It's been 3 months since I posted an update, because there's not been a lot to report. Jane has been working on ever-more detailed plans, and I admit I had to ask her to slow down a bit so I could manage the financial drain in a more predictable way. We have agreed to a project plan that will culminate in applying for building permits in May.
Meanwhile, the sheaf of documents she sent me in late October included, among other details, a schedule of windows: 61 of them!! They also included the dimensions of all the spaces, so I can begin to imagine how the rooms will look and I can actually see myself in them.
I've been thinking about colors, which will be very different from my Glastonbury house. Yellows, reds and greens predominate in my present space, inspired by the colors in Provence and Tuscany, two of my favorite places in the world. The new space suggests marsh colors: sage green, sand, touches of rusty red and blue-green water. I envision the exterior in dusty green, white trim, subtle dark red accents, much like the double matting and filets to which I gravitate when framing a piece of art -- which is what this house is, after all.
Coquina shell cladding on the chimney? I hope my budget can take it.
Jane's meeting with the review board again in early January so they can approve the exterior lighting fixtures, driveway treatment and revised garage door design. I believe that's the final time she'll have to meet with them.
In late January we'll meet with two or three contractors to bid on the project and hopefully select one shortly thereafter. We agreed that getting the builder onboard early will help us manage the budget and make him a true partner as we move forward with detailed design.
A wise longtime friend who lives in Tampa just read my blog and has given me a thumbs-up on my approach -- and loves the look of the house. He shared sage advice about stairs, ceiling fans and heating systems in the south. Thanks, Bob!
