Congress Street Cottage Renovation Proposal- Part 1
This 1940s cottage is located in the Historic District of Summerville, South Carolina. During the late 1700's, Summerville was appropriately named as it was used as a "get-away" for Charleston, South Carolina locals to escape the summer heat and mosquitos. I will present beginning plans to renovate main areas of the home while preserving the look and feel of this post-war build. The buyer will own a small piece of history while enjoying being downtown in one of the fastest growing greater-Charleston area towns. The historical society in this area dictates the color palette we can use in the renovations. "Haint Blue" porch ceilings are historically accurate and add charm to Southern homes. The legend is that the color keeps evil spirits, or "haints", at bay. Sherwin Williams offers several "haint" blue tones. The Oyster white home and porch swing contrast with the warm wood-toned shutters. The brass gas lantern and mailbox will add a welcoming feel. Welcome home!
The 1,524 square foot cottage includes a front porch perfect for a rocking chair and swing to enjoy warm evenings. Not shown is a mother-in-law suite directly behind the home that will be renovated to add another bedroom or storage space as well as house a large laundry room. Walls between the dining area, kitchen, and living area have been removed to create an open layout with the "shotgun" floor plan. Entire walls were not removed for support of the load bearing walls and beams were inserted in place of the walls that were removed. Each bedroom now includes closet space. A lovely foyer and dining room now greet you upon entering. Recessed lighting throughout the home has been added as well.
The kitchen has a french country style to create a cozy and elegant atmosphere while being "bright and white" like so many 1940's post-war homes. People preferred bright kitchens to create a clean feeling during a time of sickness and disease. The horizontal planked walls are perfect for a cottage and the quartz countertops and engineered flooring are low maintenance options. Brass lighting will be continued throughout the home as well as antique nickel fixtures to create a seamless look.
The dining room allows for a mixture between elegance and function. An extendable dining table seats a family of four or a party of six. Local artwork and furniture will be displayed throughout the home as Summerville loves to support local artists. China and silver were discovered at vintage shops around the area. The chandelier will hang over the dining table. There is also a piano that was included with the sale that will be tuned and displayed in the dining area.
My completed projects- Part 2
Crowfield Plantation Home. Drapery Project- sewn by me for my client who was renovating her mother's home. Large floor to ceiling finger pleated and lined drapes. Customer Facebook Review: "Fabulous, Fabulous work! Such an artist!"
Crowfield Plantation Dining Room. Styled with client's furniture and drapery (sewn by me). Drapery is finger pleated and lined.
Work room project for local fabric store. Sewing process on completion of a nursery pillow for Baby Bell. Covington "Over the Moon" fabric and vintage lace.
Beatrix Potter themed nursery. Carrot and plaid drapery (Spoonflower design). White mint walls to create a calming mix of tone and play on the psychology that blue calms baby and green is stimulating. Hand painted frames with character prints. Drapery and inverted pleat crib skirt (sewn by me). Bunny lamps with a mix of old heirlooms and new treasures.
Examples of my clothing and costume design. Both have allowed me to fall in love with fabrics and the design process.
