When we bought our 1950s brick ranch in Seattle about five and a half years ago, it wasn’t my dream house. It was in decent condition for its age, but the style didn’t suit us. Because it needed updates, though, it became the perfect canvas to make our own.
As I envisioned the possibilities, I saw how this house could evolve into the cozy coastal cottage I’ve always wanted. Many updates were small and budget-friendly — fresh paint, new hardware, an updated light fixture — while others were larger projects like a full kitchen remodel and a new deck. It’s surprising how much a little paint and attention to detail can change a space.
Over time we’ve transformed the house into a place we truly enjoy. We still have more projects on the list, but instead of feeling frustrated by what’s left to do, I like to look back at the progress. The before-and-after comparisons still surprise me.
I’ll be sharing separate posts with inspiration and plans for future projects, but for now, enjoy this walk down memory lane.
Our home is always evolving, so you’ll notice plants, landscaping, decor, and furniture shifting from photo to photo. These images were taken over several years and sometimes represent progress shots rather than final after photos. Some final afters are still a few years away.
This post doesn’t cover every change we’ve made, but it’s a highlight reel of the transformation throughout the house. Click the post links below each photo for more details.
Click the links below for posts on this space:
Painted Exterior Brick White
New outdoor lantern
Replaced front door with Dutch door
We replaced the side yard concrete and created a usable patio, added new posts and updated the porch lighting.
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Trex Deck Before & After
Painted Exterior Brick White
Progress: painted the shed white
We added a white picket garden gate and invested in landscaping to bring the yard to life.
We removed a metal awning to open up the facade and refresh the home’s profile.
We installed a new driveway and updated the exterior lanterns for a cleaner curb appeal.
After: painted concrete steps and patio
Progress
A fresh coat of paint, a Dutch door, and updated Barn Light-style fixtures brightened the entry.
Progress: refreshed with paint and hardware
We swapped out hardware and used a tension rod and curtain to separate the master bedroom and bathroom temporarily.
A simple cabinet makeover included battery-operated sconces, new hardware, and removable shiplap wallpaper.
We changed two square doorways into an arch to add character and visual interest.
Click the links below for posts on this space:
Painted our fireplace stone with gray chalk paint, then white
Installed a fireplace insert — before & after
We remodeled the entire kitchen, including replacing a square window with a round one for added charm.
Click the links below for posts on this space:
Our Kitchen Remodel: Before & After
All kitchen details, sources, FAQ and ideas to get the look
We replaced the side door with a Dutch door to match the home’s new aesthetic.
We updated our small guest room with new lighting and window treatments to create a cozy, inviting space.
Click the links below for posts on this space:
Painted Master Bedroom a dark plum color
Recent Master Bedroom Makeover
We installed plantation shutters throughout the house to improve light control and privacy.
We added shiplap in the dining room and removed an old doorbell to refresh the wall treatment and add texture.
We removed carpet and painted my son’s room Night Sky Grey for a calm, modern look.
In the lower level we added a wall to create a separate home office/guest space and installed new laminate flooring.
We removed carpet, painted the staircase a deep charcoal, and added a new functional room in the basement that now serves as an apartment-style space.
Installed new laminate flooring in the basement for durability and a cohesive look.
Progress: new room in basement
We set up an apartment space in the lower level to make the new room functional and welcoming.
We refreshed the basement bathroom with a painted vanity, a wall stencil, and new lights and fixtures for a quick, effective makeover.
We feel proud of our progress, and there’s still more we’d like to accomplish. I hope this post encourages you to see the potential in your own home—small changes can make a big difference as you add your personality and style to each space.
More on The Inspired Room:
Shop My House, Style, and Latest Decor Finds
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My House Tour (details and sources for each room)
My Paint Colors
My Kitchen Remodel Sources and FAQ
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