Oh, how I love to see
before and after shots. I find it so inspiring to get an idea of the complete transformation - and the feeling that anything is possible with a little imagination and hard graft (and depending on the scale, some cash, of course!) - how about you? When my amazingly talented friend
Valentina Fussell acquired her home in Georgia, Atlanta it was dated and a sea of beige, beige and more beige. But the moment she and her husband Jack and their three children stepped through the door they were in love. Looking at the bones, I can totally see why! Valentina had the vision to turn the house into a striking, contemporary, light-filled home inspired by their years abroad, including a stint in Copenhagen. You might recall a previous feature of the house
here (and a tour of their Danish home
here) but I couldn't resist revisiting the space today to share a little more about the transformation and show some of the before pictures. Drumroll, please!
KITCHEN (BEFORE)
AFTER
Valentina and Jack completely gutted the kitchen and decided on dark grey cabinets (from
Bell Cabinetry & Design) to add energy and a sense of drama to the space. Dark colours also help to mask appliances.
VALENTINA'S OFFICE (BEFORE)
AFTER
Perhaps the most dramatic room in the house, Valentina's office has been painted entirely in dark grey. the large windows help to bathe the space in light. It reminds me a little of the lovely
home of Lotta Agaton - what do you think?
LIVING ROOM (BEFORE)
AFTER
Valentina stuck to her monochromatic scheme and added warmth with details such as books, figurines, photos and plants as well as cushions and blankets.
The wood floor is from Authentic Reclaimed Hardwoods and selected due to the imperfect 'alive' nature of the grain which adds texture and a relaxed feel to the monochrome space. I have to say; this room is
BEYOND...!!!
JACK'S OFFICE (BEFORE)
AFTER
This bedroom was transformed into Jack's office. A work in progress (although I struggle to see how it can be improved!), the office has been decorated with a black and white scheme with added texture and interest from a large, patterned rugs, art other personal possessions.
MASTER BATHROOM (BEFORE)
AFTER
The master bathroom was the first room in the house to be renovated. The pair opted for a more classic look so it would stand the test of time.
VALENTINA'S DAUGHTER'S ROOM
Valentina's daughter was given free rein to decorate her bedroom. And judging by the results, it seems an eye for design runs in the family! My eldest daughter also loves to personalise her room with pictures - usually ripped out without scissors and haphazardly stuck to the wall using copious amounts of Sellotape! I am feeling particularly inspired by the way the pictures have been displayed in this teenage bedroom! Great inspiration! Thank you!
What an incredible transformation, don't you think?! Valentina is just so clever!!
If you're curious to hear more about the renovations and see more of the home (including 'the catwalk' and amazing conservatory, take a peek at her films
here and
here.
Valentina recently relaunched
House of Valentina stateside and helps others buy, sell, renovate and decorate. One day she dreams of opening a shop loaded with all the items used to stage and decorate homes. If she does, I'll be the first in line, how about you?!
Have a lovely day!
Niki
Photography courtesy of Valentina Fussell with thanks.
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