that absolutely stands out if it is not seamless or pretty- especially in a kitchen where those outlets are higher up on the wall and closer to eye level. The simplest update-outlet covers have come a long way since the basic plastic design. There are a ton of different outlet covers you can choose from- ones with beaded board or tile for example or you can paint them if you choose.

Tip: Choose a same color, style and look as your backsplash for a seamless, quiet look.

You can see more of the Little Cottage Kitchen HERE

#2. Remove Kitchen Upper Cabinet Doors

Removing your upper cupboard doors is a quick and easy way to open up your kitchen and make it feel more spacious. Depending on the look of your kitchen- you may want to paint the open cupboards inside or leave as is and of course- styling the shelves goes along with this.

Tip: Key to this look working and making your kitchen feel more open is making sure the cupboards you remove doors on are used for storing ‘pretty’ things like stacks of plates, mugs and bowls. Leave the appliances, everyday pots and pans and pantry items in lower cupboards or ones that have doors on them.

Plate racks are a good idea for styling and storage as well as creating a visually appealing look. While I love those open shelves that created- sometimes a stack of plates or a bowl feels a bit boring. So, adding plate racks is an easy way to create a different look.

#3. Change Kitchen Cupboard Knobs

Such an easy change to make but it makes a big impact on how your kitchen looks.

Tip: Choose something bold and beautiful like brass or copper for an instant boost. Keep the patterns to a minimum for a cleaner look, and consider something faceted like a glass knob for a vintage style.

#4. Add Brighter Lights

I know. So basic right? But if you can swap out your lightbulbs for brighter ones- it will make a huge difference in how your kitchen feels instantly. If you can’t add anything brighter- consider adding additional lights for a similar effect.

Tip: Changing to brighter light bulbs or adding more light in your space is a quick easy way to make it feel like you gave the room a fresh coat of paint- without all the work.

#5. Add a Wall Rack

Perfect for displaying pretty pots and pans – a peg rack is also a great way to add another design element that does double duty. I have a wall rack in both our house and the cottage- and I love the ease of grabbing the right pot or pan and also how it looks when they are displayed.

Get the Look

Click the photos to Shop the look for your kitchen.

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