Downstairs Porch: The Finale!

We finally completed our porch area and I am in love. I beg my husband, kids, neighbors, whoever to come sit down there with me everynight (when it is truely cool and fantastic:). In this post I will show you our new ceiling and our potting bench/turned into the family drink station. The girlies added touches to this project that made it a true family piece!

I didn't take before shots of the ceiling, but imagine pink and yellow insulation shoved up into beams. Not attractive! My husband and our talented friend hung large sheets of wood over the exposed insulation. Our friend even helped install a ceiling fan, adding a breeze to our area. Here is a shot before paneling and wood stain.

Chris then added strips to cover the seams and stained (yes upside down, probably should have stained first, everything moved quickly~)the wood the same color as our new bar. I love it!

Next up, the family drinking station.....well, the BAR! This project is special to me because: a)the potting bench was an anniversary gift to me several years ago from the hubby b) I have been wanting to turn it into a bar since I received it c) I learned how to use a sewing machine for this project (via You Tube videos) and d) the finishing pendant banner was made by my daughter at camp.

First, my husband pressure washed the bench to get is super clean. I sanded it and applied the first coat of wood stain. I sanded one more time before applying second coat. My husband then cut a sheet of metal flashing (Home Depot) down to size and nailed it on back for the cool backsplash.

The naked potting bench

Cabot Oil, Jarah Brown, two coats

Chris attaching the flashing for backsplash.

Next was the super exciting part, learning to sew. My younger daughter and I jumped on You Tube and learned how to thread the bobbin and machine. With my newly acquired skill I made little curtains to go around the bottom. They were made from a $4.88 tablecloth from Walmart. My husband hung cafe rods around the perimeter. We bought our ice bucket at Ace Hardware. And the sweet little family pendant was compliments of my oldest child. I love how it all turned out! Here are some pics!

Hook on side holds a towel to wipe cold drinks or a bottle opener, depending on party attendees:)!

My table cloth curtains conceals are outdoor junk!

Beverage tray, I painted an old tray with the green acrylic I used for lamp and rug, Citron Green.

Ice bucket holds Cokes, water, juice boxes, beer...whatever.

One final shot!!! And I think our downstairs porch is complete...for now!