First things first - we closed on the house October 20 and moved in shortly thereafter. Now that we have been in the house for a month, we are beginning to get settled and figure out what we want to do to bring the house back to its original 1902 glory.
First on the agenda is a full renovation of the exterior. The house has clapboard siding which after years of neglect is rotting away. The window frames are in the same condition as is the railing that once graced the front porch. Additionally, a paint job is in order and the front door is being refinished. The most intense exterior project is the removal of a wall (again due to neglect and major rot) which will be replaced and have have added a window seat and built in bookshelves.
Second on the agenda is the moving in of our new dining room table. Robert and I have an appreciation of a very simple style of furniture. As such, a local furniture maker is currently working on our new dining room table.
Third on the agenda is a total renovation of the kitchen. The house had some interior work done a few years ago, but the kitchen was not a priority. As you can see it needs to be updated. This is currently planned as our first 2011 project. New floors, cabinets, and countertops will be the focus.
Fourth, fifth, sixth, etc on the agenda are a number of smaller projects including refinishing the hardwood floors, painting, and builing a new closet in the master bedroom.
As this is to be our family home we realize that the work will take time and we are very excited about being able to bring a 108 year old home back to life.
As the exterior renovations begin soon, I will be sure to keep posted pictures of the process.
Thanks for checking in and hope all is well with you and yours!
The Hawks
