In the realm where heritage meets modern design, Jordan Slocum and Barry Bordelon, known as the Brownstone Boys, have carved a unique niche. Their journey began in 2018, just seven months into their relationship, when they embarked on a remarkable adventure – purchasing a beloved 1890 Brooklyn brownstone. What followed was a captivating narrative of renovation, beautifully chronicled on their blog, YouTube channel, and social media accounts, allowing viewers to witness the transformation of their 120-year-old home. Armed with their background in design and DIY projects, Slocum and Bordelon dived headfirst into a journey of both cosmetic and historic renovation, driven by their desire to unravel the home’s rich history themselves.
Remarkably, their audience transitioned into their clientele, transforming their personal passion project into a full-time career. As renovation project managers and interior designers, the Brownstone Boys have created spaces with a distinct charm, reflecting their clients’ personalities and preferences. Their projects exude a magnetic pull, enticing homeowners to relish and appreciate their living spaces to the fullest.
If the prospect of embarking on a renovation project feels daunting, whether it’s a simple hallway paint job or a comprehensive kitchen upgrade, fear not. The Brownstone Boys offer invaluable advice to guide you through the process:
1. Plan Thoroughly:
- Start by having an honest conversation about your budget.
- Consider the flow of your space and how it aligns with your lifestyle.
- Ensure you have the essential tools on hand, including a drill, ladder, and saw.
2. Seek Resources:
- Learn from the experiences of others who have tackled similar projects.
- Explore online platforms, watch YouTube videos, and engage with experts on social media.
- Participate in community forums or websites focused on your project for inspiration and guidance.
3. Start with Small Projects:
- Painting can be a transformative and low-risk renovation project.
- Invest time in proper preparation, including taping everything to protect your surfaces.
- Gather all necessary painting materials before you start.
- Consider wrapping brushes and rollers in plastic bags between coats to prevent drying out.
4. Master Wallpaper Application:
- If you’re considering wallpaper, opt for the kind that requires you to paint on the glue for greater flexibility.
- When dealing with corners, trim the wallpaper in place using a sharp razor blade.
- Carefully align and match wallpaper patterns before application to ensure you have enough material.
5. Order Extra Materials:
- Always order more materials than you think you’ll need to avoid delays.
- Investigate buyback programs for leftover supplies.
- Get creative with excess materials for other projects.
6. Update Lighting Fixtures and Doors:
- Replacing doors and lighting fixtures can be DIY projects that make a significant impact.
- Exercise patience and precision when dealing with doors, ensuring the correct sizing and handle placement.
7. Approach Paint Stripping Thoughtfully:
- Consider paint stripping for smoother surfaces and improved paint adhesion.
- Assess original materials in the house and determine if paint stripping is a worthwhile endeavor.
- Start with a small project and recruit extra help as stripping can be time-consuming.
8. Know When to Seek Professional Help:
- For projects requiring permits, plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes, consider hiring experts.
- A skilled tradesperson can ensure the success of complex projects.
The Brownstone Boys remind us that home renovations don’t have to be high-risk endeavors. Homeowners can make their spaces feel like extensions of themselves through small aesthetic changes, such as hanging curtains, installing light fixtures, or giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. But it’s essential to recognize when professional expertise is necessary. Renovations, regardless of their scale, are rarely without hiccups, but, as Slocum wisely puts it, “it’s so much fun.”
Are you ready to embark on your renovation journey? The Brownstone Boys encourage you to be prepared for the ride, filled with twists and turns, but ultimately rewarding.
