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Closet Conversion…
About a month ago, I added the second arch to our second opening. I’d done the first arch months ago when we updated the kitchen. Adding the arch is fairly simple and just requires a little bender board, like you use for gardening, and some damp drywall that you can bend into place.
This weekend I focused on the closet that’s in the entry hall, as you enter the unit. A few weekends ago, we tossed out the ugly gold-rimmed doors to the closet and are preparing for our closet conversion that we’ll be tackling next month.
Basically, the first step was to remove the partial closet header that the doors were attached to, so that we can create one smooth ceiling surface. The next step was to put up new drywall and fix any holes left by removing the doors. That done, I had to retexture the new drywall so that it somewhat matches the old drywall. It’s pretty much impossible to match it, so the idea is to get close and then the paint hides most of the inconsistencies.
This weekend, I wired two new outlets into the closet, attaching them to an outlet on the other side of the wall in the kitchen. Adding outlets is probably one of the easiest things to tackle. Just remember to work safely by turning the power off and testing each outlet before sticking your fingers in there. And also make sure that your circuit breaker can handle the extra load for what you’ll be using the outlets for.
With the two outlets in place, we’ll be oufitting the closet space with cabinets—two pantry closets and a counter-height cabinet in the center. Not only will this give us a more organized space for storage, but it’ll also give us some great counter space that we can use for parties and entertaining.
Also, by removing the closet doors it really opens up the entry hall visually, so it looks twice as large. This is just nice because your first impression when walking in isn’t that you’re in some tiny little crackerjack box. Anyhow, next month we’ll buy the cabinetry and installing them, so that should be exciting. I’ve got to take more photos and add it to our Flickr home series.
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2 Responses to 'Closet Conversion…'
I have to say I’m impressed by y’all’s Mr. & Mrs. DIY mentallity. It’s great that you can do so much without hiring out. My boyfriend is very hands on and creative, etc. Me, not so much….
I think what scares most people off is being afraid they’ll screw up or mess something up. So before starting anything, it’s important to recognize your limitations. However, I think most people are capable of doing more than they think they can. I do research first by watching shows or reading books or the internet to make sure that (a) it’s not out of my scope and (b) that I won’t get killed. Those things aside, I’m pretty willing to try things. And as a last resort, if they turn out badly you can call a professional to come in and fix it.
Start with small projects like putting together a table, then move on to something bigger like helping someone do a project and then work on some of your own. And remember, they don’t all turn out great every time, but as you do more and get better tools, you’ll find that you can actually do a pretty good job.
Anyhow, Treva, if your boyfriend is creative and willing to do some projects, I’d recommend that you help him out. We all have to learn somewhere.