On This Episode

Host Mélanie Berliet talks with Kay Volmar (@onceupona1912) about virtual house hunting after discovering her dream town in Florida, moving cross country, and embarking on a long-term renovation (seven years and counting) filled with highs and lows. She shares her tips on where to splurge and save money to stay on budget, and how patience and positivity kept her going.

Meet Kay Volmar

Kay Volmar was on a family trip to Walt Disney World when she discovered the small Florida town that would become her home. After months of virtual house hunting from her home in New York, she found a home built in 1912 and bought it sight unseen. “I’m a firm believer in searching for a home based on your lifestyle and the location, and not necessarily the home,” says Volmar. For the past seven years, she’s been using her DIY expertise to restore it to its former glory by preserving historical details while also modernizing spaces with her signature sophisticated, simple DIY style–and documenting it all on social media.

Advice from the Episode

Kay shares the important lessons she’s learned while tackling her renovation project.

Where to Start with a Home Renovation

Take a renovation project one small step at a time to make it more manageable. Kay began her project by painting her front door a happy color.

What Is Something Worth Splurging On

Good art is always worth the splurge. Places where you sit are also worth the investment. Consider investing in good couches and mattresses.

What Makes a Space Welcoming

Your space is all about how you feel in it. It’s important to be comfortable! The feel and vibe of a home is more important that the look.

Download the transcript for this episode. Follow Kay on Facebook and Instagram.