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Renovations

Front Entry Update

March 8, 2021

Since we announced our big news, we've been making a list of all the things we want to get done on the house before we sell, and at the top of that list is finishing what we started – the entry/office wall reconfiguration. When we began this project, we were most definitely not planning on moving, but I'm still so glad we did it. I feel like whoever ends up buying our house will really appreciate the update, because it was quite the awkward eye-sore when you walk through the front door. This new layout just feels like it flows better.

AND... we've been making so much progress. Since our last update, the new closet opening has been framed in, the electrician wired all the new outlets and switches, drywall is up, and the joints are taped and mudded. Next up we will be texturing the new walls, hanging some doors, installing baseboards and trim, laying flooring in the closet, and rolling on a couple coats of paint.

We did have a little hiccup with the doorway going into the office. When we framed out the door we measured for 80" tall which is pretty standard, but when we double checked the dimensions of the door that we ordered, we realized it was actually an 8' door, not 80". Apparently this is a common mistake to make, and it really didn't take much time to backtrack, and reframe the new opening. Worth it though. This first photo is when it was framed for the shorter door...

...and with the taller opening. The door we ordered is a similar style to the doors in our primary bedroom and bathroom and I can picture it already. (can you see a sneak peek of some painted doors down the hallway?!)

Above you can see the new closet framed in, too! With the addition of a closet in this room, I suppose technically it could be used as a main floor bedroom (although there's no bathroom attached). I was feeling sheepish for starting this project after we decided we were moving, but the straightened lines and added function of this room feel worth it--or will when we finish it!

Surely you can see it all coming together, but be sure to check out this post to see where we started. This room has been at the forefront of my mind as we have been processing the huge life-decision of moving. It's a very unique space that we have used as an office for our team and it has served us so so well. As we get this house ready to become somebody else's home, we really hope that this room ends up serving their family and their needs, however unique or special they may be.

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  1. The new lines in the entry are so much better! And that doorway framing the view down the hallway with the lights all lined up on the ceiling...love it a lot.

  2. It's very confusing in the industry that an "eight oh" door (or window) means 8' 0", not 80". But a mistake that will look good for the house. I think that room will be very useful for all sorts of things. A workout room, a messy playroom, a tucked away guest room, a bedroom for a grandparent, a work studio, etc.

  3. Can you tell us what the brand of paint that was used for your doors? You said it was enamel? Will be painting my doors soon!

  4. Love following along with this project improvement! Love the entry’s new lines. Plus such a great flex room space your current team office is!! If I was the buyer I would use it as an office, or library or a playroom or as a game room or a home gym! What a great space with so many options for the next owner! I am so impressed with the beautiful investment you have made in this home!

  5. So bittersweet. It looks so much better though. I guess you could call it a flex space/den/bedroom. If it was my house I’d probably use it as a workout room.

  6. Are you guys planning on changing the kitchen floors to match the rest of the house before you move? I have a feeling the new owner would appreciate it.

  7. What will you call this room when you list the house? A bedroom? I know the previous owners had it set up as a theater room. With the added square footage from the dining room, the added square footage from the primary closet and now possibly an added bedroom, wowzers! You guys did good!

  8. Just want to point out you say both "When we began this project, we were most definitely not planning on moving" and "I was feeling sheepish for starting this project after we decided we were moving" in case you want to re-phrase either statement to be more clear. I agree though that it looks much better already and I'm sure will look great once the project is complete.

    1. Oh, I can see how that's confusing. I just meant, after we decided we were moving--I felt sheepish for even starting this project.

  9. I am sure it’s bittersweet to complete your projects with the next owners in mind. When you move, will you consider renting a place while you renovate your new home? I’m not sure I could live in another home renovation so soon after finishing one. I’m excited to see what’s next for you.

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