Recognizing Potential in 1970's Vintage Home
Jennifer and Tony Latto and their two girls have a 1970’s vintage home in a very nice neighborhood in Austin, Texas. Jennifer, who is a registered architect and interior designer, has made some smart updates to their home.
Roselind:
Jennifer, first of all, thank you for sharing your ideas on the ongoing remodel of your home. What have you done so far that has made a difference?
Jennifer:
We arrived from Boston just over two years ago and moved into a 70s home in Bee Cave Woods. We loved the open floor plan, the private yard, the existing trees, and the location. The home was smaller than those we’ve had in the past but we recognized the potential.
We tackled items that were relatively inexpensive first, just to get the house to where it felt like “ours.” Since I earn a living improving environments, I have a hard time staring at the ordinary or run down! This trait drives my husband crazy because I constantly think about upgrades.
Most of the work achieved thus far was outdoors, and the work inside was mostly paint; however, one of the biggest impacts was to reface the stone fireplace. We used a gradient glass tile on the vertical surface and a quartzite slab hearth to match the kitchen. This is a focal point for our living area and always extracts comments. I’ve included a photo (even though we have yet to grout it!).
Roselind:
I’m glad to hear that you are like most folks – remodeling is something that does not get done all at once. It can go on for years – and that is OK! Shaping a home takes time.
Tell me a little more about gradient glass tile. I can see that is goes from a more intense color at the bottom to a lighter shade. Where did you find this tile? And, quartzite slab? What is it, and where do you find it?
Jennifer:
This is our fourth home remodel in ten years. We’re a bit tired but there’s still always a project around here and we attack them when finances and schedules allow. It’s really a lifestyle!
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