Get the inside story on interior design and construction
This is Two Truths and a Why where you get the real story on interior design and remodeling. In this blog series, I ask industry experts why they do what they do and what they think you must know before you renovate.
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Teresa Eubanks on renovating a historic home
Today, an interview with my friend Teresa Eubanks. After working in sales for over 25 years, Teresa decided to tap into her creative side and open a home furnishings store and tearoom in a 150-year-old Victorian Cottage. The store, called The Emerald Chandelier will open later this year.
"I want my quotes today, but I have found that it’s best to give the contractor some grace and allow them time."
Teresa Eubanks, Owner of 204 W. Poplar Street, Griffin, Georgia, future home of The Emerald Chandelier
204 West Poplar Street was built in 1870. "The gingerbread trim and beautiful 9-foot tall windows in front of house were what attracted me," Teresa said. "The home has the original heart pine floors and the original windows and an awesome cupola. Every room has a fireplace. Other than a few pieces of rotten wood, it has great 'bones'. Lots of paint and cleaning and she’ll be beautiful again."
204 Poplar Street, Before Renovations
Detail of Original Victorian Gingerbread Trim
Teresa is working with architect Douglas Carithers to repair and revive the house. It's a big job including:
- Replacing the roof
- Bracing the front porch with new piers and a structural beam
- Replacing the plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems
- Building a new kitchen and bathroom
- Replacing ceiling joists in the front hallway
- Restoring the original floors
- Building a parking lot and accessible ramp
- And, painting inside and out
When they're done, it will look like this.
Rendering of the new 204 W. Poplar Street by Douglas Carithers
Teresa's #1 Truth
"I am a very organized person, and I always think ahead. I’m a person that always has back up plans to my back up plans, but I have learned that when doing a big remodel project and dealing with contractors, you need patience and flexibility - especially in our current environment where contractors are all very busy. I want my quotes today, but I have found that it’s best to give the contractor some grace and allow them time."
Teresa's #2 Truth
"Price is important when evaluating contractors, but you also want to get to know the contractor. Does the contractor listen to you and what you want?"
"Does he or she offer you suggestions or improvements that you had not thought of?"
Why Teresa does what she does
"I love the hunt for unique furniture and good deals. Furniture that is of high quality like vintage and antiques has such character. I want to help people find furniture they love that is also well made and even comes with a story."
How to connect with Teresa
Phone: 770-733-5921
More Two Truths and a Why
There will always, always be surprises in a renovation job with Antonia Mahon-Fidelle
Know that you have to show up with Fred Gutierrez
You need to literally think outside the box with Brian Yahn
She didn't know it, but Jackie Lopey's days as an advertising executive were numbered when she bought and renovated a 1950's bungalow. She soon went back to school and started her own design studio. Jackie is an award-winning, certified interior designer and the founder of Wide Canvas.