Ever drive around just to browse other people’s homes? Ross and I do this a lot actually. If I see a color or specific feature I like, I’ll take a photo or even roll down my window to ask the homeowner for all the deets. Honestly, this has worked out a lot better for me than scrolling through Pinterest because local people will give out names, numbers along with any other info I may need.

Right now, my favorite street to drive down is Westwood Drive with all the lovely homes along the river. When I drive, I go slowly so I can properly check out door colors, landscaping and lighting. It’s a great way for me to get ideas that may be feasible for my own home renovation.
 
Naturally, I was driving the other day and decided to slow to a stop. I’ve been eyeing this sunroom for weeks so I finally decided to whip out my phone and take a photo to show Hugh (our handyman). As I looked through my phone, I realized a lady was waving me down. In this moment, I realized I had two options. Either speed away or park and explain myself. I chose the latter as I enjoy this scenic route home once, sometimes twice a day.

After explaining that my husband and I are renovating, she wasn’t creeped out at all. In fact, she gave me a tour of her home, shared renovation tips and discussed her own future projects for her 1940s house. I left with a new acquaintance, Mrs. Sandy. It’s times like this I’m happy to be back home among such friendly and welcoming people.

This isn’t the first time I’ve been caught creepin’. Last summer, Grandma and I were driving on West Sparta Street. She loved the color of the green craftsman house and had been trying to find a color swatch to match it (rather unsuccessfully). I convinced Grandma to park so I could jump out and take a close-up of the color. As I approached the house, the entire family was sitting on the side porch and I froze like a deer caught in headlights. After a quick explanation, the homeowners happily showed me through their home and we left with the names and brands of all the colors Grandma needed.    

With all this being said, I’m sure you’re wondering how far along we are with our renovations. We’re going room by room with ours starting with the living room. It has been repainted, four can lights have been added to the ceiling along with new wider crown molding. Hugh has started restoning our fireplace while Scotty Walker worked his magic on a new white mantle. It’s beautiful! Oh, and last week Hugh replaced two windows, removed two old heaters and covered the holes with oak from other parts of the house.

As I’ve mentioned before, it’s seems painstakingly slow, but even just a coat of paint makes a world of difference and I’m so thankful for this home. The next room on the list is the dining room and my fingers are itching to order some lovely blue and white Schumacher wallpaper. Stay tuned for more updates!

Lacy Garrison is a reporter for the Standard. She can be reached at 473-2191.