Oak Branch Cottage: Let There Be Light!

If there’s one thing that can instantly turn a chaotic construction zone into a space that feels like a home, it’s lighting. This past Saturday was a major milestone for Oak Branch Cottage—our electrician was on-site all afternoon, and the transformation is unbelievable!

Illuminating the Details

The main focus of the weekend was getting the light fixtures installed and making sure the lighting plan finally came to life. Seeing the ambient glow in each room after weeks of work lights and bare bulbs felt like a total game-changer. Every fixture brings its own personality to the cottage, striking that perfect balance between cozy charm and modern functionality.

The Power of Small Details

Beyond the statement light fixtures, our electrician knocked out a massive list of finishing touches—including installing all the outlet covers around the house. It sounds like a tiny detail, but when you’ve been looking at exposed wiring and open switch boxes for weeks, seeing crisp, clean outlet covers flush against the fresh walls makes the entire place feel polished and complete.

Moving Forward

Renovations are always a journey filled with waiting, planning, and endless choices, but days like Saturday make it all worth it. Seeing tangible progress—the kind you can literally turn on with the flip of a switch—is the ultimate mood booster.

Progress makes me so happy, and Oak Branch Cottage is one step closer to being finished! Stay tuned for more updates as we tackle the next phase of the transformation.

Lighting, y'all!

Oak Branch Cottage: Landscape Lighting

There is something truly magical about stepping outside after sunset and seeing a outdoor space transformed. Thanks to Jorge at JC Landscaping, Oak Branch Cottage has officially reached a whole new level of evening charm.

Jorge has done it yet again, proving that thoughtful landscape lighting isn't just an addition—it’s a game-changer.

Here is how the new lighting design brings the property to life when the sun goes down:

• Highlighting Nature’s Best: Strategic uplights have been placed around the trees, casting dramatic, soft silhouettes that draw the eye upward and make the yard feel expansive and grand.

• Welcoming Pathways: Path lights now border the driveway. They do more than just guide the way safely; they create a warm, inviting runway right up to the front door.

• Elevating Curb Appeal: Nighttime landscaping adds depth, architectural texture, and a cozy warmth that truly highlights the unique character of Oak Branch Cottage.

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Whether you're pulling into the driveway after a long day or enjoying a night outdoors on the porch, the soft, golden glow gives the entire property a serene, resort-like feel.

Huge thanks to Jorge at JC Landscaping for his incredible vision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. If you've been thinking about upgrading your curb appeal or bringing your yard to life after dark, we can’t recommend JC Landscaping enough! But remember, he was ours first!

Illuminating the Landscape, y'all!

Halloween 2022 {Let's Get Lit}

 Every year I try to do something a little different in the front yard. This year I called upon a local company, Let's Get Lit (Don't you just love the name of this lighting company?). Scheduled a while back, the installers came by today and sent progression photos of the lights which line the roof line. 

I cannot wait to see it all lit at night. You know I'll be sharing more with you.

From Concept...

By the way, I have not blogged much since the start of school as the beginning of the year is always such a busy one. With the holiday seasons upon us, I am sure I'll be writing and sharing more of my seasonal decor. Thanks for those of you who checked in.

Also, prayers to all in the path of Hurricane Ian. We south Louisianians know all too well what you are about to go through.

Let's Get Lit, y'all!

The Acorn Cottage {Yet More Lighting}

I know. I know. I am a sucker for good lighting as I believe lighting is one of the factors that can make or break a design. It can certainly break the budget.

The electrician installed several light fixtures in various rooms. Here's a peek of the newest lighting.

Master Bedroom

Dining Room

"Master" Bath

Backyard Lighting

I apologize as these are not staged photos, but actual photos in the life of Ron and J. Carry on!

Yet More Lighting, y'all!

The Acorn Cottage {Visual Comfort Sconces}

Today, yes today (on Labor Day), our electrician stopped by to hang these Visual Comfort sconces. I am in love! Most of our lighting selected for the Acorn Cottage is by Visual Comfort from Rivers Spencer on Magazine Street.

I do adore lighting, and I adore it even more when the lighting is this good.

And I am even more stoked that I have an extra day off compliments of Tropical Storm Gordon.

Sconces, y'all!

The Acorn Cottage {Library Lights}

By now, you know that I LOVE lighting and believe it is one of the most beautiful features in the home. I am so happy we have not skimped on lighting.

The library lights were installed recently, and I am in LOVE. I have always adored the lights of traditional libraries and how the shadows are cast on books and/or accessories.

Move-in day is fast approaching.....

Library lights, y'all!

The Acorn Cottage {Front Hardie Plank and other updates}

It is nice to see the Hardie plank going up on the outside of the front of the house. I cannot wait until it is finished and painted.

The kitchen light fixture has also been installed. This fixture is the Piedmont 4-light lantern from Ballard Designs.

Tiling in the baths is also on-going.

Progress.... slow and steady wins the race. Right?

Updates, y'all!

The Acorn Cottage {More Lighting Updates}

Lighting is so important to the design of a home, and I get uber excited when new lighting is installed at the Acorn Cottage.

A brass sconce was added to the hallway outside the bedrooms.

A crystal and brass flush mount was installed near the back door just outside the laundry room. I do love some sparkle.

I also added chandelier bulbs to the fixtures installed yesterday. They carry such a lovely glow at night.

Here is the penny tiled bathroom floor. I am love with its vintage feel. Perfect!

Updates, y'all!