The German Schmear (or German Smear) Updates Brick for a Rustic Farmhouse Look

The author, a first-time homeowner of a 1950s brick ranch in Birmingham, reflects on the prevalent trend of painting brick houses white, particularly among her generation. Initially, she envisioned painting her own brown-coated brick house a creamy shade of white, like Sherwin-Williams' Dover White, seeing it as a perfect solution for an outdated exterior. This desire was strong, especially considering her home's original brown bricks, which she found unappealing. However, her perspective shifted after observing a growing uniformity in her neighborhood, where many homes, including two directly across from hers, transitioned from red brick to various shades of white or ivory. This widespread adoption of white paint, while offering a safe and seemingly timeless aesthetic, began to raise concerns about the loss of individuality and character in the neighborhood's diverse architectural landscape. The author acknowledges that the red brick on 1950s ranches can appear dated, making white a popular choice for a modern update. Despite this, she questions the relentless pursuit of white paint as the sole solution for updating brick facades. Her neighborhood, characterized by homes similar in scale but distinct in personality through unique porch additions and meticulously maintained gardens, is increasingly losing its charm due to this uniformity. The author expresses a growing apprehension that this trend could lead to a 'cookie-cutter' appearance, diminishing the unique character that initially attracted her to the area. She emphasizes that there are numerous other solutions for updating brick exteriors beyond simply painting them white, suggesting a need for more creative and diverse approaches to home renovation. While she still doesn't particularly like her home's original muddy-brown bricks, the author has decided to reconsider her initial plan to paint them white. Instead, when her budget allows for an exterior overhaul, she intends to explore a broader spectrum of colors on the color wheel, moving away from the popular white palette. This decision stems from a desire to maintain and enhance the unique character of her home and neighborhood, rather than conforming to a trend that, in her view, risks making every house look the same. The article implicitly encourages homeowners to think beyond popular trends and consider options that preserve and celebrate the individual identity of their homes. #HomeRenovation #ExteriorDesign #PaintedBrick #WhitePaint #HomeOwnership #ArchitecturalStyle #CurbAppeal #NeighborhoodCharacter #ColorPalettes

The article details the extensive renovation of a 1998 colonial-style home in Vermont, transforming it into a modern, light-filled post-and-beam residence. Situated on a private road off Edson Hill Road with spectacular views and an alpine garden, the property was purchased by Richard Cherney and Ronda Diamond. While they appreciated the location and surroundings, the outdated colonial style, compartmentalized rooms, and varied flooring did not align with their preferences. Tania Kratt, an interior architecture and design expert, was enlisted to lead the transformation, working with a team from Gristmill Builders. The six-month renovation, completed late last year, focused on opening up the 4,000-square-foot space and infusing it with a contemporary country aesthetic. Kratt's design philosophy aimed for a balance between rustic and modern, avoiding both kitsch and coldness. The homeowners, who reside in Montreal, desired a contemporary feel for their country retreat. The renovation involved removing interior walls to create an open floor plan, with fir beams introduced to provide a rustic yet modern structural element. The previous mix of wood and tile flooring was replaced throughout the home with French oak, contributing to a cohesive and elegant foundation. Fireplaces were updated, with one receiving a granite surround and another a wooden beam mantel. Shaker-inspired elements, characterized by clean and simple lines, were incorporated into the design, evident in the replacement of all interior doors with solid wood versions and the use of flat-surface moldings. Custom details were integrated to enhance the home's unique character. A sliding barn door with black metal hardware was installed to conceal the mudroom closet. The dining area became a focal point with a custom-built table, skylights, and iron pendant lights suspended from the walls. Upstairs, mundane ceiling fans were replaced with industrial-style steel ones, further reinforcing the contemporary feel. Artwork by homeowner Ronda Diamond, a painter, was strategically displayed throughout the home, reflecting the client's personal style and collaborative input during the design process. Kratt commended Diamond's discerning eye and active participation, noting the significant client influence on the final design. While Diamond initially considered a complete kitchen overhaul, Kratt suggested more immediate, minor renovations. These included updating cabinet hardware with black metal and installing a black ventilation hood over the kitchen island, which provided a significant aesthetic update. A unique and functional touch was added to the breakfast nook, where a wall was painted with chalkboard paint for grandchildren to draw and write messages. The powder room underwent a full renovation, featuring a custom-built vanity crafted from Vermont-quarried Danby marble and reclaimed barn wood. Its floor was adorned with handmade white and black encaustic cement tiles. The color palette primarily consisted of shades of white, punctuated by occasional bursts of color, such as a charcoal-gray accent wall in the study, which served to highlight the home's architectural details, particularly its dormers and angles, preventing a 'boxy' feel. The original wooden staircase was replaced with a more contemporary version featuring metal railings. On the second floor, the master bedroom includes a fireplace, a conversation area, and access to a deck. A custom walk-in closet was designed to the owners' specific requirements, complete with bespoke built-ins. The master bathroom is slated for renovation in a future construction phase. This project demonstrates how a well-executed design vision can transform a structurally sound but stylistically mismatched house into a personalized dream home that perfectly suits its owners' modern preferences while embracing a country setting. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #PostAndBeam #ModernFarmhouse #ColonialRevival #VermontHome #CustomDesign #ArchitecturalTransformation #GristmillBuilders

Brick is a design element that offers timeless appeal and distinctive texture, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. However, homeowners sometimes consider painting brick surfaces when they find the natural ruddy tones clash with their interior design or simply tire of the look. While staining is an alternative, painting is a common consideration. Before undertaking a brick painting project, experts advise careful consideration of several factors to avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a successful, lasting result. One critical aspect to assess is the condition of the brick and its mortar or grout. Paint can exacerbate existing damage by trapping moisture, leading to decay. Visible signs of deterioration such as cracks, chipping, or flaking indicate that painting should be avoided until these issues are resolved. Applying paint to a compromised surface can worsen the damage and lead to premature paint failure, making it crucial to ensure the brickwork is sound and free of defects before proceeding. Another indicator that painting should be paused is the presence of efflorescence. This appears as white powdery or chalky stains and streaks on the brick surface, a result of salt deposits forming when water is present. Unlike dirt, efflorescence cannot simply be washed away; it requires removal with a wire brush or similar tool prior to painting. Failure to remove these crystalline deposits means they will be trapped under the paint, leading to degradation of both the brick and the paint finish. Addressing efflorescence ensures proper adhesion and longevity of the paint. Historical significance also plays a role in the decision to paint brick. If the brickwork is historic or possesses architectural importance, painting it can diminish its value and character. Covering original brick of an older home, a fireplace dating back centuries, or exposed brick walls in a converted historic building, can obscure intriguing history and potentially devalue the property. In such cases, alternative treatments like a grout wash are suggested to refresh the appearance without concealing its historical integrity. This allows for revitalization while preserving the unique character of the structure. The surface sheen of the brick is also a significant factor. If the masonry has a gloss or sheen, it often indicates the presence of a protective or decorative glazing. Paint struggles to adhere properly to such surfaces, leading to issues like fading or peeling. While specialized primers or de-glossers might offer a solution, consulting an expert is recommended to assess the feasibility and appropriate approach. The general rule for painting any surface is to ensure it is sound, clean, dry, and dull to allow for optimal paint adhesion and durability. Finally, extreme weather conditions can impact the suitability of painting exterior brick. In regions experiencing heavy rain or high humidity, painted brick may require frequent maintenance due to peeling, flaking, or fading. If painting is still desired in such environments, it is essential to use permeable primers and paints specifically formulated for brick. These 'breathable' paint systems allow moisture to escape, preventing blistering and peeling that can occur when moisture is trapped beneath the surface. Considering these five expert-backed reasons helps homeowners make informed decisions about painting brick, ultimately preserving the material and ensuring a lasting finish. #BrickPainting #HomeImprovement #MasonryMaintenance #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #DIYHome #ArchitecturalPreservation #PaintTips #KerrieKellyStudio

This article explores 51 farmhouse wall decor ideas, offering various ways to integrate this popular style into any home. Farmhouse decor is characterized by a nostalgic appeal for simpler times, incorporating weathered finishes, timeless aesthetics, and a celebration of everyday objects. The style is versatile, blending effectively with other design aesthetics such as Scandinavian, coastal, or industrial, allowing for hybrid looks. While authentic vintage and antique items with a worn patina provide genuine character, modern reproductions are also readily available. The article provides specific examples of farmhouse wall decor, starting with oversized metal buckets that can be left empty or filled with seasonal greenery. Vintage frames, particularly those with an aged patina, are highlighted as an affordable option for adding farmhouse charm, with a tip to embrace imperfections for added character. Pegboards, when painted and styled with baskets, dried flowers, and art, offer functional storage and display with a timeless farmhouse feel. Decorative clocks, especially vintage or antique wall clocks, are presented as a hallmark of the style. Displaying decorative plates, such as neutral-toned ones above windows, is suggested as a way to incorporate a farmhouse tradition without appearing overly dated. Vintage mirrors are noted for their ability to brighten spaces and are a regular feature in modern farmhouse designs. Reclaimed wood shelves contribute a rustic feel while promoting sustainability, often styled with everyday objects and botanical art. Vintage sconces, like gilded wheat bunch sconces, can add an elegant touch. Hanging copper pots in the kitchen offers an easily recognizable farmhouse element. Hat racks, especially vintage ones, complement warm farmhouse entry spaces. Architectural salvage, such as old wheels or porch railings, adds texture and a sense of history, with recommendations for sourcing these items from salvage yards and flea markets. Affordable art like still life paintings, sourced from thrift stores, can personalize a home, particularly when hung on shiplap walls. Fresh flowers, tied with twine and hung to dry, offer an eco-friendly and inviting decorative element. Vintage portraits introduce an air of history and mystery. Wooden cutting boards, whether a collection or a single piece, are suggested for creating a farmhouse gallery wall. Vintage medicine cabinets with original paint and wear contribute a comforting, familiar feel, especially against moody dark walls. Upcycled doors, repurposed as coat racks, demonstrate how limiting a color palette can allow for mixing styles and objects harmoniously. Metal drying racks for dishes, when mounted, add modern farmhouse style to open-plan kitchens. Dried flowers and branches provide natural, inexpensive, and inviting decorative elements. Vintage silhouette pictures, mixed with old signage, create focal points. Wooden coat hooks, particularly Scandinavian-style ones, add a graphic modern farmhouse feel. Vintage-inspired drop light sconces and simple built-in medicine cabinets serve both functional and decorative purposes. Framed landscape paintings in unexpected places, such as above pegboards with cleaning utensils, add timeless charm. A wall of mirrors, especially a collection of smaller, mismatched pieces, can cover large areas affordably and reflect light. Open shelving with everyday items, such as cutting boards and cleaning brushes, combines utility with display. Books, especially classics, make any space feel cozier. Flea market finds, like repurposed shelving units, add authenticity. Unframed paintings leaned against backsplashes complement other country-style elements. Hanging spare folding chairs on a rail is presented as a clever styling trick. Antlers and trophy heads can add an authentic feel, with animal-friendly alternatives also mentioned. Aged finishes, like distressed tin tile backsplashes, create nostalgic vignettes. Effortlessly hung vintage oval mirrors with chains contribute an easygoing farmhouse feel. French flower racks, filled with faux flowers, provide charming displays. Vintage-style "antiques" signs, whether sourced or DIY, offer a timeless touch above mantels. Gallery walls of framed art, collected over time, create an inviting atmosphere in renovated farmhouses. Beveled mirrors, when combined with specific furniture and color palettes, contribute to a modern farmhouse interpretation. Woven tools, baskets, and other objects evoking the past add texture. Mismatched paintings in quiet corners convey an unplanned, warm aesthetic. Upcycling items like vintage crib mattress springs into mug holders demonstrates authenticity. Rustic open shelving, styled with decorative and practical objects, lends a modern farmhouse feel. Tiny, off-center pictures contribute to an effortless look in utilitarian spaces. Gilded antique French mirrors, especially those with original finishes, add elegance. Vintage signage, like a coat room sign, combined with dried wreaths, enhances mudrooms. Hanging round woven baskets filled with branches provide a modern farmhouse touch to empty walls. Custom vintage-style welcome signs create a sense of place. Dark stained wood peg rails offer a casual farmhouse vibe. Functional pieces, such as metal drop sconces and brass towel rods, achieve a minimalist farmhouse look. Vintage-style advertising layered over chalkboards adds a lived-in feel. Old photographs, particularly black-and-white or sepia-toned, fill walls with a neutral-toned farmhouse style. Farmers market signs add a decorative touch above cabinetry. Finally, a maximalist approach to farmhouse wall decor, incorporating various hanging options and decorative signage, is presented for mudrooms. The article concludes by addressing common questions about farmhouse decor, stating that popular interpretations often blend with styles like Scandinavian, coastal, or industrial, and are inspired by Shaker, English, or French country aesthetics. It emphasizes that farmhouse style is not going out of style, appealing to those who appreciate a romanticized vision of the agricultural past and familiar comforts. Key elements of farmhouse decor include timeless accents, weathered finishes, natural materials, neutral palettes, and the celebration of simple, everyday objects, with a mix of antique, vintage, and modern styles for a cohesive, timeless feel. #FarmhouseDecor #WallDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #VintageStyle #RusticCharm #DIYDecor #ArchitecturalSalvage #NeutralPalette