House Photos Before

They have begun tearing up the back of the house.  Here are some photos of the before.

Steel Windows and Doors

We are in the process of renovating our kitchen  and are looking to add this steel window and door combination to the addition.  A few weeks from now I will take a field trip to Hopes Windows in Jamestown New York to see the plant where they manufacture these and decide on the design element we like best.  

All-time Obsession

I love large tables and work surfaces like this one featured in House Beautiful.  

Victor Hugo Castaneda RLP

The beautiful sculpture of Victor Hugo Castaneda at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate Mexico really is very moving.  His work is all over the grounds of the ranch and this one in particular seems to be a favorite of many people.  I was told the model was one of the yoga instructors.  What an incredible way to be remembered.

Landscaping

Finally getting the front yard in order.  Rocks, boxwood, sculpting.  In the rain....

The Porch

The back of our house has this huge awning and porch that becomes the center of our world each spring.  Last winter the awning came crashing down under the weight of one of the biggest snow storms to hit our region.  Last Friday the new awning went up,  we painted the porch and put the furniture back in its place.  Then last night we christened it with dinner, friends, wine and music.  No reason to travel anywhere this time of year.  I like the contrast of the gray porch floor with the cream and white of the house.  We have three sets of french doors across the back that can all be opened creating a wonderful zone where people call flow freely in and out.  This is my favorite time of year and one of my favorite places to be rest and think.

Things that Make Me Happy Part III

 

I promise this is the last Things-that-make-me -happy post but the roses at the side of my house are really mind bending.  Every time I pull into the driveway I am delighted to see them.  Further down the row are heirlooms with the most heady fragrance.  They attract every beetle and bug in the neighborhood but they are worth it to be able to smell and see real roses.  This was taken this morning before the fog lifted.  Welcome summer.