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Our Four-Year Home Journey: An Anniversary Tour

Every home tells a story, a narrative of growth, challenges, and cherished moments. For us, this journey of transformation began the moment we stepped into our 60-year-old house back in 2017. What started as an exciting yet overwhelming endeavor has blossomed into a beautiful reflection of our family’s evolution. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come, not just in design and DIY skills, but as individuals, a couple, and as parents.

This is why, each year in April, we love to share a “before and progress” home tour. We firmly believe that a home is never truly “finished”; it’s a living, breathing space that constantly changes and grows with its inhabitants. The journey of making a house a home is an endless celebration of creativity, resilience, and love.

Four years ago, Robert, our then-four-year-old daughter Olivia, and I embarked on this grand adventure. We were fresh from a new builder-grade home, relatively new to the world of DIY, and mostly accustomed to quick cosmetic fixes. The prospect of tackling a six-decade-old house, with its unique quirks and hidden challenges, felt incredibly daunting. We knew it would be a significant undertaking, but we were ready for the challenge.

Indeed, our journey began with some less-than-glamorous projects. We’ve replaced the HVAC system, repaired a caved-in sewage line, and swapped out a rusty water heater – the kind of ‘fun’ stuff that truly tests your resolve and deepens your understanding of home ownership. These foundational repairs, though unseen, were crucial steps in building a stable and comfortable haven for our family.

Along the way, we’ve learned countless hard lessons, created a fair share of messes (and cleaned them up!), and welcomed another sweet baby girl into our lives. Each milestone, each project, and every challenge has woven itself into the fabric of our home’s story. We are immensely thankful for every step of this journey and, most importantly, for all of you who have followed along, offering encouragement and inspiration through each chapter. We are nowhere near finished, but we are proud of the progress we’ve made.

Join us now as we walk you through the significant transformations we’ve achieved. Here’s a look at how far our beloved home has come and what it looks like today…

Exterior: A Grand Welcome Transformed

The exterior of our home is the first impression, and when we first moved in, it was longing for a fresh perspective. Our goal was to create a warm, inviting facade that truly reflected the character we envisioned for our home. The transformation has been remarkable, blending classic charm with a modern farmhouse aesthetic, creating an exterior that now feels welcoming and cohesive.

Before shot of the house exterior, showing its original brick and outdated features.

After shot of the house exterior featuring limewashed brick in Romabio Bianco White, fresh landscaping, and updated door colors.

Paint Palette:

Limewashed brick color: Romabio Bianco White | Trim color: Behr Ultra Pure White | Shutter/door color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Exterior Projects:

  • Limewashed Brick Makeover: A dramatic change that instantly brightened and modernized the entire facade.
  • DIY Flower Beds: Revitalizing the landscaping to enhance curb appeal and add vibrant greenery.
  • Porch Stencil: Adding a custom, decorative touch to our front porch for a personalized feel.

Foyer: A Welcoming First Impression

The foyer is the first glimpse into our home’s personality, and it was important to create a welcoming and stylish entrance. This space, though small, sets the tone for the rest of the house. We focused on thoughtful details and practical updates to transform it from a simple entryway into a curated and inviting space.

Original foyer with dated decor and a less inviting atmosphere.

Updated foyer with Benjamin Moore Classic Gray walls, a refurbished thrifted chest, and a charming gallery wall.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Classic Gray | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Foyer Projects:

  • Thrifted Chest Makeover: Giving new life to a vintage piece, making it a focal point.
  • Gallery Wall: Curating a personalized display of memories and art that adds character.

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Office: Functionality Meets Style

Our office space needed to be both highly functional for work and aesthetically pleasing, serving as a sanctuary for productivity. We aimed to create a serene yet inspiring environment where creativity could flourish. The transformation involved smart storage solutions and a careful selection of colors to achieve a sophisticated, yet practical, workspace.

Before shot of the office, showing an uninspired and less organized space.

Updated office with Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace walls, Hale Navy cabinets, and custom built-in closets for enhanced organization.

Office featuring a DIY work table makeover and oversized wall art from a shower curtain, showcasing creative budget solutions.

Paint Palette:

Wall & trim color: Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace | Cabinet color: Benjamin Moore Hale Navy | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Office Projects:

  • DIY Closets: Maximizing storage and organization with custom-built solutions.
  • Closet Bi-Fold Doors Turned to French Doors: A clever update to enhance the room’s aesthetic and flow.
  • Work Table Makeover: Customizing an unfinished piece to create a personalized, inspiring workspace.
  • IKEA Cabinet Makeover: Transforming budget-friendly furniture into high-end looking pieces.
  • Oversized Art Made from a Shower Curtain: An innovative and cost-effective way to add dramatic art.

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Dining Room: Gathering in Style

The dining room is where many cherished family moments unfold, from everyday meals to special celebrations. Our aim was to craft an elegant yet comfortable space that encourages lingering conversations and joyful gatherings. We focused on a sophisticated color palette and upcycled furniture to achieve a high-end look without the high-end price tag, proving that beautiful dining doesn’t have to break the bank.

Original dining room with basic decor and less defined style.

Dining room featuring Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal walls, a DIY retrofitted wood table top, and a footed grasscloth buffet.

Dining room with a stunning mirror gallery wall, adding depth and elegance to the space.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White

Key Dining Room Projects:

  • Thrifted Dining Table Makeover: Transforming a pre-loved piece into a chic dining centerpiece.
  • DIY Retrofitted Wood Table Top: Customizing our table for a unique, high-end look.
  • Grass Cloth Buffet Makeover: Elevating a simple buffet with textured grasscloth for added sophistication.
  • Mirror Gallery Wall: Creating an artful display that reflects light and adds glamour.

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Kitchen: The Heart of Our Home Reimagined

The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, was in dire need of a functional and aesthetic overhaul. We envisioned a space that was not only beautiful but also highly efficient for daily cooking, baking, and family life. This ambitious transformation involved a combination of clever DIYs and strategic updates to create a bright, organized, and inviting culinary haven that truly serves our family’s needs.

Original kitchen with outdated cabinets, backsplash, and less functional layout.

Updated kitchen with Benjamin Swiss Coffee walls, Simply White upper cabinets, and Billiard Green lower cabinets, showcasing a modern farmhouse style.

Kitchen featuring a pressed 'tin' backsplash and a grout pen tile makeover for a refreshed look.

Kitchen showcasing a DIY vent cover, enhancing both aesthetics and air quality in the space.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Swiss Coffee | Trim & upper cabinet color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Lower cabinet color: Sherwin Williams Billiard Green

Key Kitchen Projects:

  • Quick Fix Pressed “Tin” Backsplash: An easy and impactful update to add character.
  • DIY Painted Kitchen Cabinets: A budget-friendly way to completely refresh the kitchen’s look.
  • Grout Pen Tile Makeover: A simple trick to revitalize old tiles without replacement.
  • DIY Pantry Made from IKEA Hemnes Cabinets: Creating much-needed storage with a custom, built-in feel.
  • Our Full Kitchen Organization Tour: Implementing smart storage solutions for a clutter-free space.
  • How to Preserve & Frame Handwritten Recipes: Adding sentimental touches and family history to the decor.
  • DIY Vent Cover & Organized Command Center Wall: Combining functional updates with aesthetic improvements.

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Breakfast Nook: Bright & Cheerful Mornings

Adjacent to the kitchen, our breakfast nook is a bright and cheerful spot for informal meals and morning coffee. We wanted this area to feel light, airy, and effortlessly stylish, a perfect complement to the kitchen’s refreshed look. Through careful selections, we transformed it into a delightful corner that radiates warmth and comfort, making every morning a little brighter.

Before shot of the breakfast nook with less defined style.

Updated breakfast nook featuring Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee walls and a Ruggable rug, combining style and practicality.

Breakfast nook with a thrifted vase makeover and a spray-painted secondhand chandelier, demonstrating budget-friendly elegance.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Breakfast Nook Projects:

  • Our Brutally Honest Review of Ruggable: Practical insights into choosing durable and stylish rugs for high-traffic areas.
  • Thrifted Vase Makeover: Simple DIY to transform a common find into a unique decor piece.
  • Spray Painted Secondhand Chandelier Makeover: A budget-friendly way to update lighting fixtures with a custom finish.

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Laundry Room: Making Chores a Little Brighter

The laundry room, often overlooked, is a powerhouse of activity in any busy home. Our goal was to transform this utilitarian space into an efficient, organized, and aesthetically pleasing area. We focused on durable, easy-to-clean solutions and smart storage to make laundry day a little less daunting and a lot more enjoyable, turning a chore into a more pleasant experience.

Before shot of a disorganized and uninspired laundry room.

Transformed laundry room with Sherwin Williams Slate Tile walls, a peel and stick vinyl floor, and smart organizing solutions.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Sherwin Williams Slate Tile | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Laundry Room Projects:

  • Peel and Stick Vinyl Floor Makeover: A quick and affordable way to update flooring with a stylish pattern.
  • Laundry Room Organizing: Implementing practical strategies to keep the space tidy and efficient.
  • Free Printable Laundry Room Art: Adding decorative elements to infuse personality into a functional space.

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Living Room: Comfort & Cohesion

Our living room is the central gathering space, a place for relaxation, family movie nights, and entertaining guests. When we first moved in, it lacked the warmth and character we desired. Our vision was to create a cozy, cohesive, and inviting atmosphere, making it the ultimate hub for comfort and connection. Through various DIY projects and careful styling, this space has been truly transformed into the heart of our home.

Original living room with a plain fireplace and uninspired decor.

Updated living room featuring a limewashed brick fireplace, a DIY window seat, and a Samsung Frame TV, blending modern comfort with classic charm.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Living Room Projects:

  • Limewashed Fireplace Brick Makeover: Instantly refreshing and brightening a major focal point.
  • DIY Window Seat: Adding functional seating and storage with a custom, built-in look.
  • DIY Decorative Chain from Air Dry Clay: Crafting unique decor pieces on a budget.
  • Our Brutally Honest Samsung Frame TV Review & Free Printable TV Art: Integrating technology seamlessly into the decor.

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Powder Room: A Small Space with Big Impact

The powder room, though small, offers a fantastic opportunity for bold design. When we first acquired the house, this compact space felt unremarkable. Our vision was to infuse it with personality and charm, turning it into a memorable and stylish area for guests. Through creative DIY projects and a unique color palette, we’ve proven that even the smallest rooms can make a significant design statement and reflect a home’s overall aesthetic.

Original powder room with standard fixtures and lacking personality.

Transformed powder room with Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green beadboard, stylish wallpaper, and a DIY painted vanity that mimics wood grain.

Paint Palette:

Beadboard color: Benjamin Moore Hollingsworth Green | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Powder Room Projects:

  • Beginner’s Guide for Installing Wallpaper: Adding texture and pattern for a dramatic visual impact.
  • DIY Painted Bathroom Vanity to Look Like Wood: A clever painting technique to achieve a rustic, high-end look.
  • Dry Brushed Black Mirror Makeover: Updating a simple mirror to complement the room’s refined aesthetic.

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Playroom: A World of Imagination Unveiled

The playroom is where childhood dreams come to life, a dedicated space for creativity, adventure, and boundless energy. Our initial playroom was functional but lacked the vibrant, imaginative spark we wanted for our children. We set out to create an inspiring and organized environment that could foster play and learning, turning it into a truly magical space where our girls could thrive and make lasting memories. Every corner was designed with joy and functionality in mind, ensuring it could withstand endless hours of play.

Original playroom lacking vibrant design and storage solutions.

Bright playroom makeover with Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee walls, DIY built-in shelves from IKEA bookcases, and custom storybook art.

Playroom featuring a Narnia-inspired reading nook made from a thrifted wardrobe, creating a whimsical and cozy space for reading.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron | Mantel/bookcase color: Sherwin Williams Tree Swallow

Key Playroom Projects:

  • Limewashed Fireplace Brick Makeover: Refreshing a fireplace to blend seamlessly with the bright, playful aesthetic.
  • The Trick to Paint French Doors: A detailed guide to perfecting the paint finish on these elegant doors.
  • DIY Built-In Shelves Using IKEA Bookcases: Creating ample storage for toys and books with a custom, high-end look.
  • DIY Storybook Art: Personalizing the walls with whimsical, story-inspired artwork.
  • Narnia Inspired Reading Nook from a Thrifted Wardrobe: Crafting a magical, hidden retreat for imaginative reading adventures.

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Kids’ Bathroom: Functional & Fun

The kids’ bathroom required a delicate balance between functionality, durability, and a touch of youthful charm. When we first saw it, the space was dated and uninspired, ill-equipped for the demands of children. Our vision was to create a bright, organized, and inviting bathroom that could withstand daily use while still feeling fresh and appealing. We opted for smart storage solutions and durable surfaces, making it both practical and playfully stylish.

Original kids' bathroom with standard and outdated fixtures.

Renovated kids' bathroom with Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray walls, a DIY vanity from a console table, and organized linen closet space.

Kids' bathroom featuring personalized step stools, adding a playful and practical touch for children.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Kids’ Bathroom Projects:

  • DIY Bathroom Vanity Made from a Console Table: A creative and custom solution for a stylish and functional vanity.
  • Faux Marble Shower Surround: Achieving a luxurious look without the expense of real marble.
  • Linen Closet and Bathroom Organization Tour: Implementing effective storage solutions for a tidy and efficient space.
  • DIY Personalized Step Stools: Adding a custom, playful touch that helps little ones reach the sink.

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Olivia’s Bedroom: A Growing Girl’s Retreat

As Olivia grew, so did her need for a bedroom that reflected her evolving personality and interests. What started as a child’s room has transformed into a sophisticated yet playful retreat for a preteen. Our goal was to create a space that felt cozy, inspiring, and uniquely hers, incorporating elements that could adapt as she continues to grow. We focused on stylish details and personalized touches to make it truly special.

Original Olivia's bedroom before major updates, showing a simpler child's room.

Olivia's preteen bedroom with Behr My Sweetheart walls, stylish wallpaper, and a functional homework station.

Olivia's bedroom showcasing a cozy reading corner and personalized decor elements.

View of Olivia's bedroom with updated furniture and decorative accents reflecting her current style.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Behr My Sweetheart | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron

Key Olivia’s Bedroom Projects:

  • Wallpaper Install: Adding a touch of elegance and pattern to her walls.
  • Homework Station Makeover: Creating a dedicated and organized space for her studies.
  • Thrifted Dollhouse Makeover: Transforming a pre-loved toy into a charming and personalized decor piece.

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Regan’s Nursery: A Sweet Beginning

Regan’s nursery was designed to be a peaceful and enchanting haven for our youngest daughter. When we began designing this room, we aimed for a serene atmosphere, blending classic charm with soft, inviting textures. The transformation focused on creating a space that felt both calming and stimulating for a growing infant, with thoughtful details that would adapt as she transitioned from baby to toddler. It truly became a dream nursery, filled with love and warmth.

Original Regan's nursery before full makeover, showing initial setup.

Regan's nursery featuring Magnolia Home True White paint, DIY picture frame molding, and refinished hardwood floors.

Regan's nursery with an applique IKEA dresser hack and beautifully painted interior doors. Close-up of Regan's nursery decor, highlighting soft textiles and thoughtful details.

Paint Palette:

Wall/trim color: Magnolia Home True White | Door color: Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray

Key Regan’s Nursery Projects:

  • DIY Picture Frame Molding: Adding architectural interest and classic charm to the walls.
  • Refinished Hardwood Floors: Restoring the natural beauty of the original floors for a timeless appeal.
  • How to Paint Interior Doors: Updating doors with a fresh coat for a polished and cohesive look.
  • Applique IKEA Dresser Hack: Customizing affordable furniture with decorative appliqués for a unique touch.

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Guest Bedroom: A Welcoming Retreat for Visitors

Creating a comfortable and inviting space for guests was a top priority, ensuring that visitors feel right at home. The original guest bedroom, while functional, lacked a distinct personality and warmth. Our goal was to transform it into a serene and stylish sanctuary, blending vintage finds with thoughtful DIY projects to create a unique and memorable experience for anyone who stays with us. It’s a space designed for relaxation and peaceful slumber.

Original guest bedroom before makeover, showing a generic and less inviting space.

Transformed guest bedroom with Benjamin Moore White Dove walls, a secondhand cane headboard makeover, and a vintage writing desk.

Guest bedroom featuring pressed flower art and old frames turned into antique mirrors, adding unique decorative touches.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore White Dove | Trim/door color: Benjamin Moore Winter Gates

Key Guest Bedroom Projects:

  • Secondhand Cane Headboard Makeover: Breathing new life into a vintage piece for a touch of bohemian elegance.
  • Vintage Writing Desk Makeover: Refurbishing a classic piece to serve as a functional and stylish accent.
  • Pressed Flower Art: Creating delicate, personalized artwork that adds natural beauty.
  • How to Turn Old Frames into Antique Mirrors: A clever DIY to add a touch of antique charm and reflective surfaces.

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Master Bathroom: Our Personal Oasis

Our master bathroom, an essential space for daily rejuvenation, needed a complete transformation to become the serene and functional oasis we envisioned. When we moved in, it was far from a spa-like retreat, boasting outdated fixtures and a lackluster design. Our goal was to create a luxurious yet practical space that felt calm and organized. Through strategic updates and DIY solutions, we’ve elevated this bathroom into a truly peaceful sanctuary, ready to face any day with style and comfort.

Original master bathroom before renovation, showing dated design.

Refreshed master bathroom with Benjamin Moore White Dove walls and custom-matched green cabinets, providing a serene ambiance.

Master bathroom featuring new sheet vinyl flooring installed over tile, demonstrating a cost-effective update.

Organized bathroom vanity with thoughtful storage solutions and DIY leaf silhouette art.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: Benjamin Moore White Dove | Trim color: Benjamin Moore Simply White | Cabinet color: Custom matched – closest is Benjamin Moore Newburg Green

Key Master Bathroom Projects:

  • How to Install Sheet Vinyl Flooring Over Tile: A smart, budget-friendly update for a fresh floor look.
  • How to Organize a Bathroom Vanity in 6 Steps: Practical tips for a clutter-free and efficient vanity space.
  • DIY Leaf Silhouette Art: Adding elegant, nature-inspired decor with a personal touch.

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Master Closets: Organization Redefined

Our master closets were initially a chaotic and inefficient mess, making daily routines a challenge. We knew that a well-organized closet could dramatically improve our morning flow and overall sense of calm. The transformation focused on maximizing every inch of space, turning cluttered areas into highly functional and aesthetically pleasing storage solutions. We leveraged clever DIY techniques to create a bespoke closet system that beautifully accommodates our wardrobe, proving that organization doesn’t have to compromise on style.

Before shot of a disorganized and cluttered master closet, showing its initial state.

Another before image of the master closet, highlighting the lack of systematic storage.

Transformed master closet with a DIY system using IKEA bookcases, optimized for storage and organization.

Smaller master closet section showing efficient use of space with custom shelving and smart storage solutions.

Key Master Closet Projects:

  • DIY Master Closet Makeover Using IKEA Bookcases: Creating custom, built-in storage solutions on a budget.
  • How We Declutter Our Wardrobes: Sharing effective strategies for maintaining an organized and functional wardrobe.

Master Bedroom: A Serene Escape

Our master bedroom is designed to be a peaceful sanctuary, a place where we can unwind and recharge after a long day. When we first took on this space, it lacked the tranquil and sophisticated ambiance we desired. The transformation focused on creating a harmonious balance of comfort and style, incorporating elegant details and a calming color palette. Through a series of thoughtful DIY projects, we’ve crafted a master bedroom that truly feels like a luxurious escape, reflecting a blend of classic and modern aesthetics.

Original master bedroom before updates, showing a simple and less defined space.

Transformed master bedroom with KILZ Rebel wall color, a DIY grid molding focal wall, and mirrored French closet doors.

Master bedroom showcasing plush bedding and stylish decorative elements for a luxurious feel.

Paint Palette:

Wall color: KILZ Rebel | Trim/door color: Benjamin Moore Simply White

Key Master Bedroom Projects:

  • DIY Grid Molding Focal Wall: Adding architectural interest and a custom feel to a prominent wall.
  • Mirrored French Closet Doors: Enhancing the sense of space and adding a touch of glamour.
  • 7 Tricks to Make Your Bed Fluffy for Less: Practical tips for creating a plush and inviting bed.

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Garage Exterior: Enhanced Curb Appeal

The garage exterior, often a utilitarian space, presented another opportunity to enhance our home’s overall curb appeal. When we first moved in, it was a plain and unremarkable structure. Our vision was to integrate it seamlessly with the newly transformed house exterior, creating a cohesive and polished look. Through simple yet impactful DIY projects, we’ve elevated the garage from a mere storage area to an attractive extension of our home’s charming facade, proving that every part of a property can contribute to its beauty.

Before shot of the garage exterior, showing its uninspired original state.

Transformed garage exterior with limewashed brick in Romabio Bianco White and updated outdoor lighting.

Paint Palette:

Limewashed Brick Color: Romabio Bianco White | Trim Color: Behr Ultra Pure White |Shutter/Door Color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Garage Exterior Projects:

  • Limewashed Brick Makeover: Extending the updated brick look to the garage for visual continuity.
  • DIY Flower Beds: Adding greenery and color to soften the structure and boost curb appeal.
  • Motion Sensored Garage Lights: Enhancing both aesthetics and safety with practical lighting solutions.

Back Porch: Our Outdoor Sanctuary

The back porch is a cherished extension of our indoor living space, serving as a versatile area for relaxation, outdoor dining, and family time. When we first took over, it was a rather plain and underutilized space. Our vision was to transform it into a cozy and inviting outdoor sanctuary, blending comfort with practical elements to create an area where we could truly unwind and connect with nature. Through a series of thoughtful updates, it has become a favorite spot for enjoying the outdoors, regardless of the season, and a testament to making outdoor living spaces just as important as indoor ones.

Original back porch with a plain ceiling before the Haint Blue makeover.

Transformed back porch featuring a Haint Blue ceiling, creating a charming and traditional southern feel.

Cozy back porch decorated for outdoor living, showcasing comfortable seating and effective mosquito repellent solutions.

Paint Palette:

Limewashed Brick Color: Romabio Bianco White | Trim Color: Behr Ultra Pure White |Shutter/Door Color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Back Porch Projects:

  • Haint Blue Porch Ceiling: A classic Southern tradition that adds charm and visual height.
  • DIY Faux Outdoor Fireplace: Creating a festive and cozy focal point for cooler evenings.
  • How to Keep Mosquitos Away from Outdoor Living Spaces: Practical solutions for enjoying the outdoors bug-free.

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Back Porch Exterior: Seamless Outdoor Integration

The exterior view of our back porch, blending into the surrounding backyard, was just as important to us as the interior spaces. We wanted this area to look polished and inviting from every angle, creating a cohesive transition from the house to the expansive outdoor spaces. Through thoughtful updates, including the extension of our limewashed brick and strategic landscaping, this area now exudes charm and integrates beautifully with the rest of our outdoor living. It’s a testament to how even the “backstage” areas of a home can contribute significantly to its overall aesthetic and functionality.

Original back porch exterior, showing its basic structure.

Updated back porch exterior, seamlessly integrated with the backyard landscape.

Back porch exterior showcasing updated lighting and cohesive paint colors.

Paint Palette:

Limewashed Brick Color: Romabio Bianco White | Trim Color: Behr Ultra Pure White |Shutter/Door Color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Back Porch Exterior Projects:

  • DIY Fire Pit: Creating a cozy gathering spot for evening relaxation and entertaining.
  • DIY Outdoor Curtains: Adding privacy and a touch of elegance to the outdoor space.
  • Our Favorite Wireless/Solar Lights: Enhancing ambiance and functionality with easy-to-install lighting.

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Backyard: Our Outdoor Living Oasis

Our backyard has undergone one of the most significant transformations, evolving from a raw, undeveloped plot into a versatile outdoor living oasis. When we first surveyed the space, it was largely an empty canvas, full of potential but lacking structure and appeal. Our vision was to create distinct zones for relaxation, entertaining, and play, all while embracing the natural beauty of our surroundings. Through extensive landscaping, strategic planting, and a series of ambitious DIY projects, our backyard has become a true extension of our home, a place where memories are made under the open sky, from tranquil mornings to vibrant evenings.

Before shot of the backyard, showing the initial raw and undeveloped state with overgrown shrubs.

Transformed backyard showcasing newly graded landscape and vibrant shrubbery.

Backyard featuring a DIY hidden beer garden, adding a unique and private entertaining space.

Paint Palette:

Limewashed Brick Color: Romabio Bianco White | Trim Color: Behr Ultra Pure White |Shutter/Door Color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Backyard Projects:

  • DIY Fire Pit: A central gathering point for cozy evenings and outdoor relaxation.
  • DIY Hidden Beer Garden: Crafting a unique and intimate space for entertaining.
  • Grading the Backyard and Allllll the Shrub Removal: Essential groundwork to create a functional and beautiful landscape.

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Pool: Our Summer Retreat

Our pool area is the ultimate summer retreat, a hub for family fun, relaxation, and entertaining during warmer months. When we first envisioned this space, it needed significant attention to transform it into a vibrant and inviting oasis. Our goal was to create a resort-like atmosphere right in our backyard, ensuring every detail contributed to a sense of leisure and enjoyment. Through a combination of strategic painting, liner replacement, and concrete deck makeovers, we’ve successfully created a stunning and refreshing space that promises endless summer joy for our family and friends. This transformation truly brought a vacation vibe home.

Original pool deck and surrounding area before renovation, showing dated finishes.

Transformed pool deck with DIY painted concrete and updated pool shed in Sherwin Williams VinylSafe Pepper Shake.

Paint Palette:

Pool shed color: Sherwin Williams VinylSafe Pepper Shake | Trim/door color: Behr Ultra Pure White | Shutter color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Key Pool Projects:

  • How to Paint Vinyl Siding: Giving the pool shed a fresh, durable, and stylish update.
  • Pool Liner Makeover: Replacing an old liner to refresh the pool’s appearance and extend its life.
  • DIY Painted Concrete Pool Deck & Patio: A cost-effective way to revitalize and beautify the surrounding concrete areas.

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Aerial view of the renovated pool area, highlighting its integration with the backyard.

Relaxing scene by the pool, emphasizing the comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Our home’s transformation is an ongoing love story, and we know many more adventures lie ahead. We can’t wait to see what this house looks like at the 5-year mark and beyond. This summer, our ambitious plans include adding an outdoor kitchen and a dedicated pool cabana, stamping the concrete around the pool, replacing the perimeter fence, and overhauling the inside of our shed to create a functional workshop. We also plan to renovate the garage, and refresh Regan’s nursery with a “big girl bed” (cue the bittersweet tears!). Beyond our own home, we’ll continue our passion for makeovers, helping friends and family bring their visions to life. And perhaps, one of these days, we’ll finally tackle the full renovations of our kitchen and master bathroom – projects that are high on our wishlist.

But as they say, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” and neither is a truly beloved home. Sometimes, the most rewarding part of the journey is found in the messy process, the unexpected detours, and the anticipation of seeing a long-held vision finally come together. Our homes deserve to be cherished and celebrated through every ‘before,’ ‘in progress,’ and eventual ‘after’ shot, because each stage tells a part of their unique story.

Looking back, when Robert and I were newlyweds barely able to afford groceries in our first apartment, and later, when we lived in my parents’ spare bedroom with a baby for a few years, I never would have imagined we would end up here, creating a home like this. It has taken so much hard work, dedication, and countless hours, and there were certainly times I thought, “What on earth have we gotten ourselves into?” Yet, time and time again, God has proven to us that He has a plan. And this blog, sharing our journey and inspiring others, was undoubtedly part of His plan all along.

We are incredibly thankful for each of you who follow our story, for your encouraging comments, messages, and for simply being here. We hope that, in some small way, we can inspire and help you on your own home journey. Because it is truly you, our incredible community, who make all of this possible.

Signature graphic for Bless'er House blog.