So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Restoring A Run Down Structure To Original Condition

By Connor Sullivan

When Eric made the decision to place a bid on the old mansion being auctioned he knew it was in need of a great renovation. He was not intimidated by the project and looked forward to restoring the once grand space. Upon finding out that his bid was accepted and after completing all the financial paperwork, the house was his to do with as he saw fit. He immediately began formulating a game plan so he could begin renovation. He met with his electrician who was able to get the home up to code electrically in just a very short amount of time. He decided to start with the electrical projects first.

He ordered a candlestick style chandelier light for the living room and dual chandelier lights for the entrance. He ordered sconces for the parlor area and some table lamps for the study and the library spaces. As he looked at lamp options he tried to keep in mind the type of lamps, sconces, and pendants that originally graced the ceilings and rooms of the aged mansion. In this area, as well as in the entire renovation, his goal was to return the mansion to its long ago luster. He wanted an authentic restoration, one that would show the house just the way it appeared when it was originally built. Period restoration is not difficult but it can be a long, drawn out process, and it can be very expensive. There are a few things to keep in mind if trying to complete an authentic home restoration.

The first thing to keep in mind when tackling a home restoration project is the era in which the home was built. Through the years styles can change drastically. Even though you personally might not find attractive a specific design feature from the era of the home you live in, consider maintaining authenticity whenever possible to develop a true restorative look. Even such things as color hue and color combinations can be a good indication of the year a house was constructed. Do not be afraid to consult design books or history books to get a feel for the architecture and design elements from different design periods.

The second thing to keep in mind is to keep track of even the most miniscule details. The mark of a truly authentic restoration can be found in the smallest of elements. Take for example cabinet knobs or pulls, which could be considered very insignificant items. Vintage replications from all eras, from Victorian to Art Deco are available for kitchen and bathroom restoration projects. Even switch plates and covers have changed from era to era.

Another good thing to keep in mind in a classic home restoration is functionality. While maintaining the integrity of the home is imperative, the ultimate goal is to create a timeless, yet usable space. Make appropriate choices for the current century. Even restoration aficionados hope to see updated copper pipes, 120 volt electrical capacity, and energy efficient mechanicals and appliances. The combination of timeless features with the necessary modern updates makes for great value and resale potential.

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