Archive Room MAKEOVER: Paint Colours and Fabrics REVEALED! (I'm so nervous!)

[@MappertonLive]

To support the muniment/archive room restoration head to www.buymeacoffee.com/juliejmontagu

[@jpm9316]

Not sure if it would work, but if you want to preserve the window, you could possibly move the bookcase where the desk was going to go, and move the desk under the window and then the window becomes more of a decorative accent… it may NOT work, but you can only try!

[@dianalyman5950]

Window solution: build a shadow box behind it and fill it with precious keepsakes appropriate to the room. That section of the bookcase is left without a back. Sweet and charming "smalls" could reside on the shelf below the window frame. Done and dusted! 🤗❤️☘️

[@DreamlandHollywood]

I was thinking about just cutting out that part for the window and that much space could be made up elsewhere and look awesome. Save the window! 😜

[@earlaagaard8175]

I LIKE this idea -- behind the "keepsakes" could be a lovely photograph of the (original) view from this window, kept lighted so it appears that you're looking out, as in the "olden days".

[@carolconickmcclellan6992]

Maybe clean it up, and use it as a time capsule for the next renovation

[@charlene5461]

@diana lyman I totally agree! Cut out the back of the bookcase to frame perfectly around the window and place 3D pic of what the scenery would have looked like in the late 1800's. Ahhhhh! The history!!🤗

[@jokeith1722]

I think the book cases should be re-stained and a protection seal. They are such a beautiful rich color, it would be a shame to cover them in paint. Just my opinion but they are so beautiful.

[@bethmahoney2233]

That’s what I was going to say as well. I love the richness of the wood.

[@kymcrowart7876]

I agree

[@trinidad2450]

I totally concur. Please don’t paint them, please, please.

[@lisaannpennington3958]

I agree ... prefer staining to paint for rich woods.

[@wisenodnarb]

Natural unfinished wood would be safest to place historic documents on. The paint risks burning documents if it contains any acids or harmful chemicals that give off long term fumes.

[@jangriffiths8013]

Colour scheme and curtain fabric are beautiful! Can't wait to see it all come together!

[@MappertonLive]

Thanks so much!

[@Sandra-ch5xs]

Lovely ideas. However, I would keep interior of bookcases a natural wood colour. This would also match the drapery without ruining the natural wood.

[@Maximusrex4575]

Window Suggestion - Since the other side is now inside and has no view, frost the glass and place an LED light array behind the glass to make it look like a light source. That also helps address the lack of light in that room that has been mentioned as a problem. It looks like there is an electrical conduit on the sealed off side, so that might be an option to provide power.

[@MoonlightSonata214]

Brilliant suggestion. I have recently seen other rooms where people have put LED light panels on the wall, actually quite inexpensive to do. The ones I saw used 4000K 2x4 ft. integrated flat panels from Home Depot (I live in the US) that cost just under $70. They also have dimmable ones with selectable color temperature for $109. They were easily hung on the wall, and drapes/curtains were hung on either side just as if it was a real window. You could put film on to frost it, just like a real window, or do something like hang a stained glass panel in front of it (which would also change with the light dimmed and color temp changed to mimic the changes in the sunlight from sunrise to sunset). It's a wonderful opportunity to bring in light from that location.

[@terrihansen1581]

Exactly what I was thinking!

[@dionbarber7077]

That was my idea too. LOL

[@rosaravello4275]

I agree with your idea too. Let’s bring the light in that window again. Also if some glass shelves are install in front with the depths of the bookshelf, you could display Family heirlooms.

[@carole4119]

Or apiece of stain glass.@

[@brendab3204]

Could you put the bookcase on hinges so the windows could still be accessed? A secret cubby so to speak 😉 Every grand house needs a few of those.❤

[@jennykgilman]

I think you could simply put the desk under the window and put the bookcases standing elegantly opposite the fireplace where the desk was going to be. (Perhaps building them above/around the radiator?) That solves the problem of where to hang the portrait too (will have to go above the fireplace). I can see a lovely desk corner including the window, with a light box behind the glass allowing beautiful illumination, and rocking chairs or wing chairs near the hearth. ❤

[@Marilinaa]

Great idea

[@jonimarchese7655]

What a beautiful idea, Jenny.

[@lennierobson8672]

Iove Jenny's idea

[@carolynpredmore5153]

I like the idea of putting the desk under the new/old window. I uncovered a window from 1906 in my house and we refinished it and I loved it. It had been covered for more wall space.

[@magicskyway]

If I wasn't a bazillion miles away I would've shown up for opening day!

[@h.b.4058]

I think you have a wonderful opportunity to have some fun with that window. I think with a little clever engineering and wood working, you could have the window be a little secret space. If one side of the cases could be hinged or put on sliding rails, it could still serve your intended purpose, but then slide or fold back to reveal the window. It would be a lovely spot to hide a little whiskey service or some little family treasures. Eventually, you could uncover the back side and install a print of a landscape, so it would appear the window had a view.

[@wendyhart8968]

Team window, what a find. You could incorporate the window in your design and still have the bookcase. So exciting.

[@kathleenkaleookalanismith8724]

Team window also!!!

[@PipeDreamerJacques]

I think it’s ok to keep a window covered (but intact!) that you don’t need and that will in fact cause problems for your layout.

[@gailpeczkis5292]

I agree, preserve it, but cover. The window only looks out to a stairwell and that isn't a pretty sight.

[@kathleenkane1502]

The window! I have no design eye. But would love to have it showing. Maybe bookshelves on bottom. But understand practicality of covering

[@MillieOsborne]

Can you remove the window and its casing and relocate it?

[@susanbyrd2946]

What an extraordinary team Luke and Julie have put together! Their love of Mapperton is so evident and heartwarming!

[@ellenwood719]

I love that when they uncovered the bugs, your first impulse was to run toward them and film!

[@donnayoung5133]

Julie, check with the Historical organization and then make a decision, as I recall both you and Luke mentioning how they have a lot of the say in historical homes. Super-cool find!!

[@cindyconran9058]

Build the bookshelf around the window 😊

[@angelaengler2387]

I absolutely love the the paint colors and fabric Malcolm has chosen, it’s going to look so beautiful 😍

[@MappertonLive]

Thanks so much 😊

[@Aussietari]

I especially L♥️VE, the Crewel Embroidered Curtain Fabric.😊 Cannot wait to watch more Restoration &. Renovation videos.

[@kathysykora1195]

Plans change! So cool to find the original window… It breathes life again 😊

[@aruvielevenstar3944]

😂😂😂😂julie your reaction is priceless with the bugs 😂😂🤣🤣

[@rolo4945]

Take a lovely picture of the old window frame the picture, put the bookcase back. The window will be preserved for future and will still be visible

[@Aussietari]

So Loved this Episode, seeing all the Behind the Scenes Renovations as they Happen.😌 Wonderful also to meet a few of the "Mapperton Staff," as they are all different Characters.😃

[@normacaffey5998]

I love the idea of making it an open glass door bookcase or cabinet as you can box in the back side but keeping the window. So excited seeing this... 😃

[@kathleenpeplow6163]

Keep to your original plans, Julie. Window can stay behind bookshelves for someone else to discover one day in the far distant future. Loving all the colours and materials chosen for the room. Look forward to seeing it all done x

[@onthebay66]

I would rethink and use the window, opening both sides but still incorporating it as a bookshelf. It is part of history so please keep it.

[@DreamlandHollywood]

I would love an episode of uncovering the other side of the window!!

[@LSTEdD1]

The art gallery for local talent is a great idea!!

[@leahhandlifestyle]

Yes yes yes, the colours are spot on. I may be biased as green is my favourite colour but I truly believe green is always a good idea! It works so well with other colours, especially gold. The textiles are also gorgeous.

[@sheilaghk6350]

I have this colour in my sitting room. It's fabulous with gold and I have red couches. Love green.

[@1stAmbientGrl]

I suggest framing the bookcase around the window, open up the other side of the wall to let light through, replace the panes with stained glass, and install some soft focal point lighting to show it off like a piece of art. ☺

[@triciabyrne7761]

Findng an old window ... Fascinating! My vote = keep it.

[@ashleygriffin]

Yes! Please open up the window on both sides! You could put some custom shelving below and above...

[@lindat7525]

That colour scheme is perfection!

[@pamelafayebradshaw]

❤OH!!!! I LOVE the color scheme & curtains!!!!!!!❤

[@dionbarber7077]

Julie I have an idea! Leave the window there. Cut a section out of the back of the bookcase so the window will show. Put a light in behind the glass panes and have a switch where you can cut the light on. Have the shelves running in front of the window in the bookcase. That way you get to put the bookcases back, keep the window and it gives you a usable light feature for a dark corner. Hope I described my idea well enough for you to envision it.

[@zehratyabji6988]

I feel Julie & her team are spot on- in this humongous renovation at Mapp. All strength to their arms!

[@dottiebaker6623]

Red and green is my favorite color combination - I love the very traditional approach to this room, which is so key to continuing the traditions of the house. I agree with Luke about the window - it should be kept! It's original to the house! If it can't go to the outside anymore, you could just put a light in it. Your designer can rethink the storage arrangements.

[@pamelafayebradshaw]

WOW! The window is so COOL!

[@poponachtschnecke]

You're very brave for painting that wood. I hope it's to your liking.

[@Familylawgroup]

I love the shadow box idea on the back of the bookshelf. They could use those shelves to hiuse Knick knacks related to the artwork being hung in the new area.

[@Ambers_Team]

Painting the bookcase green 🤯I need to see it work to be convinced. All I can think of is Christmas like Santa’s office. I mean l know Malcom made the half wall paint color in Italy look amazing! I was skeptical then and it’s fantastic finished, Also we know he is a Pro so I have complete faith❤

[@patriciahyde4642]

So interesting how to transform a ancient building to modernize but keep gorgeous and old self!

[@helenlyons4887]

I like your overalls Julie!

[@melissarybb]

I have a 1975 bathroom with Avocado tile. All the rage in the '70s. I accented with wine towels & mat and shower beige curtain with wine and green print. My LR has accent walls close to ur wall color with wine and purple accent in the room - furniture, ottoman, area rug, etc. It's a really rich combination you've chosen. Love the crewel curtains. The pattern is perfection

[@suzw7154]

You could gain extra storage by bridging with shelves over the desk to link the two book cases. Then that would compensate for if you loose shelves for the window. I’d always go functionality/ practicality over design though 😂 so perhaps not best advice

[@marytanne4964]

Great job Julie and Malcolm for the great paint colors that you picked for the room. They are so classic and wonderful together! Love the fabrics that were chosen also. If you cannot use the windows, can you take the glass out and use it for something else in the room? Imagine Malcolm would have a some great ideas! Wish you would publish your sandwich recipes that you serve at the Coach House. I would love to buy a copy!

[@esmerellifarfanelli1471]

The best comments/ideas I've seen are to definitely keep the window, maybe install lighting behind it, then put the desk under the window - while sitting at the desk the view across the room to outside would be inspiring. Use the bookcases where the desk was going to go across from the fireplace, that allows space for wing chairs to sit and enjoy the fire and also covering up the unsightly radiator. Also to please leave the bookcases unpainted as the rich wood is really beautiful. Painted bookcases could have come from IKEA. Or possibly shorten the bookcase that hides the window to make it low enough to expose the window? My more important suggestion is to seal very well around the sewer pipe so you don't have a new batch of bugs able to enter. I'll be excited to see what you come up with!

[@pheart2381]

Wow,love those curtains! And the soft greens. Those pill bugs are eating decaying plant matter,probably mildew. They curl up in a ball like a hedgehog if you handle them.

[@andreahuntjens3763]

Congratulations Mapperton Team!

[@juliemcleod1119]

Put the bookcase under the window and over the top, do a trompe l'oeil picture on the other side with dimming lights. Not a green fan, but with the hints of Burgundy, the colour scheme will be a relaxing place to work.

[@deeannaschutz4049]

I would definitely do an open back to the shelving, even maybe open up the other side to the stairwell. What a great find.

[@charmainejfritz]

i would agree with anything malcolm said also, love love love the combination of colors and textures - he is good!!

[@charmainejfritz]

can you keep the window and build bookshelves on both sides and underneath and make newer bookcases all around the room that are made to look old but will give you more space than the old ones you have now?

[@charmainejfritz]

i guess i mean wall to wall bookcases as opposed to single individual ones. just wonderding not suggesting!

[@kimbenson2920]

Is there some way to preserve and utilize the window? Maybe convert it some way into a display cabinet, seeing as it has been covered and essentially given a backing, and reconfigure the bookcases around it? It'd be a bit of work and fiddly, but maybe possible?? It probably makes more sense to just cover it back up, but it's beautiful and it seems such a shame to do that. Anyway, good luck with the project. I hope it all works out.

[@ritacorrieri9172]

An idea to conceal the radiator...installing a panel of decorative perforated metal in front of it. Don't know if that has already been planned. Hope you keep the window and love the colors and fabrics.

[@msjetmech]

Such a beautiful window!! Oh the wonderful surprises!! Wishing you the best on your decisions! Yes hard decisions.

[@susansweeney1069]

I love the colour scheme and fabric, it's so rich and warm, I can't wait to see it finished. In fact we must come to Mapperton for a visit.😊

[@VONALEXANDRIA]

Really looking forward to your decision on the surprise window!

[@nancycolbert2703]

I love the new window. It has beautiful stain glass. I am for making it a part of the room.....

[@1CelloOne]

Love, love, love your videos! In my next life, I will be living in England!

[@ZVitoMama123]

Cut the existing bookshelf to fit under the window. Then, it can serve as both a bookshelf an a "book nook" to sit and enjoy reading. Also, in the summer you can open the windows and receive cooler air from your basement cellar.

[@margarethouston8998]

The “stars” need to be seen to visitors. What fun.

[@dawnjezowski8955]

I would separate the bookcases so instead of having them in the corner they could be side by side on the wall opposite the fireplace. Arranging the layout would be my main goal so the window could be exposed on both sides of the wall . The window is such a great architectural find and should be lovingly preserved and shown off.

[@yolandaneely6431]

Use the window, just put a bright light on the others side that mimics daylight. That little room could use more light. Greetings from California. ❤

[@brookelayne309]

Love love your choices. Loving the process. Thanks for sharing! 😊❤️

[@taiikomochiyuurichin1459]

Preserve where it is closed off and photo it and close off in the miniment room

[@roberthossen8354]

When finished, the room will be a true jewel, gorgeous paint colour! And lovely to work in in.

[@lisanixon9284]

Small room need light reflective colors to brighten the room...dark colors will make it appear smaller and give a heavy darker tone..

[@maryenglish9314]

Hello Julie and Luke from Kansas City. Love your videos.

[@cepcee6035]

You found a window and it is beautiful …wow Xxx

[@sandyhill5766]

Cannot wait for the transformation…… and Keeper’s Cottage.. 💕

[@CaptainRJ79]

Keep the window.. Its a tough one to work out for space, but its just such a great feature!

[@ecoop1234]

Keep the window and have colorful lead glass with a light behind lighting up the window. The bookshelf can go to another area of the room or somewhere else. "Keep the Window!" "Keep the Window"

[@ashley-cz1sl]

You should collect all the woodlice and put them around the manner. They are incredibly healthy for the environment. Besides helping break down old fallen trees and debris. They also remove heavy metals and other harmful toxins from the environment. Also, their excrement makes for great soil. Yes they are gross in houses and stuff but very helpful little crustacean

[@jonimarchese7655]

Hi Julie, I think the window should stay, I was going to suggest a half bookcase then I read Jenny K. Gilman's suggestions and they sound like a perfect solution. Anyway, we will have to wait until the next video to see. Good luck and can't wait. Love from N.Y.

[@florentinalily]

The woodlouse are there because the wall is damp. There should be lime plaster on the wall. They do nothing but live in rotting leaves/timber so they are like the nightingale in the mine. If you have them you look for damp coming in. I would suggest that the room needs ventilation and a gentle heat source.

[@happyface4713]

oh i just LOVE the color combination!!!

[@jampuppy]

Absolutely beautiful, classic, elegant colour scheme. I love it! Ohhhhhh and the curtains!!!! 🤩

[@carolsloss8440]

I'm going to steal your color ideas. Thank you!

[@pattimessenger6214]

The window was originally covered because the space was needed for a bookcase. It is still needed for a bookcase. I suggest you put the bookcase there again, keeping the original window intact behind it. Or remove the window and install it on display elsewhere. Maybe in your cafe? Or you can use it as a display for historic photos of the family in place of the panes? You can rotate the photos for different events. Finding the window was a lovely surprise. Finding the wood lice was a nasty surprise.

[@carolsloss8440]

So wish I lived nearby, I would definitely visit.

[@rebeccas785]

Hello from NorCal where it’s still raining but I’m not complaining because we need it👍

[@cdanilana]

Nice coordinated colours. We have an old building too but yours is older :D

[@berndhoffmann7703]

7:58 omg living window frames, not everyone got that😂, pretty unique if you ask me🎉 As long as it is not close to your bed everything is fine! I guess they love it when sourroundings are humid, as they can be found often in bathrooms or cellars, no wonder they are gathering around the window😮

[@karenhadley5025]

Absolutely expose the window. It’s part of history that you are wanting to share. Book case can be made to fit around it.

[@kristinaidaelassali5015]

I love the paint colours and the fabric

[@worldcapers]

Painting wooden furniture like the bookcases is simply a fashion! Like all fashions it will pass and then everyone will be stripping back their wooden furniture to reveal the beautiful wood grain again. So the choice is either trendy or timeless classic. Also as a smallish darkish room I think it would benefit from a lighter shade on the walls particularly to function as a library/reading room.

[@VONALEXANDRIA]

OMGosh! I cannot wait until this is complete! Sooo satisfying to watch the transformations.

[@kennethcrace6181]

Pretend it's not there and continue....OR.....put all book cases on same wall opposite fireplace and view open window with curtains to match other window. Lol. Good luck. Ken from Indiana 🇺🇸

[@Dani_Capozzi]

You can expose the window by reconfiguring the bookcase to frame the window.

[@SweetOne.]

It is going to be beautiful!

[@debbiemilan2867]

Those paint colors are gorgeous! I love the way they work with the fabrics too. You are going to LOVE working in this room when it is finished. Like you, I’m torn about the window, but I know whatever choice you make will be fabulous.

[@kathymcfarland5516]

What an amazing project! My feelings on painting beautiful wood bookcases is if the wood is in decent condition, they don't need paint. Green walls, even that lovely silvery sage-y green, will absorb light. My walls have always been a lighter color that I generically refer to as 'wall white' and bring in color with wall art that can be switched out. The upholstery fabrics are fabulous! Depending on how much lighting will be available, the wall color will sort itself out. As for the window, WOW! See if Malcolm and the Building Code people can justify uncovering it and changing the room layout. If no true natural light can be brought in through it, it serves no purpose for this room's intention. Can hardly wait to see the end result!

[@francescalittle4414]

I wish I were near, I would visit 😊it does look so beautiful🎉

[@judyjordan7811]

♥️♥️♥️ the colors...

[@circesgrandmainomaha580]

I am soooo glad I watched the video a second time. The first time I was listening while doing chores, and I mistook the burgundy hue for the interior of the bookcases for more of a fushia hue, and it made my toes curl lol. I've been trained in graphic design, (not interior design but related), and the entire work up looks wonderful to me. As for the newly discovered window, I would respectfully add to the comments in support of keeping it as a feature, and suggesting that you may have a blessing in disguise. The leading on the windows looked quite old, but I couldn't wager a guess as to how old because I'm more familiar with American architectural details than British. Also, it looked like it had been overpainted, and I don't know how difficult it would be to actually open them, if it's possible at all. But, assuming that they can be opened, there are a couple of creative options that could be considered. Depending on the depth behind the window, you could install shelves and have more of a built in bookcase in the space, and/or seal that area so it's climate controlled for some of the archival items you have, all behind the windows without removing them. A perhaps more pedestrian idea would be to modify the intended bookcase so that it has the same mechanism that the secret doors in other manor houses had, so the window would stay accessible but remain hidden. That this property is listed is going to complicate anything you do now, and I wish you great luck with that.

[@marilynmcpheron3231]

You could make a half bookcase there. Open the window clear the but since there is no view build a recess with shelves and then the window becomes the doors for those shelves and some precious books and small portraits could sit on them behind the glass/paned doors

[@cindymckenna9910]

❤️ the colors and fabrics!

[@davidknowles3459]

In my opinion,I would leave the book cases as they are.If you paint them some one in the future will strip it all off.Painted book cases are children's rooms only

[@Maggieroselee]

Cut down the bookshelf to install under the window? But bet you have already finished at this point! Love the colors and fabrics. 💜💖💜

[@lindsayhenson6628]

Window is a fabulous find, I would like to see it in the room if it was mine, as a feature of interest. I ❤️ the colour palette, all the colours are actually in my bedroom. I was surprised to see the electric socket’s positioned on the floor? with the risk of water, me thinking as an electricians daughter there!

[@klezmersue]

Brilliant!!!! VELVET!!!! Eeeeeee! Boy this sure is fun seeming this unfold. Thank you for showing so many of these details!