Den Makeover- Calling on all experts
Hoping everyone is keeping safe and healthy and adjusting well to our new lifestyle!
As I emerge out of my antique crush, I am looking to upgrade our den to a modern look.. I was never a fan of the golden pecan built in bookcase, I chose the paint color to accent it. I am at point where I am ready to flip everything but looking for ideas.
Do I stain the bookcase darker, or shall I go white (my preference)
I am planning to replace desk, chair, light fixture and of course the blinds. Can replace the rug if needed but would like your thoughts on redoing the 2 antique chairs.
Welcoming all questions, thoughts and ideas.
Comments (84)
RedRyder
4 years agoDana Kinder
4 years agoRelated Discussions
Scored a $5 Den, not an expert with these give it a once over pls
Comments (9)! wouldn't worry about them, they are scar tissue from a fungus infection which will not increase provided you can provide good growing conditions for the plant. Maybe a squirt or two of fungicide might assist...hopefully you will get better advice from the locals. The big problem with those hard- canes here is that homes are not centrally heated and if the plants get cold and wet they drop buds especially so since peak blooming is late autumn/winter. Similar problems with them in one of my glass=houses, High humidity at night together with cool temperatures will cause bud drop. I have some in bloom to on-sell for the local orchid society at the autumn show, they are inside on the kitchen windowsill....See MoreAny worm experts here?
Comments (82)"Do you care to comment, maybe in a new post, on any possible use of cowboy charcoal in a vermicompost system, especially any possible use as surface area for microbes? " Cowboy charcoal is the same as lump charcoal, right? I had never heard of it before by that name, probably because cowboys likely used found wood instead of hauling messy charcoal around. I don't think that charcoal is a bad thing, but it seems like extra effort to burn off substances that could have fueled your worms instead. Turning wood into charcoal would theoretically keep most of the ash content, but lock it away longer than a lifetime if the char was buried without further reduction. Granted, if you were doing a very long term, multigenerational project of land reclamation and had an unlimited budget, charcoal does stick around for a while and has the habit of adsorbing things that would have otherwise been washed below the root zone. Instead of washing away though, they would be locked away. From what I remember, clay has similar nutrient performance to charcoal, but you can amend the soil to forcibly unlock its treasure. "the picture clarity was excellent of the worm mating and worm kibbles and bits. " The worm kibbles and bits that I was referring to as undercooked were the cardboard bits. The cardboard looked like the dense stuff that one would find in a cereal box. I add this stuff to my bin and am not saying it's bad. Cereal boxes are often treated with a preservative called BHT. It's not considered harmful because people don't eat the boxes and BHT is the synthesized version of the natural wax found on apples. The BHT would likely repel moisture though, and thus the cardboard has not started to break down in the close-up image. As I was saying though, it really does not matter because the worms bypassed the waiting period by breeding and thus trying again when the food would be ready. "Is there a great food or bedding source for worms that is often overlooked? " You ask if there is a great food or bedding source that is often overlooked. My reply to that I've been saying over and over. Worms need space. The more space you give worms, the more they will be able to take care of themselves. The bin needs to be deep because worms will inhabit whatever depth they prefer, and different worms of the same species prefer widely varying bin microenvironments. A large bin also lets you perform hot composting right in the bin without threatening the worms or wasting the compost products or heat energy. They simply go away from what they don't like and toward what they do. I have performed this experiment in robots I've built in the past that had the equivalent of one brain cell but were fully capable of moving towards one stimulus and away from another. One braincell, but worms are smarter than that. The larger the bin, the more likely it will be outdoors where it doesn't matter if it smells a little and can manage it's own temperature in the cold. I live in zone 5 and my bin has already frozen and thawed through without apparent hardship. My bedding of most interest is fine wood chips, I have mostly newspaper and corrugated cardboard that I have put through a paper shredder that I modified, and that is acceptable bedding for outdoors. My favorite worm food input is dead animals, such as mice and frost-burned meat. "What do you think of those newfangled cloth worm bins" The cloth worm bins seem to have the advantages of a larger mass, more depth, and the much desired flow-through design. They also may keep people from digging around in them if they are awkward enough. On the downside though, their excessive exposure to air would likely make them unstable in varying conditions, inconsistent because of perimeter drying, and a maintenance hog. I don't have one of these though, so I can't tell you anything from experience. You asked something about google and freedom of information. Information is not freely available on the internet. Most of it is copyrighted property of someone and using it for your gain will land you in trouble. This is a general hindrance to the betterment of mankind. A good example is that university research is generally free information to all because universities are heavily subsidized by government and donations, but whatever company that is holding it for you to look at will nearly always require you to pay for access to it. I feel this is against the spirit of government funded education and the nature of public information. Also, I have switched from google to bing for one reason. Google has a feature where you can block up to 500 domains from your search results. This is good because they often serve up loads of spam web pages that don't hold the data that was implied. But these pages are profitable for google, so google refuses to block certain pages from their manual (pain in the butt) block list. The pages that are refused blocking are always the crappiest ones that fill pages of results going to the same place. For this reason, and because I also use Firefox browser, I have switched to Bing because I can get a Firefox addon that will force-block results of my choosing (without the pain in the butt) from Bing's search results. The addon is called "bing results remover". Google and Bing give substantially the same search results with only a general change in the brand and attitude slant. This means that google will offer more of the pages that pay it to do so and offer more bing-slandering sites, while bing search will do the very same thing in its own benefit. This is another example of how the information is not free... but at least general information is more obtainable on a search engine than raw research publications from anywhere I've seen on the internet. This is ironic since the internet was created specifically to share research information. It was not freely available back then though either. "I way like your basing worm stuff answers on actual facts. " I'm basing worm stuff on my interpretation of observations, reading, and logic. If they sound more agreeable than other worm stuff, that alone does not make them actual facts. Furthermore, a fact is not guaranteed to be correct. I like to help and communicate information freely with the intention of being a good neighbor, or something similar, but I don't have anything to sell and make no money or have any financial interests related to worms or gardening besides growing food for myself and making fertilizer for my own use. " Please tell me the common species of vermicompost worms do not need grit. " I do not suspect that worms need special dietary care for their gizzards. If you suspect they do, then you can chuck some dirt on the bin. A worm gizzard is really small. At that size, it's not likely to have the same exact use as a chicken gizzard. I would not confuse the two animals. Furthermore, worms and chickens do not have a stomach like a human does. The crop and gizzard do the metering and mastication that a human uses its teeth and stomach for. "This board, or another one, used to have a lady who since moved on who provided research based worm information. Her posts are my vermicompost holy grail. Perhaps you could be this boards new her? You might need a bit of a makeover though. She was very, very sweet." Lead nitrate, arsenic, Ethylene glycol, phenylalanine aspartate, sodium saccharin and Kelly Slocum are all described as sweet. I would rather be described as bitter so as to serve as a warning that I'm not to be recklessly over-consumed, as no one should. I have no reason to be excessively nice or "sweet" and I consider that a virtue. I'm happy to learn and share what I learn. Some people think that's nice, some want that and a smile. This post was edited by buckstarchaser on Sun, Feb 24, 13 at 2:04...See MoreKitchen Makeover - Layout Help!
Comments (18)I'm not arguing against doing the save/more/money route for sure. Refacing cabinets is usually more expensive than one would think and doesn't seem to last as long as one would hope. That's why I'd be doing a little at a time (pay-as-you-go). You are going to have some "casualties" in any re-arrangement. For instance - you move the range to the other side of the room - you get a spot without a cabinet on the current sink wall. For the short uppers, you could load a pot rack or plate rack underneath or place another open shelf underneath so it matches the other side. I know you'd really rather have less cabinets on that wall but your existing cabinets look built-in-place and can be hard to move. They are also the wrong sizes - like there isn't a 31" base cabinet and it doesn't look like it could be made. Someone would need to create a new built-in place cabinet for the hole where the range was AND for the hole beyond the dishwasher where you want to shorten the run AND for the uppers beyond the window. It becomes a lot of parts and materials. That's why I'm suggesting starting in a way that can be "stopped" and restarted later. Ikea cabinets (without the door or drawer fronts) are seriously cheap. It's a reasonable way to approach the design you like without incurring a big price tag and a long down time where you can't use your kitchen. You could also think about creating that great "accumulated look". Again as an example, find something cool looking that could be the pantry - like an armoire. Take out the tall cabinet beside the "range hole" and the wall cabinet that was over the range and put the new cabinet in. Put together a 68"-70" sink unit with a trash pullout, 36" sink base and dw. Find a hutch and place it on the hallway side of the new sink unit for dish storage. On the other side - match or complement the new section. Very little funds, great new look. Here is a link that might be useful: Sample lift door cabinet....See MoreAnother snafuu--any carpenters/ceiling experts out there?
Comments (19)Yes, all excellent suggestions! Kat--your trim looks fabulous, I wouldn't be able to tell, probably even if I was looking for it. You (and your carpenters) did a fantastic job. I also take comfort in the fact that, as you said, once there's a nice backsplash (yet to be chosen), counters and light fixtures, might not be as big of a deal. Buehl--No, you are right. I am concerned with everywhere, including over the cabinets, but the problem with the light board is that the sink area is intended to be a focal point in the room. So, I think the issue is most noticible there. Also--your trim idea is a GREAT one that I will file away for my next project (if there ever is one). Right now they are removing the moulding and doing a mock-up of lowering the light board. If that looks OK, I'm not quite as concerned about the variation from one side to the other. My thought process is, unless you looked quickly from one side to the next and back again, you might not necessarily notice the difference. Also, good eye buehl! In addition to the variation in overall height, there is a dip in the middle. I LOVE my ceiling. :) Thanks everybody....See More
PROFlo Mangan
4 years ago- PRO
Dana Kinder
4 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago Dana Kinder
4 years agoThere is a 25% coupon that I can apply, but would end up paying >100 for the shipping. I thought it is best to add the boring and the hardware so I wouldn't have to worry about it. Does this look right?
- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago Dana Kinder
4 years ago
dianabythelocks
4 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago - PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago RedRyder
4 years agofelizlady
4 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago Dana Kinder
4 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago Dana Kinder
4 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago everdebz
4 years agoHere's the fabric's nice blue and beige to blend with a 'serious room'... and bit of spring green bud color -
https://www.houzz.com/products/maldives-caribbean-fabric-9x9-prvw-vr~122798120Dana Kinder thanked everdebzeverdebz
4 years agolast modified: 4 years agoA bit too light looking - unless you paint the wall of cases - there is some of the mint/seafoam of the chair in?
August Morning Blue Fabric, 55.5"x36" · More Info
Sissinghust Garden Green Tea Fabric, 54"x36" · More Info
https://www.houzz.com/products/august-morning-blue-fabric-55-5x36-prvw-vr~122755133https://www.houzz.com/products/sissinghust-garden-green-tea-fabric-54x36-prvw-vr~122763937
Dana Kinder
4 years agoeverdebz
4 years agolast modified: 4 years agoeverdebz
4 years agolast modified: 4 years agoCotton and traditional-type color of cornseed, might be nice with chairs as they are - blend with wood, and soft look with seats
Cotton Linen Solid Cornseed Panel, Cornseed, 96" · More Info
https://www.houzz.com/products/cotton-linen-solid-cornseed-panel-cornseed-96-prvw-vr~40783248
everdebz
4 years agoThese title/names! surf and Jacobean --
https://www.houzz.com/products/meadowlark-surf-floral-blue-jacobean-fabric-prvw-vr~27549334
everdebz
4 years agoI like your cases obviously, but the desk is a bit darker, and with heavy light, has masculine vibe - for the desk idea:
Rust-Oleum® Chalked Ultra Matte Paint creates an ultra matte finish with superior adhesion and coverage. It rejuvenates furniture and home décor with timeless elegance. It can be painted or distressed, giving any project a one of a kind look with a vintage feel.
•Light tint base One coat coverage on many surfaces
•Indoor use Low odor
•Dries to a velvety smooth finish, and Easily distressed
For Best Results lightly scuff high gloss surfaces with sand paper or a sanding sponge. Apply 1-3 even coats 30 minutes apart.
https://www.houzz.com/products/rust-oleum%C2%AE-287688-chalked-ultra-matte-paint-30-oz-light-tint-base-prvw-vr~155645314everdebz
4 years agolast modified: 4 years agoSoft color on walls - and seems a light like this wouldn't stand front and center [like your antique does of course]... but would have soft sheen, modernized ?! ;)
Less chain? / W 23.75" / H 22.5"
Haven 5-Light Chandelier · More Info
Arms that gracefully descend from a collector cradle a round metal band that can be removed for a minimalistic look. Available in two finish combinations: Black with Satin Nickel Accents and Oil Rubbed Bronze with Antique Brass accents. •Bulb Type: E26 Medium Incandescent •Bulb Wattage: 60 •Dimmable.https://www.houzz.com/products/haven-5-light-chandelier-prvw-vr~150913416
Dana Kinder thanked everdebzeverdebz
4 years agoMe again to say that if you like dark bronze, and the house has that - you'd probably need current cases, but idk.... photoshop?
Natural linen shade covered with antique-black finish design. Nearly 18 inches in diameter for bedroom, living room, or office. •Suggested Room Size: 180 - 400 sq ft •Shade 4.25"H •Takes Five (5) max 60-watt candelabra (E12) •Dimmable •Includes three rods each 12 in. and one (1) rod 6 in..
5-Light Antique Black Metal and Ivory Round Drum Pendant Chandelier · More InfoDana Kinder thanked everdebzDana Kinder
4 years agoI am sorry I haven't been on for a while. Apparently, I have lined up the room painting and the built ins paint right after, but need some advice regarding the color.
One specific question is do I keep the shelf over the cabinets in dark wood, or do I go white and gray only? I have attached 2 pictures for votes.
Currently under consideration is SW Light french gray for the walls and the built-in back wall, and Chantilly Lace for the book case.
Another question that can wait, is do I do brushed bronze or brushed brass for the hardware?I appreciate your advice!
- PRO
Flo Mangan
4 years ago Dana Kinder
4 years agoDana Kinder
3 years agoReady for some updates? Short of window treatment and a couple of other things, but here we go:
Gcubed
3 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
3 years ago Dana Kinder
3 years agoDana Kinder
3 years agoWould relaxed Roman shades be the best fit for the bay window? I’m thinking just linen.
- PRO
Flo Mangan
3 years ago - PRO
Flo Mangan
3 years agoThis style. Possible fabric. Get a consultant to come to your home. They make it so easy. I think the relaxed style will go too master bedroom look.
Dana Kinder
3 years ago- PRO
Flo Mangan
3 years ago RedRyder
3 years agoDana Kinder
3 years ago
Irene Morresey