http://smilingsally.blogspot.com
http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com
http://houseinroses.blogspot.com
For years, I've had a dream of taking a shabby little cottage and transforming it. Well, the time has come, and I'm so excited! I think this project is going to provide me with an endless subject for blog posts.
I've been on the lookout for a cottage in my favorite coastal town, and I had several criteria:
It needed to be walking distance to town. Check!
This is 1/2 mile to Main Street, with sidewalks the whole way.
It had to be bright, with the potential to be both cheery and cozy. Check!
It needed to have some closets---very rare with these old cottages---and this one did. Check!
It needed to have 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Check!
It needed to have a swimming pool--- dream on... Wait! Check!!!
It would, ideally, be close to the water. Check!
1/2 block away from a wooden stairway down to a private beach.
I've died and gone to heaven!
Now, for a little history...
I found this house a year ago and made an offer, which was not accepted. Fast-forward to earlier this summer. Price reduced $30,000. SOLD!
Now, before I show you any pictures, you have to understand...
For some reason this cottage "spoke" to me the first time I ever saw it. I had a vision of just how cute it could be, with enough work, love and money put into it.
(Blue front door and blue pool for Blue Monday)
The original cottage is believed to be about 80 years old and constructed of clay bricks. It has the original heart pine floors and some original windows. Two "wings" were added on, in a "higgledy-piggledy" fashion, over the years. The result is a somewhat U-shaped house built around the pool. It's just under 2,000 square feet.
I'm not a DIY-er at all. That's the understatement of the year! LOL But, I'm fortunate enough to have access to some amazing gentlemen who seem to be able to do everything that needs to be done. I just supply the ideas and pick out the "fun stuff".
Check back tomorrow for more pictures and updates!
How exciting ! I found you through Met Monday and I'm your newest follower .... you can be sure I'll be checking back often to see the progress of this adorable new cottage !
ReplyDeleteBTW - have you read Mary Kaye Andrew's books about cottages and antiquing in the South ? Your post reminds me of her !
gena
www.thehouseonlavenderhill.blogspot.com
That enticing blue water of the pool looks as if you could cool off after a day of DIYing!
ReplyDeleteHappy Blue Monday, Tracy.
Great photos! The pool looks inviting. :)
ReplyDeleteMy Blue Monday.
How exciting! I think it's cute and I'm lovin' the pool-have fun!
ReplyDeleteOh my, what a great looking place! - No wonder it spoke to you :o)
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of all the fun you're going to have 'making it your own'.
Congratulations, I'm sure you're going to be very happy there.
Your own cottage...lucky you! What fun to renovate and decorate...
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see pictures of the inside! It's going to fun watching you make the cottage your own.
ReplyDeleteSmiles,
Carol
OMGosh...how much fun is this gonna be!! You are indeed, blessed. What fun you will have and how cute you can make this adorable cottage. I am following so I can see the transformation....:))
ReplyDeleteSuch pretty cottage... love it that is sorunded in Nature... Very pretty... and thanks for participating in our "Show Off Your Cottage Monday" and letting us into your lovely home...
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Cielo
The cottage is wonderful. It got to me at the blue door and more with the blue pool. I will be following so that I can come back to see more. Thanks for sharing and for your kind comment on my blog.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! This is great! And wow... a swimmingpool, that's fantastic! Have lots of fun with your new home!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your cottage!!! And a pool too!!! I'm coming over to cool off :-) I just adore it. I want to do something like you are doing for my first house. I cannot wait to follow you on your journey of restoring this beauty.
ReplyDeleteHappy Blue Monday!!!!
~Alex
Hi Tracey! Oh, how exciting for you to find your pretty little cottage! Looks great from the outside and it has a pool? Fantastic! I'll be looking forward to seeing how you decorate it.
ReplyDeletebe a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
What a lovely blog! Your cottage project looks interesting. I love the feel of a cottage!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! I look forward to watching your progress. Nice pool! La
ReplyDeleteCongrats! Can't wait to check back for updates on your little cottage. The pool looks very inviting. Happy Blue Monday and have a great week!
ReplyDeleteHow great enjoy! I love decorating and you will have such fun!!
ReplyDeleteHugs, Lisa