Wildflower Cottage Update: The Transformation of My 1900’s Farmhouse
Part II: The Staircase & Front Door transformationWelcome back to Part II of the Wildflower Cottage renovation journey! This chapter is all about giving new life to two original features of my farmhouse—the staircase and the stained-glass front door—and making another case for the transformative power of black paint.
When I set out to find my dream Hamptons home, I had a vision of an old farmhouse brimming with character and ripe for renovation. So, when I first laid eyes on the exterior of this tired beauty, I knew she was the one. Despite almost every bit of original charm having been stripped away, there were glimmers of her past: the original staircase, stained glass front door, and porch moldings. All were in poor condition, but they were still hers, and I was thrilled to take on the challenge of restoring them.
While the porch restoration is still underway, I turned my attention to two “quick wins” that would have an immediate impact: the staircase and front door. Decades of neglect and layers of old paint had taken their toll, but I knew they had potential. My solution? A sleek coat of black paint to make these details pop and add some much-needed dimension while honoring the home’s original design.
Since the wood was in rough shape and covered in layers of paint, I enlisted the help of a talented local carpenter and painter to carefully strip everything down and bring these features back to life. The result? A staircase and front door that feel classic yet modern proof that even the smallest updates can breathe new life into a home.
Staircase Before:
Staircase During Restoration:
Staircase After:
Front Door Before:
Front Door After:
The front door hardware will also be changed to unlacquered brass, after the porch restoration is completed.
I used Farrow & Ball No. 57 Off-Black for both the stairs and the door.
Staircase Paint - finish is Modern Emulsion
Front Door Paint - finish is Exterior Eggshell
Additional Products Shown:Coffee Table - Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel, Revival Travertine Coffee Table
Sofa - CB2, Camden Sofa
Stair Runner -Ticking Stripe 2, in Tuxedo. Installed by my friend Will’s beautiful shop WM Sisal Rugs
The transformation so far has been both rewarding and humbling, and I can’t wait to share more updates as Wildflower Cottage continues to take shape. Stay tuned for what’s next!
Thank you for following along on this renovation journey—your support means the world to me!
Xx,
JRWhat are your thoughts? Do you like the original white or the updated black paint better?
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