architectural digest

It took me about a year to find my condo that I am currently living in.  Part of the reason it took me so long, was due to the outrageous price of homes in the DC Metro Area (you would think we were in the middle of Manhattan or something).  The other reason it took me so long was because I was determined to find a place that had “character”.  So many condo’s were being built or renovated, that to me, they were all starting to look the same.  There were many nice condo’s that I had seen, but I felt like I wanted something with a little more “charm”.  I know it’s not for everyone, but I have a thing for old homes.  I would love to own one of those beeeaaautiful Victorian homes down in Savannah, GA.  I can picture myself sitting out on my porch, drinking a cold glass of lemon ice tea (with mint!), while my crisp sheer white curtains blow in the wind…

Image courtesy of Curious Expeditions

Image courtesy of Savannah Best

So, when I was hunting for my own place to call home, I was looking for things such as beautiful old molding, aged hardwood floors, or vintage tilework.  While I love old character and charm in a home, I also like to throw in a little new.  With so many of us looking to save money these days, and save the earth as well, vintage is more popular than ever!  For those who love that old charm, restoration is the thing, and for those who want something more modern, its all about transformation.  For a fraction of the cost of it’s modern-day equivalent, you can own a top quality vintage piece that may just need a little sprucing up.  In addition to saving money, a great benefit of buying vintage is the fact that many items constructed in years past, are much more sturdy and durable then items built today (and that goes for homes too!).  With just a few touches, you can go from something with potential, to something stunning!

Images Courtesy of This Young House

Other finds are just gorgeous and full of charm just as they are.  Throw a little windex on this mirror and it’s ready to go!

For sale on Craigslist

For those working with the interior of an older home, thinking about buying a “fixer-upper”, or trying to figure out how to enhance the look of your moldings or chair rails (such as my sister and brother-in-law), check out these awesome inspirations…

Image Courtesy of Architectural Digest

Image Courtesy of House Beautiful

Images Courtesy of The Domino Magazine Files Pool via Domino Magazine

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