Curbly House Update: Fresh Discoveries

Curbly House 2017 Renovation: A Comprehensive Update

As summer fades and autumn arrives, we’re pushing hard to complete the Curbly House 2017 project. This update provides a detailed overview of the progress we’ve made, including interior painting, electrical upgrades, HVAC installation, backyard transformation, closet organization, and the selection of stunning new lighting fixtures. Join us as we revitalize this house into a beautiful and functional home.

Curbly House 2017 - Living room, before

Interior Painting: A Fresh Canvas

The interior of the Curbly House has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once a bland, beige-on-beige combination has been revitalized with contrasting colors and a modern aesthetic. The impact of a fresh coat of paint cannot be overstated. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to breathe new life into a space.

Bedroom, before
Bedroom, after

By painting all the trim throughout the house with a crisp, clean white (specifically, Sherwin-Williams Pure White SW 7005), we were able to accentuate the wall colors and create a striking contrast. This, combined with a fresh coat of white ceiling paint, has made the rooms feel brand new and significantly brighter.

Emerald interior paint for the Curbly House (2017)
All it took was a little time and many gallons of Sherwin-Williams Simple White SW 7021.

The master bedroom is shaping up to be a stunning space. The fresh paint has provided a clean and inviting backdrop for the design elements to come. Even a small detail, like a heating vent cover installed upside down, couldn’t detract from the overall progress!

Curbly House master bedroom snapshot


Electrical Work: Untangling the Past, Wiring the Future

Our electrician has been hard at work this week, tackling the somewhat disorganized state of the existing wiring. The previous electrical setup was haphazard, with circuits running in various directions. It took considerable time to map out the existing system and determine the best approach for the upgrade. Now, new outlet boxes are being installed throughout the house, marking significant progress in this critical phase of the renovation. Electrical and plumbing work are often the most challenging aspects of a remodel, as they require inspection and approval before walls can be closed up.

Electrical box being installed


HVAC Upgrade: From Asbestos to Efficiency

A significant milestone was achieved last week with the removal of the old, asbestos-laden furnace by a certified abatement contractor. The original furnace was a massive, octopus-style gravity-fed unit, reminiscent of this:

A dark room shows a large metal water heater.
Photo: Constant Craftsman

The old furnace would undoubtedly have been a deterrent for potential buyers, not to mention the health risks associated with the asbestos. Following the professional abatement, our HVAC contractor installed a brand-new, energy-efficient furnace and air conditioning unit. While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of the renovation, the new HVAC system is a vital upgrade that will improve the comfort and value of the home.

A large silver appliance is sitting in a room.
A silver outdoor air conditioning unit that is currently not operating.

Backyard Transformation: Taming the Jungle

The backyard was once overgrown with a dense collection of hostas and lilies, resembling more of a forest than a usable outdoor space. While some may appreciate this naturalistic landscape, our goal was to create a more accessible and functional backyard for future homeowners.

Green land with white fence and dry trees.

To achieve this, we cleared the overgrowth and installed a new concrete walkway and driveway. This provides a convenient parking area at the back of the house and a clear path to the rear entrance. Additional landscaping will be necessary to fully realize the potential of the backyard, but these improvements represent a significant step forward in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.

Concrete being poured
Curbly House new concrete walkway and driveway


Closet Organization: Maximizing Storage Space

Closets are often an overlooked feature in home renovations, perhaps because they are challenging to photograph in a compelling way. However, we recognize the importance of well-organized closets, especially in an older house where closet space may be limited. We are partnering with Modular Closets to install new closet organization systems in every room with a closet. These systems will maximize storage capacity and improve the overall functionality of the home.

Modular Closets boxes
Closet

By ordering the closet systems online and installing the shelves ourselves, we were able to find an affordable solution that is both attractive and functional.

Diagrams show the measurements of shelving units.


Lighting Fixtures: Adding the Finishing Touch

The right lighting can make all the difference in a room, and we are excited to be working with Lamps Plus to provide the lighting fixtures for the Curbly House. We have used Lamps Plus in previous projects, including a living room makeover, studio renovation, and our own house, and we are consistently impressed with their quality and selection. We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new fixtures and can’t wait to see how they transform the spaces.

Different types of shandlers and wall lights for home decor.
1. Crystorama Broche (White)
2. Crystorama Traux 12″
3. Crystorama Broche (Gold)
4. Felton White & Wood Mini Pendant
5. Hinkley Porter High Aged Zinc Outdoor Wall Light
6. Hubbardton Forge Rhythm Dark Smoke Mini Pendant

Looking Ahead: The Final Touches

As we move into the final stages of the Curbly House 2017 renovation, we have several exciting projects on the horizon. Next up is the installation of new carpet in the basement, followed by exterior landscaping, cabinetry, appliances, and finally, furniture and staging. Alicia, M.E., and I have already begun scheduling photo shoots for each room, and the calendar for late September is looking both intimidating and incredibly exciting. We are eager to complete this renovation and share the finished product with you. We look forward to seeing the house through a camera lens, capturing the beauty and functionality we have worked so hard to create. Stay tuned for more updates!