#redecorating and repainting

[yddecorating]

The Effect of Lighting on Painting and Decorating Choices in Epsom Homes

Hey, have you ever wondered why certain rooms seem to glow while others feel dim and uninviting, even with the same decor? The answer to this can be the lighting, including the painting and decorating.

Knowing how lighting influences your decisions might be crucial when organising your Epsom painting and decorating chores.

Let’s explore how you can attain that ideal proportion.

Natural vs. Artificial Lighting

Let’s understand the phenomenon of natural and artificial lighting. So that you can evaluate from it and gain the ideal solution for your space.

Natural Light:

Direction and Intensity: Considering direction and intensity of the natural light during the day is significant.

Impact on Colours: As natural light enhances the brightness and vibrancy of paints. You can also perform pain testing in different parts of room in order to make the evaluation on how they look under the natural lights.

Artificial Lighting:

Types of Lighting: First, there’s ambient lighting, the general lighting for your room. This light fills the room and sets the overall mood. Next up is task lighting. This is your focused lighting for specific tasks, like reading or cooking. Lastly, to highlight the aesthetic decors of your space, there’s accent lighting to show off those features.

Colour Temperature: LED lights come in different colour temperatures (e.g., warm white, cool white). Consider how these temperatures affect the ambiance and colour rendition in your rooms.

Choosing Paint Colours

Room Functionality

Living Areas: Desire a cosy and welcoming living space? Go for warm gray, bright yellow, or soft beige if you want to feel snug. These colours produce a warm ambience that is ideal for socialising and unwinding.

Bedrooms: Do you want to create a calm haven in your bedroom? Select soothing hues such as pastel greens, lavender, or gentle blues. You’ll feel more at ease and sleep better with these hues.

Kitchens: You may not be aware that the gloss of your paint influences light reflection. Kitchens and bathrooms benefit greatly from high-gloss paints since they reflect more light and are simpler to clean.

Considering Light Reflection

Sheen Levels: It’s a fact that the shine of your paint influences the reflection of light. They add a touch of brightness and practicality to these spaces.

Matte Finishes: Matte finishes absorb light which creates softer atmosphere. They’re ideal for spaces like living rooms and bedrooms where you want a cosy, snug feel.

Enhancing Textures and Finishes

Accentuating Architectural Features

Highlighting Details: If you want to draw attention to architectural features like mouldings, trim, and textured walls, use lighting. Then use directional lighting as it shadows and enhance depth, adding more visual interest to our room.

Texture Play: Why not try different textured paints, or venetian plaster finishes? These textures interact uniquely with light, creating dynamic visual effect that will transform your space.

Creating Mood and Atmosphere

Layering Lighting: Hey, have you thought about layering your lighting? Combine different light sources to create layers that can be adjusted to suit your mood. Using dimmers and smart lighting systems adds versatility, letting you easily switch from bright and lively to soft and cosy.

Artistic Effects: If you are looking to add some warmth to a room. Then, coloured accent lighting can be the best for you. It can transform the look of painted walls, giving your space a unique and artistic touch. Try it out and see how it completely changes the vibe of your room!

Practical Considerations

Testing and Adjusting

Paint Samples: Here’s a tip, always test paint samples on your walls! Observe them at different times of the day under both natural and artificial light. This simple step ensures you make the right choice and love the final look.

Consultation: If you are planning for the big projects, then it is best to consult with professional painter or decorator. They understand the essence of lighting and color, and will be easier for you to achieve your desired result.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, Epsom homeowners! When it comes to painting and decorating your interiors, lighting really is everything.

By paying attention to how natural and artificial lighting affects colour perception, texture visibility, and overall ambiance, you can transform your rooms into visually appealing and functional havens.

Knowing how lighting and decor interact is crucial, whether you’re redecorating and repainting a single room or preparing a whole house makeover.

Remember, that right lighting choices can make all the difference in achieving stunning results. Happy painting and decorating, and may your home always shine bright!

FAQs

How does natural light influence paint colours?

Indeed, the intensity and direction of light can influence the appearance of paint colours, giving them a brighter or duller look. For these reason, it is crucial to test paint sample in various lighting before making the implementation.

What will look better on the walls, a glossy or matte finish?

Matte finish can be ideal to your bedrooms or living spaces, as it will give you the softer feel. Whereas, glossy finishes can be ideal for your bathrooms and kitchens, as they reflect more light and gives the clean look. Additionally, making it simpler to clean.

How can lighting enhance architectural elements?

Directional lighting can cast shadows and highlights on architectural features like mouldings and textured walls, adding depth and visual interest. This will help in highlighting the architectural elements of your space.

[stuck-in-the-ghost-zone]

ok i got to the cave part I am going to go back into the gdocs for a little bit and then Also Go To Bed before i go too insane

[thedevotionaltour]

i think about how when we drive past the park i played at as a kid all the time how the whole playset changed in the time i was away at school and how in high school they started cutting down the trees i used to climb at it and the other week when i was with my mom to take her friend somewhere I thought about how I haven't been down this road since going to high school since it was the street leading up to it but I've just never really gone that particular direction on it in a while and i need to like go wander or something about this.

[purposefully-lost]

Charlie and vi,, but they kiss,,,

[sitepathos]

I just randomly thought about from gold to mold today. Imagine that Alfred start asking Bruce questions about reader, like if he knows reader's favorite colors or food, stuff like that.

Only for Bruce to not know anything (which is no surprise) I think it's the best way to torture him mentally lol.

He wouldn’t ask Bruce any questions because he knows that he wouldn’t know the answer to any of them.

He would, however, flex his knowledge of you to make Bruce feel like shit.

For example, after Bruce tells Alfred to prepare the empty bedroom next to his for your return, he says he’ll have to repaint the room. Maybe you like your room to be the color of your favorite color (which Alfred knows, but Bruce doesn’t) or maybe you’re a follower of color theory, insisting on having your walls be a specific color to make you feel more relaxed when you try to sleep or focused while you’re working on homework (which would astound Bruce that you think that way and make him wish he’d talked to you more and maybe get your input on redecorating the manor).

Or when he’s decorating your room, Alfred points out you like certain plushies, figurines, or posters from your favorite video games or other pop culture media. Bruce would nod along and try to follow along (making notes to follow up on these things and research the hell out of them), but he would be drowning in the fact that he, your father, knows less than nothing about you, his son, while his butler is basically an encyclopedia on all things you.

And food is another thing he would flex on, saying he needs to get to start preparing a feast when you return home. Maybe you have favorite cooked foods and he’ll say he needs to get to the store and buy all the ingredients to cook them. Or maybe you have a favorite restaurant that you always went to on special occasions, so he’ll place a massive catering order so he can have the entire dining table covered in your favorite foods.

Yeah, Alfred can be petty as hell and will flex his knowledge on you to make Bruce and the kids feel like shit.

[vinceaddams]

Rewatching some of The Closet Historian's lookbook videos and I love how many times this set has been repainted and re-used. She built it back in 2019 out of insulation foam for a Star Wars inspired video.

And then repainted & redecorated it for a cyberpunk one a couple years ago.

And then again. (This time mixed with some geometric blocks that have been in other videos.)

And again.

And most recently for a fantasy one!

That fake door is so much more versatile than I would have expected, and I look forward to seeing what it will look like next!

(Also I think it's a terrible shame that these get so many fewer views than her sewing videos. So much time and effort and money goes into them and they almost never break 20k.)

[callmearcturus]

Doing a fast canon check for a scene in catch & hold

one: that TV console HAS to be on wheels, right? there's no way its not

two: the actual shape and molding and space in this flat is really nice and avoids the sort of Minecraft House Made Of Squares vibe you get from an AirBNB or other temp housing, there's so much potential here tbh

three: AND YET the fact Ted is even using the same fucking ugly dining chairs and the same brown blackout curtains, he's changed NOTHING about this place makes me wanna die a little bit, because if you compare to Beard's place

Beard's place has a lot less space and doesn't have the extra molding and he definitely doesn't have those stunning windows, but every single piece of set dressing, every shot in this set, it makes it clear how much this is Beard's home. He has filled the bookshelves. If the place came with 'default' photos and art like Ted's, Beard's changed every single one out for things he likes, that wall color is lovely, and THE LIGHTING FIXTURES. Look at those lighting fixtures and the exact kind of warm soft light they cast.

I know I've said that making Ted Lasso sit down and watch I Saw the TV Glow could have fixed him but I also think a weekend with Keeley helping him dress his flat up also could have saved him. How tf do you have that wonderful bold blue stove and NOT redo your whole kitchen around it? gd.

(also if rebecca just got the two of them one large flat and beard just redecorated the whole thing, that also could have saved him. just saying, i would watch an entire 45 minute episode of ted and beard furniture hunting and repainting and arguing over lighting.)

[kurosstuff]

What aboutttt protective!bunny!lute x soft!bunny!female!reader ✨

Like ppl look down on the relationship cuz why would 2 "weak" bunny's be together. Lute's angry that she's prey because she has so many traits of a predator, like strength, protectiveness, and aggressiveness. So she is always trying to prove to the reader that she is enough to protect them, so reader doesn't leave her for a predator and so she always feels safe.

OMG Y3QH-

God lute would be pissed just throwing a tantrum. Her a bunny? He'll no-

Warning(s): fighting, Lute being lute, idk it's fluff, slight angst?

Bunny!lute x Bunny!F!reader: perfect mates

Sighing, you looked out the window, yet another courter outside your cabin confessing to you- like it is everyday. A predator courting a prey.

"My darling bunny~ I swear if you pick me I will protect you with my whole life~"

The wolf declared. On their knees, arms stretched out, fully expecting you to jump into them in awe touched.

"Not happening," staring deadpan uninterested as you gave the answer to the wolf as always. "I'm happily mated to Lute." Your ear twitched in hopes she's near- your beloved mate should be near soon. Should-

A laugh cut you off. The wolf covered their mouth once they heard who tou were mated to. Sighing you heard the same phrases you always heard 'another bunny? How could you be protected?' Whats so odd about having a mate of the same kind as you?

Never heard complaints with two predators but. Two preys? Mated? Oh that's wrong apparently.

"Now what the fuck. Are you doing?' A new voice called from behind you the familiar thumping from her foot. Signaling to you- Lute is pissed "flirt with my mate? Insult her? Insult me? Do you KNOW who the fuck I am?" Walking to the window her spear in hand

You sighed, knowing the exact outcome that's about to happen. Like all other times. With a blink, Lute jumped from the window, cursing up a storm challenging the wolf to a battle - who foolishly accepted. Turning, you went inside, not wanting to see yet another blood bath. Of your mate wining as always.

It didn't take long for Lute to come back inside. Her bloodied weapon thrown to the side as she rushed to you- "I'm fine, my mate," you whispered, watching her snarling ears twitching in irritating. If you didn't know she was a bunny- you'd assume she was a predator herself.

Like your first meeting. Her in her armor you assumed she was a wolf from how she behaved as ironic as you rethink now. "Your my mate. Who gives a damn what we are? She scuffed pacing around the room cleaning up the blood on her. Knowing how ir bugs you- after all you did just repaint the walls and redecorate after.. another fighting incident

"Your MY mate. I can keep you safe. Happy. No one else can! No one can keep up with my fucking speed!" She yelled out barking in rage

"Lute"

"LIKE. YEAH IM A PREY TO BUT-"

"Lute," you spoke, interrupting her rant, knowing if you didn't know she wouldn't have stopped. She'd continue the rest of the day. Getting more mad. More temper tantrums as all the other times before instead of getting angrier. She sighed sitting on the couch covering her face with her hands her ears drooping. "..my mate.. please.. what's going on?" You whispered softly following her close but keeping their distance

"I'm your mate.. bur. I'm a poor excuse of one. No one takes us seriously! If I wasn't a fucking bunny of all things. Maybe, " she sighed, trailing off for a moment to recollect her thoughts "maybe if I was another prey they would like.. I don't fucking know like a fucking deer. Those are acceptable." She snarled out sighing looking up at you sadly "I want to be the best mate for you. Who you'd want-"

"But you are," you cut off, cradling her face smiling "your everything I ever wanted in a mate.. and more. Your caring. Protective. Kind. Considerate all the things that make up a wonderful mate. That's you" you spoke softly

Holding her close as you could kissing her softly- you hummed smiling hearing the familiar thump. Not the same as the ones when she's mad. The thumps when she's happy - when she gets so unbelievably overwhelmed with herself, she thumps to show her gratitude. "I love you. I will only ever choose you. No other prey or predator will ever catch my eye. They can try, and they will. But you have my eyes. My heart. Everything.' You spoke softly, seeing her smile softly. "There's my girl ~"

With a deep, she sighed, grumbled, laying against your chest "..same here" she huffed out hiding in your neck her tail wagging happily smiling you held her- knowing that's the closest to her speaking of her feelings to much outwardly. Spoken allowed. Much less let you hear her.

The predators can try to court either of you. But you both knew they'd fail. Especially if they could see how you both stared at one another. How only you and her excited at a time the second you locked eyes. She hummed closing her eyes smiling. She truly loved you- and she's glad to hesr you state the same.

[verdantachillean]

Ima try one of those notes things

50 I’ll try to remember to do self care routines more

75 try to complete my yo kai watch games

100 ill try to drink water more regularly (I drink it like once every 2 days)

200 i’ll try harder to contribute more in the house

350 Q&A

300 i’ll paint my nails more

314 i’ll write a poem following the digits of pi

400 I’ll try to ask my friends to hang out more (I am afraid to ask a lot of the time)

500 I’ll do a deep clean of my room and work hard to keep it that way

550 fix my sleep schedule

750 I’ll try to do duolingo lessons more frequently than just once a day

777 redecorate room (there are several signs ive been wanting to add)

1,000 I’ll do my creative hobbies more

1,250 I’ll visit the school counselor

1,500 I’ll try to keep clean folders and backpack during the school year

1,750 I’ll try to be closer with my twin

2,000 I’ll talk to my parents about wanting to do things with them more

2,500 I’ll talk to my parents about my insecurites

——————————————————————————

🎰Jackpot🎰:

5,000 wear LGBTQ accessories out in public despite living in a town with a lot of people who don’t support the community (for context: it is well known at my school that I am gay, my closet had a glass door before I even knew I was in a closet, and I came out on Snapchat )

6,000 work hard to plan out my houses garden to make the most functional garden

7,000 repaint my room

[elderwisp]

◁ || ▷

Atlas: [ door shuts ] It’s always strange coming back home. There are no fond memories. At least none that my mind can manage to remember. I see pictures with burnt edges, the center filled with a black void. Would I have been happier if I had listened to everyone back then? Would things be much simpler?

Elliot: Atlas!

Atlas: Hey, I was in the area and I thought I’d stop by. I brought wine.

Elliot: Come in! I’m sure work won’t mind if I step away for a bit.  

Elliot: Your dad should be home soon.

Atlas: Cool.

Elliot: You doin’ okay? You look thinner. Are you eating?

Atlas: Uhm, yeah. I guess I haven’t had much of an appetite.

Elliot: Want to see a doctor? A nutritionist? Anything?

Atlas: [ small laugh ] God no. The last thing I want is to have tests ran on me. I’m alright, just preoccupied. Anyway, how’s work been?

Elliot: Ah, I’m sorry, work? [ chuckles ] Atlas, when have you ever asked me about work?

Atlas: Silly me. I see you guys have been redecorating. Did you repaint the walls?

Elliot: Ah, yes. I hope you don’t feel too bad, I did enjoy the little doodles you left as a kid. However, when we host, it’s a bit hard to explain now that… Well now that you’re all grown up. 

Atlas: Awh, I’m sure it made for great stories.

Elliot: I remember when you were six you would run around in your little boxers, nearly tripping in one of my shirts, marker in hand. My god, Toni would chase you for what felt like hours! He could have sworn you were the reason why he lost weight that year.

Atlas: I’ve always had a knack for keeping that man on his toes.

Elliot: I- Yeah, I guess so. He still cares about you, you know? Even after everything. I’ll be back. Atlas is here.

Antoni: Why?

Elliot: Toni, he’s our son. He can visit home whenever.

Antoni: What does he want? Money?

Elliot: [ in a hushed voice ] Don’t be ridiculous. Atlas would never ask that. 

Antoni: You don’t know what he is capable of, Elliot. 

Atlas: I need to head out.

Elliot: Are you sure? 

Atlas: Yep, I’m feeling a bit tired.

Elliot: Atlas- Take care of yourself.

Atlas: Mhm. 

Atlas: Before I go, I’m having this artist alley next month. I would love it if you guys stopped by.

Antoni: We’ll think about it. 

[miri-tiazan]

Fresh from the archives, new unhinged 00Q chatfic!

So, @cicerfics and have been writing unhinged 00Q chatfics and headcanons back and forth in DMs for uh… going on two years now, and it seems like perhaps the time has come to unearth some of these from the archives and dust them off for sharing. Accordingly, here is the very first chatfic we did, inspired by this comment thread on Ch. 7 of cicer’s delightful fic the warmth of your doorways!

tags: omegaverse, mpreg, weird omegaverse hormone nonsense, menopause

---

miri-tiazan: Oh God. Cicer. Doesn’t even have to be mpreg but…

Omega Bond going into his first heat in decades and just spontaneously deciding that Q’s flat is the Only Acceptable Location to nest in. They’re not even dating! Bond’s just broken in a few times! Q has no idea why this is happening!

Q just gets an alert from his home security system one day and Bond is There and he’s like, refinishing the window trim in the second bedroom or something. And also he won’t leave. Surprise, Q! You have a roommate, and he’s hormonal! Enjoy your new home improvements!

cicerfics: ...Okay, now that we're talking about this, you know what I'm a little bit obsessed with right now? The entire question of menopause in omegaverse. I don't think I've ever seen an a/b/o fic REALLY explore that concept, but now it's fascinating to me!

Like, what if nesting is a thing omegas only do when they're pregnant OR going through menopause? What if Bond (having never been pregnant) never experienced any of these instincts/urges and thought he was impervious to them? What if he hits 44/45, enters perimenopause, and is absolutely BODIED by the urge to:

a) Acquire a nice house b) Renovate, refurbish, and redecorate it c) Learn to cook d) Start a lil herb garden or something and maybe make some pesto??? e) Acquire a lover/companion to feed up and care for f) Acquire some pets/babies/random houseplants/literally anything that requires his protection and nurturing

Poor dude has ZERO experience with these types of urges. But when they appear, they hit him like a TRUCK. And his own flat is way too cold/sterile/crappy/lonely for proper nesting. There aren't even any cats or quartermasters in there!!

So, yes: one day Q gets home from work and Bond has simply annexed his flat/cats/kitchen. There are already overflowing bags from the hardware store scattered around the flat, because Bond has made up his mind that three different rooms need to be repainted, the bathroom needs a complete reno, and oh yeah, he's replacing the sofa because this one simply Isn't Right. The vibes are Bad. Bond Doesn't Like It, so it's gotta go.

Also, there's pasta sauce simmering on the stove and probably a trifle waiting in the fridge, and the cats are wearing new designer collars.

And sorry Q, but if you didn't want a hormonal new housemate/husband who is going through The Change...too bad. You got one anyway! He's here to stay...and no, he doesn't understand what's happening to his body/mind, either. Good luck, everybody!!

Continued on AO3 here:

00Q Chatfics and Assorted Headcanons (2391 words) by cicer, miri_tiazan Chapters: 1/? Fandom: James Bond (Craig Movies) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: James Bond/Q Characters: James Bond, Q (James Bond) Additional Tags: Omegaverse, Mpreg | Male Pregnancy, weird omegaverse hormone nonsense, Menopause Summary: Lightly edited chat transcripts between cicer and miri_tiazan: some live-written fics, some random headcanons, some plot-free fluff, all 00Q!

[kekaki-cupcakes]

Hiiii! I loved ur Hermes kid!

Could I ask for a male son of Dionysus x either Leo or nico?

Sorry if I got ya wrong and don’t feel pressured or anything!

Have a lovely day!

When there isn't a lot of info in an ask I kinda have to make the reader a personality so that it isn't too bland too read so sorry to y'all that aren't like this <3

Redecoration---Nico di Angelo x Son of Dionysus

»»————-　★　————-««

Nico had been glaring at the roof of skulls for a solid ten minutes, sort of hoping the hatred in his eyes would just poof them out of existence, when someone finally showed up. 

Apparently after an incident in the Aphrodite cabin, people weren’t allowed to just grab a bucket of paint and some new furniture to fuck around and find out, which was why Nico had been sent someone to help him fix the mess that was the Hades cabin.

Apart from the hundred skulls hot glue gunned to the rood, the beds were wooden coffins, the lamps were ancient looking chandeliers, and all of the walls were a dark ugly gray, like there was a serious mold problem. Now that he thought about it, the color might actually be a mold problem. 

“Never fear, goth! For I am here!” 

Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. Nico took a deep breath and turned around, obsidian eyes already narrowed with dislike as he took in the taller boy trotting over. He was holding a crate in his arms, filled with color swatches and chunks of fabrics, magazines sticking out of the top. 

“Excuse me?”

“You’re the one who needs redecorating, right?” The boy asked, already letting himself into the dim cabin that smelt of rich dark chocolate for some reason. “Yeah… no offense but we have to fix this, even if you're the wrong person.” 

Nico felt a sudden need to defend the atrocious carpet and bat shaped door knocker from this boy, who was wearing a maroon shirt picturing a glass of wine. “I was eight.” 

“No shame here, everyone makes bad decisions.”

There didn’t seem to be any point arguing with this boy, who had already dumped the box of supplies on one of the coffin bed lids, and was staring around at the dark cabin, hands on his hips. 

Nico just followed him inside, shoving his hands into the slightly ripped pockets of his aviator jacket. He peered into the cardboard box, which was promptly tipped out onto the ground. He watched with a frown as the son of Mr D sat on the carpet and began rifling through the empty notebooks and cut up magazines. “What are you doing?”

“Uh, scrapbooking? We can’t just start painting the walls yellow yet, you have to plan this stuff out, goth.” He said, as if it was obvious. Then he smirked. “You don’t like arts and crafts?”

Nico’s frown deepened, but he couldn’t let this mildly infuriating boy with surprisingly cool bracelets upstage him. “I love arts and crafts.”

“Whatever you say,” he hummed, and pulled out a leather bound book containing a few stickers and a strip of torn paper where a page had been pulled out. “Are you just gonna stand there in the corner and be grumpy?... That wasn’t sarcasm, you can if you want, I was just checking.”

Nico wasn’t an asshole, of course he was going to help. Still, he had to glare at the boy for that comment. Then he sat down and opened one of the magazines, which was featuring a life sized Barbie Dream House bed frame, fluffy pillows included. He flicked the page over with a grimace.

“So, what kinda vibe are we going for?”

“What?”

“I’m assuming you're sick of Dracula,” he said, waving his arms at the general doom and gloom around them. “So what aesthetic are we replacing it with?”

Nico didn’t want to admit he hadn’t planned this far into the venture, he’d really just been hoping he could repaint the walls, or maybe burn the whole thing down and start over. “I don’t… I don’t know.”

“Okay, well… I’m assuming you wanna keep it edgy, but seriously? A roof of skulls? You’re not a caveman. Maybe we should go with an Addams family style.” He shivered. “With less spiderwebs and disembodied hands. “ 

Ah, another gap in his modern education. “What’s an Addams family?” 

All Nico got in return was a gaping mouth and wide eyes. “How do you not- okay, I’m making you watch the entire timeline later, but for now we need to pick a color scheme.” 

Nico opened his mouth.

“Not black.”

Nico closed his mouth.

“Obviously there’ll be lots of black, but you need another color to fit with it, something dark and scary but colorful.” He pulled out a binder of color swatches, and flipped it open, skimming the pages of baby blues and lavenders. “Maybe dark green, or...”

“Red.” Nico said, peering over at the pages of ruby and scarlet. He pointed to the dark one, which had a little title below, ‘Blood red’. It was a little on brand, but it was better than ‘Crimson Tide’. 

“Oooh, nice. If we keep the walls black, and pull up the black carpet, there’ll be floorboards underneath.” He started to ramble, ripping a color swatch out of the binder and gluing it into the leather bound book. He glanced around at the musty cabin. 

“We can get a red rug for the middle of the cabin, and definitely new beds, but if we get Drew to refurbish the chandeliers they’ll look great. Oh, and the coffin bed frames could be a bookshelf if we get the mattress out and ask Nyssa to put some shelves in. Do you read? Because otherwise it’s sort of pointless. But so are the skulls on the roof, so…”

“You’re good at this.” 

It took Nico a moment to realize what he’d just blurted, and when he did the warmth was already in his cheeks. He’d only been a little caught up in watching the son of Dionysus’s eyes sparkle as he talked, pointing to different parts of the cabin, and somehow ruined it. “I mean, you just sound like you’ve, you know, done this a lot.”

The glimmer in their eye didn’t fade, they only grinned harder. “I have. A lot. It’s fun!”

“I suppose so,” Nico said, his lips twitching, and opened another magazine. He skipped a page on clawfoot bathtubs [There was already a white one with gold trim in the bathroom]. There was a large heart shaped mirror, He ignored that too, and found a simple bedframe, painted black. He held it out gingerly. “What about this one?”

“Yes! Good job.” He said, snipping it out of the magazine quickly, and sticking it next to a picture of a glass chandelier. “If you’ve got a simple bed, we could find a zebra print blanket, they always look good with black and red, as long as you don’t have, like, leopard print.”

“I thought you’d like leopard print?”

“And I thought you’d like skulls on your roof and coffin shaped beds,” he teased, with a smug little smile. Nico rolled his eyes, and picked out a strip of dark red fabric, passing it over.

He shook some glitter from his hands, there seemed to be piles of it in the box. “It’s a little over the top, but it’s not as bad as Jason’s cabin. It’s just rock. Everywhere. And a giant statue of his father.”

“Maybe he can be my next client,” he hummed, wiping glue from his fingers onto the molding carpet beneath them. A few shards of rounded glass were taped to the pages of the scrapbook, shining in the light of the dusty stained chandeliers. 

Nico wanted to object. He didn’t know why, but he didn’t want the boy in front of him with glitter on his cheekbones and scissors in his hands to be cutting out pictures and teasing someone else. Instead he looked away, feeling something in his chest surge, something like fear. Fear of what, he didn’t know, but he cleared his throat and moved on.

“Don’t you have a sister too?”

The fear surged back forwards and Nico whipped around, his tone sharp. “What?”

“The roman one, I swear I saw her the other day, when Reyna visited to plan something or other.” he said casually, not seeing the pale tinge to Nico’s face. “With the overalls and the bulldog?”

“That’s Frank,” Nico said, his shoulder sinking with relief. 

“No, I’m pretty sure it was Hazel, she had those light up sketchers, with the little wheels on the bottom.” He said, somehow with a moon shaped sticker on his nose as he stuck little cut out paper skulls around the four page collage. 

“Frank’s the bulldog, he can turn into animals.” Nico had a strange urge to reach out and press the sticker on his nose, so instead he held his hands tightly in his lap. 

“Well, is there something Hazel’d like in the cabin when she visits? Does she read?” 

Nico sighed, and reached back for the magazine he discarded. He shook it open, cut outs of fluffy teddies falling into his lap. He found the page with the heart shaped bathroom mirror and ripped it out carefully. He could take a few hearts in his cabin if Hazel would like them. “This one.”

“Oh, that one's cute, Nyssa could totally make it.”

“I can ask Leo, he owes me a favor.”

“Oh yeah?”

“I haven't killed him yet.” 

                                  »»————-　★　————-««

Nico pressed down the front of his shirt. It was a black Camp Halfblood shirt, which he’d gotten from Piper after the Aphrodite cabin had started making shirts in other colors. Apparently there were only so many outfits you could wear with orange. 

Black goes with everything though, so it wasn’t a problem for him. 

He made his bed [closed the lid of the coffin] and dragged the last of the furniture not nailed to the ground out onto the little deck all of the cabins had. His decking only had a few pairs of shoes and a pot of dead roses he’d never bothered to keep alive. Maybe he’d have another go. 

Drew had taken the chandeliers already, to polish them and whatnot, so he only had to wait for his assigned son of Dionysus to show up, and they could start hunting for zebra print blankets and ripping skulls off the ceiling. What fun. 

When he still hadn’t shown up, Nico finished pulling all of the previously made bedding from the coffins and dumping it to the side so that Leo could turn it to a bookshelf [He could read, he just had dyslexia thank you very much], and then set off to the Dionysus cabin. It was easy to find, the only male god on the female side, with trelice’s of ivy decorating the whitewashed walls and a grumpy looking leopard snoozing on the purple swinging chair out the front of the small cabin.

He didn’t really want to knock, but he was sure someone would report him for standing around too menacingly if he just waited. He was saved from indecision when the door opened, revealing a tall sandy haired boy.

“You’re the goth, aren’t you?” Pollux sniffed, his nose red. “We can’t help today, but Butch is free, he can do some heavy lifting, and I’m sure Drew’ll criticize your style if you ask nicely enough.” 

“Why, what’s wrong?”

“I mean,” Pollux started, rubbing his eyes, and Nico only then realized he was still wearing his pajamas. They had an elongated cartoon owl sticking out of a doorway on it. “Skulls on the ceiling is a bit much, and everyone think you’re a vamp-”

“I meant with you guys, not my style,” Nico interrupted, his eyes narrowed.”

“Someone, decided to go visit Lou Ellen even though we all know she has a cold, and now I have it-” Pollux was cut off once again, his mockingly loud voice reaching the people inside. 

“I’m sorry I was concerned for my friend, she wanted soup!”

“She always wants soup!” Pollulx yelled back, and Nico moved past the older child of Dionysus, slipping off his shoes and letting himself into the cabin. 

There was nasally muttering behind him and the door slid shut. Nico peered around, and saw a bundle of fluffy blankets on a couch, only a sneezing head poking out the top. “Why did you get sick?”

“I mean it wasn’t really on purpose,” he mumbled back, wiping his nose with a tissue and sinking back into his cocoon. “I can’t help today, but-”

“I don’t care,” Nico started, and plopped down on the white couch, avoiding a deep red stain that could be alcohol or blood. He couldn’t tell. He also didn’t know how to say he’d rather sleep in the coffin again then have to spend the day with someone else. 

He sniffed, falling sideways a little on the couch and squinting at the square tv, which was showing some old cartoon about cavemen. “Mkay, well you should probably go if you don’t wanna get sick.”

Nico thought for a moment, trying not to focus on how much he wanted to scoop up the bundle of blankets in his arms far too skinny for that sort of stuff. “Why don’t we watch ‘an Adam family’?

He got watery wide eyes in return and a toothy grin, “wait really?”

“No. If I was making a joke it’d be funnier than that.”

“Okay, let’s watch it,” he said, hopping off the couch and moving to a box of DVDs with a lot of energy for someone so sick. “And it’s the Addams family, goth. You have to learn the basics of this culture if you’re gonna have coffin bookshelves.”

He fiddled around with the tv and then a grainy black and white intro came on, tinny music over the top. Nico watched as he danced to the theme tune in his blanket burrito, all the way back to the couch, where he landed, coughing and winded. Nico raised an eyebrow. “I could’ve done that, you’re sick.”

“Yeah yeah whatever,” he mumbled, tucking the fluffy socks on his feet up onto the white couch and wiggling with excitement. Nico watched him for a moment, and then turned back to the TV, feeling his lips twitch into a grin.

Duh duh duh duh, click click. Duh duh duh duh, click click.

Their creepy and they're kooky-

                                      »»————-　★　————-««

“Neeks, this mirror is so cute!”

“You’re welcome,” Nico muttered, rubbing his nose and rolling over, pulling the zebra print doona cover further over his head. 

He heard Hazel’s wheelie shoes click along the floorboards and she gilded out of the bathroom. When he peered out, her hair was in bunchies and she was pulling a purple hoodie over her head. “It’s so much nicer in here now, but how did you get sick redecorating?”

“Uhm..There was a lot of dust. I might be allergic?” 

The door slammed open, the clear chandelier hanging from the roof shaking as Nyssa trudged in, her work boots leaving mud on the fluffy blood red rug. She was holding the glitter covered scrapbook in her gloved hands. 

“So, I know I’m supposed to make everything in this, but what am I supposed to do with the polaroid of you kissing Mr D ‘s kid?”

                       »»————-　★　————-««

[brokebonewritings]

All My Battles

Matt Murdock x Reader

Tags: 18+, fluff, slight hurt/comfort, making a home

Summary: A trip back to Bar Harbor creates a summer a new memories as you and Matt renovate your childhood home into a place to spend your future summers. Song: Lover, You Should've Come Over by Jeff Buckley

Word Count: 3K

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“Don’t worry! We will make sure both your apartments are safe and sound!”

“And we promise no major ragers while you’re away!” Foggy quickly said after Karen’s initial reassurance.

“Ha Ha, You’re hilarious.” You say with a deadpan expression.

Both you and Matt were packing for the summer to go up to your childhood home and fill it with your own furniture. Thanks to your wonderful team of attorneys, you were able to expedite the paperwork of signing the house over to your name.

It was a long battle, but your mom was out of the house at the beginning of the summer. Though it didn't come without a fight. She was very slow at moving the process along until you finally sent Foggy up to Maine with eviction papers.

"I just can't believe it's finally over!" You sigh as you close the trunk of your car.

"I'll drink to that, serving your mom that eviction notice was the best theatrics I've seen in a while, and Marci took me to see Phantom of the Opera last week!"

All three of you laugh, as you wait to finish locking up his apartment. You see him step onto the sidewalk and make his way towards the group.

"Okay, ready to go?" He asks.

"Yep, I just closed the trunk so we're all good here."

Karen is the first to step forward and give you both a big hug. Foggy being the last and stepping away with tears in his eyes.

"Don't you forget about us here in the Big Apple." He says tearfully.

"I'll miss you most of all, Scarecrow." You respond playfully.

The man wipes his metaphorical tears, and turns to Karen. "She thinks I'm a Scarecrow."

"Yeah, probably the lack of brains." She snarks.

"Hey!"

This earns another group laugh, as you and Matt get into the car. It was going to be a long summer, but it would be worth it. You get to redecorate your family home, even though you thought the previous decoration was perfect. Your mom took most of the furniture when she moved.

As the car pulls out of the city, leaving behind the familiar hustle and bustle, a sense of sadness fills you. "So, any ideas on what we should do with the place?" you asked, eager to hear his thoughts.

"You're asking the blindman for decoration advice?" He smirks, which pulls a giggle from your chest. 

"Well this is gonna be our summer home, so I just want to get an opinion of someone who will be spending every year there."

Matt paused for a moment, his fingers tapping rhythmically on his knee as he contemplated. "Well," he began, "I think we should start by repainting the walls. I know your favorite color is orange."

"You remembered my favorite color?" 

"Of course, maybe a soft shade of blue to give it a more serene atmosphere."

You nodded, imagining how the color would transform the space. "And what about the furniture? I know we'll have to buy new pieces, but do you have any specific style in mind?"

"God, just anything without plastic wrap on it." He laughs.

You laugh along with him. "You really hated sitting on that couch."

"It was an overstimulation nightmare."

"Yeah, well, no more plastic-wrapped nightmares," you reply with a grin. "We'll find something comfortable and stylish."

As the two of you continue to discuss ideas for the house, you feel the excitement building up inside you. This summer was going to be a fresh start, not just in terms of your living situation but also in your relationship with Matt. It had been a long journey to get to this point, but now that you were finally together, everything felt right.

The landscape outside transforms from towering skyscrapers to vast green fields and rolling hills. It's as if the world itself is mirroring the sense of calm and new beginnings you feel in your heart.

With the passing hours, you make sure to stop frequently so that you both stretch your legs. Soon enough you enter the Bar Harbor limits and begin to recognize your surroundings. 

As you approach your childhood home, memories flood back — running through the fields, chasing fireflies on warm summer nights, and sitting on the front porch with your dad and a big cup of iced tea.

The familiar sight of the white picket fence and the old oak tree in the front yard is a relief to see. It hasn't changed much since you were last here, except for the overgrown grass and faded paint on the house. But that's all about to change.

You and Matt step out of the car, taking a moment to breathe in the crisp sea air. The scent of wildflowers and fresh pine brings a smile to your face. This place holds so many precious memories, and now it's time to make new ones.

"I can't believe we're finally here," you say, your voice filled with wonder.

Matt reaches out to take your hand, his touch grounding you in this moment. "Ready to get to work?" He asks and you reply with a soft 'yes'.

Together, you approach the front door, pulling out the key and inserting it into the lock. The door creaks open as you step inside, dust particles dancing in the sunlight streaming through the large bay windows.

As you make your way from room to room, deciding on furniture layouts and discussing which pieces to buy, the house starts to feel like home. Matt's fingers glide over the surfaces as he senses the textures and dimensions, his uncanny ability to visualize the space turning into an invaluable asset.

The next day you and Matt set to work immediately, armed with paintbrushes and a vision for transforming the old house into your dream summer retreat. The walls soon shed their faded colors and come alive with the soft shade of orange you chose. The air is filled with the scent of fresh paint, invigorating and promising.

Days turn into weeks as you tackle each room with determination. The living room is filled with cozy furniture, perfect for curling up together with a book or watching movies on lazy afternoons. The kitchen becomes a vibrant space, adorned with colorful tiles and filled with the aroma of delicious meals being cooked. And the bedrooms become sanctuaries, personalized with photographs and cherished little touches.

As the final touches are being made, you and Matt stand back to admire your handiwork. The transformation is remarkable, a testament to the love and care you poured into this project. The summer home now radiates warmth and comfort, a haven from the outside world.

You begin to cry as you both stand in the middle of the parlor. Matt's arms wrap around your waist as he pulls you into a tight hug. It was all finally done, and you couldn't feel the overwhelming sense of sadness. The very same you felt as you left the city.

"It's alright, sweetheart. I got you." He whispers as you continue to sob.

You hold onto Matt, feeling his steady presence anchoring you amidst the waves of emotion. The tears flow freely, a mixture of relief, joy, and a bittersweet longing for the old memories that haunted these walls. You couldn't wait to bring your friends and family here in the future summers, and make new memories that were happier than the old.

After a while, the tears subside, and you sniffle, wiping away your damp cheeks with the back of your hand. "I'm sorry," you murmur against his chest.

He pulls back slightly, his hands cupping your face gently. "There's nothing to apologize for," he says softly. 

You nod, taking a deep breath to steady yourself. "You're right." You pause, feeling a surge of love radiating from the man in front of you.

"We made it," he says softly, his voice filled with reassurance. "We turned this house into our own little sanctuary."

"I love you," you whisper, burying your face in Matt's chest.

He holds you tighter, his heartbeat reverberating through your body. "I love you too," he replies.

That night you decide to have a picnic on the porch. You turn on the fairy lights, and set the radio to the local classic rock station. As you set up outside, Matt was in the kitchen preparing the meal you both were going to enjoy. Everything was perfect.

As twilight settles in, casting a soft golden glow over the porch, you light a few candles and spread out a cozy blanket. The scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the aroma of the meal Matt has prepared, creating an intoxicating symphony for your senses.

After dinner, you both clean and decide to stay outside for the rest of the evening and bask in the romantic setting you had set up. He notes that he forgot to bring the best part of dinner and runs back inside to grab dessert.

Matt emerges from the kitchen, carrying a basket filled with delicious treats. He carefully sets the basket down and joins you on the blanket, wrapping his arm around you.

"This is amazing," he whispers, his voice filled with awe.

You lean into him, feeling the warmth of his presence enveloping you. "I wanted to create this special moment for us," you say softly, your gaze fixed on the flickering lights.

The two of you spend the evening laughing and reminiscing, savoring each bite of food and each tender moment shared. As the night deepens, you find yourselves lost in conversation under a sky sprinkled with constellations.

Matt's fingers trace patterns on your arm, creating a soothing rhythm that matches the cadence of your conversation. You pause for a moment, overcome by a wave of gratitude. Gratitude for this beautiful night, for the love that fills your heart, and for the journey that has brought you here. You lean in closer to Matt, resting your head on his shoulder.

"I never imagined we would be here," you say softly, your voice filled with wonder. "Creating a home together, filled with love and happiness."

Matt squeezes your hand gently. "Life has a funny way of surprising us," he replies, his voice laced with sincerity. "And I'm grateful for every twist and turn that led us here."

As the hours pass, you find yourselves lost in conversation, delving into topics ranging from childhood dreams to future aspirations. Each word exchanged deepens your connection, solidifying the bond you've built over the years.

Eventually, the conversation mellows into comfortable silence, yet the electricity in the air remains tangible. You nestle closer to each other under the blanket, feeling the warmth of his body seep into yours. With every passing second, it becomes clearer that this is where you're meant to be.

You look up at Matt, gently grabbing his chin and pulling him in for a kiss. As your lips meet, a surge of warmth courses through your veins. The kiss is gentle yet filled with a quiet intensity, a beautiful reflection of the bond you share. Time seems to stand still as you savor the taste of his lips, the feeling of his arms wrapped around you.

When the kiss deepens, you feel a sense of belonging and contentment settle within you. Under the soft glow of the moon, you and Matt continue to share sweet, lingering kisses, each one filled with an unspoken promise.

Eventually you both feel the exhaustion from the long work day, and decide to head inside for the night. Matt is the first one to head inside and as you pick up the blanket and turn off the lights on the porch. 

You linger long enough for Matt to come back out and wrap his arms around your waist and kiss your neck lightly. "We have a lifetime of moments like this ahead of us," he says softly. "Come inside now."

Nodding, you follow him back inside for the night. Inside, the house is bathed in a soft, inviting glow. The scent of freshly painted walls lingers in the air, a gentle reminder of the transformation you both undertook together.

Matt leads you upstairs to the bedroom, where the moonlight spills through the open curtains, casting ethereal shadows on the hardwood floor. He pulls back the covers and invites you to slide into bed. You nestle against the plush pillows and feel the weight of the day slowly melt away.

As Matt joins you under the covers, he wraps his arms around your waist, pulling you closer. His touch is gentle yet possessive, a silent affirmation of his love for you. The room feels hushed, as if it holds its breath in reverence for the intimacy shared between two souls.

You close your eyes, letting the tranquility of the moment wash over you. The sound of your steady breaths fills the room, creating a soothing rhythm that lulls you closer to sleep.

The day before you leave is filled with eventful commotion as you invite some of your neighbors over for a small barbecue. You and Matt spend the morning setting up the backyard, draping string lights across the trees and arranging tables and chairs.

The aroma of grilled burgers and vegetables fills the air as the food sizzles on the barbecue. You decided to man the grill to give Matt a break from all the cooking he insisted on doing. The neighbors arrive one by one, carrying dishes to share. Laughter and conversation fill the backyard as everyone gathers around, sharing stories and exchanging smiles.

Another car begins to pull into your driveway, and you realize who it is before you see the two figures step out of the vehicle.

"No fucking way" You say as you turn to Matt who has a huge smile spread across his face.

"I called them last night when you went out to pick up dinner." He replies.

You start sprinting towards the car as Foggy steps out and walks around the car. Once he sees you running, he mutters an 'Oh shit' as you jump into his arms. He catches you and spins you a bit before setting you down. You give a gentler hug to Karen.

"I can't believe you guys drove all the way out here!" You say happily.

"We had to come see this house! Especially if we're invited here every summer." Karen says while lightly nudging your side.

Leading your friends to the picnic area, you introduce them to your neighbors and some old friends from high school. The backyard is filled with the joyful chatter of voices, as everyone embraces the sense of community and love that permeates the atmosphere.

As night falls and everyone leaves, the four of you gather around a crackling bonfire, its dancing flames illuminating the faces around you. Matt sits beside you, his hand entwined with yours, as you listen to Foggy telling one of his infamous stories. You all add in little quips to enhance the story as everyone listens and drinks.

The crackling sound of the flames blends with the soft hum of laughter, creating a harmonious symphony of friendship and love. As you look around at the faces illuminated by the fire's glow, you can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

Gratitude for the unwavering support of your friends, who have stood by you through thick and thin. Gratitude for this beautiful home that has become a haven, a place of solace and happiness. And most of all, gratitude for the love that surrounds you, weaving its way through every moment shared.

As the night wears on and the fire begins to die down, you find yourself lost in a comfortable silence. The embers glow softly, casting a warm light that dances across your friends' faces. Karen leans her head on Foggy's shoulder, while Matt rests his chin on top of your head.

"What a great night, amongst friends." Foggy sighs.

"I'm really glad you guys came out here to see the house." You begin. "It's like this house was built for our family."

"You wouldn't have this house if it weren't for your dad." Matt reminds and you nod in agreement.

"To Tommy!" Foggy says while raising his beer can.

You smile as the rest of you raise your drinks and cheers to your dad. A tear rolls down your cheek, but Matt wipes it away before it's able to fall from your face.

"You know," Karen says, breaking the silence, "your dad would be so proud of you right now. Look at what you've built, what you've overcome. It's truly amazing."

The moment is bittersweet, as the memory of your father tugs at your heart. It's been years since he passed away, but the house stands as a testament to his hard work and love for his family, a symbol of the legacy he left behind.

As the night winds down, you and your friends gather up the empty beer cans and remnants of the barbecue feast. The fire has dwindled to mere embers, casting a soft glow upon the yard. 

With a final round of goodnights, Foggy and Karen retreat to their respective rooms. You and Matt finish cleaning in the kitchen and make sure everything is put away before you all leave in the morning.

As you climb into bed, exhaustion weighs heavily on your eyelids. Matt wraps his arms around you, pulling you close and pressing a tender kiss to your forehead. The warmth of his embrace soothes you, easing away the worries and stresses of the day.

"Thank you for everything," you whisper, your voice barely audible.

He tightens his hold on you, his voice filled with affection. "I would do anything for you. You know that."

With a final sigh, you surrender to the gentle embrace of slumber, knowing that tomorrow will bring new adventures and challenges. But for now, in this haven of love and sanctuary, you find solace.

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[palettepainter]

So bit of an update, I'm redecorating my room! The walls are being repainted which means all my room furniture, including my desk, has been shoved to the middle of my room out of the way - I have gone four days without drawing and it's driving me just a bit nuts

Commissions are going to be worked on first and foremost when everything it moved, but yeah just wanted to say sorry for no general doodles or drawings

[femchef]

My unwind time is now adding portions of stencil designs to our bathroom cabinet (usually just pressing two or three each night and then having to leave them alone to dry before adding more).

Yes the floor, counter, and fixtures look like a hot mess , mostly because two kitty babies decided to *help* (no paint bean pics, emergency fur clean takes priority believe it or not). But also I’m going to repaint and seal the floor and counter, and I have new hardware on the way - I’m taking off the knobs and replacing them all with blue glass handles.

I’m really proud of myself - I put up plastic sheeting and scraped the popcorn off the ceiling!! Huge mess but totally worth it for the smooth surface and this cool mask I wore:

New art project for distraction is redecorating a bathroom I guess

[spacepandar]

Since they had to rip apart our bathrooms to fix the pipes that burst, we took the opportunity to repaint/redecorate with a dark green/gold palette.

We found a place that did custom cut mirrors, so we had them fit a mirror to this wood frame I picked up for free at work a few months ago. And I finally had a place to put these fake hanging plants that I got on clearance sale last summer. The Ben and Luke picture we found at a thrift store years ago and thought it'd be funny to hang it in the bathroom. We decided it was necessary to keep it displayed because it is still funny when we remember to look at that corner.