The decorating has begun

The first week at Casa Vega has flown by. Anja has gone home to Denmark, and I have stayed a few more days to get the decorating started. When we got the key, the house was full of things from the previous owner, and not much of it felt like ours. I am now well on my way to changing that.

How we got the house
The first days were spent going through every room. Boxes, sun loungers, pictures, lamps and bags of all sorts stood in the corners. Some things we will keep, but most of it has to go. The old roller blinds have done their job, too.

Plants and pots
A house in Andalusia needs greenery around it, so one of the first trips was to a garden centre. I wandered between agaves and palms and simply could not decide which terracotta pots should come home with me. More came along than I had planned.

Shopping trips
There has also been time for a few long days in DIY stores and furniture shops. I have learned that a quick trip for a single item is rarely quick. The car was filled with lamps, textiles, storage and everything it takes before a house feels like a home.

The living room takes shape
And then it starts to look like something. The living room has been cleared, the furniture has light throws, and an olive tree stands in the corner. The vacuum cleaner is still out and there is a long way to go, but now I can picture it. It will be homely, bright and calm, just as we dreamed, and I can't wait to show Anja.

There is still plenty to do, and we look forward to showing you more. Next time it is about the rooms that really get a new lease of life.