Friday 13 May 2016

"VILLA LEONE" - a.k.a. the Willowcrest or "have patio will travel"


***
IMMEDIATELY 
after writing my last post about my decision to add the front patio, I began to work on it.  
After a MAJOR FAIL with making individual tiles, I opted for a more "convenient" method and used scrapbook paper.  
I made several photocopies of the tile that I decided to use, glued it onto some posterboard and  cut it to the size required for the patio surface. 
I aged the paper using a variety of chalk pastels and metallic eyeshadows.  This idea came from Mara's FABULOUS blog-
http://pequeneces-maragverdugo.blogspot.ca/
Anyway, after the paper was glued I scribed the grout lines with a ball stylus, and glued it over the entire surface of the patio, aged it and sealed it. 



I was pretty happy about the way it turned out, and I played around with it and tried out some more ideas as how to finish it.
Using the kit patio supports I extended them out to the edge of the deck and secured them with masking tape to see if I liked it. I hoped that I might get inspired and a location for this house would somehow miraculously present itself.  
This arrangement gave me a covered patio as well as another one above and lots of wrought iron which I love.  So do I like it?

NOPE!
It was looking to me sorta NEW ORLEANS-ish 

which is okay, but since I didn't think I wanted something 'New Orleans-ish', I tried something else.

Perhaps this house wished to be more formal? What about BRICK?
( a whole lot of work, and what if I didn't like it? ) 
 I photocopied sheets of brickwork and taped them to the front wall; was this what I was looking for? 

NOPE! 
 To me it looked very British and I'd already done an English Cottage, not to mention that a ton of brick-WORK did NOT appeal to (very lazy) me!

So I was Back to square ONE

Then by chance I found my inspiration ( photo below) from a magazine. YES! this might be the right ticket! 

 sorry that it's sideways :(( 
This is a home in GERMANY.
There are several thing that I liked about it as it had some of the same elements as the Willowcrest which I thought I could translate (easily?) into miniature, however it is not the warm climate I'd made the patio for. 

I spent a couple of weeks wasting my time trying to make 
 some progress on the body of the Willowcrest using this German house as a guide.  And even after several layers of paint and plaster, I couldn't seem to get any further.  I ran out of patience as well as all of my wall putty, at exactly the same time.  
My visit to Germany was a BUST! 

 this Willowcrest build was going nowhere.

***** 
So last week, my friend Janine called to chat just before she and her hubby left for Australia, and she asked me how things were going with the doll's house.  "grrrrr- NOT GOOD," I replied, 
" I can't seem to settle on a location or a style that I'm happy with, (not to mention no working title)." I can't remember if I actually said that last bit in parenthesis or not, however I'm certain that I was thinking it!  
So Janine says to me, that she always thought that the house looked to her like it should be in a vineyard; which set me thinking....  I LIKED her idea! and I could even use my own grape tutorial for the vineyard! 
http://studioeminiatures.blogspot.ca/2013/02/grapes-these-are-shoe-in.html
I knew that I'd wanted this house somewhere warm; AND the Napa Valley in California was a very good place for a patio... (hahaha 

so how in the world did it end up in Italy?

Well, I'll tell you how-
I was in the Home Depot picking up some more patching putty to finish the exterior walls of my new Californian villa, and found myself looking through their variety of wood trims.  I found a length of dentil moulding that resembled carved blocks, and later when I tried it against the house, the Willowcrest suddenly LEAPED across theAtlantic Ocean and plunked itself down in the middle of Venice! 
and that's the truth! 
So for the next 7 days I worked well into the wee hours, measuring twice (and cutting 5 times), adding and subtracting (already glued down) wood trims; layering more cement with my fingers and sanding plaster in the middle of the night and painting, Painting and even MORE PAINTING! 
(it never ends!!!
It was while looking through a box of junk waiting for the paint to dry, that I found a lion's head that I had previously faux finished and which I thought would be the perfect embelllishment for the front of my new Italian Villa.  Once I applied it I knew that I'd also FINALLY found my working title for the Willowcrest-
"VILLA LEONE"

Since I had this marvelous book in my library, I used it as a reference guide for most of the architectural features.

 the lion, as it happens, is also the symbol of the city of Venice
( sweeeeeet )
Things were looking up! 
This is the Victorian front door that I had purchased at Ross's Treasure house, a local miniature store.  I love the transom but decided that the peak at the top needed to go.
I also added some extra embellishments to the door frame and found a lion's head door knocker which I had originally meant to use on Green Dolphin Street.  

At this stage I had entirely re-cemented the house, and to put me in the mood to paint, I began to listen to Italian Opera.
BONUS!!! 
I never expected to like it, but now I'm hooked on arias by Handel,Vivaldi and Nicola Porpora!
:D

In the following photos I want you to see the different stages to date, of Villa Leone.  Even when I think I know what to do, I don't.  I changed my mind about the color and the surface texture, the position of the doors and windows as well as the ornamentation.  I had to keep referring to the book on Venetian Gardens since I know NOTHING first hand about Venice, so please forgive my obvious mistakes- here they are...



The book shows security wrought iron on just about every window, so I had to see what kind of effect I would be getting using the plastic fencing that I had on hand.  Adding it gives a more continental feel to the structure.




This is the side with the kitchen and the staircase.  And at this point I realized that wooden door and window frames were incorrect.  To "MEDUSA" them, I used wall patch mixed with craft sand to re-surface the wooden frames and turn them into stone.  The area above the kitchen will eventually be roofed with terra cotta tiles.




When I reached this stage, I began to HATE what I was doing to this house!
I couldn't get the color right and I didn't like the look of the front door frame either, and the patio was not working with anything!  And as soon as I aged the walls, the yellow looked filthy and the house was close to re-locating itself once again.  

I was feeling tired and quite discouraged.  
NO, I'm NOT very HAPPY with what I see here.
The visual weight of the house is not right, and by the way, just what is that tree supposed to be growing in?

so I reversed the color blocks and ditched the tree.

And added more painted wood trim and then took it off again-
(Is it just me, or does it look a bit Greek to you too?) 

I was trying to mix a soft terra cotta for the new color and it turned out to be peach-
and I hate Peach! ><



Just as I snapped this photo the temporary balcony fell off in protest.
I guess it doesn't like peach either!
(More painting)
As of Friday May 13th; 
THIS IS WHERE THE HOUSE IS NOW! 
I couldn't stand the peach so I made it orange.  I also reinstated the wood trims which I had previously removed. :/
I sanded down the front door frame and made it darker for added definition, and affixed extra plaster ornamentations over the doors and under the window.  I don't know if you've noticed but the windows have also been turned upside down.   

When I repainted the second floor,  I intentionally left some of the cement exposed so that the walls had the appearance of worn /peeling paint.  The front entry will have stairs and the wall will be screened for privacy, but now I have a problem.  I am having serious doubts about the front patio. I am considering relocating the entire patio to the left side of the house so that the water can come right up to the front of the house or with just enough room for a narrow boardwalk. Which means that I would have to secure the french doors and rethink the front drop all over again ( sigh)... This is what happens when you move from the California wine country where a front patio is quite appropriate, and onto a canal where it isn't.
Ahhh me....  

Last night I began testing the size for the new front balcony. It is much smaller than what I had originally intended and more Venetian, but then NOTHING about this house is what (or where) I had thought it would be. 

Detail of the front window

This is the right side of the villa.   There is a ton of work yet to
do.  My plans were to lay tiles the entire length of this side but that was before we moved to Italy

The Juliet balcony needs a railing, as well as supports. I found that I had to watch the Franco Zeffirelli movie "Romeo and Juliet", which I didn't know was based on a true story.... 
Mamma Mia!
the things that you can find out doing this hobby are truly educational! :D

This is my favorite side of the villa.  Although the bottom of the house is yet unfinished, I look at this wall and right away I can feel as though I am transported to somewhere in the Mediterranean!
In the photo below I have placed a scrap of tile paper so I can get the feel for the future tile roof over the kitchen.


I might install a flower planter under the staircase window.  

Detail of some of the stonework

and some of the missing paint.

Today I started aging the walls.  This arena is always a danger for me because I often get too carried away when it comes to adding grime as you've already seen, however I've noticed that there is a LOT of age and decay low on the facades of many Venetian homes, so although I'll try not to go too crazy, in this city the MORE age the better!


The french doors currently have temporary inserts installed and no glass either, since I'm still auditioning other options.
( in case you were wondering) 





These stairs, are only stand-in's
Ahh, at last you have come the end of you've visit.
I apologize that it took so long to get here
however, I don't know WHAT you'll find the next time you come by. Perhaps by then, this house will have said " arriva darchi baby" and flown back to California with the patio it came with. 

However
 I'm hoping to persuade it to stay put in Venice, since 
I'm actually enjoying this challenge; having traveled this far.

VIVA

VILLA LEONE!   




CIAO BELLA! 


elizabeth
  

111 comments:

  1. Unbelievable!! The attention to detail, not to mention the number of coats of paint!! It is looking very Venice already. Can't wait to meet "Leone". See you soon!
    Cheers, Linda

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Good Morning Linda! :D
      Thank you from the bottom of my heart for saying that it looks Venetian! I've come to trust your greater knowledge of the world, since you ( like Janine and Fats) are Always traveling EVERYWHERE around the world! :D
      See you again, when your back from Paris-
      (lucky girl!) :)

      elizabeth

      Delete
  2. Hi Elizabeth! Villa Leone is already gorgeous!the facade design is perfect, I don't know how you have done that, I admire your talent as always. All is beautiful and looks so real!love the lion and this bowl under window and know - it will be stunning with flowers!
    Best wishes :-) Magda

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. HI Magda! Thank you so Very Much! I am stilly working on the facade as there are some tweaking yet required, not to mention adding the front balcony which will change the appearance yet again, but I am glad that you are finding it to be " Beautiful".
      I too am looking forward to installing the bowl under the side window. My vision is for it to OVER-FLOWING with fat, red geraniums! Ooooooh I can hardly wait! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  3. Had to laugh when I read about all your doubts and re-thinking :-) This is exactly what happens to all mini builders. But stick with the small balcony at the front - that is definitely more Italian. And what did you use for ageing? This is a technique I want to learn...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Marion! At this stage I think that am truly TIRED OF RE-THINKING, but I KNOW that there is still more to come! :)) You're Right too about it being the process faced by all mini builders!
      I'm glad that the proposed smaller balcony meets with your approval, since I like it too! :D The stone balustrade which I would prefer, is going to be my next challenge. I've got wooden chess pieces that I had hoped to use but now I'm not so sure with the new size of the balcony ... MUST RE-THINK! :((

      elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Oh, nearly forgot to answer your question!
      What I used for aging was a water-based wood stain by Delta Ceramacoat called Spanish Oak. It comes out a dark black-brown but dries lighter and transparent. I bought it years ago ( don't know where) but water-based wood stains can't be too difficult to find. I also used a transparent Ivy Green glaze by Plaid, but for some of the BEST instructions on how to age Anything refer to Mara's blog "PEQUENECES", she demonstrates innovative techniques that you'll easily be able to access and adapt. Have Fun! :D

      Delete
  4. I cannot believe how many transformations I have see this house take in once post. haha You are a master of grunge/aging. It is going to be a wonderful house. It is so exciting to watch. I can't wait for the next post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Catherine! It was difficult to show most of these transitional photos, because I always feel vulnerable when it comes to exposing all of my obvious mistakes and my unfinished work. Janine once told me that she finds it interesting to see these kinds of transformations as well as my mini-bloopers, which is one of the reasons that I put it out there but also with high hopes that it will inspire others to continue to press on, especially when they can see all of the doubling back that it took to get from point A to B.
      But Thank You for your Encouraging words Catherine! :D I really want it to be a "Wonderful House" and I have this idea for an opulent "Baroque-ish" interior, once I get far enough along to move inside.
      What a journey this has been thus far, but I'm finding it quite exciting too! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  5. Oh Elizabeth, another brilliant post!! Packed full of pictures, theorising, trials and errors... It was a classic Studio E epic!!
    It's so exciting to follow your thought processes and see where they lead.
    I love the plaster walls, in all their colours, though the Venetian reds are certainly heading in the right direction.
    About your patio, rather than move it to the side of the house, why not turn it into the front door? Put a low rise balustrade around with a gate in the middle where boats can moor and use the patio French doors as the main front door. The current front door on the right could be turned into a decorative Juliet window? You could have decorative pillars on the patio which support the terrace above so you could still have an upper outdoor level too, and even extend the baseboard out to the right (under what is currently the front door) and add a patch of water with gondola poles?? Just a thought - you are inspiring me too!!!
    Have a great weekend - I can't wait to see what you do next...
    Si

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hahahahah! I LOVE your choice of the word "EPIC", Simon! :D
      I actually HAD painted the upper portion a brick red but it turned out looking very heavy and so dull that I had to erase it with another over coat of plaster. I had entirely forgotten about it until you've mentioned it since I unfortunately didn't remember to take a photo. :(
      Your ideas regarding transforming the current main floor French doors, into the main entrance has given me MORE food for thought, so Thank You, Simon! :D The height of the existing opening front door is cut really high and it would take a LOT of patching up to change it, however, you've presented an option which has triggered yet ANOTHER alternative plan which may save both the existing patio as well as my front door!
      and YES I do want a "patch of water" IF I stay in Venice, so gondola poles sound like a Splendid idea!!!
      I'll keep you posted.... :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Ha ha
      Good luck with it all, it sounds like you have your work cut out for you...
      Exciting stuff
      Si

      Delete
  6. wow...esta sí es una casa con historia...!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Carmen! I couldn't agree with you more! In 7 days this house has gone more places and seen more of the world than I have! hahahha
      It is a challenge for me to attempt to infuse "history" into any project but that is usually my ultimate goal....
      AND to also have a very livable house! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  7. Oh I do hope it stays in Venice...
    It's great to see I'm not the only one with a house that has a mind of it's own.. Mind you, I think it's mostly because my Pippi Longstocking keeps looking over my shoulder as I browse Pinterest and telling me just how many turrets and extensions she wants for her house..sigh...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Susanna! I am hoping that it will stay in Venice too! :D
      I agree with you, it can be a real struggle when the house won't tell you and you have to GUESS at what to do next! I waste time and energy making false starts and U-turns, but when something begins to work then I'm so happy that I forget about all of effort it took to get it right! :D
      By the way, do you have a Translator on your blog? I couldn't locate it when I went there. I am Very intrigued by the sounds of your Pippi Longstockings house, with the "many turrets and extensions" ; What Fun! :D

      eizabeth

      Delete
  8. It's fascinating to see and read about the evolution of your house. I really love what the house has become, I hope you will keep this style. The colours and details are perfect. I can't wait to see more...
    Geneviève

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Genevieve! Thank You Very Much for your comment! This is a style that is entirely new territory for me, and I must say that I have NEVER used as much wood trim on any other mini project as I have on this villa!
      And there is still MORE trim to come! However, the more I apply the better the effect. The painting is the most tedious and time consuming however I am too far down this path to wish to turn back.
      I am glad that you Love what the house has become, because I feel Stoked about it, too! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  9. vive la Villa Leone is a laborious but splendid job, Elizabeth thank you for sharing the development of this villa
    Light and warm shades of Venice are successful and the patina of the walls is well advanced
    what a beautiful project, the lion is fantastic
    have a nice day

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You Claude! :D I've have had that lion for several years and never could find a proper home for it,l so I take it as a sign that this house wanted to be Italian! :))
      I am so glad that you like the color of the house. I find the orange color optimistic, and although a little darker than most of what I saw in the book, it is still within range of those warm Venetian colors. I am gratified that you also consider it "successful" because I've run out of paint!
      ( just kidding) :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  10. Holy Macaroni, You are kidding about the Romeo movie aren't you? Try and find the Donna Leon TV series set in Venice - great views of Venice. Also, I do know from experience that the colour yellow/orange seems so much brighter in photos than seen by the eyes.
    Weather here in Queensland perfect 24C plus each day, blue sky and birdsong. Each morning I feed the horses carrots and check if the goats have had their kids. Then I raid the hen house for fresh eggs. Can it get any better?
    Love to all
    Janine

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Janine! The info regarding Romeo and Juliet was something I discovered via google. There was another site as well that said that the play was written by Shakespeare for his friend Southampton secret marriage to one of Elizabeth l, court ladies ( forbidden for political reasons) Southampton it seems, was related to the Montagues and thus could have passed on the sad particulars of those star-crossed lover's to the playwright....
      I tell you Janine - the stuff you can learn about on google, simply boggles the mind! :D
      You are so Right about the camera distorting colors. I found that the previous yellow walls photographed far better than this orange color. Today I'm still quite happy with it, however things could change again before tomorrow! hahahaha

      I WILL look up the Donna Leon t.v. series Thanks for the tip!

      I am so glad that you are enjoying your time abroad, and that the weather is "perfect". It has been the same here for the past week and so hot that ALL of my roses as well as all of the clematis have burst into bloom simultaneously, and the fragrance permeating the garden is Heavenly.

      looking forward to seeing you soon! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  11. not, Elizabeth, reminds me of Rome, you have those ocher colors that are part of their heritage and love. all your attention to detail is what makes each of your creations is special, wonderful and leaves us speechless. I hope to see more soon. cheer up! you're doing great!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Monica! I'm not in the least surprised that you have mentioned the colors of Rome because I not only have been researching Venice, but Rome, Florence and Sienna as well! So no doubt some of what I've absorbed has filtered through to this house! Hooray! :D
      Thank you for your Lovely comment Monica, I continue to feel like I'm on the right path after reading your words! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  12. I love the stories you tell! You have the gift. And kudos for all the patience it takes to try and try again until you hit on something you love! Bravo!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Claudia!
      From one story-teller to another, I Thank You Very Much! :D
      Try as I might, I lay plans and they all go belly-up. You're so Right-I'm more of a "try and try again, and again and again, and again....." kinda girl. :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  13. Yo la encuentro espléndida!!! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Awwwww! What a Beautiful thing to say!!! :D Thank You Very Much Zulueta! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  14. Madre mia, cuantas vueltas y revueltas... pero me gusta el aspecto que le estás dando, y si vuelves a cambiar de opinión seguro que también me gustará.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hahahahah Yes indeed Matxalen- SO many twists and turns! And although it took a lot of them to get here, I am glad that you've enjoyed where it has taken me to. :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  15. I love where you are going with this and the ageing stone details are so hard for most people to accomplish but you have nailed it! The only thing that I was looking for in the end were little pops of color. Have you thought about leaving the window and door frames white or grey, but painting the french doors themselves? Black with aging might be lovely! Keep going! It is going to be awesome!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Jodi for your comment about the success of the stonework and also re: the lack of "pops of color!" I AGREE!:D In the book most of the photo were of course, about the hidden Venetian gardens with only small portions of the adjoining buildings visible. Other than the front cover and perhaps one other sample of a good view of the front facades, there was not a lot to draw from. The book jacket pictures deep teal blue shutters against a faded terra cotta colored wall. Linda Park emailed me a picture of Venetian window with a similar intense color combination and I LOVE it! I tried mixing it myself without much success and so I will have to go buy it. Once I get the right color, I WILL test it out on the French doors just as you've suggested. The front door has a black base with a spice brown fade out on its lower portion. The brown helped softened the black, so yours is a good call about including black as the base for the french doors. :)
      I find though, that I can't get too far ahead of myself. I have these exciting ideas in my head and I want to try them ALL! However, at this juncture I am deliberately trying to slow myself down so that later on, I hopefully won't have to try to UNDO them ALL. Thanks for your ideas, and I am looking forward to "Awesome". :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  16. Hello Elizabeth, what a wonderful post! I just love seeing your thoughts, trials and how you get to where you're going!!
    I have to say, I love Simon's idea for the front of your 'Venician Villa'. Really looking forward to more....
    All the best
    Vivian

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Vivian! I am Delighted that you have enjoyed this post! I still can't believe that I got this far in a week after sitting on my hands for so many months! My Mojo returned with a Vengeance! :D
      I am going to explore Simon's ideas some more before I decide what to do with the patio. He triggered some new ideas and so I'll need to test the waters to see what Floats My Boat! heeheehee

      elizabeth

      Delete
  17. MAMMA MIA! BELLISSIMA! You are amazing! What awesome transformations you have taken us through. This promises to be the best ever, if that is even possible.! You are definitely on a roll and you are about to take us with you. I love the current direction. Using the molding to form the stone work BRILLIANT!!! I agree with Janine the yellow/orange does photograph differently as I currently have the Victoria in two shades of yellowish.... and when I photograph it, it does come out different as with Janine's French house. I love the transformation of the front door. I think you are right to remove the balcony as that would definitely confuse the location of the Villa. Looking forward to seeing this creation in the near future. Thank you for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Fats! I am soooo Glad that you like the stonework, because I am happy with the results of it too! But developing the hard surfaces was a "piece of cake" compared to choosing the right paint color for it. Color sets the mood by visually presenting the story long before you actually get close enough to read the extra details in the textures, and what a struggle! Now I can easily relate to your experience when choosing a color(s) pallet for "Victoria" :/
      Oh, the angst we put ourselves through, but worth it in the end right Fatima? :)

      See YOU, next week!

      elizabeth

      Delete
  18. I love the direction Villa Leone took and reading all the adventures you've had with this House! I admire your tenacity in finding the right style. I love love love your stonework and aging. Can't wait to see what the Villa has in store.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You Very Much Nora! :D It certainly WAS an "adventure" and it isn't over Yet! :D Finding a path that would inspire took such a singular round about course that I felt it was worth the telling, even though I don't really enjoy broadcasting my obvious flops! :(
      I am Delighted that you "love the stonework". The success with that has been Extremely Satisfying, because if I didn't get that right, then this villa could not/would not look Italian. :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  19. Okay....this is just marvelous! I love your idea. It's so different. The stone looks amazing. This is so great! :)
    hugs♥,
    Caroline

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Caroline! I'm Very glad that you like it! :D I've had the Most Fun applying and treating the stone. And I almost feel like an Alchemist by transforming wood into another kind of matter. :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  20. Usually I would have pitied you for all the trouble, work and effort you had to go through until you came to this actual result... but after you declared Germany to be some kind of suburb of Iceland and a patio-free area I'm not that sure anymore if you deserve my pity... *grin* But without kidding - with Villa Leone you've found a fantastic line for this project... and I'm in awe with your aging techniques, especially the detail photos are breathtaking. I hope there won't be any more changes in color or location to Villa Leone - maybe you should listen to a bit "Fuoco di Goia" from Verdi's Otello to get you in the right mood... ;O)

    Greetings
    Birgit

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hahahahah but, NO NO NO! You have misread me Birgit! :D
      However you remind me of what my father mistakenly thought about Canada, as he grew up in southern California. He supposed that there was an automatic and perpetual curtain of snow that fell once you crossed the U.S/ Canadian border. He expected to see dogsled in the streets and Mounties on horseback too, so if I sounded confused about the fabled existence of patios in Germany then please forgive me- :D
      What I meant was that the building which I was trying to copy didn't suit the style of patio that I Have! But you are gracious in forgiving me all the same, Thank YOU Birgit! :D
      I am Very Glad that you like the new location in Venice, however IF I do decide to remove the patio, I may decide to donate it to "patio free" Germany OR Iceland- do you think they'd know what it is?
      hahahhahahaha

      elizabeth

      Delete
  21. I feel exhausted for you just reading the journey you have been on. I think you are definitely going in the right direction now. Once you reversed the colours with the darker orange on the top it seemed 'right'. Your skill and techniques are wonderful. My recollection of Italian cities like Venice is that they tend to have balconies on the side of the house rather than at the front. I know that is your thinking too. It is really lovely - the stonework is really special. Looking forward to seeing more. Good film to watch for inspiration is 'The Comfort of Strangers' set in Venice - or even older film 'Don't look now'. Oh, and final quarter of 'The Talented Mr Ripley'. Just a thought in case you needed fresh inspiration and confirmation you are on the right track.
    Looking forward to the next installment!
    Mini hug,
    Carol

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Carol! Reversing the colors DID make all the difference but initially I didn't want to do it because it meant re- adjusting the finish on the stonework too. Consequently there are multiple layers of different paint colors under the burnt orange AND on the stone, since one change always affects the others.
      The small balcony which I'm considering for the front facade is pictured in the book on some of the homes along the Grand Canal. They appear very compact, with the greater majority made of stone although there is also an iron one in the same photo. :)
      I shall google your film suggestions for further reference material. Recently I watched "Casanova" with Heath Ledger which was quite helpful.... Hey! I just now remembered the Al Pacino movie " The Merchant of Venice", so it appears Carol, that there is still lots of Research for me to do which I KNOW I shall enjoy! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Of course, better still - regarding research - would be a trip to Venice with a camera!!!
      A small balcony would be great.

      Delete
  22. Your stonework, painting, aging look just amazing E. Loving the finish sooooo much. I liked the yellow, in case that makes you feel better! I have a couple of thoughts for you. The first is that you could switch your front door around to the side, so that the patio is now on the side rather than the front, and would no longer butt up against the canal. That way, the side becomes the front. And the other is, it could be located anywhere on the Mediterranean, rather than canals. It looks like something you'd see in the south of France (anywhere between Nice and Monaco that I have seen) or on the Italian coast (no first-hand knowledge, but seen similar villas in photos). Anyway, something to think about! Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and I look forward to more Villa Leone news!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Shannon! I liked the yellow too- BEFORE I aged and destroyed it!

      However, as soon as I read your comment, I removed the front door and tried it on the side as you suggested, and Visually It WORKS! :D But since I used patching cement as an undercoat with patching plaster on top, the opening would too hard to re-cut to accommodate the taller door frame without destroying everything I've already done! But it was a Great Idea nonetheless, Thank You Shannon two heads ARE better than one! :D
      One of the projects which I am looking forward to trying out is pouring resin for the water. Simon's suggestion about installing gondola poles has given me the desire to approach resin work, with a renewed resolve, of not to be too scared to try, so if it means relocating the patio from where it currently is.... Viva Leone!- the sacrifice I think, will not be too difficult for me to bear! ;P

      elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Bugger! Well, the patio would look great at the side. I am guessing you will still put the patio back in, not ditch it altogether? I have used resin for water, but it is the colouring that I haven't tried and am a little scared of! Looking forward to seeing how you tackle all this! Such a great build.

      Delete
    3. I have already moved the patio to the side of the house and it is a Perfect Fit! HOORAY!!! :D
      I have looked at railroad modelers blogs for pouring water and adding depth with paints. However,that experience is still a long way off. And even though I am looking forward to giving it a try, I'll admit that I'm a little scared too!

      e

      Delete
  23. Wow, I so enjoy your procrastinations, love how it is looking. Sadly I have never been to Venice either, maybe one day, meanwhile I can enjoy a taste via your HARD WORK!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Although I have never been to Venice, both my son and daughter have yet other than the gondola ride, I don't know how much either of them would remember since they were quite a bit younger at the time.
      But you are so right Margaret, this has been a lot of "Hard Work" yet it didn't feel like it once I was finally inspired. What is more laborious is working without ANY real direction which felt to me, like treading water; expending plenty of energy and yet still getting nowhere. :/

      elizabeth :D

      Delete
  24. Bonjour Elizabeth, quel voyage ce matin en lisant et appréciant ce message !
    J'aime être arrivée en Italie, la villa ❤Léone❤ avec la teinte de sa façade pleine de soleil, les subtiles dégradations, me fait déjà rêver !
    Merci pour ce joli voyage, je vais attendre le prochain message en écoutant Verdi, dont je suis une inconditionnelle !
    Belle journée Elizabeth ! Bises. Joce

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Bonjour to you too, Joce! :D
      I am Very Happy that you have enjoyed your journey to Venice! I had to take you the long way around before you could finally arrive however, I hope that your visit has been memorable?
      I took lots of photos so that I could remember how I got here, and I'll look forward to continuing the guided tour for the next time you come.
      Meanwhile, I am going to google Verdi and give him A Listen.; He is new to me, but I hope that we'll soon become friends ;P

      elizabeth

      Delete
  25. Elizabeth,cuanto me han alegrado tus dudas e indecisiones al ver el magnífico resultado que estás obteniendo con Villa Leone,es tan veneciana...desde el color,la forma,su envejecimiento por el deterioro de la sal del mar,todo es maravilloso y ya comparto tu imaginación del resultado final que estoy deseando ver!!!!!
    Besos.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Pilar! :D Thank You for your compliments and for your faith in me! :D
      It makes me happy to have so many people Cheering me on, Pilar as well as enjoying what I have achieved thus far with this build. Finding the Name for this Villa was the turning point, which gave me the opportunity to not only make the stonework but to practice aging it with" salt water ". And there is Still More of that to come! :))

      elizabeth

      Delete
  26. Wow! What a fabulous post. Like me, I'm sure many readers will appreciate seeing the processes you go through, the changes you make and the problems you have. It's refreshing and more importantly, inspiring for anyone attempting a miniature building to know that you can reflect and change a design on the hoof to get the look you're after. I LOVE the orange and white. I adore the weathering of the paint. The patio stones look fantastic. This will be an amazing building! =0)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Pepper! Janine said much the same things about people being interested in seeing the evolution of what I do, although I am not always comfortable showing it. I sometimes wish that I could avoid some if not all of the associated troubles and just have the projects spring forth like Diana, fully formed from Zeus' forehead. hahahaha
      I like your terminology of "Design on the Hoof!!! I think that it is THE PERFECT way to describe how I usually work.
      mooooooooo

      elizabeth :D

      Delete
  27. Reading this post and seeing all the pictures and changes is so fasinating. You are just so good at ageing and I love all little details. And I admire your persistence to change the house to fit a certain style! Can't wait for the next post! Greetings

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You K. V. !!! :D If I didn't take the photos I would find it difficult to remember all of the different stages this villa has undergone during the past 7 days. I LOVE aging things because it hides a LOT of mistakes as well as develops a history for a house. The challenge is to know when to STOP!
      I'm still learning about knowing when to quit! :)

      elizabeth

      Delete
  28. Looking good! Keen to see more!! Carriexx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Good'ay Carrie! :D I am currently taking a breather and psyching myself up for Phase 2 of this build, but it feels good to get this kind of positive feedback, Thank You! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  29. Oh, Elizabeth!!! You are Such a Fearless and Inspiring builder!!! I am always in awe of your use of "additional materials" for the fantastic surface renovations you do! And the results are always Amazing!!! Your "stonework" windows look so real! And the plaster facade with it's aged layers of worn paint are so realistic... I say Don't give up!!! Keep going with your amazing re-working of this (now I think my Victorian version is blah)kit!!! I Love the name and the Theme of the Lion is Perfect for Venice!!! You will get there! Already the changes you have made are each step a giant one towards your "vision" as elusive as it may seem!
    I think the only thing your front door needs is to not be so dark a brown color.... either really bleach the wood to a worn pale aged finish, or paint it a different more Mediterranean color! (That blue-ish green they love, or a deep blood red.... you have a ton of pictures to go by I am sure you will find the right solution! I agree that if it is on a Canal.. the landing dock area is where the "Patio" is now... and it would be narrow, but the balcony above is perfect! You keep going, Elizabeth, we are all rooting for you! I just Love seeing what you build!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Betsy! :D Thank you for your comment about the stone windows. These are the ones from HBS, which I had purchased for this house. They are great windows because the "glass" pane is pre-printed with pane divisions which easily slides out from the top so that you can paint the frames inside and out no muss no fuss. I love them, but it wasn't until I was looking intently from the house to the book and back to the house that I realized that Venetian windows are set back in the walls and that the surrounding frames are stone rather than wood, which made sense once the information sunk in. I was dismayed thinking that I might have to remove the wooden apron under the sill, to get them conform but all I had to do in the end was fill in the apron with the putty compound and BOB'S YOUR UNCLE! :D
      I am Delighted that you like the name "Villa Leone" because I like it too!
      And your suggestion for a Blood Red Front Door, has merit. I'd tried a red front door- FIRST! That was when the lower section was still yellow and I didn't like it because it looked like ketchup and mustard. Then I painted the front door black with brown weathering when the blue I was trying to mix wasn't cooperating. Black seemed fairly "SAFE" with the orange paint, but I've been getting emails and comments here on the blog which are gently urging me to adjust the color to something more in keeping with true Venetian color combinations....

      QUICK UPDATE!.....
      Since I already had the old Green Dolphin Street RED DOOR, I have given it a try and YOU are RIGHT BETSY! :D The red is a much better choice, and since I already have TONS of red paint, it will be easy/peasy to change. I will have to search a bit longer for the deep teal blue-green that I think you are referring to, because I wasn't able to mix that color myself. Linda Park and Christine ( see comment below) have suggested it and I LOVE the idea of using something that intense on this house but I also LOVE the color red especially RED FRONT DOORS! :D
      I'm glad that you agree with me about the need to re-position the front patio. What a reversal of fortunes for this poor patio, however I am not giving up on it entirely!
      Thanks for your input Betsy! It has been such a BLAST having so many friends leaving Valuable Suggestions and presenting Terrific Ideas to help my dreams for this villa, become a reality!
      God bless the internet! :D


      elizabeth

      Delete
  30. Ahhhhh,I love it! Venice really is the perfect setting for it, especially with all that grime and decaying stonework! I must confess though, I'd love to see that front door looking like this one - that shade of blue combined with all the peeling paint is right up my street!

    http://media7.trover.com/T/5400a8bfd809d87d1b000d1d/fixedw_large_2x.jpg

    'Just as I snapped this photo the temporary balcony fell off in protest.'

    I had to laugh at that - sometimes its like these projects have a mind of their own!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Christine! I LOVE the color although I think I've decided to repaint the front door Red and save the color in the link for elsewhere, nevertheless, I love the close up of all of the erosion at the watermark and so I shall Definitely be using your EXCELLENT photo as reference material. THANK YOU VERY MUCH! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
    2. Glad I could help! :D If I had the space I'd love to do some kind of Venetian scene, not least because I have a couple of action figures from a game set in renaissance Italy that I'd love to photograph in it!

      Delete
    3. Your Enormous talents for creating and staging Incredible outdoor scenes with figures and/or animals, are among 2 of the many reasons I enjoy visiting your blog, Christine! Not to mention you Amazing painting skills on model horses!
      I would LOVE to see you set a scene in Venice with your Renaissance action figures. I can readily recall those photos of your traveling Rangers and what a memorable journey THAT was!
      -so PLEASE DO IT! :D

      e

      Delete
  31. Hallo Elizabeth,
    jetzt sitze ich hier schon über eine Stunde und studiere die Bilder und habe auch alle Kommentare gelesen. Es ist faszinierend wieviel Ideen und Tipps zusammen kommen. Bewundernswert wieviel Gedanken sich alle machen. Das macht alles noch viel interessanter. Ich muss schmunzeln, denn dieses Kopfkino mit Farben, die Fassaden oder Böden ist auch mein Ding. Da wird solange gemixt bis es irgendwann passt.Herrlich. Ich habe irgendwie das Gefühl, das dieses orange/Ocker ? noch nicht der letzte Anstrich hier ist. Ha- so ein komischer Zufall. Gerade läuft im TV der Film The Tourist und die sind- in Venedig !!!!!!!!!! Da haben die Häuserfronten einen gelb/beigen Anstrich :)
    Ich bin so gespannt, wie es jetzt hier weiter geht. Danke fürs zeigen und miterleben!
    Liebe Grüße
    Skiddi

    ReplyDelete
  32. Hello Skiddi! :D Your comment has made me smile! I too have enjoyed ALL of COMMENTS and TIPS and SUGGESTIONS which people have made regarding this project and I am LEARNING something from every single one!
    Last night I watched the movie, "The Merchant of Venice", and there was little to see of the exteriors except for a scene where I saw the "House of Ill Repute" painted a pale pink with a great view of balcony detail!
    I shall be watching some more films about Venice tonight and taking more notes and making sketches. The funny thing about this entire process is that for the longest time I couldn't think of What to do with this house and now I feel that I can't do enough! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, and I wanted to tell you this again Skiddi, your mini ORCHIDS are OUTSTANDING!!! :D

      Delete
  33. I enjoy seeing your searching, deciding what you think works or not and the changes. What a neat journey :) I'll be watching the progress---

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Linda! Thank You Very Much for your comment :D This is breaking New Ground for me in many respects, however I feel Greatly Encouraged by everyones sincere interest in all of the changes I've made to this house-
      So Glad that you'll be watching! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  34. Buongiorno donna Elisabetta,
    I am just loving the direction you are going. I have been to Venice several times and when I look at your final color scheme it is exactly what I remember. I saw many houses in tones of reds, oranges, pinks...very much in the style of yours. I also must say your ageing is fantastic. I swear I would take classes with you. Perhaps the canal can run on the side of the house. That way the front door could open onto a side street...perhaps there is a bridge over the canal to the side of the house which would permit you creating a brick or tyles area in front of the house, and a spot for the gondola on the side of the house? One way or the other, the building is beautiful and to me is really feels like Venice! Don't give up! It is allreadys tunning!
    Big hug
    Don Giacomo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Welcome Don Gaicomo!!! :D
      What a Wonderful Confirmation for me regarding the color choices for this house, Thank You my friend! Color is such a vital part of our individual cultures and for me is always difficult to get right, as you have already witnessed.
      And No, I won't give up on this Venice location Don Giacomo- I'm Just Getting Started!
      Big Hugs Back! :D

      Donna Elisabetta
      ( love the way that rolls off the tongue)

      Delete
  35. Dear Elizabeth,
    I look forward to every post from you as it makes me realize just how up and down the creative process can be...I'm not alone in the 'changing it around' department. The house is now speaking Italian (please don't move it to California) and looks like ones I've seen in Venice...the colour palette is beautiful! Loved the use of paper for the tile work and the building's plaster work, aging and colours are things to admire. You are so talented and inspire me to do the best with my own miniature project...thank you, thank you, thank you for your blog, your enthusiasm and for sharing your vision with us all. Venice, Italy is gorgeous and this house will be too...so looking forward to sharing its birth and growing pains. Creazione felice! Cheers, Alayne

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. (Whooopies!!! Please Look for my reply to your comment just below Braes ) :D

      e

      Delete
  36. Fantastic!!! :D The thing about continually changing and repainting, adding and subtracting is that is what would have happened to the building in real life as times and tastes changed. The layers add a realism that's hard to achieve otherwise, and you've done an amazing job! Bravo!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Brae! Thank You- Well Said and Yes, I have come to view it that way too! Each change could have been not only been with a different occupant but also during a different age!
      This project began life as new build, however it is proving to be a real adventure, as it travels backwards in time as well as forward into its future! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  37. Thank You Alayne, for your Wonderful comment and compliment! :D
    I have a done a bit more construction and deconstruction work on the villa since last friday, so I feel I can safely guarantee that this house is STAYING PUT in Venice! :D
    Once I began following up on suggestion made by my friends and fellow bloggers, I decided to take the plunge and stay committed to this location.
    I hope that my journey WILL inspire others, just as I have been inspired by the vast talent pool within our miniature world. I have lots to learn and I'm still trying to get it more Right and less Wrong, but it makes me happy that you are "looking forward to sharing the birth" of this villa as well as its growing pains".
    -Very Beautifully expressed Alayne, Thank You! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  38. You have nailed it Elizabeth - that house was in you somewhere it just had to come out - if in doubt google this phrase 'hotel Ca' due Leoni Venice' - you have even got the colours spot on!! It is going to get even more gorgeous in your hands

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Marilyn! I find your comment Very Interesting! :D For months I have been struggling with this house and NOTHING! Then suddenly I am up to my neck in building something that I had never expected, so I suppose that it WAS in there somewhere just waiting for me to sort through the finishing trims at The HOME DEPOT!

      Who Knew??????

      elizabeth
      p.s. Thank You for the links, I have found LOTS of new IDEAS! :D

      Delete
  39. Hi Elizabeth! Oh dear, after reading your long blogpost we now have travelled around the whole world with your house in our 'luggage'/suitcase ;)!!! But I so LOVE the way you always work: a bit chaotic, searching. But always surely knowing what you want, it just had to appear to you whilst working on it. I can fully understand it, because I do the same ;)! It's a pity that I can't translate well my own way of working in proper English, because than you would see that we have lots in common. Trying out of new, self invented techniques (and old ones too) and making changes all the way we go along through all stages of work into something in miniature. I so LOVE your Venetian House Villa Leone and I truly hope it will stay there in Venice, just because I haven't seen one before (neither in real life), so it would be so lovely to see how you'll tackle the change of the Willow Crest house kit into an original Venetian house. I wish you much luck and lots of inspiration, so we can read even more of your awesome adventures in miniature, I LOVE it :D!!
    Warm hugs, Ilona

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ilona!:D You have precisely described the way that I work; -"Chaotic"!!!
      However,I am comforted to have learned that you work the same way too! :D
      You will be pleased to know that I am now fully committed to keeping the villa in Venice. Thanks to Simon, I am wanting to try my hand at making gondola poles as well as resin water. So this build will present many exciting challenges for me as I explore many "new techniques
      ( and old ones too! " :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  40. A great project. Villa Leone is terrific and the details are perfect.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You Faby! I am glad that you are enjoying Villa Leone! I LOVE adding the extra details which are still on-going and with the next post, you will see even MORE details on this house! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  41. Elisabeth your work is gorgeous; it's a feast looking at the pictures of you house in this post. I hope one day to achieve such skill in order to create a highly realistic and charming house like yours. Thanks for taking us by the hand; showing all stages and sharing your "how-to's" so generously!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Tessa! Thank You Very Much, but I would have to disagree about my "skills and achievements". If there's anything I can honestly lay claim to, it is that I know how to "cheat" and take short-cuts, to make it appear as though I have more "skills" than I actually possess. All of the aging is a GREAT DISGUISE, to hide my many mistakes and make them look intentional.
      - I am generally just as surprised as everyone else with the end results! ... go figure? :O

      elizabeth :D

      Delete
    2. Dear Elisabeth, you are too modest :D
      Looking at your process of experimenting and creating is so very captivating because you are using your talent and your high skills in it. And the outcome of your trying is so very, very beautiful. I love what you did with your Willowcrest Kit.

      Delete
  42. Es impresionante todo el proceso que ha tenido la casa. Han pasado los años por ellas en poco tiempo. Me encanta el resultado final del color y envejecido. La piedra queda fantástica.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello Isabel! :D I am Delighted that you are enthusiastic about my stonework because I feel the Same Way regarding the hard surface YOU'VE made with your little courtyard, so Thank You!:D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  43. Ох! Столько эмоций!!!! Вы находитесь на волне творчества. Эти предрассветные часы и бессонные ночи! Я вам завидую! Я вам благодарна за путешествие по вашим творческим поискам. Очень интересно и увлекательно. Я хочу, что бы сообщение было бесконечное! Вы можете совершить кругосветное путешествие. :) :) :) Сегодня Венеция, завтра Лион, послезавтра Грот-Зюндерт. :) :) :) Это шутка...
    Ваш дом уже имеет историю. Штукатурка смотрится так реально. Аж слюни потекли!
    Есть один великолепный фильм. "Under the Tuscan Sun". Я его очень люблю. Итальянские улочки, потертые дома, воздух пропитан любовью....
    Хорошей творческой недели, Элизабет!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You Tatiana, for your Wonderful comment and also for the referral to the movie " Under the Tuscan Sun". I haven't seen that movie but I shall see if I can find it on youtube! So far I've travelled to Rome to see the Borgias, Florence to visit the Medicis, Romeo and Juliet house in Verona, and Portia & Cassanova in Venice. It feels GREAT to be this kind of armchair traveller, since I don't need vaccinations or a even a passport to get to where I'm going! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  44. Only in your hands can a ordinary piece of Home Depot molding transport a building to Venice, Italy! When I think of Venice, I only think of canals and plazas. It will be an education to see what gardens you create. As always, I love the way you create layers of history and life in your builds.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Hi Cynthia! One of the things that has perhaps intrigued me the most, is that there ARE gardens in Venice! Many of those pictured in the book are quite substantial; some formal with clipped hedges and gravel paths, as well as the naturalistic "free form" examples with wild flowers, climbing roses and lots of grass. Much of what will be the future garden of Villa Leone, will depend of course, on the size of the base that this house will ultimately sit upon.
    And I would like the garden to also develop and grow through "layers of history" once the time comes to tackle it.
    Thanks for your comment! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  46. I'm loving this design concept! The lines of the structure are very pleasing to the eye as are the warm color tones you've chosen. Thank you for including photos of the stages of your progress, it's fascinating to see the villa take shape. This house is very different from other work of yours that I've seen...but still has that unmistakable Elizabeth style! Seeing a post from you in my blog reader is always a highlight. I learn so much just from observing your process. I'm looking forward to seeing this project develop; it has tons of personality and so much scope for imagination!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kate! You are so Right! - usually what I prefer is more of a casual, comfy, cottage style. This house is Different, because although I've made large dollhouses in past, they were never as formal as this nor with this many foundation layers and/or ornamental details affixed to the exterior structure. Since this is new territory for me too, there is lots of learning that I am finding out on the fly by trial and error(s).
      So Thank You for enjoying my posts, Kate! I enjoy writing them but the Real Reward is when my readers say that they have learned something, either through a step by step tutorial.... or from tales of my mistakes - OR sometimes even from BOTH!

      elizabeth :D

      Delete
  47. Oh my goodness, I'm exhausted just thinking about all the work you've done, and redone, so far - let alone making allowances for international travel!! Wonderful characterful elements are taking shape, this house is going to be fantastic for SURE.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank You Norma! :D For me, this house has gone from being "dead in the water " to a re-birth being surrounded by it!
      And although I was mentally exhausted by months of treading water, I now feel exhilarated because I'm finally making progress.
      So there's nothing as rejuvenating as International Travel;
      even from an armchair! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  48. Hi, Elizabeth - Your Villa Leone is going to be absolutely gorgeous! I stand in total awe and admiration of your stonework. The moulding and other stone trim are done so well, as are the doors and windows. (I guess I can't list every single thing you've done - but you've done it all perfectly!) It's such fun that we're both building Italian villas, even though we won't quite be neighbors. Tuscany isn't that far from Venice geographically, but seems so far culturally. (What! No gondolas?) They say that a book's characters write their own story; I believe as well that a miniature house determines its own location, character, and inhabitants. (I wish that mine would hurry up and at least decide on its name.) "Villa Leone" could not have had a better name - and isn't it amazing how that lion just keeps appearing in different forms to direct your efforts? I am so excited about this project and can't wait to see more results of your incredible creativity. I expect great things, and I KNOW that all expectations will be met and surpassed.
    Marjorie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Marjorie! :D I am Delighted that you are enjoying Villa Leone because I AM TOO! :D
      I have since re-painted the front door deep red, as per Betsy's suggestion and I have more still to do with regard to the window treatments and surrounds but each new change, anchors this project more securely to Venice.
      Producing the stonework was VERY MESSY but a whole lot of FUN, since I've enjoyed the final special effects and I am Pleased that you've enjoyed my stonework too! :))
      I know that you have been making a Tuscan Farm House, because I have been faithfully following its progress, and what a Visual Treat IT IS! :D I have no idea WHY, my house chose Venice but I agree with you in that often "a miniature house determines its own location, character, and inhabitants". I believe that That is what makes this hobby of ours so entertaining and interesting, don't you? :)
      I hope that you (or your house) will find a name for it, soon, because it is Really IMPORTANT. My opinion is a house needs a name to lay the foundation to build its story. It will be fun though to watch the developments of our two Italian properties change over time. I wish you GOOD LUCK with yours just as you have with mine! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  49. Bonjour Elizabeth,
    quel beau voyage nous faisons grâce à votre superbe travail. Cette maison, ses couleurs, ses patines, ses formes, tout est si "italien" j'adore! Et je suis ravi que vous appréciez Haendel, Vivaldi et d'autres compositeurs d'opéra baroque que j'écoute si souvent ;-)

    ReplyDelete
  50. Hello Jean-Claude! Thank you for enjoying your trip to Italy. It has proved to be an interesting but unexpected journey for me as well. Listening to Vivaldi and Handel has certainly made my explorations even MORE enjoyable and MORE entertaining than it would have been without them! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  51. Hello Elizabeth,

    Oh wow, you seem to have battled so hard with creating the perfect house, but honestly, I love the former versions of it just as well! :))

    I am in AWE of your work, there is so much detail in this facade, it all looks so real. Magnificent. :)

    Kind regards,
    Nina

    ReplyDelete
  52. Hi Nina, It has been a bit of a battle and I know just what you mean about liking some of the earlier photos when the house was still looking for a country.
    When I review some of them I think to myself, "hey, it didn't look that bad so why didn't I keep it?" but, for some reason, the project kept pushing me in this new direction until it arrived to where it was meant to be. :D
    Since then, I'm having lots of fun aging the exterior as I try to make it look authentic for Venice, however my plans are that the interior WILL look NEWER.
    I can stand only a certain amount of decrepitude, so I am eagerly looking forward to moving inside the villa after I've got the details on the facade closer to where I think they need to be.
    Thanks for your lovely compliment Nina, I greatly appreciate it! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  53. I'm going to keep it short and sweet tonight as I'm not up to snuff. Thanks for another installment from the best darn blogger in the entire bloggy world. Love all the new stuff you've done and enjoyed reading about it. I'm mad for Italy. Best of all I have some lovely new pins for my Elizabeth board. Love ya. <3

    ReplyDelete
  54. Hi Susan! You crack me up!!! :D
    Thank You for you ALWAYS ENJOYABLE ( be they long or short) comments, since they ALWAYS make me smile! :D
    I am really getting into this Villa Leone project and discovering LOTS of new information about Italy especially Venice, that I 'kinda' knew but now know better. Oh the joys of GOOGLE! ... not to mention Pinterest :)
    But you're wise to listen when your body tells you if your snuff's enough. I continue burning the midnight oil long past midnight, and falling asleep in my (not built for sleeping) chair. And I wonder 'why?' I have neck problems?
    'snuff said.....

    elizabeth :))

    ReplyDelete
  55. Hello Elizabeth, I'm sorry I've taken so long to respond to your post but I've been caught up with other things. I'm always telling myself to respond to updates as they appear and before I know it there's a backlog.

    I so much enjoyed this post, the photos and the journey. Isn't it strange how the house seems to tell us what it wants? The fact that you had the lion's head in your stash just has to be more than a happy accident! This is going to be such a good project, I'm really keen to see where you go with it and I promise not to leave it so long to respond in future.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Irene! No Worries! I know just how it is when you get caught up with other things since it happens to me regularly! :))
      I am DELIGHTED that you like the direction of this house and I entirely agree that the houses often tell us what they want but usually AFTER telling us what they DON'T want! :D

      elizabeth

      Delete
  56. I have learned so much yet again! The Venetian theme is amazing. And I am so excited to see how you turned that paper into tile. Mind blowing.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Hi Kat! I am Very Happy that you like these tiles, but have you seen Joanne's Minis- Youtube tile tutorial, where she used glossy photo paper and inks to make her floor tiles!? It is well worth taking a look at too! :D

    elizabeth

    ReplyDelete
  58. ¡Que bonito ha quedado el farol! El envejecido de la pared y las humedades están muy bien hechas. Las celosias de las puertas son una buena idea. Se ha notado un estpendo avance. Gracias por el tutorial de las plantas. Me ha gustado mucho como te han quedado. Voy a intentar hacer una suculentas para mi patio

    ReplyDelete

DO OVERS! a Glencroft Living room redecoration

    Back in April of 2022, I made up a storyline for my Glencroft renovations, which went something like this...   "After due considera...