There are certain restoration projects that are less construction and more art. Those are by far the most work and challenge and by far the most rewarding. Kitchens and baths naturally lend themselves to that definition simply because they mix the most media: tile, wood, color, flooring, … [Read more...]
The Cowboy Code: Using Heart of Pine to Disprove Father Time
October 24, 2012 By ·
How is it that houses built 100 or even 200 years ago are still standing? Every day, I see things that amaze me. Instead of today's framing codes that dictate 16" on center for roof rafters, I see framing that is sometimes 3 feet on center. That is some seriously gappy spacing for roof … [Read more...]
When Demo Discovery Can Drive Design
August 15, 2011 By ·
Demolition is almost always interesting. Unfortunately, for clients with old houses, it isn’t always interesting in a good way. In old bungalows and Victorians here in the South, if we tear out a plaster and lath wall, we risk discovering framing that has been the feast for termites and powder post … [Read more...]
Infuse Spaces with Warmth Using Salvaged House Parts
July 19, 2010 By ·
Several of my most enjoyable renovation projects were houses that were totally violated: everything worth anything ripped clean out of them. In fact, I live in one of those houses now so I’ll talk about this one. We bought this house after watching it sit vacant for 7 years--of course, that’s not … [Read more...]
Urban Gardening: Why Dad Had ’Nam Flashbacks in my Front Yard
May 20, 2010 By ·
My banana tree has far exceeded my expectations of its growth. On year two of its planting, it hit 20-some feet and produced three massive bunches of green bananas, inedible since our Atlanta growing season is shorter than Costa Rica’s. And then there are the canna lilies that shot up … [Read more...]
Clawfoot Tubs, Bad Hygiene, and the Sears Catalog for T.P.
May 19, 2010 By ·
I am enamored with my clawfoot tub, which is original to our restored 1911 Craftsman bungalow. It’s is a deep wellspring of contentment. I love soaking, with a glass of red vino, on a chilly winter day. And since I’m sharing, I prefer the water extra hot with an ample sprinkling of … [Read more...]
