No, I’m not giving up my wine. I’m just starting a new weekly feature on J’ai La Vie that exemplifies some crafty home projects as completed by me and my sister, Kiley (who up until now, is a behind-the-scenes contributor to J’ai La Vie).
So a little about us and our projects….
Our first love is cooking – something we meddled in as part of our youth, explored further in college, and have now grown into and transitioned to be serious cooks, foodies, and wannabe sommeliers. But with age and responsibilities we were introduced to another homemaker obsession – interior design. Once you have your own place – sans roommates – this love consumes your life.
We have similar tastes, but very different approaches. To start, I am (unfortunately) a renter. I can’t WAIT to get my hands on a condo, but for now, that’s on the back burner. Kiley, however, is a first-time homebuyer on a budget. She purchased her Hoboken condo in 2011 and hasn’t stopped updating since. It’s a hobby that is practical, fun, creative, and translates into another new term we are growing to love: ROI.
So, alas, a new blog topic is born. Every week, we will be chronicling one of mine or Kiley’s (well, mostly Kiley’s) home projects.
First up: the easiest (and cheapest) ways to add some value to your new home.
After a year and a half into homeownership, Kiley’s best pieces of advice for a low-budget/high-impact change are: paint and light fixtures.
It drives us CRAZY when we watch HGTV and the property virgins complain about the paint in EVERY house. It is the easiest thing to change. And personally, I prefer a fresh coat of paint when I move into a new space. Cover up those nail holes and faded picture frame outlines and make the space your own.
Kiley’s Apartment – Before (No idea what the previous owner was thinking)
Kiley’s apartment – AFTER
Paint Color = Benjamin Moore Winter Solstice
Light Fixtures = Overstock.com
Taking advantage of the high ceilings, Kiley wanted to add a little bling to the entry and found this chic – and cheap – Chrome Crystal Chandelier. It took a little time and patience to put together but is surprisingly good quality and makes a great impression.
In the adjoining room, Kiley our brother installed another crystal fixture with the Crystal 2-Light Flush. The fixtures complement each other and add a unique and custom quality to the condo.
More home projects to come in the weeks ahead!
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