before & after

The most satisfying projects are the ones with dramatic before and after photos. Here are two that we've checked off our To Do list.

The first project was actually completed in March. When we moved in, the bannister was painted white, which really popped against the blue walls.

the "before" photo

But after we painted the walls white, it was time to return the bannister to its natural state. Once again we found ourselves spending many hours stripping. Many, many hours stripping (and not the fun kind).

first coat of stripper - February 27, 2012

second coat of stripper - February 28, 2012

the "after" photo (after a third coat of stripper) - March 18, 2012

The second project is even more dramatic. And the best part is there was no work involved (for us). Here's how our house looked in the fall.

And here's how it looks now.

It's like a whole new house! (Which, by the time we've finished everything we want to do, it practically will be.)