Celebrating Three Years: Our Colonial Home Renovation Journey – Before & After Tour

Today marks a truly special milestone for us – it’s been exactly three incredible years since we first received the keys to this house and embarked on what would become our grand home renovation adventure. It honestly feels like just yesterday we were dreaming up possibilities within these walls, and now, looking back, we’re amazed by how far we’ve come. This journey has been filled with discovery, hard work, and endless love, transforming a 1960s colonial house into our cherished family home.

Life has certainly taken on new dimensions, especially with our little one now celebrating their first birthday. Yet, despite the joyful chaos a toddler brings, our passion for design and dedication to making every corner feel uniquely ours has never wavered. We’ve poured our hearts into tackling as many rooms as possible, each project bringing us closer to our vision of a truly personal sanctuary.

To commemorate this significant anniversary, we’re thrilled to take you on a retrospective tour, showcasing the remarkable transformation our home has undergone. Get ready for a comprehensive room-by-room before and after reveal, complemented by a video tour that captures the essence of our journey. Fair warning though: while these “after” shots capture a moment of pristine perfection, life with kids means it rarely stays this tidy for long! But that’s part of the beauty and joy, isn’t it?

Many of you have been with us through some of these exciting room makeovers, sharing in our progress and offering encouragement. For those new to our journey, we hope this tour inspires your own home projects!

(Please note: Some affiliate links are included below, providing sources for items used in our home. For our full disclosure policy, please see here.)

Exterior Home Transformation: From Curb Appeal to Backyard Oasis

Front Exterior Makeover: Welcoming Charm

Our home’s exterior is the first impression, and we wanted it to exude a welcoming, timeless charm that honored its colonial roots while feeling fresh and updated. The original brick, though classic, felt a bit dated and lacked the character we envisioned. We knew a dramatic change here would set the tone for the entire house.

Original brick colonial house exterior before renovation

The transformation began with a bold decision: limewashing the brick. This technique not only brightens the exterior but also adds a beautiful, historic texture that instantly elevated the home’s curb appeal. Paired with a sophisticated shutter and trim color, the front of our home now feels both classic and inviting. It’s a testament to how paint and a thoughtful approach can completely revitalize an exterior.

Limewashed brick colonial home exterior after renovation

Brick color: Romabio Limewash in Avorio | Shutter/trim color: Behr Cracked Pepper

Interior Home Transformations: Creating Functional & Beautiful Spaces

Foyer: A Grand and Welcoming Entryway

The foyer is the first glimpse guests get into our home, and we wanted it to be both grand and genuinely welcoming. When we first moved in, the space felt a bit stark and uninspired, lacking the warmth and character we desired. Our goal was to create an inviting transition that hinted at the style of the rest of the house.

Before photo of the colonial home foyer with plain walls

Our vision for the foyer involved a light and elegant palette, contrasted with bold accents. We chose a classic gray for the walls, which provides a serene backdrop without feeling overwhelming. The trim in a crisp white brightens the space, while the dark door color adds a touch of drama and sophistication. Thoughtful decor, like a statement mirror and a cozy rug, completed the look, making the entryway feel intentional and stylish.

After photo of the renovated colonial home foyer with classic gray walls and elegant decor

Dining Room: Elegant Gatherings and Lasting Memories

The dining room is more than just a place to eat; it’s where we gather, celebrate, and create cherished memories. Initially, the room felt somewhat ordinary, lacking the personality and elegance we desired for special occasions. We envisioned a space that felt sophisticated yet inviting, capable of hosting intimate family meals and larger gatherings with equal grace.

Before photo of the traditional colonial dining room

Our transformation focused on creating a dramatic backdrop with a deep, rich wall color, offset by bright white trim that highlights the room’s architectural details. We selected a robust dining table that grounds the space, complemented by a mix of elegant end chairs and classic side chairs. A plush rug defines the area, while a striking chandelier serves as a focal point. The addition of a large painting and flowing curtains completes this refined yet comfortable dining experience, ready for years of memorable meals.

After photo of the elegant colonial dining room with dark walls and classic furniture

Kitchen: The Heart of Our Home, Reimagined

The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, was ripe for a refresh when we first moved in. While functional, it lacked the personalized touch and vibrant energy we sought for our daily family life. Our vision was to create a space that was not only beautiful but also highly functional, blending classic elements with a fresh, modern twist that would stand the test of time and family activity.

Before photo of the original colonial kitchen with dated finishes

Our kitchen transformation involved a clever play of colors to define different zones and add visual interest. We opted for a soft, warm white on the walls and upper cabinets to keep the space bright and airy, while the lower cabinets received a striking deep green, grounding the design and adding a touch of sophisticated color. A classic subway tile backsplash provides texture and timeless appeal. New pendant lighting illuminates the island, which is now adorned with comfortable bar stools, creating a perfect spot for casual meals and conversation. Personal touches like framed art and a soft rug infuse the space with character and warmth, making it a truly inviting hub for our family.

After photo of the renovated colonial kitchen with green lower cabinets and a modern farmhouse feel

Breakfast Nook: Bright & Casual Dining

Adjacent to the kitchen, our breakfast nook is designed for relaxed morning meals and casual family moments. The original space was functional but lacked character, feeling a little lost between the kitchen and other living areas. We aimed to create a distinct, cheerful area where we could start our days in a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Before photo of the plain breakfast nook area

With a focus on natural light and a cozy ambiance, we kept the walls a warm, inviting white, extending the kitchen’s bright palette. A simple yet stylish dining set provides comfortable seating, while a charming chandelier adds a touch of elegance. We incorporated personal decor like a large map art piece and a console table with decorative elements, creating a nook that is both practical for daily use and aesthetically pleasing. It’s now one of our favorite spots for quiet mornings and casual family lunches.

After photo of the bright and cozy breakfast nook with map art and round table

Laundry Room: Functional Beauty for Daily Chores

The laundry room, often a purely utilitarian space, was a prime candidate for a makeover that would infuse it with charm and efficiency. Our original laundry area was basic, lacking inspiration and practical storage. We aimed to transform it into a pleasant and highly functional room, making daily chores a little less daunting.

Before photo of the basic and uninspiring laundry room

We chose a refreshing slate blue for the walls, which brings a calming yet sophisticated feel to the space. The crisp white trim and cabinetry provide a clean contrast and ample storage. The addition of stylish floor tiles instantly elevated the room’s aesthetic, while a modern light fixture brightens the entire area. Thoughtful touches like printable art, a window shade for privacy, and a functional drying rack demonstrate how even a small, practical space can be both beautiful and efficient. It’s now a laundry room that almost makes us look forward to laundry day!

After photo of the stylish and functional laundry room with blue walls and white cabinets

Living Room: A Cozy Retreat for Family Life

Our living room is truly the hub of our home – a place where we relax, play, and connect as a family. When we first took ownership, the space felt a little bare, lacking the warmth and personality that makes a living room truly inviting. We envisioned a comfortable, stylish, and functional area that could withstand the joyful chaos of family life while still feeling like a serene retreat.

Before photo of the empty and unadorned colonial living room

We opted for a soft, neutral wall color that serves as a beautiful backdrop for our carefully selected furnishings. Plush seating, including a comfortable sofa and inviting armchairs, forms the core of the room, perfect for lounging. A large area rug grounds the space and adds warmth underfoot. We focused on layering textures and natural elements, from a stylish coffee table to functional end tables, and accent lighting that creates a cozy ambiance. The fireplace, a natural focal point, was enhanced with decorative sconces and a chic screen, transforming it into an elegant feature. This room now perfectly balances style with comfort, proving that a family-friendly space can also be beautifully designed.

After photo of the cozy and stylish colonial living room with neutral tones and comfortable seating

Playroom: A World of Imagination for Our Kids

Creating a dedicated playroom was essential for our growing family, a space where creativity could flourish and toys could be contained. The room we designated for this purpose was a blank canvas, offering plenty of space but no existing character or organization. Our goal was to design a vibrant, fun, and highly functional area that would inspire our children’s imaginations while also providing smart storage solutions.

Before photo of the empty and plain colonial playroom

For the playroom, we kept the walls a light, versatile neutral, allowing colorful toys and art to truly pop. The trim and door colors maintain consistency with the rest of the house, offering a touch of classic charm. We introduced a playful yet durable rug to define the play area and add comfort. A unique pendant light fixture serves as a whimsical focal point, while a dedicated table and chairs provide a perfect spot for drawing and crafting. Smart storage baskets keep clutter at bay, and vibrant map art along with printable storybook art adds educational and inspiring elements. This room is now a cheerful haven, designed to encourage endless hours of creative play and learning.

After photo of the bright and organized colonial playroom with colorful accents

Upstairs Hallway: A Continuous Flow of Style

The upstairs hallway is a crucial transitional space, connecting all the bedrooms and bathrooms. In its initial state, it was simply functional, lacking any distinct character or warmth. Our goal was to transform this often-overlooked area into an extension of our home’s overall design aesthetic, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing flow between the private spaces.

Before photo of the narrow and dated upstairs hallway

We chose a soothing gray for the walls, creating a sense of calm and continuity, complemented by crisp white trim and dark doors that add classic colonial contrast. The introduction of a stylish runner not only softens the hallway but also adds a layer of texture and pattern, guiding the eye through the space. Thoughtful decor, such as a vibrant fiddle leaf fig tree in a chic basket and curated architectural and literary art, brings life and personality to the walls. A modern light fixture brightens the area, making it feel more expansive and inviting. The hallway now feels like a curated gallery, connecting our personal spaces with elegance and charm.

After photo of the bright and inviting upstairs hallway makeover

Another before photo of the upstairs hallway with traditional decor

Another after photo of the brightened upstairs hallway with new art and runner rug

Kids’ Bathroom: Playful & Practical Design

Our kids’ bathroom was a classic example of a functional but uninspired space. It lacked character and the vibrant, durable design needed for a family with young children. Our goal was to transform it into a bright, clean, and playful environment that was both appealing to our kids and easy to maintain.

Before photo of the outdated kids' bathroom with simple fixtures

The transformation started with a fresh coat of a calming gray on the walls, complemented by crisp white trim and a bold door color. We invested in durable and stylish floor and wall tiles that would withstand daily use while adding a touch of sophistication. A new shower surround brightens the space, and a charming vanity table with vessel sinks and modern faucets elevates the overall design. Decorative mirrors and sconces enhance the bright and clean aesthetic. Practical additions like a window shade, storage basket, and whimsical art make this bathroom both kid-friendly and beautifully designed – a space that truly serves its purpose with style and a touch of fun.

After photo of the renovated kids' bathroom with modern tiles and dual vanity

Olivia’s Bedroom: A Little Girl’s Dream Space

Designing Olivia’s bedroom was a delightful project, aiming to create a whimsical and serene space that would grow with her. The original room, like many others, was a blank slate, functional but lacking the individual charm and character appropriate for a child’s sanctuary. Our vision was to craft a magical environment filled with soft colors, playful elements, and comfort.

We chose a soft, comforting pink for the walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by crisp white trim and a contrasting door color. The standout feature is a delicate wallpaper that adds texture and a playful pattern without overwhelming the space. A beautiful canopy bed instantly becomes the room’s enchanting centerpiece, while a charming light fixture illuminates the space with a soft glow. Plush curtains and practical window shades provide privacy and light control. A cozy bedspread and a soft rug complete the look, making Olivia’s room a truly special and dreamy escape, perfect for imaginative play and peaceful slumber.

After photo of Olivia's magical bedroom with canopy bed and butterfly wallpaper

Guest Bedroom: A Serene Welcome for Visitors

Creating a comfortable and inviting guest bedroom was a priority, ensuring our visitors feel right at home. The room initially offered a basic sleeping arrangement but lacked the thoughtful touches and serene ambiance we wanted for our guests. Our aim was to design a peaceful retreat that felt both luxurious and welcoming.

We opted for a calming neutral on the walls, paired with soft white trim, creating a tranquil backdrop for relaxation. Thoughtful elements like elegant curtains, a stylish ceiling fan for comfort, and engaging wall art elevate the room’s aesthetic. A comfortable headboard, soft rug, and well-appointed nightstands with functional lamps ensure guests have everything they need for a restful stay. Layered bedding, including a cozy bedspread, throw blanket, and decorative pillows, adds a touch of hotel-like luxury. This guest bedroom is now a serene and inviting space, offering a peaceful haven for anyone who stays with us.

After photo of the elegant and serene guest bedroom

Regan’s Nursery: A Peaceful Haven for Our Little One

Designing Regan’s nursery was a labor of love, creating a peaceful and nurturing environment for our newest family member. The room started as a blank canvas, awaiting the gentle touches that would transform it into a serene space for sleep, play, and quiet moments. Our vision was to craft a soft, dreamy nursery that felt both timeless and comforting.

We selected a beautiful, true white for both the walls and trim, creating a light and airy foundation that maximizes the natural light. The door, painted in a subtle gray, adds a soft contrast without disrupting the tranquil palette. The centerpiece, a classic crib, is surrounded by a plush rug that adds warmth and comfort underfoot. A delicate light fixture, a cozy glider for feedings and cuddles, and practical side tables with soft lamps complete the functional elements. Thoughtful decorative touches, like a charming wall swag and gentle art, infuse the room with personality and tenderness. This nursery is now a serene sanctuary, designed for sweet dreams and cherished family moments.

After photo of Regan's peaceful nursery with white walls and a cozy crib

Master Bedroom: Our Personal Retreat

Our master bedroom is designed to be a true sanctuary, a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. When we first moved in, the room was functional but lacked the serene and sophisticated atmosphere we desired for our personal retreat. Our vision was to create a harmonious blend of comfort and style, a space where we could unwind and recharge.

We opted for a deep, rich wall color that creates an instantly cozy and intimate ambiance, beautifully contrasted with crisp white trim and door accents. The centerpiece of the room is a comfortable and stylish bed, adorned with layered bedding including a luxurious bedspread, soft throw blanket, and an assortment of decorative pillows that add texture and color. A plush rug anchors the seating area, and elegant sconces provide soft, ambient lighting. Thoughtful details like stylish closet doors, a comfortable bench, and privacy-enhancing curtains and window shades complete the look. This master bedroom is now a perfect blend of warmth, elegance, and comfort, truly a space where we can relax and feel completely at peace.

After photo of the stylish and dark master bedroom with a comfortable bed

Master Bathroom: A Refreshing Oasis

The master bathroom was one of the areas most in need of a refreshing update to truly feel like a personal spa-like retreat. Initially, it was a very basic and dated space, lacking the modern comforts and aesthetic appeal we desired. Our aim was a budget-friendly refresh that would maximize impact without requiring a full gut renovation, focusing on clean lines and a serene palette.

Before photo of the outdated master bathroom vanity

Our master bathroom makeover began with a light and airy palette, choosing a soft white for the walls, complemented by crisp white trim. The cabinets received a custom paint treatment, instantly modernizing the space. A clever installation of vinyl flooring over the existing tile provided a fresh, clean look without the expense and labor of a full tile replacement. New mirrors and elegant sconces brighten the vanity area, while updated drawer pulls add a subtle touch of sophistication. A practical linen cabinet provides essential storage, and refined curtains and window shades complete the transformation. The bathroom now feels bright, clean, and luxurious, a true oasis for relaxation.

After photo of the refreshed master bathroom vanity with new paint and lighting

Before photo of the master bathroom shower and toilet area

After photo of the refreshed master bathroom shower and toilet area

Back Porch: Extended Outdoor Living

Our back porch is a cherished extension of our indoor living space, especially during warmer months. When we first envisioned its potential, the porch was a standard, uninspired area that didn’t fully leverage its connection to the outdoors. We aimed to create a comfortable, stylish, and highly functional outdoor room for dining, lounging, and entertaining, truly making it an outdoor oasis.

The transformation began with painting the ceiling a serene “Haint Blue,” a Southern tradition believed to ward off evil spirits and insects, which also adds a beautiful sky-like quality. We integrated comfortable outdoor furniture for lounging and a dedicated dining table with chairs for al fresco meals. Stylish ceiling fans ensure comfort on warm days, while layered rugs define separate zones and add softness underfoot. String lights create a magical evening ambiance, and light net curtains add a touch of romance and privacy. Garden stools provide flexible seating or side table options, completing a space that is now perfect for everything from morning coffee to evening entertaining, blending seamlessly with our surrounding garden and pool area.

After photo of the inviting back porch with blue ceiling and comfortable outdoor furniture

Back Exterior: Harmonizing with Nature

Beyond the porch, the back exterior of our home needed to complement the revamped outdoor living spaces and blend harmoniously with our landscaping. The original view, while offering space, lacked a cohesive aesthetic and visual appeal from a distance. Our goal was to create a backyard vista that felt polished and inviting, reflecting the care put into the interior.

Before photo of the back exterior of the house

The transformation involved ensuring the back exterior coordinated with our newly limewashed front, creating a consistent look. Landscaping elements were enhanced to provide greenery and visual interest, defining pathways and garden beds. The goal was to create a seamless transition from the structured elegance of the porch to the natural beauty of the yard. This updated view now provides a beautiful backdrop for all our outdoor activities and reflects the same attention to detail as the front of our home, culminating in a complete and inviting property.

After photo of the improved back exterior of the house with landscaping

Swimming Pool: Our Backyard Escape

Our swimming pool is the ultimate center for summer fun and relaxation. When we acquired the house, the pool area was functional but lacked modern appeal and a cohesive design. We envisioned transforming it into a luxurious backyard escape, a perfect spot for family enjoyment, entertaining friends, and simply unwinding on warm days.

Before photo of the existing swimming pool area

The pool area underwent a significant aesthetic upgrade, starting with a new liner that brought a fresh, modern look to the water. Comfortable outdoor furniture, including stylish chairs and a large umbrella for shade, creates inviting lounging spots around the pool. The entire space was designed to maximize leisure and functionality, offering a beautiful setting for both active play and quiet relaxation. It’s now a stunning focal point of our backyard, providing endless joy and a resort-like feel right at home.

After photo of the renovated swimming pool area with new liner and outdoor seating

Umbrella | Outdoor Chairs | GLI Obsidian Pool Liner

Pool Shed: Functional & Stylish Storage

Even the functional spaces in our backyard received a style upgrade. The pool shed, essential for storing equipment and supplies, was originally a rather plain structure that didn’t quite fit the aesthetic of our newly revamped pool area. We aimed to transform it into an attractive and cohesive part of our outdoor oasis, making it both practical and visually appealing.

The pool shed’s transformation was simple yet impactful: a fresh coat of paint. We chose a sophisticated gray for the siding, complemented by crisp white trim, mirroring the classic color palette used elsewhere on our home’s exterior. The addition of charming DIY window boxes, crafted from repurposed scrap wood, adds a touch of cottage appeal and allows for seasonal floral displays. This formerly overlooked structure now perfectly integrates with the elegant pool area, proving that even a utility building can contribute to the overall beauty of a home’s outdoor space.

After photo of the painted pool shed with window boxes

Siding color: Sherwin Williams Pepper Shake | Trim color: Behr Ultra Pure White | Window Boxes

The Ongoing Journey of Making a House a Home

As you can see, our three years in this colonial house have been a whirlwind of transformations. We’re still nowhere near finished, with exciting plans for the future, including a full kitchen renovation, a small addition to expand our living space, and a complete overhaul of the master bathroom. Yet, looking back at these before and after photos, it’s truly remarkable how impactful simple DIY projects and strategic paint choices can be in completely redefining a home’s aesthetic and feel.

This past year has brought unexpected changes and a slower pace for many, and we’ve certainly felt it in our renovation schedule. But sometimes, these slowdowns are exactly what we need – they offer a chance to appreciate the progress we’ve made and the comfort our home already provides. Our current situation has made us even more grateful for this space we’ve worked so hard to create, a safe and joyful haven for our little family to grow and thrive.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of you who have followed along on our home project adventures. Your encouragement, comments, and shared enthusiasm are truly the reason this blog exists and why we continue to share our journey. You’ve made so many of our dreams a reality, and for that, we are eternally thankful.

We sincerely hope that our story inspires you to tackle the “mountains” in your own home, no matter how big or small. Each step, each brushstroke, each design decision contributes to creating a space that genuinely reflects you and your family. It’s a journey worth every minute, and the reward of a home filled with love and personal touches is immeasurable.