Add Some Charm

I live in California, in an area where myself, my friends, and most of my clients live in homes that are less than 30 years old.

I think back to the home I grew up in- a bungalow built in 1960- (which, of course, I did not appreciate at the time- and from which these photos did not come)- that was full of architectural details and beauty. I remember my bedroom, which I shared with two sisters. There was a wall of about seven windows. Who gets that many windows anymore? There a nice deep linen closet that was accessible from both the hall and the bathroom . What a great idea- I haven't seen one since. The living room had wall to wall bookshelves on one wall- with transom windows above. There are not enough transom windows out there! The dining room had a built in curio- with drawers where mom stored linens and silverware. Wall surfaces varied form paneling to wallpaper and drywall. There was variety and interest. It seems like it doesn't matter the price of the home- so much character is lost in today's home building. Let's put it back! Frame in your windows! Add paneling to a few walls! Add more windows! Incorporate built-ins! If your house didn't come with charm- that doesn't mean it can't have it!