Kitchen

As most of you know, the kitchen is a major focal point for us. We have a difficult task at hand, as we feel the need to one up our previous kitchen (which was wonderful in its own right). At that time we had a very clear vision of what we wanted--stainless steel, glass fronted cabinets, and a lot of storage. However, we have been perplexed about what to do this time. We have debated many options surrounding multiple topics. What colors should we use? What cabinets and how high? What layout? What appliances? The one thing we know is this--the SMEG C9GGXU 36” stainless steel gas range with 6 (yes, count them, SIX) burners. Our only concern is that the oven is gas as well. This means that it may be difficult to gauge the precise temperature. Does anyone have a gas oven or know anything about them?

Built-Ins

The large wall in our living / dining area comes complete with a recessed area. While this gives us loads of possibilities for what we could do with the space, it also creates a lot of decisions for us. Should we go for all bookshelves, like the previous owner? Should it be a HUGE media showcase (yes, we will finally buy a bigger tv that will ultimately allow us to host tv-centric events such as the Super Bowl)? Should it be a massive wine rack? (We're pretty sure that we could eventually fill the 1,000 spots it might take). We're still working out this conundrum with our architects, and this is the current proposal on the table. Media on the left. Wine on the right—with a serving space underneath and china storage under that. A hidden storage area sit in the middle.

Farmhouse Sink

As we continue to finalize our plans for the apartment, addressing concerns raised by the co-op's architect, we are also starting to focus on apartment details. The biggest ticket items, naturally, are the bathrooms and kitchen. Right now we're debating whether a farmhouse sink for the kitchen would be a nice addition... or if a more streamlined look is preferable. I've loved these sinks for awhile now, but am unsure if it will fit with everything else we're looking at. For now it's a thought.

Floor Plan

I just realized that we hadn't yet posted our most recent floor plan for the new apartment. Of course, it may shift around and change a bit depending on what feedback we receive from the co-op's architect. But we're hoping that this floor plan, for the most part, will be approved. And hopefully soon.

Stealth

Last night we stopped by LV Wood for an initial look at our flooring options. They had lots of lovely things, but as expected, we are both leaning towards a dark stain called "stealth". We're thinking hand-planed walnut, although we may have to forego the hand-planing depending on cost. Given the size of our apartment, the sales person recommended 7" planks. I'm sure we'll be back to showroom as there is much to learn. Stained vs. smoked. Oil vs. polyurethane. Walnut vs. oak. You can even decide if you want knots in the wood.

A Slow Process

I realized today that it's been over a month since our last post. This is mostly because the progress in getting our layout (now finalized) has reached the point where we need co-op approval prior to moving forward. The final drawings were submitted this week, and we now wait for the building's architect to review the plans and respond. We are hoping this won't be a long, drawn-out process since we'd like for the board to see this at their April meeting. Otherwise, everything will be pushed out another month. In the meantime, we will make a decision on what our flooring will look like. What do you think?

What is your ideal wood flooring?
	dark wood planks
	walnut wood planks
	natural pine planks
	pickled (bleached) wood planks
	reclaimed wood
pollcode.com free polls

APPROVED!

And so after that long spell, after gathering and gathering all our information, and the waiting and waiting, we FINALLY had our Board Interview last Tuesday night. And after all that time spent planning and waiting, the Interview itself lasted a mere 10 minutes. Maybe fifteen. Did they like us so much that they didn't need any more time than that? OR, are we so unappealing that whatever time was spent was already too much? Well, today we got the answer and WE ARE APPROVED! HURRAY! That means we can now go ahead and schedule our Closing... and after that begin The Renovations... which itself will be a whole other saga. Stay tuned...