Software
Houzz Logo Print
anniedentist

a 1900 bungalow that desperately needs updating

5 years ago

Just bought a fixer in Rowayton, CT ,a laid back seaside village. It is a 1600 square foot bungalow with a water view 2 bedrooms 2 bath but need to squeeze in another bedroom. I am on a tight budget but really need help here. There is a lot of potential!

Comments (23)

  • PRO
    5 years ago

    And we need to have a crysatl ball to imagine what you have. You need to post pictures a to scale floor plan marking all windows, doorways plumbing and also some idea of your budget Use graph paper for the drawing it makes it much easier to do. Then add the drawing to this post in a comment.

  • 5 years ago

    Thanks so much! I am in the process of getting that done and will share as soon as that is ready. Look forward to your thoughts.......Many thanks!

  • 5 years ago

    No just trying to captivate the creek view in a simple but modern way. ugh!

  • 5 years ago

    small homes are tough because every square foot matters:)

  • 5 years ago

    On a budget...i would suggest you have it inspected in order to prioritize repairs and upgrades needed to insure safety and construction integrity...in waterfront properties decay is often a problem ...

  • 5 years ago

    For sure! Thanks so much!

  • 5 years ago

    When there are views ..adding a good size deck or even a covered porch is usually well worth the expense...also knowing if this is seasonal or weekend use....or full time residence ....will affect the priorities in improvements

  • 5 years ago

    Since this area is considered one of the most affluent in the state..even in the country...a long term plan would be a good idea..so no money is wasted on temporary fixes...

  • 5 years ago

    Agreed! I am trying to add the MLS link to share with you all......I am so old school so this internet stuff is making me crazy LOL :D my daughters are laughing BTW..ha42 Roton Avenue, Norwalk,CT 06853 The real dilemma is the low ceilings in the LR and how to get a 3rd bedroom in there. ugh

  • 5 years ago

    42 Roton Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06853

  • 5 years ago

    Ok ...saw the pics...pretty much a tiny cabin that was added onto over the years ....with a result of none of the big open spaces and high ceilings that we all want these days...good news... your investment was very low for the “average” home values in the area so you can invest without risk.....now the ball is back in your park...we need more info from you....what will be the average stay or are you going to live there?...how many people...at what ages...will you be wanting to accommodate?...lots of guests or just a few family members?....mainly is this a forever place that will be passed down thru the family or will you be looking for something better over time?...these things will all affect where...when ..and what it changes are made to get you where you want to go....as a side comment ...that little barn looks like a possible future bunkhouse to me...it could be the first thing on the menu in some possible scenarios...lastly how does time outdoors compare to time indoors ..it looks like there could also be improvements to the outdoor spaces ....that are not as costly ....that would enhance your stay if you are out doors mostly...so exciting and even overwhelming ...but you now have a sweet spot to show up with a suitcase and just enjoy

    anne hero thanked btydrvn
  • 5 years ago

    Forgot to mention...the real punchline....WHAT A BEAUTIFUL SPOT!...

  • 5 years ago

    From the photos there seems to be a lot of wasted space in the house but without a floor plan I can't understand how the rooms relate to each other.

  • 5 years ago

    Over budget but one idea yes hgtv -- reconfigure rooms and add on master suite, just as you like.

  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    Nice window in the laundry.

    Before you modify it you should investigate the structure and that will probably be a challenge. Ask the local building department if there are any permit drawings on file for this address.

    I suspect an architect would be a wise investment.

    Good luck

  • 5 years ago

    Thank you all for your time and thoughts. I am planning to live there as a single woman. My 2 daughters 22 and 24 will visit on weekends. The outdoor space could be spruced up with a little TLC. I lI’ve diy projects on the weekends. I am thinking about painting the outside body of the house a dark charcoal gray like raccoon fur with a muted trim off white. Perhaps a shutter in front with a simple detailing under the wave if there is enough depth The inside is still puzzling but will try and have patience with it. Each room and space has to be intentional and throughout since it is a small house. Many thanks to all I’ll send you a floor plan

  • 5 years ago

    What a fun project! A long term one, for sure.... I think the exterior looks great for now. Don’t put your money there until it needs it. I would hire an architect who has experience with old homes in your town to walk through the house and give you ideas about how to make the space work for you. The spaces don’t make sense from the photos from the listing. There will be structural issues for any change that is made to the room configuration, I suspect. The kitchen looks to be in pretty great shape, but the bathrooms...not so much. Again, a fabulous project. But take a deep breath and let it out slowly. This will be a wonderful adventure.

  • 5 years ago
    last modified: 5 years ago

    In houzz article it says: if you choose neutral paint - you might choose a different mood/vibe for one of the rooms, often dining room, which can have the nighttime lighting and formality...for example.

    https://www.houzz.com/magazine/pick-a-paint-help-how-to-create-a-whole-house-color-palette-stsetivw-vs~13038406

    .. you mentioned intentional. :)

  • 5 years ago
    • New Urban Home Builders
      The Hardie siding is the Urbane Bronze, the trim is Titanium... ?

    Mid-Century Modern · More Info


  • 5 years ago

    I am picking up the floor plan today and meeting with a local architect for some ideas. Yippee! Cannot wait to share....... :D

  • 5 years ago

    Following

Sponsored
Bella Casa LLC
Average rating: 5 out of 5 stars17 Reviews
The Leading Interior Design Studio in Franklin County