A creative space for the remaining artisans of the world

Renovations

The highs and lows of DIY

Useful tricks that I picked up on the job

Before and After photos from past home renovations

Why We Put Our Flat on the Market

We have lived here, together, for about three years. Graeme has owned the flat for a long time and lived here during his university years. We renovated it before we moved in, but, before that, we lived in Edinburgh. Graeme is from Edinburgh and both of our respective families live there. We wanted to enjoy the best that Glasgow’s West End had to offer; going out for dinner, going to gigs and seeing more of our friends through here. Obviously, COVID had a different plan for us and we haven’t been able to make the most of that for a large chunk of the time we’ve lived here.

upcycgirl

We decorated the flat with the intention of staying for a long time. We also wanted to create a balance between modern living and a respect to the original features of the interior. The stained glass, fireplaces, cornicing and cast iron range were the focal points in each room, with everything else being designed around making those things sing. It’s our taste and very personal to us so we expect the next owner to be someone who is buying with the heart. It’s a beautiful, traditional slice of history that we’ll be sad to let go of, but, I am an interior designer (and I feel like this is a common trait amongst us), I relish the next project so any opportunity to move and design another space is welcome.

upcycgirl

We both work flexibly so location isn’t too important for us. I don’t think we’ll ever stay in one place forever (no wonder it’s a common joke amongst our friends). We’re in a very fortunate position where we don’t have to sell so, if the right offer doesn’t come now, then we’re not in a rush. We haven’t found a place to move on to so there is still a possibility that we may stay. I know, it’s confusing, but honestly, I enjoy the spontaneity of it all. We’re leaving this one to fate.

upcycgirl

Over lockdown, we have realised that our lives keep pushing us East. We have a huge renovation project starting soon in East Lothian. Our families are there, Graeme’s golf club (where he spends most of his time) is there and my workshop is also there. We have a vague plan to head East again, so, once fate decides what she has in store for us, we’ll likely follow that plan. Did you ever use a ‘mind-map’ in school? Well, our lives are looking a bit like that at the moment.

upcycgirl
upcycgirl

We may move into the renovation property or we might buy a wee cottage in East Lothian. And if we end up staying in Glasgow, then we’ll probably shuffle our space around. We certainly don’t need two spare bedrooms and Graeme is desperate for a comfy, corner sofa so, either way, it’ll be, somewhat, of a project for me.

upcycgirl

Last spring, all the neighbours did their bit in the garden. We fixed up the decking, created a BBQ area, got some comfy garden furniture and planted lots of shrubs and flowers. We were all able to enjoy it over the summer and it was so nice getting to know all the neighbours. Tenement living is very unique and, regardless of what happens, I’m glad I had the opportunity to experience it.

upcycgirl
upcycgirl

You can view further details on the agent’s website here: