Do you enjoy decorating your home and giving it a personal touch through DIY projets? If so, you're in the right place. In our latest blog, we interview Ashley Tatz who runs the home renovation and DIY account Holistic Haus. We'll go over the story behind it, the challenges faced during her renovation process, as well as her design style and inspiration. We'll also showcase her incorporation of Nostalgic Warehouse door hardware and the benefits of using it. So, sit back and enjoy the story of Holistic Haus.
Please give us some more details on Holistic Haus.
Holistic Haus started about three years ago when I began sharing my decorating and DIY projects on Instagram. The first project I shared was my mini kitchen remodel; I made fluted cabinet doors to update the existing cabinets and painted everything, including the adjoining breakfast nook.
What sets me apart is the timeless, curated look I try to achieve while doing about 90% of the work myself. If I can figure out how to do something myself and still get the look I want for a fraction of the cost of hiring it out, it gives me satisfaction and keeps my husband on board with the endless projects around here. I also love incorporating vintage and antique items and saturated colors mixed with lighter ones to give our home a unique feel that isn't a copy and paste of what everyone else has.
We moved into our home almost five years ago but didn't do much for the first few years except redo the front landscaping. In the last three years, I've started prioritizing renovations and updates, but I still have a long way to go before I'm "done." That's okay, though. Home takes time.
What led you to choose to feature Nostalgic Warehouse hardware in this project?
I have found a fantastic community of other decorators and DIYers on Instagram. I found Nostalgic Warehouse through an online friend when she replaced her front door and hardware with a Nostalgic Warehouse Handleset. I instantly knew the New York long plate was the timeless style I wanted for my doors.
How long did this project take to complete?
Installing the actual door hardware took about 25 minutes. I also chose to repaint the door, so between prep work, painting, and dry time, I completed the whole project over a weekend.
Will you use this hardware again in other areas of your home?
Absolutely!! Yes! I also plan to start swapping out the current door hardware and hinges with Nostalgic Warehouse. I love these so much more - the quality and beauty are top-notch!
Did you learn any beneficial tips and tricks about door hardware?
I just followed the straightforward instructions. I did have one question regarding the screws for the long plate. I called customer service, and they were accommodating and friendly and sent me the screws I needed immediately. So, if you run into any issues during installation, give them a call!
What is your design style, and how do you incorporate those decorating decisions within your home?
My design style is traditional and timeless meets moody, but keeping it livable since we have small children and pets.
Where do you find design inspiration?
Pinterest and other designers I follow on Instagram. I'm not a huge TV person, but occasionally, period TV shows and movies inspire me as well.
When starting a project, how do you organize and plan for it?
What helps the most is putting everything together on a mood board in Canva so I can see how it flows together. So many of my finished rooms looked vastly different, from the first mood board to the final one. I edit until I am 100% happy with everything. Things still constantly change as problems arise, and you have to have workarounds. Finding the perfect secondhand piece that needs to be included sometimes changes things up a bit. But once you hone your style, everything tends to flow even with those changes. Then, I brainstorm the various tasks that need to be done and make a to-do list on my phone to help me stay organized.
How did you choose a house to buy and renovate?
Our main criteria while looking for our current home were: spacious enough for our growing family, a good school district, and a short commute for my husband, whose office was relocating from the city to the suburbs. We absolutely lucked out and found an amazing home!
What are some recommendations for readers who wish to do an extensive remodel project?
If you're working with a contractor, ensure you can communicate effectively with each other. Showing them pictures of what you're going for is super helpful. Always check their reviews before hiring them! I've also found that the timeframe they give you is a best-case scenario, and it will likely take longer. Extensive renovations can be stressful; just take it one day at a time.
If you're doing the work yourself, plan everything to the best of your ability before starting. Try to order the materials in advance so you're not stalled waiting for them to arrive. You also want to make sure you have any required permits. And if you get in over your head, it's okay to know your limits and call a professional for something!
What are some tips for readers who wish to make a transformation in their home?
The most straightforward (and free!) option is to rearrange your furniture and decor. You might be surprised how something so simple sometimes makes things feel different. My personal favorite is paint. Changing the color of something makes a huge impact and sometimes is all you need. If you want a completely new look, I definitely recommend putting photos of everything you want to incorporate to see how they work together.
What is next?
My next big project is making over our formal dining room. We typically host family for the holidays, and having a beautiful space to be together in will be nice.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Whatever you want to do - go for it! You'll never know if you can or can't if you don't try!
Featured Product
