Happy 2020, friends!
I took some time off to rest before diving into the new year. I enjoyed the downtime, packed away holiday decor, took a work trip to Hilton Head, and began planning for 2020. After twelve years of blogging, I’m feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to take on another year of projects at Bayberry House.
To kick off the year, I reviewed the 2019 Bayberry House projects I shared last year to see what was completed and what carried over. Below is a summary of last year’s results and the projects I’ll focus on in 2020.
2019 BAYBERRY HOUSE PROJECTS:
Kitchen Renovation:
COMPLETED. This major remodel took six months and included several related updates. The kitchen reveal transformed the space and also incorporated other small projects listed below.
Powder Room Renovation:
COMPLETED. Updated as part of the kitchen project, the powder room now has a lot more character despite its small size.
Dining Room Windows and Door Replacement:
COMPLETED. Replacing these brought in more light and improved the view—one of my favorite changes from last year.
Refinish First Floor Hardwood Floors:
COMPLETED. New hardwood was installed in the kitchen and I took the opportunity to refinish the rest of the first-floor floors.
Remove Entryway Closet:
COMPLETED. The built-in entry closet was removed during the remodel. I plan to add cabinetry and a bench later to improve storage and function.
Create a Garden:
COMPLETED. I installed a small backyard garden last year. It was a learning experience and not especially fancy, but I plan to replant and share it on the blog this year.
Paint and Decorate Bedrooms and Office:
STARTED, NOT COMPLETED. The master bedroom got a full makeover and one bedroom serves as my home gym, which received a mini-update. Two guest bedrooms and the office still need more attention.
Fix Exterior Chimney:
STARTED, NOT COMPLETED. I had the lower portion of the chimney repaired during the kitchen remodel. Completing the full repair and repainting was postponed due to budget constraints and remains on the list.
Create a Molding Plan:
PARTIALLY COMPLETED. I chose new molding styles for the kitchen, pantry, dining room, and powder room and will reuse that look when updating other spaces, adding details as needed.
Landscaping Projects:
STARTED, NOT COMPLETED. I removed a grove of trees and installed new plantings, but the landscaper I hired proved problematic. More landscaping work is needed to fulfill the original vision.
Overall, I’m pleased with last year’s progress. A few projects rolled into the new year, so here’s what I plan to tackle in 2020.
2020 BAYBERRY HOUSE PROJECTS:
Turn Basement into a Studio
A portion of my basement is semi-finished and I’ve never shown it on the blog. The room currently has wood paneling, linoleum or vinyl floors, and little closed storage. My plan is to replace damaged paneling, paint walls and ceiling, update the flooring, add substantial storage, and create a small studio for crafting, painting, and relaxing. I’ll share a full post with before photos and plans when the work begins.
Paint Upstairs Bedrooms and Office
The second floor is mostly original “builder beige” and needs fresh paint and basic decorating. My priorities are the two guest bedrooms and the home office to make them more welcoming and styled.
Style and Paint Dining Room
The dining room still feels a bit bare. I’m considering adding paint or color, buying a new rug, and finding a vintage buffet to bring warmth and personality to the space.
Entryway Built-in
After removing the entry closet, the first floor lacks practical storage for coats, the vacuum, and everyday items. I plan to install custom built-in cabinetry with a bench to create a functional and attractive entryway.
Living Room Fireplace Built-in
When the entryway cabinetry is installed, I’ll also enhance the living room by upgrading bookcases and strengthening the mantel. At that time I plan to convert the fireplace from wood-burning to gas and update the surrounding built-ins for improved style and function.
Find a New Landscaper
My landscaping still needs work and I want to hire a skilled landscaper to help implement a cohesive plan that supports my vision for the exterior.
Research and Price Backyard Leveling
I’d like to explore options to level and maximize the backyard. With two acres overall, my usable backyard is small and uneven. I’ll investigate grading, retaining solutions, and costs to see what’s feasible to improve usable outdoor space.
Tree Maintenance
A number of trees on the property are dead, dying, or simply don’t fit the aesthetic. Removing several large trees will be costly, so I plan to address this gradually over the next few years.
Finish Chimney Repairs
I’ll complete the chimney repairs started last year by replacing missing or crumbling brick and repainting the exterior chimney once the masonry work is done.
Other Possible Projects:
– Guest bath cosmetic update: paint, new fixtures, and styling.
– Garage cleanout and organization: paint, storage solutions, and decluttering.
– Outdoor shed: add a storage shed to increase organized outdoor storage.
Other projects will likely appear as the year unfolds, but this is my core 2020 Bayberry House list. It should keep me busy for most of the year.
I’m excited to bring you along as these projects progress and to share updates and photos. I’d love to hear your thoughts or suggestions in the comments.
Wishing you a great start to 2020 — have fun creating the happy place of your dreams!