This tiny room has been an office since we moved here in 1999. It had a huge desk, file cabinet and the only computer in the house, a giant monolith of a computer. It was where our kids did their homework.
Times have changed. Most people now have laptops and don't need a designated office anymore. Also, things have changed in our home too. Everyone grew up and went off to college!
I decided to reclaim the space as a reading room. For such a small space, it was a huge undertaking.
The ceiling was cracked like an eggshell. I wanted to panel the ceiling with v-groove rustic redwood boards like the original 1906 ceiling in my sunroom. But that would be very expensive.
My painter, Bob came up with the idea of using MDF and ripping them into boards. He cut a groove on either side and then put them up randomly.
Once painted, it is impossible to tell the difference between the real deal and this MDF ceiling.
Here, he is painting all the woodwork in the room. Notice the balcony outside the door.
He painted the room my tried and true "Granfield Pumpkin" by Benjamin Moore.
I took this picture of the balcony the other morning. It has never really been used or staged. It has a wonderful view of the front yard and flowering plum trees across the street.
Here it is tonight at dusk. I already had this outdoor rug and the fanback chairs were brought in from the backyard. A plant and candle on a tray, and voila!
I am claiming this space for myself! This could be my new "blogspot" on warm days...
Looking through the door, into the new reading room.
We bought this chair today at the consignment center. All linen, $89! I couldn't believe it! However, it is a little big for the room. I will make it work though, because it is incredibly comfortable.
Ahhh! A place to sit and read. My favorite thing to do!
This pine bookcase was already in the room.
Right now it is filled with fishing books and high school text books. That will change though!
The chandelier was originally in the hallway and rehung in here. We retrofitted it with a pull chain as there is no switch in the room.
The room is still a work in progress. I have to hang art, rearrange the books and tomorrow pick up the mate to this chair. At $89 each, I couldn't pass it up. So, it will be a reading room for two now!
I was so surprised when I got home tonight to learn that I received an award
from Kim at Savvy Southern Style !
I am so honored! Kim is new to the blogosphere and I have recently discovered her. We have similar tastes and I look forward to seeing what she posts. She has asked that I describe 7 things about myself. Hmmm, I'm going to have to think about that and get back to you in a few days!
Thank you Kim!
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I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Metamorphosis Monday.
Be sure to visit her and see all the other participants and their projects.
I'm also linking up to It's So Very Cheri for It's So Very Creative Monday. There you will find more creative projects and transformations for inspiration.
