Ellen wanted to be hands-on with her first home.
I knew I wanted an old home, definitely a fixer-upper.
I was looking for the kind of place that needed moreaesthetic renovationsthan structural.
The living room’s original windows and glass cabinets add historic charm, while green leather chairs offer a modern touch.Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
Personal Design
I would call my look new traditional.
I appreciate classic architecture but like to add in modern pieces, says Ellen.
Open House
We removed the screens that previously closed in the porch.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
Now, its another hangout space.
We hung string lights and like to sit on the front sill for dinner most evenings.
Its easy to pull around the Adirondack chairs when friends drop by for cocktails.
In the dining room, a large pleated shade from Rejuvenation and a rug Ellen got for a steal in California help fill the large space.Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
Smart Storage
There are only two closets in the houseand one of them is 2 feet wide.
Im glad we had that limitation, because we use the breakfast nook all the time.
Balancing Act
Some of the biggest changes happened in the kitchen.
Dark furnishings stand out against the white walls.Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
Honed black granite countertops resemble soapstone but are more durable and less expensive.
I balanced splurges with an affordable tile choice for the backsplash and a farmhouse sink from The Home Depot.
Creative Solutions
Our daughters playroom also functions as our guest room.
A marble-topped tulip table balances the traditional cabinets. A painting by Ellen’s father hangs above.
The sofa pulls out into a queen-size bed, and the French doors close for privacy.
Easy Updates
Keep the old-house character with original millwork, windows, and flooring.
Freshen up spaces by repainting and replacing lighting.
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Lydia Pursell
