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!


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Further Reading

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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