Going Vintage

So buying a circa 1884 house has it advantages and disadvantages. These houses always have such character, such identities. They are built with much more attention to detail. In a time where it was more important than simply to have a roof over your head, it was worth the extra effort to add those finishing touches.

These houses stand strong, they stand tall, whilst more modern houses within a few years start looking shabby. Those modern houses that already look like they are falling apart. Although they too have their advantages such as in built cupboards and open plan designs.

We have dropped those in built cupboards and open plan living areas for a "cosy" weatherboard with little to no cupboard space.

Our mission; to create a home that builds on the character that it already possesses, to encompass those that came before us but also embraces who we are. We are a little family with big ideas. We want to create our own atmosphere in this house, make it feel "big" and enticing. We have an ever growing list of ideas that we are planning for this house and no idea where to start. Not to mention limited funds. So this is our challenge. I won't speak to much of what we have planned, that will come with time.

So going back to one of those disadvantages; the lack of in built cupboards... We have our eyes on our first target. Initially I was thinking we would go all out and pay $699 for a free standing wardrobe from Ikea (see picture below). This is a good option, we know what we will get, it has it's shelves too and we know it will last a decent period of time. However as we often do, we took a trip to Smythesdale to check out the collectables there. I always see wardrobes around the place at these kind of stores however have never paid much attention to them. We happened to find one of those vintage wardrobes with peg legs, a dark stain and a decent size to add some shelving in. This wardrobe suits the house and is great buy at $20. Not that i know the worth of wardrobes, however it is amazingly priced compared to the alternative we have in mind. As with anything old there is a little work to be done, including treating a section of the wood for borers, fixing the lopsided rail and adding some shelving.

How could you give up a chance for a great vintage piece that costs little to nothing apart from some repairs and maintenance. Why would you pay $699? If we were cashed up I am sure we could get a great vintage style brand spanking new wardrobe at the drop of the hat but alas we are not and won't be in the foreseeable future.

So now we have a little old house and a little old wardrobe.

I am warming to this wrought iron bed frame... I think it would look good with the vintage wardrobe! It's only $339 from Ikea!