PROGRESS | MY COTTAGE KITCHEN.

The above photo is undeniable proof that things have slowly but surely been happening in our little downtown abode. As many of you already know, Maple and I bought a little historic cottage in an artsy area of Lexington that's really been on the rebound as-of-late. We purchased the building as an investment property, but decided to live in it amidst the renovation, as it certainly saves money, but also fulfills our dream of living in the heart of this amazing little city.

But as you can assuredly imagine, when you're a designer for a living, your own home often takes the back burner...or at least it feels that way...especially when you've taken up residence in a bit of an ongoing construction project. Progress has felt incredibly slow, but a nostalgic glance through those terrifying 'before photos' made me realize that we really have come quite a long way with this little cottage. So much, in fact, that I'm finally willing to show you a little tiny slice of it :)

So that brings me to the kitchen. Which, umm...hardly existed before we got our hands on this place. It was pretty close to being terrible, and the below photo doesn't even do its heinousness justice. Don't let that sink fool you. Vintage cast iron sinks can be incredibly cool to restore and utilize in a modern kitchen. This one was NOT. Nor were those cabinets, if you can call them that? Or the commercial grade CARPET. And there wasn't even a stove...so let's not forget that.

We had our work cut out for us. So we did what we do best: got our hands dirty. And although there's still some finishing projects to knock off our punch-list, I think it's fair to say we've come an incredibly long way from this nonsensical mess (above).

Our cabinets and counters have been in for awhile, but we'd prolonged the finishing of the floors, mostly because that meant moving out for a week. But it was finally time, and this past week was spent pampering that flooring (thanks to my Maple and our friend Eric, a talented architect/artist). So here's a little glimpse into the action that was had:

Perhaps I am biased, but I'm pretty in love with the end result. But maybe it's because my blood, sweat, and a few tears are in that kitchen. But it's perfect. And just what I envisioned for our historic little abode.

And yes, there are still finishing touches to wrap up: adhering the cabinetry toe-kick, painting the window casing (and getting a roman on that window), and sourcing the perfect hardware for my drawers...but good things come to those who wait. Or so my gleaming harlequin kitchen floors so kindly remind me :)

So...now it's your turn. What do you think?

HAPPY WINTER! (It snowed today?!)