love a library

I have ALWAYS wanted a home that had a library.  Every time I see a room with walls lined in books, I swoon.

Moving to the "country house," as I like to call this suburban abode, has given me just that.  It's a small in-between room that previous owners have added a floor-to-ceiling book case.  The wood finish was not exactly my favorite.  Before pic:

Immediately when I entered, I knew I wanted to paint out all the walls, trim detail and bookcases the same color.  I toyed with a few historic colors and settled on Farrow & Ball Card Room Green.  I wanted it to feel like an old English library or sitting room.
Here is what it looked like before:

And now... how cozy and fun! 

A few things to note.  I plan to install inexpensive roller bamboo shades.  I am also waiting on the carpet installer to put in wall-to-wall sisal.  I thought it would be done by now, but you know how that goes.

Last and (most important) is changing out the hideous sconces.  I want a great looking brass library sconce.  This, however, has fallen into the "not immediately necessary!" category.  I'll wait to find a great deal or wait until the coffers have been replenished.

*I do realize that the pictures in this post are particularly bad.  The room looks best in the evening, but my iPhone refuses to capture the magic.  For you readers and potential clients: This room rocks in person.  I have not given it justice in these pictures.  It will be better when complete.)

sneak peak & inspiration

I can't get into the house for the next few days because the floors are being finished.  I love the way the floors are looking and wanted to put up a sneak peak at the kitchen and family room area.  Not completed yet, but it is looking great so far.

Kitchen floor sanded down.

Framing has been done for our fireplace slim down.

Painted cabinets.

Cabinet doors drying in the basement.

Lots of cabinet doors.

Slowly getting there.

Shelves built and awaiting paint.

This is an inspiration tear sheet for the family room that will have a TV over the fireplace.

Another inspiration of the style of fireplace with comfortable seating.

The above three images are inspirations for the formal entry hall, the living room and the dining room.  Just love the white walls.  Makes an old space feel modern.

Have I mentioned how much I love the way the floors look now?

We are down to the wire as we move in next week.  I hope we make it!!

Built-in installation

Here are some before and after shots of custom built ins that were installed last week at a project I've been working on in Lexington.  I am so pleased with the outcome.  Alpine Woodworks does a superior job.  The millwork looks as though it's always been there.

Dining Room before:

Note the terrible light fixture. Home Depot special?  Be sure to check back for the amazing replacement!

 

And....

 

After:

 

Office Before:

And....

 

 

 After:

I could work on styling the shelves for days, but the room really has been transformed!  Stay tuned for more on the installation of this project.