Suzanne @ RowHouse's Profile

When buying a rowhouse you really need to match the style of block to your tastes. For example, if you like to stand out and be an individual, pick a block with mixed styles. We have tons of these in Philly. If you like structure and don't mind following the rules, definitely go with a more uniform block. But don't buy a house on a highly uniform block that's also historic without accepting that you need to follow the rules. Make an off change and it looks really odd and your neighbors won't be happy. I get emails all the time about this and it boils down to not only finding a house you love, but also the block that goes with it.

I agree with much of the advice above. You'll find that you can make a place very homey with things you can take with you like furniture, art, and textiles. All of these things make great long-term investments.

Collect ideas and create a design board to reflect on any changes so they're not impulsive. The professionals all do it, so why not us normal folks as well? Home design doesn't expire. You can take your time and let things evolve gradually.

Another thing to consider is that it is not worth coming up short on your rent because you were decorating. A good rule is to make sure you can purchase all your decor in cash. It's easy to set up a bank account for your home (before you get distracted with all the wonderful things out there), separate from your required budget, to help keep you within your means.

I like how you've brought in some historic-looking pieces into the decor, without going overboard. It's not easy doing colonial in a modern house while keeping a balance and I like where you're going. Thumbs up for the fluer de lys plates from Target - I have the same ones!

It really depends on your style. I think it would be hard to make something very historically formal with exposed brick since it is unlikely even poor people would have had exposed walls. These days, I think it's great. I have lots of exposed brick/stone and love it. Instantly warms up a space. The only drawback is that it needs to be vacummed every so often because the nooks and crannies get dusty.