In all, a good week.

The backsplashes in the kitchen are finally fitted. So is the mirror in the master bathroom. And we’ve finally moved into the master bedroom even though it’s not quite done and dressed.

I went to the bank Friday to transfer the balance of the 2nd block of flats we’re buying to the notary. The transfer of the deeds is Wednesday, and that evening we’re going out to dinner to celebrate. I’m very excited about the project because apart from reforming two apartments, there’s one that we get to create from a completely blank atelier space. It’s going to have high ceilings and a nice sized garden. I’m still not sure of how to dispose the rooms, but we have around 90m2 to play with, which is a decent size (for European standards.)

I found a chandelier for the dining room that’s a perfect match for the one we have in the grey salon. Same maker, same period, same cut crystals- the only difference is the size. It’s slightly narrower, but taller. That’s ideal for going over a table.

I was slightly worried about the house turning into a hodgepodge. When houses like this were built whole series of items were commissioned for the whole place, so there was a degree of cohesion. As time goes by things get broken, inherited, given away- and sometimes the harmony is lost. That was the feeling we got when we arrived. A little fix here, a little improvisation there, and in the end the flow is broken. Finding whole sets of antiques is not something that happens everyday; but consistent lighting in the reception rooms is a good start.

My mood has been mostly good. I’m making a consistent effort to keep it that way. I naturally lean towards thinking negatively, and it’s emotionally exhausting. The dogs manage to spend the entire day thinking everything they encounter is wonderful. Smells are exciting, food is exciting, noises are exciting- I must become more dog-like.