As I finish unpacking boxes in my new San Francisco apartment, I wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to what I’ve dedicated myself to over the past 2.5 years. Countless days and nights of blood, sweat and tears to create my dream home. It has been a rollercoaster—those of you who have followed me from the beginning certainly know this. But it’s a ride I wouldn’t trade for the world, because it got me to where I am today.
I spent 13 hours last week going through the archives, gathering up every before, during and after photo and video of this house. I sorted and organized the highlights into a comprehensive Before & After House Tour video, including plenty of never before seen footage. This is the compilation of the entire experience dating back to November 2013, from start to finish:
And just for fun, here’s a shortened room by room before, during & after breakdown. As always, you can find complete room details, photos and sources on my Home Tour page, or via keyword search on my blog.
Foyer:
Kitchen/Dining:
Living Room:
Deck:
Laundry Room:
Guest bathroom:
Studio:
Garage entry:
Master bedroom:
Master bathroom:
Guest bedroom:
Theater room:
Downstairs:
Whew, that’s what about 800 days of hard work look like! I’m curious—do you have a favorite room or project? It’s impossible for me to choose just one since I’m emotionally attached to every room in a different way. So let’s break it down with a little Q&A… feel free to share your favorites in the comments!
Biggest transformation: Laundry room
Best selling point: Tie between the kitchen/dining room and the view
Favorite place to spend time: Master bedroom
Most popular/shared online: Guest bathroom
Most expensive/time consuming: Kitchen/dining room
Most frustrating DIY: Master bedroom ceiling
Most enjoyable DIY: Rustic wood projects for guest bath
So many memories here… both good and bad. Am I crazy for wanting to do this all over again right away? Maybe. But next time I’ll hire out most of the work and it won’t take over two years 🙂 Let the house hunting begin!
Once again I have to let you know how much I appreciate you reading, commenting, sharing and reaching out to me over the years. It means a lot to know that I have friends all over the world who care—not just about the pretty pictures, but the person behind them as well.
When my life turned upside down last year and this blog became a diary as I was trying to figure it all out, I knew I’d lose a lot of readers. But to those who stuck around, thank you for being there. To be honest, I didn’t think I’d be back here talking about home renovations, but there have been changes happening behind the scenes which have made me re-evaluate my future.
You already know about the move to San Francisco and decision to begin rehabbing homes, but there’s more to the story. It has been a while since I’ve opened up to you and I’m finally ready to share. You’ve seen glimpses of my personal life through my weekly vlogs, and starting with the next vlog you’ll see more of the full picture.
This might be my biggest reveal yet, so make sure to check back here on Thursday. See you soon…
Cathy says
I’ve always loved your blog but I have to say that following you through your journey sealed the deal. It was all so raw and beautiful. I love your blogs also. This house tour was stunning, and so warm at the same time. The attention to detail is spot on! Can’t wait to see where this journey takes you. Good luck and God Bless
Cathy says
*vlogs
Carolyn says
WOW. Honestly, I almost never comment on blog posts, but this was just amazing. I felt like I was looking at before and after photos from an episode of Fixer Upper. 🙂 You have a true talent, and I’m glad to hear you will be continuing with home transformations. I have followed your blog for years and look forward to many more beautiful renovations. Thanks for sharing your art and your talent with us!!
jennasuedesign says
So glad you chose to comment, thank you for your kind words & support Carolyn!
liz says
I am always amazed at how you transformed your home every time I see the before and afters. I can remember wondering about the kitchen and what you could possibly do to improve it, and then absolutely loving the ceiling and the wall of subway tile – I am still trying to convince my husband to do that in our kitchen . Wherever this new venture takes you, I am sure the journey will be exciting and wonderful.
Lisa says
I’ve been following a long time and look forward to each and every post. I love the change in direction and looking forward to the ride. I would LOVE to rehab houses, so I’m living our my dream watching you. No lost reader here!! Excited for ya!! Best wishes from Virginia!!!
Erin says
love your home so much. you put your heart into it and it shows. great job!! I was actually went back on your home tour last week to reminisce about all you did. so glad you did a recap here!! I could look, over and over again!
Random question, did any items/pieces of furniture stay with the house since you downsized?? It would have been hard for me to give it up! some of your pieces seem custom to the space. :o)
jennasuedesign says
Thank you Erin! The buyers purchased a few things but I am keeping most of it in storage 🙂
Victoria says
Laundry room for me is a stunning transformation. You made so much from practically nothing.
Ginny says
BEAUTIFUL, amazing transformation you did on this house!
Have to tell you, your packing skills looked pretty amazing, too! lol
Emma Fielding says
You keep us guessing as to what is around the corner! Such an inspiration Jenna, I have channeled my inner “Jenna Sue” several times whilst doing projects around our house – especially when things haven’t gone completely as planned! Reminding myself that it will all turn out OK in the end – lol. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, your gorgeous homes and your pool of resources. Good Luck in SFO 🙂
jennasuedesign says
Haha, love it! Glad I can help, thanks Emma 🙂
Crystal says
You are good at hooking us in!!! I will be back on Thursday, lol.
I will miss this house, I loved all the changes.
jennasuedesign says
Haha, you won’t regret it 😉
Joanne says
I don’t think I’ve ever commented, but I love your blog and follow it religiously, even through the non-decorating times. I love your photos and stories as much as your decorating tips! Keep on keepin’ on, girlfriend!
jennasuedesign says
Thanks for taking the time to comment, Joanne! It means a lot to me. Glad you like the non-decorating adventures as well 🙂
Bridget P. says
I’ve been following your renovation journey since your home in Florida, and I have to say I really love the home you’ve created here. It’s gorgeous and mature, plus, that view! I look forward to seeing what you have in store, whether it be more traveling or more renovations.
If I had to pick a favorite room, though, it would have to be the guest bath. It’s stunning! Although your laundry room is pretty spectacular as well!
jennasuedesign says
Thanks so much for your feedback, Bridget!
Cindy says
I love being able to see the final product. The house turned out beautiful. Good luck on the next chapter, I can’t wait to hear the announcement Thursday. And thank you for all the inspiration.
Kalina says
Such an amazing remodel! I love every room! Can’t wait for Thursday’s update 🙂
jennasuedesign says
Thanks Kalina! I can’t wait to share 😀
Sandy A says
Such a beautiful home…your building, designing, decorating…amazing! I loved your journey blog last year…your photos and words brought us right there with you. So brave of you! We can not wait to see what San Francisco brings you and us!!
jennasuedesign says
That means the world to me, Sandy! I can’t wait to share more soon 😉
Brie says
You are so incredibly talented! I wouldn’t know how to choose a favorite room because everything looks so beautiful and cozy and inviting. As to your comments at the end of this post about losing readers due to the blog content changing when you went on your journey last year- I can’t believe that. Your pictures and stories are so inspiring, and I hope that you have the opportunity to travel again. Congratulations on your new place and best wishes for all that you’re doing. God bless!
jennasuedesign says
Thank you so much Brie, I really appreciate you taking the time to comment! <3