Before. After.
The west front of the Cross House, a few months ago.
I had been thrilled with the coloring on the house.
Then, after finishing most of the north front, too, the “canvas” was suddenly large enough to step back and really see the overall effect.
And my heart sank a bit. The color scheme was lacking…vivacity.
I poured over the 1895 black/white image and realized that the house originally did, indeed, have a more vivacious color scheme.
Poo.
I had been driving in the caution lane. I needed to pop the top on my convertible and move over to the fast lane.
So, for two months now I have embarked on an emergency up-the-ante corrective measure.
And now.
The objective was not to transform the house into a painted lady.
Just subtle alterations were required. The hope was that anybody walking by would not even notice anything different. They might instead just think: Wow. The place is looking really good.
And I am not done yet!
The backgrounds of the tower swagged garlands still need to be painted in color #5. And ditto with the background of the dormer gable. Then I need to enhance the north front!
It has been great fun doing all this. And I think a certain vivaciousness has returned to the ol’ girl.
Oh, and…
…when I purchased the house.
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I think all of the looks of the house are awesome, each in its own right. The original one was quite fabulous in featuring the intricate details of the vine design or whatever it is…someone took a lot of time to paint all of them. It rather looked like a carousel house fun but demure. Now it looks like a presence to be reckoned with. Proud and tall. I am here. I am loved.
On the original – I’ve never seen outside patio fans before! Interesting! Does it get that hot or was it for aesthetics.
It left an ugly state into a very attractive state and its finally subtly transitioning into a very elegant state. I hope you don’t mind people stopping and gazing at this masterpiece of a house because its certain to happen a lot!
You have added a sparkle! It just is so vibrant! Each encarnation has been painstakingly rendered but this current look is sensational!
It’s looking great and, MOST importantly, it’s so good to hear that you’ve had great fun working on it. Your enthusiasm is contagious!
That ceiling on the porch is really growing on me..Oh how I wish I could go out there and see it! Truly a beautiful home.
You’ve probably seen pictures of the Piatt-Ogden house in Tunkhannock, PA, but thought I’d send the link just in case.
You, sir are a master at what you do….this place looks amazing!
Ross said “Poo”.
It made me giggle which was much needed since I’ve been unnecessarily awake all night and was previously annoyed. Thank you! 😀
Everything is looking amazing! Watching all your updates the past week motivated me to make some progress on my own remodel. I’d stalled once the kitchen was usable again. Updates can sap the life out of ya, even when needed and even fun, as I’m positive you are aware.
Can’t wait to see more Cross House magic!
A rather clunky (not nearly as lovely as the Cross house) Victorian near me here in California has been repainted recently in cringeworthy yellow, burgundy, and white. “Sigh” I long to send them your way to be mentored in beautiful appropriate colors.
B Davis, I AM HERE AND I AM LOVED