Post 5: Preparing for Winter: Reflecting on Last Year’s Renovation Decisions and Looking Ahead

I’m excited to share that we will be starting our heating system this autumn! This means we can continue the renovation through the winter and move into the first floor. However, this post will focus on the decisions we made in September of last year (2023).

Winter 2023/2024

As winter approached last year (2023), we faced the challenge of moving into an unheated house. Although the heating system was ready, the insulation on the walls and ceiling was still missing. We decided to pause the renovation, understanding that our journey was far from over. Winter gave us the opportunity to plan the next steps for the house and recharge our energy. We needed a break to get our lives back on track, so we moved into a flat in the city, a welcome upgrade from our summer in a caravan.

After the intense work of summer, we were in desperate need of a break. The relentless pace had taken its toll, and it was time to step back, relax, and regroup. This pause wasn’t just about catching our breath; it allowed us to reflect on our progress and plan for the next major phase of renovation.

Winter 2023/2024

With winter giving us time to plan, we focused on the upper floor. We had a clear vision of the changes we wanted to make, and this period of rest helped us refine our ideas and strategies. We also had to acknowledge that significant changes in one area often impact others.

Our plans involved not just constructing bedrooms but also addressing necessary structural and design changes to the roof to ensure the entire upper floor would be functional and comfortable. We carefully considered how to integrate new features while preserving the house’s character and addressing safety and other important aspects.

The break provided us with the mental space to plan meticulously for the upcoming renovation season. Although the winter kept the house unheated, it set the stage for the creative and transformative work ahead. With our refreshed perspective and renewed energy, we were ready to tackle the challenges of transforming the upper floor.

Excited, but worn out,

Ilze


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13 thoughts on “Post 5: Preparing for Winter: Reflecting on Last Year’s Renovation Decisions and Looking Ahead

  1. Somehow I missed the fact that the house was pre-existing, I thought you two were building it. Wow what an undertaking. The break was beneficial in many ways and set the ground work to be rested and full of ideas. I’m so proud of the work you two have taken on. This will be you’re dream house. What a blessing.

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    1. Thank you so much for your kind words! Yes, the house was pre-existing, built in 1880, and we fell in love with it despite all the work it needed. It’s been quite an undertaking, but we’ve learned so much along the way. You’re right—taking breaks has helped us come back to the project with fresh ideas and energy. It’s definitely shaping up to be our dream house, and we’re excited to see it finally coming together. Truly a blessing!

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    1. Yes indeed! It was built in 1880, then in the year 1905 registered with the Owner and stayed in the family until the grandson drank it… and sold it for 2K to two owners – speculators (in bad way). One worked in the bank and got a lot of information about properties/owners etc. Wanted to create a guest house. Then his son needed money to build a house – so we bought it for a much, much bigger amount than 2K 🙂 After that, the son started to drink and spend the money easily. We came in and greeted the house and promised that this house has a good owner now 🙂 Changed the house name. And the new era begins with us 🙂

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          1. That’s totally up to you, Ilze, I hope that you stay around. I remembered your blog right away when I saw your first post in a long time. I have over 8000 posts on my blog! That’s dedication… 😵‍💫😂

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