Laundry Room Makeover

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When you think of updating your home, it’s easy to forget about your laundry room. Let’s face it, most people strongly dislike doing laundry anyway. Why invest time and money to spruce up a space where you don’t like to be?

My laundry room is not a big space. I chose to DIY this space because of that. I knew that I could make minimal changes quickly and affordably. I needed a space where I could see a big impact in a short amount of time in order to inspire me to continue updating the outdated rooms in my home. Not only did this space inspire me in design but I actually find myself staying on top of laundry because the updated space makes me happy. The colors that I chose are also inviting and calming. It no longer feels like a storage closet. Instead, it’s a sophisticated room that I want to keep organized.

Where It All Began:

The laundry room had no pizazz. Everything was a standard builder-grade white. The paint was flat and boring. The original appliances – a RCA brand washer and dryer set circa 1994 – were still operational but in desperate need of repair.

When I learned that a friend was selling her practically new washer and dryer because she was moving, I knew that it would be a perfect time to update my laundry room between moving the old set out and the new-to-me set in.

What I Used:

Valspar – Mint Frost
Sherwin Williams – Dover White
Valspar – Ocean Storm
Rethunk Junk – Sand
Rustoleum – Satin Nickel
Rustoleum – Antique Pewter Hammered
Hinges – Brushed Nickel
Pulls – Brushed Nickel
3D Peel & Stick Wallpaper – White Brick
Folding Brackets – Stainless Steel
Roman Shades – Ivory
Farmhouse Chandelier – Wood Beads
Cotton Rope Storage Cubes – Set of 3
Faucet – Brushed Nickel
Woven Basket Laundry Hamper – White & Desert

Details of the DIY:

I accomplished this makeover in less than a month. I worked on the project while working full time but I did schedule wait until my grad school semester was over to begin. I likely would have not completed the room had I needed to juggle classes too.

I started the project by clearing out the room. I had help removing the old washer and dryer (and bringing the new-to-me set inside.) Otherwise, I managed everything else. First, I removed the cabinet doors and utility sink. I sanded the face of the cabinets and cleaned the room thoroughly. Next, I painted the cabinets and two walls green, and the fourth wall white.

When it was time to install the 3D wall covering, I took my time. The self-adhesive backing was very tacky, making it nearly impossible to reposition the faux bricks. I started from the bottom and slowly worked my way up the wall. The wall covering sheets were square panels but, to make the bricks look more realistic, I cut the edges so that the panels fit together like puzzle pieces instead of just butting up against one another. Once I got the wall covering to the desired height, I used Spackle in places to give the bricks a more realistic texture. From there, I layered multiple paint colors to create a weathered, rustic brick appearance.

I added a trim piece to finish the edge of the wall covering, and painted all of the trim in the same white as the wall. I sanded the utility sink and painted it using several metallic-finish spray paints. When it was dry, I brought it back inside to reconnect it. I added a new fixture to give it a more modern look. I sanded, cleaned, and painted the cabinet doors before reattaching them to the cabinets with new hardware. I wanted a table for folding clothes but the room is too narrow. I decided to add a folding table that can tuck down out of the way when it’s not in use.

My final touch was adding the beaded light fixture. It came with warm Edison bulbs that added to the aesthetic of the room. This project came in under budget at around $1000, which included the gently-used washer and dryer set.

I was not compensated for this post, and it contains no affiliate links. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. Photo credits can be viewed by hovering over each image above. All sources found online unless property of Eclectic Jenn.

Raised Bed Gardening

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I purchased my farmhouse on the last day of 2018. After living in an overcrowded city subdivision for four years, I was thrilled to start gardening the following spring. Although the farm has acreage, I recognized immediately that I did not have the equipment, time, energy, or need to plan the same sized garden my parents had that fed a family of seven when I was a child.

I decided that Raised Bed Gardening made more sense for me. There are several benefits to a raised bed garden:

Location: A raised bed garden can be placed in any flat area that gets a large amount of sunlight every day. I chose a location just off my kitchen entrance, which also is situated near a water spigot too.

Maintenance: Raised beds are easier to maintain than a traditional garden. The soil’s makeup can be easily adjusted because it is simple to mix in nutrients, the vegetables can be grown in a more concise pattern, and the elevated beds are easier to control weeds.

Beds: Prefabricated raised beds can be purchased in all shapes, sizes, and heights. I did not want or need anything fancy though so for one bed, I purchased lumber, l-brackets, and nails at my local home improvement store. That bed is made with 2″ x 12″ boards and are approximately 8′ x 8′. It’s a bit too big, making it difficult to manage the veggies in the center but I make do. I always plant my tomato plants in that bed. I have another bed that is simply a piece of an old crate used to ship material to a local business. It was being thrown out, so I was able to get it for free. If you’re new here, you will quickly learn that I repurpose a lot of things here on the farm!

Control: In addition to weed control, raised bed gardens also provide better water control. For areas that typically have sandy soil, a raised bed can provide better water retention. If you have clay soil like me, raised beds provide better water drainage. Soil temperature can be controlled a bit as well, and there is less soil erosion!

You can find more photos and videos of my raised bed on my Instagram.

I do plan to renovate the raised bed garden area in the future. I would like to create a more aesthetically pleasing space since this is right off of the kitchen/driveway. It’s the first space most guests see. I would also like to place gravel around the beds to control weeds and give the space a more finished look. More to come on that project!

I was not compensated for this post, and it contains no affiliate links. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. Photo credits can be viewed by hovering over each image above. All sources found online unless property of Eclectic Jenn.

Office to Evening: Layered Fashion

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With increased heat covering most of the United States between May and September, many of us deal with record high temps outside. But what about inside? For those of us lucky enough to work in an office, the climate can be quite different. Look familiar?

heat
It is always freezing in my office because facilities keeps the air conditioning set to subarctic levels. Every morning I stand at my closet and ponder, “What do I wear today that will be appropriate for the forecast-ed heat wave, knowing that the office is going to feel like I just walked into a refrigerator?” Staying warm in the air conditioning doesn’t have to be unfashionable. And you shouldn’t have to pack a second set of clothes to change into if you’re meeting friends for dinner after work. I have compiled a list of essentials for the professional to help win this battle.

Women’s Essentials


LEGGINGS: Leggings are the perfect complement to the cute spring and summer dresses. A closet staple year-round, leggings come in a variety of thicknesses and lengths. It is very easy to customize a degree of warmth that is perfect for you by selecting a thicker ankle-length legging or a thinner capri-length. Bonus: Leggings don’t cover your feet so you can easily slip out of your leggings quickly, and without having to unbuckle and take off your fashionable sandals. You’ll shed that layer and be ready for a warm evening outside in less than a minute!


ANKLE BOOTS: Ankle boots have become a fashion favorite among many. They can be paired with just about any outfit during any season of the year. They’re functional and fun! Those of you like me, who can never get warm unless your toes are warm, will appreciate that ankle boots can discretely hide a pair of no-show socks! Toss a pair of thin sandals or flip flops into your purse, and change out of your ankle boots and socks before heading out for the evening.


KIMONO: The kimono has become a timeless fashion trends. They look great paired with a blouse and dress pants or with a white tank top and jean shorts. A kimono can be worn over a sundress or a semiformal dress. This piece is so versatile; every woman should own one! Admit it… layering has never been more chic.

Men’s Essentials


HOODIE: Hoodies aren’t just for game day! Layers can sometimes be uncomfortable, but hoodies provide a lot of comfort and warmth. I mean, who doesn’t love wearing a hoodie? They’re also extremely easy to care for. A classic black, navy, or gray hoodie is very acceptable in an office setting. Leave one hanging on the back of your office door for warmth and style.


VEST: Sweater vests are always in style, but are especially trendy now. This classic piece is perfect for layering. They come in a variety of styles and material, and are probably as versatile as the women’s kimono. They can be worn over both t-shirts and button down shirts, and are an easy transition for the cold office.

UNDERSHIRT: Undershirts, like women’s leggings, come in a large selection of styles and thickness. Although it isn’t as easy to remove this layer, companies like Tommy John create awesome undershirts that can be worn as a single layer t-shirt. With its premium, stay dry fabric, this comfy and cool option is perfect for a casual night of drinks with the guys.

Essentials for Both


CARDIGAN: The Cardigan will always be a favorite of mine. Classic and comfy, it speaks for itself. Originating in the 1800s, the Cardigan proves that it is here to stay. It is an office staple for both women and men.


SCARF: Scarves are typically thought of as a winter accessory for both men and women. However, if you’re looking for an easy layer of warmth, consider the scarf as an office accessory too. Scarves come in an array of lengths, fabrics, and colors/patterns to complement any outfit. And they are extremely trendy for guys and gals!


JACKET: The number one office go-to for layered summer fashion is, without a doubt, the jacket. The ultimate in class and versatility, a jacket pulls together an outfit while offering an extra layer of warmth. However, when you think of jackets, you shouldn’t only think of suit coats. Consider all cuts and materials, including the Summer Blazer for men and the Shacket for women. Both come in a variety of styles, even offering different sleeve lengths, and fabrics, including linen and seersucker as popular choices. Don’t rule out denim. A tailored jean jacket over a sleeveless blouse adds style and comfort to white dress pants or a patterned pencil skirt. Slip the jackets off for the easiest of transitions to a dinner date or an evening out with friends.

I hope that my list of Office-to-Evening essentials has been helpful. If you’re still a bit overwhelmed, consider incorporating one or two pieces at first. Not sure you can pull off a scarf or leggings? That’s okay! Start with classic pieces and build from there. The thing to remember is that layers are key in helping you transition from a frigid office setting to a hot night on the town.

Inspired from my blog post originally published on in collaboration with Tommy John.

I was not compensated for this post, and it contains no affiliate links. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. Photo credits can be viewed by hovering over each image above. All sources found online unless property of Eclectic Jenn.