The renovation of our apartment is moving into its last week. Hopefully by next weekend it will be ready for the interior decorating stage. I am antsy for that part, but I cannot get ahead of myself, first things first-- the structure.
When we started this renovation we had planned to tear down three walls. Creating a larger kitchen and a smaller second bedroom. But when we found the old wooden beam structure we decided to ditch the first plan, and renovate the wooden structure, by taking it back to its original skeleton. In France most buildings and homes are made with stone, or cement blocks. In the older buildings wooden structure like the one in our apartment can be found, stones and mortar where added in between the beams.
In keeping the old wooden structure we had to change our plan. Hence gave up the second bedroom and made it into a kitchen.
The wooden structure separates the entrance from the open kitchen living space.
Add to the excitment I found a pair of wooden panels at the Portes de Vanves brocante. They are about three meters long.
I had no idea what I was going to do with them, but I knew something good would be figured out.
As soon as the panels were carried into the house my mother in law, had a brllant idea: To put them above the wooden structure, one on each side, boar.
One panel on each side of the structure.
We had to plaster the top part because there was a gap between ceiling and the structure. Tomorrow we will sand and paint the plaster part that we added.
How exciting to see the transition!
Loving each step of the way.
Posted by: Marilyn | 10 August 2013 at 12:20 AM
Liking this idea VERY much! Thank you MIL . . .
Posted by: Lynne | 10 August 2013 at 12:38 AM
Brilliant idea - just brilliant. What you say is so true - when you find something as amazing as they are, the right idea will come...
Posted by: Jillayne | 10 August 2013 at 04:20 AM
Strokes of genius! The rustic charm of the poutres, elevated to artistic elegance by the panels. A lot to enjoy right there! Chapeau, Corey et la belle mere!
Posted by: Claire | 10 August 2013 at 04:36 AM
YES!!!!!! I was hoping that was were they were going! They are going to be gorgeous and a beautiful statement. Are you surprised at how quickly the transformation has occured? I am. :)
Posted by: Jeannie | 10 August 2013 at 04:51 AM
This is so exciting! It all comes together and so beautifully.
Posted by: Rhonda | 10 August 2013 at 06:08 AM
Snaps for your mother-in-law; perfect placement! I am also charmed by the big windows that open into the room.
Jan
Posted by: Jan | 10 August 2013 at 06:26 AM
Looks lovely - BRAVO!
Posted by: 24/7 in France | 10 August 2013 at 08:04 AM
Corey, you must get to Vanves early in the morning, like very early. You seem to get great pieces there. I have never had much luck at Vanves, but I guess by 11 or 12 when I show....it's too late. The panels look great and I love the placement.
Posted by: Diogenes | 10 August 2013 at 09:04 AM
That Mother in law had a wonderful vision!They look FANTASTIC........this is so exciting!I cannot believe your almost at the decorating part...........these shirtless men do work!Perhaps, it helps you and French husband are there too??
Posted by: La Contessa | 10 August 2013 at 09:25 AM
Mother in law had vision!Shirtless men working FAST!It is all so exciting!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: La Contessa | 10 August 2013 at 09:26 AM
Gorgeous! Just found your blog and am living vicariously! Love it
Posted by: Beverly Elaine | 10 August 2013 at 03:02 PM
loving every step..I could use some Corey and shirtless men in my home for awhile!
Posted by: Patti Lloyd | 11 August 2013 at 04:57 AM
You're a real genius at work, I can say that after having look at your pictures above. I'm loving your ideas and inspiration too.
Posted by: Redesign Old Jewellery | 24 August 2013 at 02:49 PM