Today, I’m excited to present the first installment of “Now. . . And Then”, which will hopefully be a long-running weekly series on my blog. I had alot of positive feedback when I dared to show you pictures of our old house last week and how my style has evolved. So, I thought it would be fun to ask some well-known bloggers–whose homes we all know and love–to share pictures of their style from years past and how it has changed over time.
A big thanks to Jennifer for kicking off this series!
Blogger: Jennifer of Rambling Renovators
Then:
What makes me cringe when I look back:
The old room isn’t that ugly, but I find it looks a bit simple, too generic and cookie cutter. The too short curtains are laughable though! The rest of the room is just plain and yawn-inducing. There’s little art or decor or colour – where’s the life and personality?? The room looks like I just moved in when in fact I’d been living there for three years. How boring!
Now:
What I love most about my house now:
I think this room and our house in general has a much more welcoming and lived-in feel. There are layers and more sophistication in the design and we’ve taken the time to add architectural details and accessories. From the panelling we added on the walls, to the radiator cover we made, the layering of wood blinds and draperies, and the mix of furniture styles, we’ve gotten bolder and more confident in our decor choices. We’ve taken more risks and in the end it feels much more unique, more “us”.
The biggest influence on my evolving style has been:
My husband! He is an intern architect and the handiest person I know. He has helped bring my design visions to life and really expands the boundaries of what we can achieve. Like the panelled wall – I designed the layout of it, but he added the details like the platform under the sconces, did all the measurements, and built it. He has taught me that all those fundamental details like sightlines, symmetry, pattern, and construction are just as important as paint colour, fabric selection, and styling. In the end, when we work together I think we come up with better looking, more lush designs that are both aesthetically and architecturally pleasing.
See more of Jennifer’s home here.
What a wonderful transformation! I’m loving the fabulous lamp! Enjoy the gorgeous day, Kellie xx
This is such a fabulous idea for a series and I absolutely love love Jenn’s bedroom/style- positively gorgeous!!!
Great idea. I love to see how people’s styles have grown. Can’t wait to see more. Jennifer’s Bedroom is beautiful!
Great idea for a series. Jennifer’s room is really beautiful-and I think we’ve all had too short curtains at one time.
this is a lovely series..what a transformation..i feel the panelling on the walls made a huge difference in a room with no major architectural element to start with..thanks for sharing..I discovered your blog today..it is very inspiring and beautiful..i’m your latest subscriber..i hope you’ll visit my blog too..it would be lovely if you would follow me too! xx meenal
I love this new series. What a beautiful transformation! The wood paneling behind the bed add so much visual interest and the layering of pattern and color gives the room much needed personality! Lovely room!
Jessie
http://www.mixandchic.com
I like the mix of patterns on the throw pillows and the “pop” of blue on the night stand. The room is so much warmer and relaxing.
http://www.lminteriorsllc.blogspot.com
Please do visit A Room with A View and take the poll. Thanks so much!
This is a great idea. Love Jennifer and her home, she is such a sweet person with amazing sense of style and taste!
This is going to be such a great series! I absolutely love the paneled wall. I agree that architectural details make such a huge impact; i just wish I had the skills to make them happen myself without having to hire a contractor!
Thanks for having me in your series, Emily! I don’t know what makes me cringe more – the boring condo bedroom or my poor photo skills pre-blogging, haha!
I can’t wait to see the rest of the series. Its such a great idea.
xo Jennifer
The before and after is tremendous. She is so talented.
Rashon aka Mr. Goodwill Hunting
This is fantastic! I especially love her curtain fabric and the architecture they added to the wall.
Great series! I’m already looking forward to the next installment. :-)
Fabulous series idea!!! Love Jennifer’s bedroom… what a transformation! Had to look back at your own ‘now and then’ post too… have to say I made the same mistake as you in buying a complete ‘set’ of family room furniture… ugh…
What a difference! I LOVE her new drapes. Off to search for the name of that fabric :)
Love, love, LOVE this idea! Look forward to continuing to see what ideas and thoughts come forth!
That is a gorgeous bedroom. I am so looking forward to this series and getting a good look at all the before & afters of our favourite bloggers.
This is SUCH a great idea for a series. I can’t believe how I used to decorate….there are some doozies from when I was in my twenties (HUGE floral curtains on EVERY window….etc)!!! It’s fun to see that others have evolved, too.
Stacy
Great series Emily!
What a great new series! So looking forward to it! Also what an amazing transformation, it looks stunning!
She and her husband are a great team! I’ve drooled over their bedroom for a long time! And I love how calm and sweet Jen was on Nate! And of course, their daughter is too cute!
Nothing short of amazing!! Janell
This is going to be a great series and I’m looking forward to the next installment! Thank you for sharing.
I love her room…and her!! And I never tire of seeing her little girl….so stinking cute!!!
ooooh – first time visiting in awhile, and i have to say, i am loving this idea for a series! it’s fascinating to see spaces grow and mature. i’ll be following this one!