Yup, Sherry and I have started work on another new house. But before you gasp – we’re not moving into this one… and it isn’t technically ours. Heck, it’s not even built yet.
In fact, the lot currently looks like this:
Some of you may remember this Mega House Crashing that we did last year where we toured 8 custom show homes – each constructed by a different builder and decorated by a different interior designer – as part of an event called Richmond Homearama. Well, their 2014 event is now in the works and they’ve asked us to design one of the homes! Cue the girlish shrieking (not from me, I promise my shrieking is quite masculine).
We’re both crazy excited about the opportunity. Okay, and a bit overwhelmed too. This is a whole new challenge for us in many ways. Planning an entire house design at once (from scratch on a wooded lot). Working with a new construction (which we’ve never done before). Designing for someone else (each of the homes are sold after the event). Budgeting with someone else’s money (cue the maniacal laughs). Not to mention holding our own against six seasoned interior designers who turned out hotness like this last year.
But how could we pass up the chance to dive in? Especially since it’s for a great cause. While we often take on side gigs like this to help pay the bills, this one is a purely creative endeavor for us. Homearama compensates their designers for their year of planning and work, but we’ve opted to donate our entire fee to Richmond’s Habitat for Humanity, a cause that Homearama will also be supporting in other ways throughout the event.
This project also goes along with the goal that we mentioned here – to take on projects beyond our own walls as a means of stretching ourselves in new ways. So we (literally) jumped at the chance. This is us playing it cool while touring the lot where our house will go up (it should be under-roof by Christmas).
And (surprise!) we’ve already been working on floor plans for the last few weeks (even though the event isn’t until May of next year). Of the seven custom builders in the show, we’ve paired up with Biringer Builders. When we first met, they shared their plan with us and we’ve been scribbling on it ever since. That has been one of the coolest parts so far. Since the house is still just on paper, we’ve been able to make a few exciting changes to the floor plan. And John, the builder, has been an awesome collaborator in accommodating our design ideas (“what about a french door there?” “how about building in a bookcase/window seat here?”) as well as suggesting ways to make them even better (“what if we put a transom window above that french door?”). And boy is it easier to move walls before they’re built.
John’s team will be executing all of the actual building, so this isn’t a DIY job for us – with the exception of any furniture or art projects that we want to make for the finished spaces. We’re in charge of helping with the layout/floor plan, picking all of the finishes that go in (flooring, counters, appliances, sinks, cabinetry, etc), and then furnishing and accessorizing the entire house. And with John’s expert carpenters, masons, and electricians at our disposal, we’re able to dream a bit bigger here – which is fitting since we’re trying to raise as much money for Habitat as we can – so we plan to work our buns off to make this house something special.
Between now and next May when Homearama officially opens, we’ll be keeping you guys posted on the details as the house comes together – from sharing the final floor plans and selecting all of the finishes, to the decorating decisions that go into each room. It should be lots of fun, especially since we get to execute ideas that we don’t necessarily have spots for in our own house. This means you, walk-in pantry.
So that’s what we’ve been juggling pretty much since we moved. Cat = out of bag. Just cross your fingers that we don’t choke, ok? Many of the real designers have been doing this for years, so we’re a little jittery about our first time at the rodeo. Kind of makes us want to pull a Clara and hide under the table for a little while…
…only to be enticed out by gleaming tile samples that Sherry can rub her face on.
Update: Wanna see the finished showhouse? Click here for Our Full Showhouse Tour, which includes final pictures of every room, the floor plan, budget info, a video walk-through, and shoppable showhouse furniture & accessories.
Tabitha says
Ohmigosh, ohmigosh!
You guys will do great! :D
Kelly {the Centsible Life} says
WOW! This is exactly the kind of project I hoped you would take on! I can not wait to follow along with the project, and see the (sure to be awesome) results!
Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says
Wow, congrats on the opportunity! That sounds like fun. It also sounds exhausting while trying to get your own house in order. Wishing you a ton of extra energy! :)
Rebecca says
This sounds so cool!
Lisa E says
How exciting! Although it may seem intimidating, you guys have an excellent eye for this type of stuff, hence one of the reasons your blog is popular and will do great! Looking forward to these posts. All the best on this exciting adventure!
Anne @ Planting Sequoias says
Oh, GAH. Exciting! I went to our city’s parade of homes this year for the first time and my MIND WAS BLOWN. I can’t even IMAGINE how cool a house that you design will be (because in our parade homes, the decor seems to lean either a bit beachy or generic). I already love what you’re thinking–transoms are my favorite!
Ann Marie says
WOW! What an awesome opportunity! I can’t wait to see what you guys come up with in form/function/design. I am sure it will be amazing.
On another note — Sherry, is that your purse in the pic with Clara? If so, great bag! (I love great accessories)
YoungHouseLove says
I wish! That was one of the organizer’s purses. I’m in love with it! She said she got it at the MK outlet in Tyson’s Corner. Now I wanna go!
xo
s
Kelly says
I was digging on that bag too!
HeatherB says
Me, too! Speaking of wanting to rub face on something…
Linds M says
Wait, where is this MK outlet in Tyson’s? I’ve been going to Leesburg this entire time?!?
Ps-I’m psyched about the house! But seeing the bag in the last picture I was all “Squirrel!!”
YoungHouseLove says
I’m not 100% sure but I think that’s what she said!
xo,
s
justin says
It was at the MK outlet at Potomac Mills a few months ago…
YoungHouseLove says
Ahhh, now I have to go check it out!
xo
s
Diana Buchanan says
Ditto, Ann Marie! I <3 this new project PLUS the bag!
Robin says
so freaking exciting! What do these houses go for? How can I convince my husband we need to buy!?!
YoungHouseLove says
Haha! I have no idea, but I think a lot less than they would be in a more expensive city than Richmond. I think they price them once they’re all built and appraised.
xo
s
justin says
The show homes for Richmond Homearama 2014 will start in the $500s. Final prices won’t be set for many months.
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Justin!
xo
s
Lauren @ The Highlands Life says
This is so incredibly awesome! What an unexpected blessing in your life!!! I can’t wait to see it unfold!
Paula says
Awesome!! This is right behind our house! (Is it sad that I can identify an empty street with dirt – but we walk our pup up there :) ) We built and moved in December and love it!! Can’t wait so see what you do!
Sheila says
How exciting! I’m really looking forward to seeing what you come up with for this!
Sophie says
So exciting! Congratulations, I can’t wait to see what you come up with! All the best x
Kristine says
Wow, congrats! So cool! You guys are too good at keeping secrets! Can’t wait to see what you do with the house!
Laurie says
Awesome! You guys are busy bees (bee reference intended). That would be the best thing ever to be able to decorate a house from scratch. You guys will be great. Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
Marti @ Project Palermo says
Oh, wow! What a fun, challenging project. I’m excited to follow along.
Ariane says
Sounds great ! Good luck !
Fran Siefert says
WHAT A WONDERFUL PROJECT!!!!!!! Eager to be “involved” in it right along with you.
Sarah says
So cool, this is like a dream opportunity! Congrats!!
Michael says
Two words: Christmas switch
YoungHouseLove says
Is that a movie? How do I not know about that?
xo
s
Kara says
Wow, I remember loving that whole Homerama idea last time you posted about it. Congratulations! That’s crazy!! Congratulations, I can’t wait to read all about it!
Shreya says
Omigosh! Mind = Blown.
The two of you will do an amazing job and its so great that you are donating the proceeds to a good cause!
emmarose says
That is so exciting!
The Yellow Cape Cod says
You’ll rock it, and I can’t wait to watch! Have fun, Sarah
Amber @ Wills Casa says
We just finished up the design process (floor plan, elevation, etc) on our custom build. It’s completely overwhelming sometimes especially when you are trying to think about the finished space (decorated and all) without being able to walk in it!
I think this is amazing opportunity for you guys, and it sounds like a lot of fun (and a ton of work)! Can’t wait to see the finished house. I’m sure the home owners will love it!
jennypenny says
Wow! What a fun opportunity! Have fun with it! It’ll look awesome!
katie | deranchification says
That is so cool! Can’t wait to see it all unfold. I can already tell I’m going to be jonesing to build a new house, though. Wonder if there’s a patch/gum for that…
Shirley says
Kudos to you for donating your fee to H4H, yet another reason to love you guys! Can’t wait to see what you do!
Richelle says
That is so exciting! What a fun oportunity to get to start a house from scratch, can’t wait to follow along.
Lisa says
Dibs on the house!!! That’s how this thing works right, under the laws of dibs?
What an amazing opportunity! I’m so pumped to see what you guys come up with!
John, killer height on that jump, btw!
xoxo,
Lisa
YoungHouseLove says
Haha, John got air! And you’re right – that’s how the law of dibs works. Congratulations on your new house ;)
xo
s
Nicole S. says
That is so funny because I’ve been looking at a lot of hotels lately and wondering what a YHL-designed hotel would look like.
Laura says
Wow! I can’t wait to see this house evolve over time. My hub and I built our home many years ago and I loved the whole process of designing it and having it built. It was just incredible to see our ideas become real and livable so I can just imagine your excitement!
Now, can I ask you a question… hope you don’t hate me because this is off topic, but I have to ask.. who makes the dining room table that is pictured in the pic above, with the chocolate colored walls and cream china cabinet? if anyone can tell me, I’d be very much appreciative…. yes I would. Thank you Thank you…
YoungHouseLove says
Anyone know? I don’t have a source but hopefully someone will recognize it?
xo
s
Beth says
That looks like a Restoration Hardware dining room table. A friend of mine bought one almost identical and its GORGEOUS!
Beth says
Here is the link:
http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/category/collections.jsp?cm_sp=global_top_nav_store-_-dynamic_menu_item-_-NA&categoryId=cat160033
justin says
The table is from Summer Classics in Richmond. I am unsure of the manufacturer but Patrick at Summer Classics could tell you.
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Justin!
xo
s
Jeanna says
It looks just like a rustic piece by Kathy Kuo Home, and pretty expensive at over $3000.00. She calls it her Rustic Solid Teak Wood Trestle Dining Table. Hope this helps :)
Laura says
Thanks for your reply. and GOOD luck with the project!
Laura says
Found it! Restoration Hardware. too expensive, so I’ll have to improvise. but it is a gorgeous table!
Nichole K says
Here’s a World Market look-a-like that I’ve been coveting. Also comes in a lighter brown :)
http://www.worldmarket.com/product/black-french-bistro-side-chair-set-of-2.do?&from=fn
Nichole K says
Oops just realized you meant the table :/
Maybe someone likes the chairs too?! ;)
Nichole K says
Ok I really need to stop. Here’s a table look alike from the chocolate dining room from World Market. I think I might spend too much time there since I seem to know exactly what they have in stock…
http://www.worldmarket.com/product/arcadia-extension-table.do?&from=fn
YoungHouseLove says
Love it!
xo
s
Tamryn says
yay for YHL! well done guys
lydia k. says
Wow! What an amazing opportunity! And how generous of you to donate what they would have given you to Habitat. You guys are my heroes. :)
Kristen Ford says
:-O This is seriously an awesome cat to keep in the bag. (<<< hahaha who says that??!)
So excited for you guys! What a fun experience!
Bonnie Morscher says
Congrats! That’s so exciting. But I have a question about those chairs around the table Clara is hiding under. Those new? I don’t recall seeing those before.
YoungHouseLove says
That’s another model home that the builder did – so it was snapped during a floor plan meeting, not at our house :)
xo
s
Theresa says
At first, I thought you guys were holding out on us about de-bluing your dining room!
justin says
The chairs are from the same new line that Haynes is carrying. It is a lot like Restoration Hardware but a little bit more affordable.
Rebecca | the lil house that could says
Whoa! I can’t imagine getting to choose every detail for a custom built home like that! So much fun and an amazing opportunity. Though, I’d be very tempted to move in at the end :)
Jamie @ A Chandelier Life says
How cool is that?!! Congrats to the both of you. Can’t wait to follow the progress.
Andi @ Estella's Revenge says
So exciting!!! I can’t wait to see what you guys do with this space!
Karyn says
Oh WOW!! You guys will do an amazing job of the house, I’m sure of it! I can’t wait to see the process and results as you move through the project. So exciting!
Karyn says
And makes me wish I lived in the area (instead of way up here in Canada) so I could buy it and live in a J&S Petersik original house!
Stephanie says
What a great opportunity! Congrats! Can’t wait to see how it turns out!
Also, I love that you’re donating your fee to Habitat for Humanity. Way cool!
Andrea says
WOW GUYS THIS IS CRAZY AND AMAZING (SO CRAZY AND AMAZING I WONDER WHY YOU HAVEN’T WRITTEN THE WHOLE POST IN CAPS)
sheesh! I’m super excited to see what you guys have in store for this house. I imagine it to be SO cool to do things you never had the right layout or that didn’t fit the rest of the house/ you saw on Pinterest, loved but couldn’t realise… Wahoo (can you tell I’m excited?)
Liz says
Wow, what an amazing opportunity! So excited for you two! :)
I can’t wait to hear/see more about this project!
Anne says
That’s amazing! What a great stretching opportunity! Will so enjoy watching it unfold. Congratulations. :-)
AnnMarie says
HOW FUN!! But on a complete side note, whoever said white men can’t jump?! You must have springs in your legs John!!!
Julie says
Oh how I wish I had just 1% of your energy! You two are amazing! Congratulations! (Perhaps a post on where you get energy?)
YoungHouseLove says
Lots of chocolate! Haha!
xo
s
Claire says
Exciting!!!! You guys got this! You’ll bring a fresh, creative, yet practical design to the table that everyone will fall in love with . . . as usual!
Ali B. says
Such a cool opportunity! I’d be totally freaked too, but you guys will do just great. Can’t wait to see the finished project! We might even have to drive down to see the tour.
LMN says
This is like super cool. And makes me love y’all a little more (can’t believe that’s possible) that you’re donating your fee. Karma comes back around :-)
Teresa S says
That is so cool! We just went to a Homearama in Louisville last night. I have total faith that you guys will do a wonderful job.
Ashley L says
EXCITING! I feel exhausted for you both already! I do not care for the first dining room shot, but I LOVE the dining room where Clara is hiding, and I especially love the floors. Are those character oak or a lightly stained hickory?
YoungHouseLove says
I think they’re lightly stained hickory! Aren’t they awesome?
xo
s