When Danielle and her husband Nick sent us a link of their newly listed home in gorgeous and charming Church Hill we couldn’t just ogle the listing and let it go. We knew we had to house crash them in the flesh and share all of the eye candy with you. They bought it in pretty rough shape in 2003 and they worked with one of our favorite local organizations, Better Housing Coalition, to restore it to a livable condition. Records trace it back to existence as early as 1855 (although it’s unclear whether it was burned to the ground in 1865 and rebuilt then). Either way it’s extremely old and it needed lots of work when Nick and Danielle purchased it.
After two years of renovation (!) they finally moved in back in 2005 – and they’ve been loving their first place ever since. Now that her two boys are older they’re moving into our neck of the woods (Bon Air) for the schools, but they’ll always have a special place in their hearts for the home that they so lovingly revived after years of work. So without further ado, here’s Danielle’s amazing house (if you wanna move in, click here to contact her realtor).
This stately foyer is crowned with a classic Restoration Hardware light fixture. And how amazing are those transom windows above the double door?
Danielle snagged this stunning mirror from Pier 1 on clearance thanks to a small missing mirrored disk around the perimeter (which she repaired by gluing on a new one). Paired with that showstopping green cabinet it’s just about my favorite entryway idea ever. She got that awesome piece from a local thrift store called Class & Trash, painted it Palmetto by Martha Stewart, and then added an antique glaze from Lowe’s for depth. Genius right? I’m so in love.
Here’s the living room with cheerful yellow accents. We especially loved the side table (snagged on sale from Serena and Lily) and those dramatic floor to ceiling curtain panels (from Pottery Barn).
The kitchen is dreamy and Paris-like, complete with granite counters that look like marble, ornate wooden brackets under the counter lip, a classic subway tile backsplash, and charming metal stools from Overstock (which are easy to wipe down when her boys get something sticky on them).
Oh and that rug is actually two runners from Ballard Designs that Danielle stuck together with rug tape to create one larger “custom sized” mat for that area of the kitchen.
And check out their fantastically deep double sink and that gorgeous vintage looking faucet (both from Overstock, seen here and here).
Here’s a wider shot of the kitchen which includes the giant bulletin board that Danielle made to showcase all of the sweet art work that her sons whip up. And check out the lovely and industrial pendant light above the sink.
This is the playroom, which is right off of the kitchen. We love the wall to wall seagrass carpet that she had installed – especially paired with the charming patterned area rug from Ikea on top. And the use of those sleek white Ikea bookshelves for toy/magazine/book wrangling (look at all that storage!) was so smart.
See those lovely prints of planes hanging in a nice neat grid? Danielle’s late grandfather was a pilot in the Navy, so her husband surprised her with this gorgeous set of vintage watercolor prints by Nixon Galloway. We’re nothing short of obsessed with the whole arrangement. Especially because it’s so meaningful to their family.
When you travel upstairs there are three bedrooms and two bathrooms (and a charming pooch if you’re lucky).
We loved this little “moment” that Danielle created along that diagonal wall with a cabinet and a collection of frames full of meaningful objects like an ultrasound photo, inked baby footprints from the hospital, wedding photos, childrens portraits, etc. And the bold black color in the table and the lamp shade coupled with the black and white prints was the perfect amount of drama and contrast. We also love how the white frames make the thermostat fit right in instead of sticking out like a sore thumb.
Here’s the hall bathroom complete with gorgeous floor to ceiling subway tile (which masked some unsightly wall issues that they had to deal with during the renovation). We loved how the tile goes behind the mirror, which is hung in front of it. Such a pretty look that you don’t see every day.
And yes, that’s a fireplace mantel in the corner of the shot above. It’s non-working but still a stunning architectural detail. Especially for a bathroom!
Here’s Nick and Danielle’s bedroom, which is warm and welcoming thanks to breezy gray-blue curtains…
… and a gorgeous printed headboard that Danielle snagged on sale from Pottery Barn (the headboard’s patterned slipcover, also from Pottery Barn, was something she found on eBay along with the Crate & Barrel lamps).
Here’s their older son’s bedroom, complete with a charming nailhead & denim headboard (from Target) and a fun orange patterned rug (from West Elm).
We also thought the planet mobile (from Pottery Barn Kids) and those super fun greek key curtains (from Pottery Barn) were great graphic touches.
And the long Ikea dresser provided tons of storage while the driftwood lamp on top of it totally had me drooling. Cutest thing ever? There was a little white owl ornament tucked into the lamp’s branchy base by Danielle’s mom (she did it the last time she came over and they left it there because it made them smile).
This is the corner of the guest bedroom. Everything from the bold green curtains to that pretty scroll art work on the wall (from Pottery Barn) and the West Elm mini parsons desk was totally speaking my language.
So there you have Nick & Danielle’s lovely Church Hill home. We’re sending them a big wet kiss for letting us run through and snap some pics for you guys.
Now let’s play the what’s-your-favorite-part game. I was enamored with those plane prints in the playroom and the two runners that Danielle rug-taped together in the kitchen. John loved the pops of yellow in the living room and the fun planet mobile in the kids room. Now you.
Psst- Check out tons of other House Crashing adventures here.
Heather @ REOlisticRenovation says
Gorgeous house! I am am so in love with that green cabinet!
leah says
What a lovely house. I really like her “moment”, as you called it, in the hallway. So sweet.
Deb says
I love the entry, the subway tile and the light fixtures!
I dream of buying a run down historic house and restoring it to its glory. Although, I am apprehensive about tackling such a project as a first-time home buyer…I can dream!
dani says
Is that a fireplace in the bathroom?!!
YoungHouseLove says
Yes! How awesome is that? It’s non-working but still an awesome architectural detail!
xo,
s
Carli says
Loving the corner of the guest room. Clean, simple, yet punchy. And I cannot get enough of the orange rug in her sons room… I want that rug!
liz @ bontempsbeignet says
Is that a firplace in the bathroom? I’m more than a little jealous. And we have that same sink. Here’s a pic of our little fatty getting a bath in it…
http://bontempsbeignet.blogspot.com/2010/06/organizing-utensil-drawer.html
Love all the pops of color throughout. Beautiful house!
YoungHouseLove says
Yes! It’s non working but stunning! It’s such a great old house.
xo,
s
Wom-mom Ethne says
Master bedroom – a nice place to retreat. (Tho I am sending a link to this to my hubby because there are lots of great ideas all throughout the house I want him to see!) http://www.wom-mom.com
Sara says
The “moment” in the hall is charming, and what a perfect name for it.
I love how it’s intentionally crowded in the large hall way. Hello inspiration!
Sarah K says
Love it! ALL of it!
sam says
Love, LOVE the entryway. The mirror, the green chest, the twin lamps. It kills me! I also am loving the yellow pops in the living room. I’ve long been an advocate of yellow, and people always look at me like I’m crazy. I’m thinking I’ll put that pic on a tshirt, and the next time someone questions my yellow love, I’ll point o my shirt and go “SEE!”.
Brandi H. says
Love the double front doors! Also, the green cabinet in the entryway. Beautiful. The floors in the upstairs hallway are so pretty as well. Actually, it’s all just lovely. Thanks.
Sami says
I love the “moment” at the top of the stairs. I never would have thought of that – I probably would just have walked by everyday thinking “that spot needs something” And in those photos you can some beautiful hardwood floors. Gorgeous floors!
RLB says
My top 3: the gorgeous floors in the entry way, the sizzling orange carpet in the older son’s room, and the emerald green curtains against the warm walls in the guest room.
Patti says
The foyer is perfect! It totally set the stage for the rest of the house. Beautiful home.
RLB says
Is there a fireplace in the bathroom?? Looks like a mantel in the right side foreground.
YoungHouseLove says
Yes! It’s non working, but such a charming architectural feature!
xo,
s
Kayla says
We totally have an awkward angled wall in our house that I’ve been wanting to do a gallery wall on. I will definitely use hers as inspiration when I get around to that project!
nic says
DROOLING DROOLING DROOLING over the marble-like garnite.
This is EXACTLY what I have been looking for – if the omeowner does not stop by with the name, Sherry pleeeeeease contact her to ask!
YoungHouseLove says
Will do!
xo,
s
Danielle says
Hi Nic! The granite is called White Kashmir. We got it from Granite Outlet in Richmond.
Clare says
L-O-V-E house crashing posts! This one was particularly wonderful. I’m making lots of notes for my next projects! Danielle has great style and this was also a great reminder to check other resources like eBay and Overstock to find your name-brand faves at lower prices. Thanks guys!
Paige says
I think this is my favorite house you’ve crashed. They mixed in some modern elements without abandoning the older feel of the home. So great.
Kate says
AMAZING! I am not a fan of painted furniture but I MUST paint something that wonderful green! Love it!
It’s also soooo affordable (for my neck of the woods at least). WANT!
Reenie says
Loved the yellow accents in the living room ~ especially the lil table….also love the lil green dresser/buffet.
Pamela says
Loved too many things to mention but standouts are the entry cabinet, the master lamps, the mini parsons table/ottoman, the marble-looking granite countertops, the soft, neutral wall colors…I could go on and on. Question though, why are they covering that focal-point of a fireplace in the living room with that sectional? Just wondering…
YoungHouseLove says
Danielle should be dropping by soon to answer all the questions!
xo,
s
Danielle says
Hey Pamela. I see a couple people have asked about that! None of our fireplaces are working ones. It was too cost-prohibitive to pull off in the reno … but we wanted to keep all the original mantels to preserve the detail. A sectional was the only sofa arrangement that made sense for us in that room, so it does cover up the fireplace. But, we do have four others though that get the attention they deserve. One in the adjoining dining room (not pictured).
Pamela says
Thanks for responding Danielle…I get it. You’ve done a beautiful job! Good luck with the next one!
P-
Jodie Strum says
How surprised- and pleased I was- to see the first picture of Danielle peeking around the door. This blog was sent to me a few weeks ago by a friend in DC- since I live in Richmond she thought I might be interested in the Top 5 eating list you posted. I loved the entire website- and wanted to let your readers know that this house is even more AMAZING in person. Danielle hosted a Stella and Dot show for me last year- and I have to say the house is so incredible that people were distracted from the jewelry! She has an stellar eye and keen sense of style- but she managed to keep the house totally livable. I’m sorry to see them go- but am sure their house in Bon Air will be a masterpiece shortly. You can’t see it here- but my favorite piece in their house is the round dining room table!!!!
Danielle says
So sweet Jodie! You’re a doll.
Kim says
I LOVE the whole house! WOW!!! My favorite is that master bedroom, do you by chance know the color she painted it (the blue)?
YoungHouseLove says
Here’s hoping she shares thar info soon!
xo,
s
Danielle says
Here you go Kim: It’s 1569 Night Mist by Benjamin Moore. Very soothing.
amanda6 says
Beautiful house!
Katie J. says
I love the green entry way piece and all of her rugs.
Paige says
My favorite thing about their home is the flooring – so beautiful. I LOVE the entry way and the pops of yellow in the living room. Gives me some great ideas! Thanks for sharing :)
Caroline says
Favorite House Crash EVER!
I am in love with how they are able to have a traditional feel in their home but yet so much FUN is still happening. I’ve already saved my fav pics and plan on paying them the best compliment of all…a lil’ copycat action in my home!
Keep Crashes Coming!
Katie Rose says
If I lived anywhere near Virginia I’d be in line to buy this house! How gorgeous! It would be an especially nice treat if they’d throw in the furnishings ;)
carolinaheartstrings says
What a gorgeous home. I love the green table in the entryway too. Perfect and the black one in the upstairs hall. Perfect.
Eileen says
Love it! I really love the foyer arrangement and the hallway table arrangement. And I really love Danielle’s boots :-)
Danielle says
Aww, thanks Eileen. They’re Steve Maddens and so so comfy!
kayla says
that foyer is calling my name! double front doors are a dream of mine. and the window above= awesome.
Allyson says
My favorite part was the entry. I love both the mirror and the green cabinet. I wish I found something as fantastic as that cabinet at a thrift store, but I guess I’ll have to keep looking. And thanks for posting the paint color; I’ve trying to find a good bright green, but some of the options out there can be scary.
Laura@JourneyChic says
Wow… I want to move south right now! I wonder if they’d sell everything in the house, too??? :) It’s a stunning home – I’m so glad you featured it, and will be keeping it in my inspiration files!
Lisa says
Oh. Em. Gee! This actually IS at the top of our list of houses we would snap up in a heartbeat if we were moving to RVA *now* and not later this year! So fun to read the extra details here that are not available to the average homeshopper!
jackie kelly says
i love the “moment” upstairs with the simple but ever present black night stand and lamp and the black and white photos of different special things of the family. it’s almost like a scrapbook of the family right there at a central location where everyone sleeps. i think it’s looks perfectly sentimental and artsy and beautfully elegant!
Tricia Embley says
OMG!! I am drooling over this house. I love it. I just adore the classic traditional-ness of this house but the spunk it has also with the bold colors and modern flair here and there. Man I wish my house looked like this.
Laura *You Stir Me* says
Hooray – I love when you guys go house crashing! This is such a gorgeous and graphically stunning house – hats off to the current owners! I think my favorite part is the three tiered stand being used for fruit in the kitchen. Those are the kinds of things I look for when I walk into someone’s house – how do they use the same things we all have in our home (or want to have!) and may put a different twist on them. When I finally own a home and have a kitchen worthy of such a pretty piece, I’ll be using it to hold my apples and oranges too:)
Danielle says
Thanks Laura. You have some eye for detail! Three tier stand is a Tar-jay special. Recently I used it as a cupcake holder for my son’s birthday party. Gotten such good use out of that one piece. :)
Natalie says
LOVE the photos with thermostat integration… I have that exact thermostat, and have never thought of this… it is in the center of a tiny little wall in my hallway…. I’m on my way out the door for white on white matte frames now… BRILLIANT!
thanks so much!
and Sherry, I make “i” before “e” mistakes all the time :)
Love the housecrashing… LOVE IT!
Danielle says
Natalie – the thermostat drove me nuts before. Hanging the photos solved that problem. Frames are from Target – used the same ones for the planes. I love them.
Liz says
Favorite part? The green cabinet in the entry! It’s GORGEOUS! I love the house-crashing posts! Keep ’em coming!
MelanieO says
Love the cabinet/mirror combo in entryway and the upstairs hall collection of sentimental photos. Beautiful!
Amy says
Nice, but yeppers, hiding a fireplace or other built in feature behind furniture is a huge listing no-no.
Trudy says
Love the upstairs floors and the granite countertop that looks like marble! Don’t move after all that hard work – so beautiful.
Chicago Cuisine Critique says
I too love the pops of yellow in the living room. I have a very neutral colored living room and have been dying to add a pop of color in. I have yet to decide which color which is why I have not started, but I am leaning towards yellow now. :)
Caroline says
I believe your typo is “their” rather than “thier” in the first sentence. I read right past it and usually I notice those things, too!
YoungHouseLove says
Got it! Thanks!
xo,
s
tracie says
great house.. really well done! thanks for sharing! :)
Tara says
Beautiful home! Very charming and tastefully done. I hope Danielle will share the color she painted the entry way. It looks gorgeous with the palmetto-green cabinet.
Danielle says
Sure thing. It’s Camouflage by Benjamin Moore. I kept reading about designers using it as their standby neutral. It’s a good one.
Samantha @ Mama Notes says
I LOVE that green entry way table with that funky mirror. I also LOVE the black and white pictures in the white frames with the white matting. ALSO LOVE the bulletin board with all the pictures. Thinking about where I Can do these things in my house!!
Shannon Albrecht says
Love, love it!! Sooo much to love there! I too love the picture wall, and what a great & sweet idea. I am going to start racking my brain to think of a similar idea that would apply to something special to our family! I also would love to find these fabulous 2nd hand stores in the Cincinnati area, where we could get some of these cool furniture finds like the entry way cabinet…if anyone is from Cincy let us know where to go!! Thanks for such a great site S&J! :)
Asia@upward says
I looooooooooved the entry way!! And the hardwood floors are such a beautiful, rich color…great pick for a house crash!!