"Charming Updates: Embracing Cozy Elegance with My New Cottage Windows and Front Door"

After nearly a year of anticipation, I am absolutely delighted to share that my front door and four exquisite new windows have been beautifully installed! 

The installation team has truly exceeded my expectations, especially given my prior experiences with home renovations. They have done a marvelous job; I simply adore the two charming front-facing bedroom windows that can be opened from both sides. It practically brings to mind a whimsical scene from *Beauty and the Beast*! I can already picture a lovely photograph of myself, just a touch made up, cradling a bouquet of vibrant tulips. Please, indulge my fanciful daydreams!

 

I’m grateful I decided to hold off on any decorating, as I’ve noticed the hallway has become quite a bit darker—less light filters through the small window now. I’m considering adding a bright, cheerful wallpaper to lift the space. I’m also getting excited about where to hang my door wreath for Christmas. However, I’m having a bit of a dilemma with the wreath hanger—it won’t fit on this new door! 

On another note, I must admit I'm a bit disappointed with the bull ring knocker and letterbox. They don’t quite match my vision, being made of cheap shiny plastic! When I paid my deposit, I was assured that both the knocker and letterbox would harmonize with the lovely black antique finish of the door handle. That will certainly need some addressing!

All in all, I’m overjoyed with the results. To think that I paid the deposit on July 26th, 2024—what a journey this has been!

The process was quite the adventure, especially with the need for council permission due to the conservation area, and the complications with the national grid that required moving the mains electricity cable running through the front door frame. 

Adding to the challenges, the representative mismeasured everything, necessitating a complete redo of the survey. And, believe it or not, the surveyor overlooked the fact that scaffolding and a council pavement license permit would be needed!

It truly felt like a series of hurdles, but now that it’s all complete, I can finally breathe a sigh of relief. My greatest gratitude goes to the talented lads who completed the fittings today—they truly worked wonders!

Warmly, Lindsay Blair

Friday 30th May 2025