With the last few days of summer slipping away like (one of) my favorite Taylor Swift songs, I am excited that we have the joy of a three-day weekend creeping up on us. As such, we will spend one full day at the cabin finishing up the plumbing modifications needed to install our new bathtub. Check out our dry fit progress. You guys, is this starting to be a bathroom again? I think so! It’s the little things that make me scream with joy! I can’t wait to soak up the vibe here soon.
In addition, we are opening the walls for new plumbing to allow us to have double sinks for our new vanity. We are two grown men; one sink will not cut it. I don’t want to divorce—not yet anyway—I kid, I kid. While we have the walls open to add the plumbing and move it around a few inches (it’s always just a few inches when it comes to plumbing, isn’t it?), we will replace the old plastic pipes with new, more sturdy, and long-lasting copper. It isn’t that much more expensive and seems well worth it. We don’t have a ton of pipes to replace, and the added expense for the long-term durability made this an obvious choice. After all, I don’t want another leak!
We have made so much progress in the past three weeks. I am just so happy. But, with two steps forward, there is often a step back. Guys, we found a massive crack in our new bathroom vanity marble countertop.
Please always look over your furnishings when you receive them right away. I didn’t check; this crack has been there since day one. Like my favorite Magnolia network show, we are left in a pickle. Do we try to repair the crack or get a new one? Oh, the delays! But it’s okay. Like all things Reno – we will get through this. Plus, most setbacks always result in excellent design – trust me!
But it’s the little things. We have a new vent to allow moisture and airflow in and out of the bathroom. I love the placement, don’t you? Doesn’t the vent fit perfectly in this spot? I wanted it in the ceiling originally, but decided tearing into the original redwood ceiling was a no-go from an aesthetic POV. Ah, cheers to moisture removal.
So, while we sort out that cracked countertop issue, I am also going to be celebrating the long weekend with my favorite all-time ribs recipe. My mother-in-law taught it to me over a decade ago, and this weekend is the perfect day to whip it up! It’s oh-so good. Trust me, I’ve tried so many different recipes, but nothing comes close to how delicious they are. My perfect summer day is a swim in the Russian River followed by a backyard hang with all our friends and these ribs. It’s a simple slow-cooking recipe that is perfect for your summer bbqs and cocktails. Check out the recipe for the best oven-baked BBQ Beef Back Ribs here!
Okay, on with the mood board of the week. I’ve always loved moody interior design, but recently I’ve become obsessed with dark academia. This dark academia living room popped up on my Pinterest feed and I could not look away. This space is all about feeling both intellectual and cozy, perfect for reading and reflecting about life. The color palette is just so moody and reminds me how much I love Tricorn black paint for interiors. The combination of colors and luxurious textures create a gorgeous living room – let’s jump into the mood board!
Gold Metal Sconce
First, I found this stunning gold metal sconce to add moody lighting into the dark academia living room. The brass finish of this sconce aligns well with the moody aesthetic, which often incorporates vintage or antique-inspired elements. Check out more gold sconces here!
Natural Ladder
This natural ladder is perfect for a large bookshelf or to hang throw blankets from. The classic design of the ladder brings a sense of vintage charm, aligning well with the intellectual and timeless aspects of the dark academia style.
Decorative Book Set
Next, I found these decorative books that pair well with other dark academia elements in this living room. They add a sense of academic sophistication and intellectual depth to the room and are just so gorgeous!
Antique Metal Tray
This antique metal tray pairs well with other brass or gold accents, enhancing the room’s cohesive and curated look. It’s the perfect coffee table decor for a dark academia living room.
Green Velvet Sofa
This green velvet sofa would make a striking addition to any dark academia living room. The green velvet material adds a rich, tactile quality to the room and the color compliments the moody vibes of the space.
Moody Area Rug
This moody area rug with a bold pattern can serve as the focal point for the dark academia living room, anchoring the furniture and other decor elements. It perfectly matches the aesthetic of the space. Check out tips on how to clean your area rugs here.
Silk Throw Pillow
Next, I found this silk throw pillow for your sofa. Adding this pillow to your dark academia living room will give the space a stylish touch of elegance and comfort. Plus, the subtle pop of color will perfectly blend with the room’s overall look.
Glass Coffee Table
Last, I found this glass coffee table that has a touch of luxury and elegance. It seamlessly fits into the dark academia living room and contrasts nicely with the darker, heavier furniture to balance the room’s visual weight.
What do you think about this dark academia living room? I cannot wait to continue down my Pinterest rabbit hole and share more design space with you! Check out more mood boards on my blog here. Hope you all have a beautiful rest of your week! xoxo
