This weekend, Jaithan and I were out and about in upstate New York taking in a bit of fall, doing some antiquing and, yes, starting the search for a modest house in the country. As much as we both love our little apartment in the city—check it out in this month's Domino—we'd definitely like more space to grow and expand our work. In just over three months of doing the blog, the response has been truly amazing! With added space, a garden, and perhaps even a studio, there could be so many more decorating opportunities to share, as well as restoration projects I think people would really enjoy. So given the times we live in, I know it's not going to be such a quick thing to find a house, especially because neither of us likes to settle! I hope you'll join us in the search.
The first house we saw was an 1869 Victorian with a beautiful fish scale roof. I loved its curb appeal—very stately and grand. The garden was in horrible shape, so the plantings would definitely need to be redone. I loved the double doors, but the windows aren't actually stained glass. At some point, they were painted on the inside and would definitely have to be scraped. I'd sand the whole house too, then repaint it white again with gray trim and black doors.
As soon as I walked in the house, I saw this incredibly beautiful staircase. That carpeting I'd rip out so fast.
Loved the attention to detail on the balusters. You can't even get that kind of craftsmanship these days!
Check out the sweeping curves leading from the second to the third floors. It reminds me of a New York City townhouse.
The ceilings were super high-—twelve feet, I think—and there were four fireplaces, all of them marble. Love the detail on the top too; it's almost looks like a crest.
Check out the beautiful, almost Celtic knot, inlaid floor.
I was doing a quick spin around the property and fell in love with this little rounded shutter window. This was on the staircase leading to the second floor.
And check this out too! It's the top of a large wrought iron urn buried in the ground. Talk about a restoration project! All in all, we thought this house was very pretty but a bit on the big side.
As soon as we pulled up to the second one, my jaw nearly dropped, I thought it was so beautiful. It's definitely the look I love—1920s classic colonial. This one was situated oddly on the lot, though. In the 40s, the house had been turned sideways and part of the property sold off.
When we walked in, the living room had a nice, simple fireplace, but the ceilings were a bit low.
The walls had pretty moldings and the floors were all covered in carpet. I'd definitely tear it out and refinish the hardwood underneath.
Here in the dining room, there was a pair of charming built-ins, perfect for storing china.
The staircase in this house was simple with pretty moldings and baseboards throughout.
Down in the basement, there was a beautiful, old soapstone sink I'd definitely restore and use in a modern laundry room.
Leaving the house, I noticed the monogram on the chimney. How chic is that? Though I loved the overall look of this one from the outside, it was situated oddly and the circulation made it feel cramped. On to the third and final one for the day!
From the curb, both Jaithan and I thought this colonial cottage had a lot of charm. Love the porch out front. I'd redo thole whole exterior in cedar shingles, then paint the trim a pretty white.
The Corinthian columns I thought were beautiful. They remind me of the candlesticks I found for my audition video.
When I first walked in, I knew this house had been well taken care of. I thought the staircase was quite pretty, and I loved all the different heights. The wood paneling had probably been put up in the 50s. That would come down right away!
Here's the view into the living room. It's a great size, and I love the symmetry, but talk about a before and after! I'd take down the curtains, tear up the carpet and give it a fresh coat of paint. Can't you just see a pair of English camelback sofas covered in nubby linen, a modern coffee table and a gorgeous mirror over the fireplace? In the bookscases, I'd do all linen-bound books with beautiful collections of mercury glass. I might even do a 1920s cystal chandelier to give the room some glamor. How pretty is that?
Here's the view looking back into the foyer. Check out the great architectural details! I always find the woodwork in these old homes so amazing.
The doors in this house were very pretty as well. All of them were hardwood with original glass knobs. Loved the wavy privacy glass on this bathroom door.
The tile inside was in great condition. The border around the mosaic floor was white and a beautiful jadeite green. This would be going nowhere!
The subway tiles were in great condition too and the built-in medicine cabinet I thought was amazing. Check out the molding around it! That I'd just strip and repaint.
Down in the basement was definitely the showstopper. It's the original stove of the house!
Inside, I also found the original knobs and in the broiler...
it even had the stove's original manual! This piece I'd definitely have fixed up and put right back in the kitchen upstairs.
And finally, here's Jaithan looking out at the backyard of the house which we both thought was quite pretty. Check out the little covered balcony off one of the bedrooms!
And so, we have our favorite from the weekend. What about you? And be sure to check back this week for a full report on all the great thrifting and antiquing we did along the way!
Eddie:
I know this is a late reply. I just found your site and an going through all posts. You will do great things with any house you choose. You have a good eye and are very talented. Advice: As your following grows, you need to do your research and not throw terms like "corinthian" around without knowing what they mean.
A fan.
Posted by: JM | May 23, 2009 at 11:50 AM
2 then 1. Gotta go with the gut though.
Merry!
Dids
Posted by: Diddle McAllister | December 19, 2008 at 06:20 PM
Wow, you two really have an eye for lovely homes. All three are so charming and elegant, but I have to agree, the third one is my favorite. The craftmanship inside is spectacular! I wish y'all the best of luck in your search, but I have to say that finding that special one is half the fun. Happy Holidays
Posted by: Clinton | November 18, 2008 at 09:39 PM
Eddie - you should check out the Saratoga Springs, NY area. You would love the victorian era houses in Saratoga and Ballston Spa. And I would love to have you as a neighbor!
Posted by: Cathy | November 01, 2008 at 12:49 PM
Eddie,
My jaw dropped when I saw the original stove in house #3, as it reminded me of my friends' rented house in college, which was a cozy twin easily dated from the 1910's-20's and also boasted its original stove. Having cooked on that I will definitely say it's worth restoring!
The gorgeous privacy glass on the doors also makes me swing my vote to number 3, as my apartment also has its original privacy glass in the bedroom door.
Good luck!
Posted by: elizabeth | October 29, 2008 at 09:48 AM
Quite a tour of homes Eddie...looks like you boys had a great time and isn't it fun to dream what can be done to any home? Good luck on your hunt.
Posted by: Garrison | October 29, 2008 at 01:16 AM
This is so exciting Eddie ! We bought an old colonial cottage (over 100 years old) and will soon start renovating it (you can check the pictures on my blog), it is such a great project !! Good luck in your search !
Posted by: flipperdelph | October 28, 2008 at 10:44 PM
Number 3 I think.....so many things you could do to that one....it is very charming, and the stove + picket fence make it a stand-out!! Can't wait to see what you pick!!
Posted by: pattyann | October 28, 2008 at 05:42 PM
oh eddie- what fun but you know i need you in the hamptons!
and i will find you a place out near me! so tell me your price range and i'll get a bunch of houses together for you and jaithen to come and look at - we can have a fun winter weekend.
Posted by: shellbell | October 28, 2008 at 03:55 PM
Wow! I'm not really a big fan of Victorians, but #1 looked wonderful. Like you, I absolutely love a good 1920's Colonial. But if it is awkwardly situated, and cramped, I'd say pass. #3 looks a little like my aunt's house. So that sort of kills it for me... LOL.
One of my husband's favorite sections of the Sunday Times is the "Hudson County Properties" listings in Real Estate. We always find our faves and look them up online.
Good luck, and have fun with the search!
Posted by: mary | October 28, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Wow, I love them all! I love old homes so I really enjoyed looking at these! It's hard to pick a favorite but I think I like #2 the best.
Posted by: Cindy | October 27, 2008 at 09:58 PM
Ooooh, I'd have to say #1 for the double doors and staircase. I just have to say, your confidence and decisiveness amazes and inspires me. It has taken me weeks just to pick a paint color! I'd love you to stop by my house for just 5 minutes and say "I'd do this, and I'd do this...."
Posted by: Kari | October 27, 2008 at 09:43 PM
How much fun is this going to be!! My favorite so far is the first one. I just loved looking at it and all the possibilities. The stove in the 3rd house is so awesome. I'd keep it too. I can hardly wait to see more of your houses and which one you will finally decide on. Good luck on your searh.
Posted by: Judy | October 27, 2008 at 09:06 PM
I like the curb appeal of the first home. However, if you can negotiate with the homeowner of the 3rd home to include the floor color television console with the sale, I say go for door number 3!!
Posted by: Julio Muao | October 27, 2008 at 08:25 PM
Oooooo, it is so much fun to house hunt vicariously, especially when I don't have to spend *my* money! I like #1 the best--that woodwork, high ceilings and oh, the staircases. My heart would soar every time I came through the door.
But you didn't show us the nuts and bolts which aren't very exciting, but can get $$$ really quick in old houses--how's the plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation, any AC? And location is so important too. Happy hunting!
Posted by: meanders | October 27, 2008 at 08:17 PM
Hi Eddie,
Your pictures of the gorgeous staircase in house number one prompted me to comment. If you look closely at the top of the newel post at the beginning of the staircase you will notice a wooden button. Often this wooden button was replaced with a button of more importance such as sterling silver or mother of pearl. This upgraded button was called a "mortgage button" and it quietly signified to all who entered the foyer that the home was paid for. I have several friends who have lovingly restored homes such as the the dream home that you are seeking and they have created a slender portal/ vessel beneath the mortgage button (think the size of a metal cigar holder or larger if the post permits)to hold a time capsule for future generations to find. Given your creativity and imagination, I can only imagine what a grand celebration you will plan in fifteen or thirty years when you burn the mortgage in your perfectly appointed fireplace, insert the time capsule and bestow the post with a gorgeous mortgage button!
Posted by: Kathryn | October 27, 2008 at 08:12 PM
Hhhmmm....this is a toughy! I love the first one, but only if there is ample garden around it. I have the same floors and that was one the selling points for me. I love the grass in front of the picket fence at the second house. It looks like it is on a bigger lot? Maybe not though since you said it was cramped. The third looks the biggest, and I LOVE your ideas to make it all shingles! But the fireplace looks a little awkward and the Living Room layout looks a bit hard to furnish and a bit dark. But knowing you, any house would be lucky to have you! I look forward to the process!!!!!
Posted by: katiedid | October 27, 2008 at 07:43 PM
Love the stove! I've had a 30's O'Keefe & Merritt stove for ages until my last move. It was the most wonderful stove for making slow cooked dishes - the flame would be barely visible but would not blow out no matter what.
Posted by: Tanya | October 27, 2008 at 05:14 PM
Sounds like you are leanding toward #3 but I think #1 has it by a nose. High ceilings arent something you can easily add on later. There is something just grand about the first one that I love.
No matter what you choose, Im sure it will be stunning.
Posted by: mrslimestone | October 27, 2008 at 04:52 PM
Mimilee votes for number THREE!!! All of them are very charming though ....what a great weekend.....Hope you find JUST the right one! Can't wait to check out your spread in Domino!! Cannot wait to see what you and J found also thrifting and antiquing!!
Posted by: Mimilee | October 27, 2008 at 04:10 PM
I like #1 myself. Love the ceiling height and the 4 fireplaces. The potential is huge and it doesn't seem too big when one considers the entertaining/decorating potential. You'll always have house guests!
Of course the big question is which has the best location.
Posted by: Scarlett | October 27, 2008 at 03:52 PM
Gosh! I'm jealous! All the houses look so beautiful!
Posted by: Jeff | October 27, 2008 at 03:12 PM
Hi Eddie, Oh my choices,choices,choices.From what I have seen of your design taste and sensibilities I vote for #3. It just looks like a home you could make Yours and Jaithan's. I can tell your not ready to take the leap yet but out of the 3 this one could be made yours. I am loving the bathroom tile. Love the stove one of my first stoves was an old Wedgewood. What I would give to have that now. Have fun in the looking what a fun process. smiles Kathysue
Posted by: Kathysue | October 27, 2008 at 02:45 PM
oh the 3rd one is quite charming! i love the design.... porch... balcony.... and spaciousness of the interior without it appearing to huge.... it has a very comforting & inviting feel & character to it for sure :)
Posted by: jessica | October 27, 2008 at 02:30 PM
What a charming home! ;)
Posted by: DecorPad | October 27, 2008 at 02:23 PM
What a fun weekend! I love house hunting and envisioning a redo! Good luck... I can't wait to see what you do with your new cottage. I love the balcony on #3.
Posted by: karyn | October 27, 2008 at 02:19 PM
I have one of those old soapstone sinks and my husband complains endlessly about how ugly it is, so thanks for some ammunition in that ongoing squabble.
Posted by: Leslie | October 27, 2008 at 02:17 PM
hummm, i'm torn...i love the look of #1-she's so pretty but i like some of the details in #3- the stove is to die for!
Posted by: Pink Wallpaper | October 27, 2008 at 02:02 PM
oh, I am so excited for you and can't wait to see what you do with your home!!! hurry up and buy already (j/k) :) my domino finally arrived and I loved the article! happy monday!
Posted by: hanako66 | October 27, 2008 at 01:38 PM
THREE!
Posted by: pigtown | October 27, 2008 at 01:21 PM
What a fabulous tour, heart throb on the shutter window. Second abode is my fav.
And LOVE both of your outfits, BTW.
xoxo
Seleta
Posted by: seleta | October 27, 2008 at 01:21 PM
I'm such a fan of old tile. I know the colors can be a little dated (not your charming jadeite green, though) but I think they retain so much of the feel of the house. It's amazing the condition is still so good - so often they've been drilled into or chipped off to accommodate new towel rods or shower doors. I almost love house hunting as much as house buying - I'll live through you guys on this one.
Posted by: Mrs. Blandings | October 27, 2008 at 01:03 PM
I love all the little things about the first one... would be thrilled to see it after you got done with it!
Posted by: Naomi | October 27, 2008 at 12:35 PM
Great weekend for house hunting... here's my 2¢... just remember to stay off major roads like Route 9 and 9D... on the weekends traffic not too bad but 27/7 during the week these roads become a nightmare and you become trapped in your driveway... but then again, that could be a best place to be!
@ ER groupie :)
Posted by: TKraft | October 27, 2008 at 12:22 PM
You would do fabulous things with all three and I love the staircase in #1, but #3 is my vote. The symmetry in the living room, the wood work and the wide eaves on the house are really a gem. Good luck in finding the perfect fit!
Posted by: ryepye | October 27, 2008 at 12:19 PM
Mr. Ross,
I love the detail of #1. Plus, it's big...can I come and visit?
Seriously, could you expand on the phrase "linen bound books"? I've seen vellum, but never linen. How does one do it?
Posted by: EM | October 27, 2008 at 12:11 PM
Any of these places will become show houses with your and Jaithan's talent. Can't wait for CK to view these places with you. Road trip!
Posted by: Jackie O K | October 27, 2008 at 11:17 AM
You guys are going to have such an awesome time hunting! What a great way to tour all the old homes in an area...
The first one was my fave. I'm a sucker for curves like the one on the staircase.
Posted by: The City Sage | October 27, 2008 at 11:16 AM
Eddie! I loved the first house!! Too big? Think of the grand parties you could throw!!
The third one is also nice - plus the symmetry of it is a big, big bonus.
I'm so looking forward to the before and afters!!!
Posted by: Mona from Toronto | October 27, 2008 at 10:55 AM
oops I think I posted too soon...I was going to say that you should write a book like Martha's New Old House. Its one of my favorite books, I love seeing every step in the process. Your version would be my new favorite if you wrote one :)
Posted by: LindsB | October 27, 2008 at 10:51 AM
Wow, all three houses have their appeal to them. I love #1, and that would be my choice. But, I think #3 would be an AMAZING before and after, with the talent of you and Jaithan that place would be beautiful after you got your hands on it.
Posted by: LindsB | October 27, 2008 at 10:42 AM
Mmmmm... I like the curb appeal all of them.. the stunning stair case in #1, but the layout of #3 seems to be the best. Too bad #2 is situated on the land so wierd...
Posted by: Ivy Lane | October 27, 2008 at 10:41 AM
The second one was my pick - but as you said the lot was a draw back so I'd go with number three- loved the tile and could just see you making something delicious at the stove! Cant wait to see what you found-
Posted by: Suzanne Fall | October 27, 2008 at 08:58 AM
OMG! The 20's colonial is my house! Well, almost. The built-ins in the dining room, fireplace and soapstone sink are all in my house but I think the floor plan must be different b/c the shot from the top of the stairs couldn't have been taken in my house. How fun though! I'd vote for the last too, I've never liked mansard roofs and the odd situation of the colonial would be awkward.
Posted by: Cassandra Wright | October 27, 2008 at 08:18 AM
I love the first house.
Happy Hunting and good luck!
Posted by: Patricia | October 27, 2008 at 07:02 AM
Oops, I forgot to congratulate you on your feature in Domino! It was fantastic.
Posted by: Paloma of La Dolce Vita | October 27, 2008 at 06:58 AM
What a difficult choice! They are all so charming and have so much potential. I think any one of the houses would be fabulous, but #1 seems the most "you". It has so many amazing details! Do any of them need any major work (i.e. structural, plumbing, etc)? What does Jaithan do, by the way? Is he also in design? I'm excited to see which one made the cut!
Posted by: Paloma of La Dolce Vita | October 27, 2008 at 06:57 AM
yay! a house hunt - how exciting! i'm certain whatever you and jaithan end up with will turn out fabulous - but there is still the thrill of the hunt!
Posted by: kay* | October 27, 2008 at 01:48 AM
Eddie,
Loved the staircase in the first house and the overall feel of the third house. I don't think you can pick from just one weekend of looking! Enjoy the search.
Posted by: Mike D. | October 27, 2008 at 01:36 AM
Eddie,house hunting with you is really a fun . My vote goes to first house. I think gracious curves of the staircase just got me. I copied ( hope you dont mind) it for my stairs collection I will post soon. I just love stairs. They are such a great architectural feature.
X
V
Posted by: Viera | October 27, 2008 at 01:32 AM
Oh, I love the first one so much! You need lots of room for all your fans that might just POP in for a visit, if we knew where you were. ;) Looks like y'all had a wonderful weekend, I'm very jealous. I didn't go house hunting, but I did book our vacation, so I guess that's pretty good. Anyway, I just found your blog and just wanted to say how amazingly talented you are. Thanks for sharing your projects with us.
Posted by: Kate@ Kids and Cocktails | October 27, 2008 at 01:18 AM
Wow, I just love old houses, too. All those beautiful details. Love the Celtic Knot inlay, love the old stove in the basement, love the green tile in the bathroom... My own house is a Tudor-style cape cod built in the late 30s (I like to call it an English cottage, though). My favorite from your pictures would be the first one, but I truly believe each house probably had a certain feel to it that pictures don't convey. The right house feels like home!
Posted by: Melanie O. | October 27, 2008 at 01:18 AM
I like all three and can see how you'd like them, too. What wonderful magic you could work on whichever one you choose.
Posted by: sandra/tx | October 27, 2008 at 01:14 AM