I'm actually really chill, I just have a vision
Building a home of my own.
I turned the page on a new chapter last month! This is my first time getting my own apartment, where I can be as picky, patient and creative as I want. This next chapter feels fresh, energized, a little scary, but ultimately so so freeeeeing. Home is so important to me and I can’t wait to pour myself into this little space.
Obviously I’ve been pinning inspo like crazy. The overall feeling I’m always trying to achieve is calming, sentimental, inspiring, and clean.
As you can tell, I’m loving warm buttery spaces with breezy linens and natural wood. I love a touch of modern/futuristic details (chrome, space-age pieces, exposed tech) mixed with ‘outdated’ finishes (yellowed plastic, heirloom wood, mid-century lighting, old tile).
I want to look around and see my passions, interests, and experiences reflected back through photos, books, projects, collections, etc. I’ve lived in a lot of places and grown into so many versions of myself, and I want to honour all of them in some way.
I’ve been painting (and sweating) like crazy the past few weeks, and I’ve finally started moving my stuff in. I ended up painting all the rooms in Coconut Twist by Behr, an almost-white-but-definitely-cream that feels warm and compliments the wood trims/floors nicely.
The kitchen is painted in Abstract by Behr, and I loved it so much that I carried it into the entryway and hallway as well. I think it really makes the old flooring and kitchen tiles pop, and I’m excited to bring in a little more colour to my space after years of white walls. It’s definitely more of an off-putting greeny mustardy colour IRL…. in the best way.
I also spent an afternoon covering my bathroom vanity in faux burlwood contact paper while I waited for the wifi guy. Though it was frustrating at times, especially in the heatwave, I really love the finished look! Sadly the landlords “updated” the bathroom before I got the place, and I’ve been mourning the charm of the old tile and sink.
My fav remaining parts of the bathroom are the wood trim/door, chrome towel rod, and the built in cabinet. I think after a coat of creamy paint, my fav Autumn Sonata towel set, and a new shower curtain the space will look fresh and cozy.
Recent Treasures
First things first, the dream couch I mentioned in my last post. A vintage buttery leather sofa by J.H. Hicolity for Nicoletti. I scored it on FB marketplace for $200 and sadly had to leave behind the matching daybed— which I’ve actually had pinned for YEARS. Serendipity! The original owner told me she bought them 20+ years ago and got them shipped from Montréal. I am sooo excited to move it into the living room.
A new-old bed! I decided to downsize to a double bed, and my stepdad happened to recently inherit this beautiful wooden headboard, handmade in Canada. I love the wavy silhouette and lighter tone of the wood compared to my darker walnut and teak pieces.
Other bits & bobs I’ve thrifted lately for my apt:
Project Planning
- Replace switchplates with thrifted/vintage ones. Ideally chrome, wood, ceramic, or punched tin. For now I’ve found some vintage yellowed-beige plastic ones (a recurring theme lol).
- Get a wireless ceiling light for the hallway and thrift a lampshade to mount around it. Dreaming of a Tulip shade but we’re on a budget here obv.
- Build a wooden shelf/bench cover for the radiator in the entryway. It would be nice to have a space to set my keys, and lean on to put on my shoes. An extra touch of wood should warm up the kitchen/entry area nicely.
Treasures for YOUR Home
I posted a small collection of special vintage homewares on Magnetism this week! Some treasures to make your space feel a little more special and unique. You can shop those pieces here. :-)
Okay okay that’s all for now. I’ll see you soon with some more updates and ramblings!
What are your favourite thrift stores in Niagara? I live here as well, but I always find myself driving to Hamilton to find the goods lol