I just finished the initial consult on my next project and this is going to be a fun one! My client is looking to update a guesthouse located above her garage. She has a large family, most who are out of town - so this space is used quite often. 

The guesthouse had a leaky window air conditioner unit which caused damage to the drywall. The drywall was recently repaired which means the walls need to be repainted. The problem is, the paint color was a custom mix my client created by mixing a bunch of paint she had on hand at the time. Lucky for me, since the whole room needs repainted my client figured why not completely redesign the entire space. As a lot of you know, this is exactly how most home improvement projects are born. It starts with, "we need to paint" which leads to, "maybe we should replace the trim, too," to "and if we're going to replace the trim, why not redo the floors" etc, etc. Before you know it, a full remodel is underway.

OK, so we're not going to go so far as to redo the flooring- but we are going to: 

• Paint the walls, ceiling and trim
• Add trim around the windows
• Purchase new window treatments
• Purchase some new furniture and refinish a few of the existing pieces
• Slipcover the existing sofa
• Add shelving/baskets for storage
• Add lighting and decor
• If there is any money left in the budget, possibly a few slight updates to the bathroom

My client would like to keep the bed frame. All other items can either stay or go. She would also like space for a mini fridge and a dedicated area for guests to watch TV.

My budget is $1,500 which is a bit tight, but with a few creative solutions - definitely doable. My goal is to have the project finished in 4 weeks.

Here is a look at the guesthouse today:

• I wanted a neutral and clean palette to create a soothing retreat for my client's guests. I started with the paint color and worked from there. The walls will be painted in Revere Pewter, a soft gray with warm undertones by Benjamin Moore. 
• My client has a beautiful white duvet that will replace the dark brown bedding. We will accent the white duvet with soft blue pillows and beige patterned throw pillows. I also plan to flip the current comforter over (it is beige on the reverse side), fold it and lay it  along the foot of the bed.  This will help layer the bed and provide an extra blanket for guests when needed.
• Two very small (but pretty!) night stands will be added to both sides of the bed.
• I have opted for plug in sconces instead of lamps. This will free up already limited space on the night stands for books, cell phones, a glass of water, etc.
• The existing sleeper sofa will get a slipcover and two simple but adorable houndstooth chairs will finish off the sitting area. 
• The dresser in the before photos will get new paint and hardware. I've selected a charcoal color that's very close to black since every room needs just a touch of black.
• Several windows have heating units below, meaning drapes are out of the equation. On those windows I have selected a relaxed roman shade in white linen. The shades will block light and add cozy texture to the room.
• On the dormer windows we will layer a crisp white grommet top drape and gray bamboo shade to block out intense morning light.
• Storage baskets and shelving will be added to the closet space. 
• A wonderful collection of old family photos will be featured in silver frames.
• My client is an avid gardener and loves fresh flowers, so fresh floral will definitely be scattered throughout the room.