Recently, I have felt the pull to slow down and be more intentional about enjoying the process of my projects. I love a grand reveal as much as the next person, but life quickly becomes exhausting for me when I forget to take a breath and enjoy the process. So with Elliott’s room, I decided to work slowly and really savor the process of creating this space for him. It has felt like a breath of fresh air to slow down, but now I’m almost 2 months in and starting to get bored of this room.
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Don’t get me wrong, it has been exactly what I needed, but now I am itching to start something new. I guess it’s a good lesson that while slowing down is important for my mental health, I also need to give attention to my restless side. Maybe mid-speed is really more my speed!
Anyway, here is an update on his room!
You all know that we painted his room (Benjamin Moore Atmospheric) and I trimmed out the windows, then I quickly moved onto building the built-ins. I am almost done (it feels so good to say that!) and I hopefully will have a complete tutorial for you next week.
I built the window bench and somehow it took me about five times as long as it should’ve. Why? Who freaking knows. But it really did feel like ages. It has 4 cubbies that will be perfect for storing all of his books. Since he’s only 3, I wanted to make sure his stories – which, side note, he would read 24/7 if given the option – were easily accessible.
Then I built the cabinet boxes and bookcases. Pretty much everything is made from 3/4″ plywood, except the backs which are 1/2″ particle board – I’ve never used particle board before but it was less than half the price of MDF or wood, so that’s what we went with. Hopefully it holds up ok! I am pretty confident it will since it’s only the backs. The cabinets are a few inches deeper than the bookcases, so there is a nice mini “countertop” there.
I trimmed out all the edges with 1×2 MDF boards, which is something that I highly recommend! It really beefs up the plywood and makes the whole thing look cleaner. The only spot that didn’t get a 1×2 is the shelf inside the cabinet – that will get edge banding. The trim isn’t finished on the bench yet, but that is happening today! Then I added the cutest little arched details because…well, why not? And I’m so glad I did! Don’t they add the perfect amount of character?
All nail holes and any raw cut edges have been filled with spackle, seams have been caulked, and I just have a few more things to do before it’ll be time for primer and paint! Thank goodness. I need to attach baseboards, finish trimming out the window bench, install some crown molding, and then it’s go time.
After I’ve primed and painted I’ll work on the doors for the cabinets, the bench cushion, his accent wall (which, by the way, I am super pumped for), and then once I decorate I think we’ll be done! I know I’m so excited to have this room finished and Elliott is too! It’s been fun to watch his excitement towards helping create his room.
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With love,
Mercedes ♥
With Love, Mercedes 