1) A mailbox
I grew up in a condo and have since only lived in apartments, so I have never had a real, old-fashioned mailbox. I want one. I'm also crazy enough to have one specially made to replicate whatever my house looks like, but maybe I'll save that idea for a totally over-the-top birdhouse.
2) Stairs
Wanted for the same reason as above. I would rather have small rooms on multiple stories than large rooms all on one level. And if I had my druthers, I would have dark hardwood steps with white risers and a lovely runner (check out this plaid version!). I would also go totally traditional and have family photos the whole way up the wall, cause we are a good lookin' family and our guests need to be reminded of that.
3) A fireplace
Who doesn't want a fireplace? Unfortunately, Rochester is in old coal country, so most of the houses from the turn of the century don't have one. We may have to consider a gas option, which would mean no roasting marshmallows in the house, but we could at least have a mantel to hang stockings from.
4) Distinct kitchen, dining and living rooms
I know the modern trend is toward large, open spaces, but I'm an old-fashioned girl and I crave cozy. Also, I am a messy cook and I really don't want house guests to see my kitchen when they come over for a dinner party (or ever, for that matter). If I had my way, I would have a separate living room, dining room, kitchen, mud room, library, and quiet game room on the first floor (the loud game room would be in the basement).
That's not asking for too much in a first house, is it?
All photos courtesy of marthastewart.com
