In this episode, we’re tackling the family room of Chelsea’s mid-century home.
We recently finished upgrading her home with smart technology and energy-efficient features where we added insulation to the attic and crawlspace, voice-controlled light switches and even installing a smart deadbolt. You can catch up on those projects here!
Chelsea can begin to make her family room fit for her family and match the rest of her home!
Removing the Fireplace and Carpet
While everyone loves a fireplace, this one in Chelsea’s home unfortunately does not function.
The home doesn’t have a chimney and the logs are not real. So, we’re going for practicality and removing it!
To patch the hole up, we’re using Purple XP Drywall that’s both mold and moisture resistant. (This is an affiliate link. If you purchase this product, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)
The carpet is also worse for the wear, so we’re removing that too. We found that there are beautiful hardwood floors beneath the carpet and makes the space look finished!
Custom Built-in Bookcases
Chelsea’s husband Brandon loves to read and has a collection of books. These built-ins are a perfect addition to store Brandon’s books, as well as other personal items. Chelsea added some fun wallpaper as a pop of color to make them stand out more.
We lay them out side-by-side to assemble them using a framing square to make sure one side is exactly like the other. We even got some help from Chelsea’s kids, Gus and Mary Helen!
Artwork Made by Chelsea’s Kids
Chelsea wanted to add some artwork to the space to really tie the room together, but couldn’t find anything she really liked.
So instead, she adds a personal touch by having her three children make a custom piece of art for their home. It’s a fun art project for the kids and a sentimental piece to make this room centered around family.
Production Thoughts
Before, the interior of Chelsea’s home was beige and a bit bland. But it’s a great size and has plenty of natural light.
Beyond this, the room was pretty dated. The curtains blocked some natural light and the dysfunctional fireplace was a waste of space.
Now, the room is lighter, brighter and much more ‘Chelsea’! The new wall color reflects the natural light coming in through the window and the hardwood floors add character. And the custom grid ceiling and built-ins add charm and warmth to the space.
Another renovation closer to closing the book on Chelsea’s Ranch Revival and it fits Chelsea’s family perfectly!
Other Tips from this Episode
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You’re the best show on tv, I really enjoy you and Chelsea. I have learned a lot of things from your show
Thanks for the feedback, Janie!
And thanks for watching Today’s Homeowner.
Chelsea I just adored how you daughter talk her brother we need to talk . He wanted her to play a game and she was helping pop pop and mommy glue up the bookcases , She came back and made a compromise with him she will help you first and play the game after she is done . Now that is the way you raise children . I remember both my sons helping remodel our fixer uppers when they were little and also helping build their own playhouses in the yard . Even helping build a swing set , I miss those days as as both my sons are grown 1 is 47 and the other is 36 years old now so enjoy this times because they go faster than you think .I will soon be married 49 years and that went fast also . I just love your remodel of your new home and watching your children grow . I remember watching you grow up on the show your father had back then , so full circle
Glad you enjoyed this episode, Betty! Thanks for sharing your feedback with our entire team.
That was a nice exchange between Mary Helen and Gus. 🙂
I too enjoy the learning experience and the back and forth between Father and daughter . Seems no obstacle will be too tough to handle
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I LOOOVE a fireplace, it almost broke my heart that Chelsea had to tear it down, but I will just have to get over it. I get so many ideas when she does a makeover.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with the Today’s Homeowner community!