They say it takes a village
Menotomy Road holds a special place in my heart. As a child, every weekend I visited my Grandmother in her home located at the bottom of Menotomy Road. Visiting her felt like a different world – my brother’s and I could hop on the bus to go get ice cream, go to the movies etc. – something we never got to experience in the burbs! In 2003, I purchased and moved in to my grandmother’s home; I guess I wasn’t ready to part with my happy childhood memories! Since then, I have grown to love Arlington more and more and am happy to be raising my own family here.
Recently, a local contractor called to see if I was interested in collaborating to renovate a home at 99 Menotomy Road, naturally this tugged at my heart strings. I’ve decided to take the plunge and start a new project. I’m committed to remodeling this house and have decided to document the experience along the way!
Have you ever watched HGTV and thought “I wonder what it’s REALLY like to flip a house?” Well, follow along to find out. Everything will be shared - the good, the bad, and the ugly. (I’m talking 8 trash dumpsters of ugly without even starting the demo!)
At first glance, the house needs some work. Built in 1926, it still has a lot of the 20’s “bungalow style” charm including a wood fireplace, built-in window seat, and a sweet entrance foyer. My goal is to preserve those details while enhancing the style with modern updates. Adding a master bathroom, creating an open concept first floor, and finishing the lower level are just some of the design projects on my list. When all is done, I’m hoping this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home will make Menotomy Road proud.
The name Menotomy represents the old Indian name of the Town of Arlington, which was initially called “Menotomy Village”. This rings true to the concept of “it takes a village”...to remodel a house, I’m glad you are joining in. Along the way I will also be showcasing amazing local businesses and folks that I trust to help me make this project into a reality.
If you are local to the Arlington area, or just love a great before and after, follow my journey and be a part of this remodel process. I’ll be asking design questions, opinions on kitchen tiles, light fixtures and other decisions that you can weigh in on...maybe even: Love it? Or list it? :)