There's a list of them. Making the Garden Room a bit more comfortable in the colder months moved to the top and Rusty's been busy.
First, he made interior storm windows… because why buy them when you can make them yourself? (I can think of one or two reasons, but whatever…) They're not perfect, but they're in and they do seem to make a difference.
Then, he wanted to insulate the ceiling in the "new" part (the white beadboard), which is part of the old wrap-around porch. The "old" Garden Room was part of the old wrap-around at one time, too, but it was incorporated into the house and insulated long ago.
He started with foam insulation board, then some sort of paper/foil barrier; he "found" some lathe strips in the attic, and finished it all off with some bead board similar to the old stuff. The grooves aren't as deep and it's new, but it should age well.
This is classic Rusty-on-the-job. I have a few of these from over the years… sometimes with a banana or cup of coffee in hand.
The wood on the old part of the ceiling was reclaimed from a closet that used to be in the kitchen. A couple passes with some stain and varnish, and it's pretty darn close!
The plants should be happier with the cozier digs. This is one of two new amaryllis, exploding with flower buds! (The other one is biding its time.) I can't wait!
Next thing on the list is the long-overdue laundry room floor! There will be some major cleaning out & purging in that process. Stay tuned.
Oh! We have new neighbors! There's a tragic tale about the house next door, and it's been vacant since last summer — sold, flipped, and finally (I think) sold again. Looking forward to meeting them and PRAY that we got some "good ones" again.
It must be nice to live with a handy person — I’m certainly impressed with his work! My other half is good for technology problems but pretty useless when it comes to fixing house issues.
It looks GREAT, Vicki! I just love your garden room — and Rusty has done a fabulous job turning it into a year-round space for you (and plants). It’s just lovely — and so inviting! XO
Go Rusty! I wish Dale was a bit more handy with things like that. He likes to putter but when it comes to big stuff, I hire someone!
wow, that Rusty has major SKILLS … aren’t you lucky! I love the reclaimed wood on the ceiling and the view to the pergola with the twinkle lights looks so cozy.
Bravo Rusty! Make do and then some! 🙂
I have my fingers crossed you get good neighbors as well. Bad neighbors is such a pita!
Gosh I love that garden room so much! Nice that Rusty is so handy – Fletch is too, but now (with age) some things he cannot do….hoping for excellent neighbors for you – bad neighbors are just horrible (ask me how I know).
Your garden room looks wonderful, and bravo to Rusty for his handiwork! John is somewhat handy, but I’ve learned that I need to check his measurements for crucial things. Almost every project has something that isn’t quite right because he measure wrong. Fingers crossed for good neighbors and I hope you and you plants enjoy your warmer garden room!
Wow! Rusty did a fabulous job- You are so lucky to have a handy husband! Love how it looks and the plants will thank you by blooming and growing. New neighbors! Hope they are all you wish for. Stay warm.
To the unschooled eye, the room fits in perfectly into your home and looks like it would be warmer and cozier with the changes. Your plants will be very happy and you may even find yourself gravitating the new warmth.