We are excited to share our latest partnership with Our Aesthetic Abode, a blog and Instagram account run by Elisha Kelly. She recently incorporated Nostalgic Warehouse's vintage-inspired crystal knobs in a guest bedroom update. In addition to the door hardware, Elisha added luxurious wallpaper, beautiful trim, and more lovely details to create a custom room for her guests to enjoy while visiting. Let's take a closer look at how Elisha elevated the style and functionality in her home.
Please give us some more details on Our Aesthetic Abode. How did you develop it, and what sets it apart?
Our Aesthetic Abode started when my husband and I bought our first home. I was a high school Interior Design teacher then, so I was thrilled to have our own space and knew I'd be tackling many projects. I started the Instagram account to share these projects with my students, friends, and family. It became much more as I grew passionate about what I was doing. What sets Our Aesthetic Abode apart from the rest is our aesthetic… which is daring yet timeless and full of personality.
Did you do a remodel on your entire home? If so, were there specific rooms that were more challenging than others? Why?
Our home was only six years old when we bought it, so nothing *needed* to be done, but we wanted to make it ours. I've been tackling one room at a time, learning how to DIY. This guest bedroom makeover was the most challenging so far because I had to learn many new skills, including replacing the flooring, installing crown molding, and hanging traditional wallpaper around the entire room.
How did you choose the hardware featured in this project? What attracted you to Nostalgic Warehouse?
I've grown to love a vintage aesthetic, and I wanted to incorporate that into our guest bedroom. Finding quality hardware that pays tribute to authentic vintage crystal door knobs is not easy. But then I stumbled upon Nostalgic Warehouse in my research, and I was blown away by their stunning selection! They had exactly what I was hoping for.
Will you use this hardware again in other projects/areas of your home?
Oh yes, definitely! I'm now working on a design plan for our primary bedroom, and I'd love to incorporate the same beautiful hardware. It will tie the two rooms together and enhance our bedroom, as it did in the guest bedroom.
Did you learn any beneficial tips and tricks about door hardware?
Actually, yes! I learned you can install the plated door knobs upside down for a different look. We may or may not have done this by accident, but I'm so pleased with the results and love the versatility of these door knobs!
What is your design style, and how do you incorporate those decorating decisions within your home?
I struggle to describe my design style because I love mixing multiple styles. My favorite ones to mix are Parisian, Modern, Traditional, and Cottage! Parisian is incorporated with the trim work and some furniture Modern is incorporated through light fixtures, wall treatments, and furniture Traditional is incorporated through my art, decor, and furniture Cottage is incorporated through the use of patterns and decor.
Where do you find design inspiration?
Anywhere and everywhere! Of course, there is Instagram and Pinterest. Still, I love finding inspiration when traveling, at hotels or restaurants, and especially in shows/movies!
When starting a project, how do you organize and plan for it?
I usually start by determining a "feel" for the space. For example, I'd like it to feel moody, vintage, and romantic in our bedroom. From there, I find inspiration and see what I'm most drawn to. Since I do a lot of thrifting, I determine my needs ASAP to start my hunt early. I wanted a large gilded mirror and a vibrant oriental rug, so I've already found those. Next, I'll determine paint colors and trim work.
How did/do you choose a house to buy and renovate?
Well, for this house, our first, I wanted something in good condition since we were such beginners and only had a little help nearby. Moving into a builder-grade home would be great for us to learn some basic DIY skills without being thrown in full force. We want an older home with good bones and character for our next home.
What are some tips for readers who wish to make a transformation in their home?
My biggest tip would be to take your time making a home. When we first bought our house, I felt this need to immediately fill every space. This led to impulse purchases for items I wouldn't like months later. It took me a while to really understand what my design style was… it's easy to get caught up in the trends. But ultimately, you need to stay true to what YOU love and what brings YOU joy.
Are you working on any other properties or projects besides your own home?
Actually, yes! I was just hired by a former Interior Design student's mom to help with her kitchen renovation. I don't usually do design services, but I felt it could be a fun project to dip my toes into!
What is next?
My husband and I plan to move to Pittsburgh, PA (from Charlotte, NC) this year. We hope to find that older, charming home that will be a blank slate for me to start all new projects… yay!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you're interested in tackling DIYs in your home but need more confidence, follow me on Instagram or subscribe to my blog. For all the projects I tackle, I write detailed step-by-step tutorials that any beginner can understand. If I can do it, so can you!!