HowTo Resources Real-world fixes, written by Kevin Crothers and ChatGPT.

Carriage House Finish Plan + 2nd Floor Restroom / Closet Scope

Contractor-ready finish specifications for walls, trim, doors, cabinetry, backsplash, countertops, flooring, and workmanship for Kim and Kevin’s Carriage House.

Wall Paint: Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell (walls only)
Trim Paint: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin
Doors Paint: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin
Cabinets Paint: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss
Ceiling Clear Finish: Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin
Additional Scope: 2nd Floor Restroom + Closet
SMORTLER Sherwin-Williams SPEARTEK
CRITICAL PAINTING NOTE: There is to be NO whitewashing anywhere. All approved painted surfaces are to receive 100% solid paint coverage. No ceiling boards and no ceiling-to-ceiling trim, including trim at sloped ceiling areas, are to be painted. All such ceiling wood surfaces are to be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements below. All prep and coating work shall also comply with the Dust Containment, Protection, and Cleanup Requirements below. The ceiling above the 4th step from the 1st floor (landing) and the vertical rise at the 5th step shall be treated as ceiling (natural wood, clear finish only).

STOP - DO NOT GUESS - CALL BEFORE PROCEEDING

If at any point you are about to start a new task, make a decision, or move forward and are not 100% certain that it aligns with this document, you are required to stop immediately.

Do not guess. Do not assume. Do not “figure it out.”
Instead, you must contact me (the owner) directly before proceeding with any work.

Kevin Crothers
Mobile: 601-291-0022

You are to call Kevin Crothers - and only Kevin Crothers - for direction. Do not make independent decisions, and do not rely on assumptions or past practices.

Once we speak and confirm direction (either by phone or in person), work may continue. It is expected that the guidance in this document will remain unchanged, and that all work will follow the specifications outlined above.

If any change is required that falls outside of this document, Kevin Crothers will personally immediately contact all involved contractors to communicate the change and explain the reason for it.

Expectation: No work should proceed in areas of uncertainty without direct confirmation from me. This ensures the final result meets the intended quality and avoids rework.

Overall Design Direction

Approved Final Direction

Main Design Intent

  • Natural pine tongue and groove ceiling to remain natural wood and be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements below
  • All vertical pine tongue and groove walls painted solid Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell
  • Restroom walls and ceiling are governed by the separate 2nd Floor Restroom + Closet section below
  • Window trim, window sills, closet opening trim, base moulding, shoe moulding, and all doors painted solid Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin
  • No painted ceiling boards (including flat and sloped) and no painted ceiling-to-ceiling trim; all such surfaces are to be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements below
  • Kitchen cabinets, cabinet crown moulding, outside cabinet walls, inside cabinet doors, and cabinet base/kick plates all painted Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss
  • Speartek Edino warm white 2.5 x 8 glossy subway tile backsplash from Pro Source
  • White 1.25" thick quartz kitchen and restroom countertops with gray and tan veining
  • Stainless steel appliances and vent/chimney
  • White farmhouse sink with matte black Delta faucet

Critical Clarification

This project is now a solid paint finish project, not a whitewash project. Painted wall, trim, and door surfaces are to have full, even, opaque paint coverage according to the approved sheen schedule below.

Important: Only the 100% vertical walls and approved painted trim/door surfaces are to be painted. All ceiling boards, all sloped ceiling boards, and all ceiling-to-ceiling trim, including trim at slope changes, are to remain unpainted natural wood and are to be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements below.
Stairwell Ceiling Clarification (NON-NEGOTIABLE):

The vertical ceiling surface located in the sloped stairwell area directly above the stairwell landing and at the vertical rise near the 5th step (going up) is to be treated as a ceiling surface, not a wall.

It must be finished exactly the same as all other ceiling wood surfaces using: Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin. This area must visually match the rest of the ceiling finish. Do not treat this area as a wall. Do not apply wall paint or trim paint to this surface.

Approved Colors, Sheens, and Materials

Final Paint Schedule
Sherwin-Williams Alabaster
SW 7008

Eggshell: Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 for all painted vertical walls and trim where wall meets wall and wall meets ceiling

Satin: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 for all window trim, window sills, base moulding, shoe moulding, closet opening trim, and all doors
Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage
SW 6178

Semi-Gloss: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel
Use from top to bottom on kitchen cabinets, including outside cabinet walls, crown moulding, base moulding/kick plates, and inside cabinet doors.
CLEAR
Bona Mega ONE®
Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin

Satin Clear Finish: For all natural pine tongue and groove ceiling boards (flat and sloped) and all ceiling-to-ceiling trim. Apply in thin even coats only. No substitutions without Kevin Crothers' approval.
Backsplash Tile
Soft warm white “hand made” style (not beige)
Speartek Edino warm white ("Beige Glossy" is Speartek color) 2.5 x 8 glossy subway tile with Frost grout

2nd Floor Restroom + Closet

Builder Instruction List
General The Navien NPE-180A2 tankless water heater shall be relocated and installed on the 1st floor west wall directly beneath the 2nd floor restroom. Extend electrical, gas, and PEX water lines as required for the new water heater location.
Restroom Walls Restroom tongue and groove pine walls have been installed/finished with the flat side out.
Restroom Wall Caulking Caulk all inside corners (wall-to-wall) and other paintable restroom wall joints as needed. Do not caulk wall-to-ceiling transitions at the natural wood ceiling surfaces unless specifically approved by Kevin Crothers.
Restroom Wall Primer Apply Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond® Interior/Exterior Primer (water-based).
Restroom Wall Paint Apply 2 coats Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell.
Restroom Wall Topcoat No clear topcoat is to be applied over painted restroom wall surfaces unless specifically approved by Kevin Crothers.
Restroom Ceiling Prep Restroom tongue and groove pine ceiling is installed with the flat side in. Ensure wood is fully dry and acclimated, lightly sand all surfaces with 150-180 grit, and remove all dust completely. Follow the same product family and general method described in the Surface Preparation Requirements section of this document.
Restroom Ceiling Finish Apply Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin, in thin even coats only. Apply 1 thin first coat, allow proper dry time, lightly sand with 220 grit, then apply a 2nd thin coat. A 3rd thin coat may be added if needed for durability.
Restroom Ceiling Sealing Protect all exposed wood surfaces while avoiding heavy buildup in grooves, seams, joints, or corners. Do not create a heavy film or unnecessary vapor barrier.
Trim + Moulding Caulk all seams and transitions on painted surfaces.
Vertical Trim Paint Paint all approved restroom trim surfaces with Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin, unless a specific trim surface is designated elsewhere to remain natural wood or receive a clear finish only.
Base + Shoe Moulding Paint Paint all base and shoe moulding with Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin.
Doors The 32" x 80" restroom door, the 36" x 84" door at the bottom of the stairs, and all three closet doors shall be painted on both sides, all edges, and all associated casings/trim with Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin. The three closet doors have a flat wood surface on the inside and tongue-and-groove wood (flat side out) on the outside to match adjacent walls, but both faces are still to be painted in the approved door finish.
Restroom + Closet Flooring 1/4" waterproof LVP flooring will be installed throughout the restroom and closet. Make sure to leave required expansion gaps per manufacturer, seal perimeter edges at walls, and install base/shoe moulding sealed to both wall and floor.
Closet Walls + Ceiling Cover all walls and ceiling with 1/2" drywall (or approved equivalent).
Closet Sealing Seal all gaps and penetrations prior to closing walls.
Closet Primer + Paint Finish closet surfaces with 1 coat primer and 2 coats Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell.
Final Sealing Ensure all painted surfaces receive their full primer/paint system and all natural wood surfaces intended to remain visible wood receive the approved ultra flat clear finish system, with no intended finish surface left raw or unsealed.
Exhaust Fan Seal all penetrations, including lighting, fan, and fixtures and confirm exhaust fan is operational and vented fully to the exterior.

Final Finish Schedule

Contractor-Ready Specification
Ceiling Boards & Ceiling-to-Ceiling Trim All ceiling boards (flat and sloped) and all ceiling-to-ceiling trim (including at slope changes) must remain natural wood. Finish only per the Surface Preparation Requirements for Ceiling and Clear Finish Specification below. Do not paint any ceiling boards or ceiling-to-ceiling trim.
Approved Wall Paint All painted vertical walls and associated wall-to-wall / wall-to-ceiling trim shall use Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell. Full solid coverage only - no whitewashing. Do not substitute with SuperPaint, Emerald, ProMar, or any other product without Kevin Crothers' approval.
Approved Trim & Doors Paint All satin trim, window trim, window sills, base moulding, shoe moulding, closet opening trim, door casings, and all doors (32" x 80" restroom door, 36" x 84" bottom-of-stairs door, and all three closet doors - both sides and edges) shall use Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin. Do not substitute without Kevin Crothers' approval.
Approved Cabinet Paint All kitchen cabinet surfaces (faces, boxes, outside walls, crown moulding, base moulding/kick plates, and inside doors) shall use Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss. Kick plates and base moulding are Clary Sage (not Alabaster). Do not substitute with ProClassic, SuperPaint, ProMar, or any other product without Kevin Crothers' approval.
Vertical Walls All 100% vertical tongue and groove wood walls painted solid Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell with full opaque coverage (no whitewashing).
Window Trim / Sills / Base + Shoe Moulding Painted solid Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin.
Backsplash Speartek Edino warm white 2.5 x 8 glossy subway tile (may be labeled “Beige Glossy” by Speartek - installed appearance must read warm white, not beige) with Frost grout. Continue behind range up to vent hood.
Vent Hood Area Stainless steel vent/chimney continuing straight up through the ceiling.
Countertops White 1.25" quartz with soft gray and tan veining (kitchen and restroom).
Sink + Faucet White porcelain farmhouse sink (30" wide) with matte black Delta faucet.
Appliances All appliances stainless steel.
Flooring Main living area: selected floor shown in project materials/photo. Restroom and closet: 1/4" waterproof LVP (leave required expansion gaps and seal perimeter).
Outlet / Switch Covers Light almond to coordinate with finished room.

Dust Containment, Protection, and Cleanup Requirements

Required Jobsite Protection
General Requirement All sanding, cutting, patching, prep, priming, painting, and clear-finish application work shall be performed using clean, professional dust-control practices. The goal is to protect all finished and installed materials, maintain a clean working environment, and deliver a high-quality final result.
Protection of Equipment Before any sanding, cutting, board trimming, patching, priming, painting, or clear finish application begins, properly cover and protect all equipment and finish surfaces in the 2nd-floor area, including but not limited to the kitchen's stainless steel dishwasher, farmhouse sink, pull-out trash can, stainless steel range and cooktop, stainless steel vent hood, stainless steel drawer microwave, stainless steel refrigerator, and 2-ton mini-split, restroom vent/light, toilet, and Monoprice Commercial Series Hidden Motorized Recessed Ceiling Projector Lift Mount.
Dust Containment Use reasonable and professional dust-containment measures to keep dust limited to the immediate work area. Where sanding or cutting creates dust, use low-dust practices such as vacuum-assisted sanding equipment, HEPA vacuum cleanup, and protective floor/wall coverings as needed. Do not allow dust to freely settle on appliances, fixtures, windows, countertops, flooring, or mechanical equipment.
Before Coatings Are Applied Before any primer, paint, or clear finish is applied, all sanding dust and surface dust must be fully removed from the area and from the surfaces being coated. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of dust and other contaminants so proper adhesion and a clean finish can be achieved.
Ceiling + Natural Wood Areas Special care must be taken when sanding or preparing the pine tongue and groove ceiling and other natural wood areas. Coating shall not begin until all dust has been removed from boards, grooves, trim, adjacent walls, windows, sills, and all nearby surfaces. Reference the Surface Preparation Requirements for approved coating system and application method.
Protection During Work Protective coverings shall remain in place during dusty work and be maintained or replaced as needed to remain effective. Equipment and finish surfaces are not to be exposed to unnecessary sanding dust, cutting dust, paint splatter, overspray, or coating residue.
Cleanup Standard At the end of each work period, and especially before coating application and at final completion, the crew shall vacuum and clean the work area using professional methods appropriate for interior finish work. Dry sweeping that redistributes dust into the room should be avoided where a better dust-control method is available. Final delivery shall include removal of dust from all visible surfaces, including appliances, trim, windows, flooring, fixtures, doors, and mechanical equipment.
Final Expectation This is a finished interior space with new equipment unboxed and in that same area. The work is expected to be completed with the level of care normally used on a professional builder finish project, with proper protection, controlled dust, clean prep, and clean final delivery.

Paint Application Requirements

No Whitewash

Wall + Trim + Cabinets + Doors Sheen Schedule

  • Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell: all 100% vertical walls, wall-to-wall trim, and wall-to-ceiling trim associated with vertical walls.
  • Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin: all window trim, all window sills, all base moulding, all shoe moulding, all closet opening trim, all door casings, and all approved doors.
  • Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss: all kitchen cabinets from top to bottom, including crown, outside cabinet walls, base moulding/kick plates, and inside cabinet doors.
  • No wall paint substitutions: Do not substitute Cashmere with SuperPaint, Emerald, or any other product on the vertical wall eggshell surfaces without Kevin Crothers' approval.
  • No trim or doors paint substitutions: Do not substitute Emerald Urethane with ProClassic, SuperPaint, ProMar, or any other product on satin trim or approved door surfaces without Kevin Crothers' approval.
  • No cabinet paint substitutions: Do not substitute Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel with ProClassic, SuperPaint, ProMar, or any other product on cabinet surfaces without Kevin Crothers' approval.

Critical Restrictions

  • There is to be no whitewashing anywhere.
  • All approved paint surfaces are to receive 100% solid paint coverage.
  • All natural wood ceiling boards and ceiling-to-ceiling trim are to be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements below.
  • Do not paint any ceiling boards.
  • Do not paint any ceiling-to-ceiling trim, including trim at sloped ceiling areas.
  • Use painter’s tape wherever needed for crisp transitions and very neat lines.

Application Method Requirements

Tools + Technique

Walls (Cashmere Eggshell)

  • Apply wall finish coats using Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell.
  • Use a high-quality 3/8" woven or microfiber roller cover for the main wall field areas.
  • Use a high-quality nylon/polyester angled sash brush for cut-in work, corners, grooves, and detail areas.
  • Work in manageable sections, maintain a wet edge, and back-roll lightly for a smooth, low-stipple appearance.
  • Do not overwork the paint, and do not use heavy-nap rollers that create unnecessary texture.

Trim (Emerald Satin)

  • Apply trim finish coats using Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin.
  • Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush for trim profiles, corners, and detail areas.
  • On flatter trim surfaces, a high-quality 1/4" microfiber or woven mini-roller may be used to improve uniformity.
  • All brush and roller work shall be laid off neatly to avoid runs, sags, lap marks, heavy edges, or excessive stipple.
  • Do not use cheap roller covers, low-quality brushes, or application methods that leave heavy texture or visible tool marks.

Cabinets (Emerald Urethane Semi-Gloss)

  • Apply cabinet finish coats using Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss.
  • Cabinet surfaces must be fully clean, dry, dust-free, and properly primed before finish coats are applied.
  • Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush for detailed areas, inside corners, profiles, and edges.
  • On broad, flat cabinet surfaces, use a high-quality 1/4" microfiber or woven mini-roller for a smooth, even finish.
  • Apply in thin, even coats and lay off carefully to avoid sags, runs, lap marks, roller lines, heavy stipple, or uneven sheen.
  • Do not rush recoat times, and do not reinstall or heavily handle cabinet doors and drawers until the finish has dried and hardened appropriately.

Doors (Emerald Urethane Satin)

  • Apply door finish coats (both sides, including all edges) using Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin.
  • All approved door surfaces and casings must be fully clean, dry, dust-free, properly patched, and primed before finish coats are applied.
  • Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush for detailed areas, profiles, edges, hinge areas, and casings.
  • On broad, flat door faces, including the tongue-and-groove exterior of the three closet doors, a high-quality 1/4" microfiber or woven mini-roller may be used for smooth, even coverage.
  • Apply in thin, even coats and lay off carefully to avoid runs, sags, lap marks, brush marks, roller lines, heavy stipple, or uneven sheen.
  • Maintain crisp cut lines where doors meet painted walls or natural wood ceilings.
  • Do not rush recoat times. Do not reinstall doors or heavily handle them until the finish has fully dried and hardened. Protect finished doors from dust and damage during the curing period.

Workmanship Requirements

Finish Quality Standard

Required Finish Quality

  • All painted lines must be tight, neat, and professional.
  • No visible drips, heavy brush marks, lap marks, or uneven coverage.
  • All visible trim, wall, and door surfaces must be properly patched, primed, and sanded before finish coats.
  • Transitions between the natural wood ceiling finish and painted vertical walls must be crisp, clean, and professionally cut in.
  • All appliances, fixtures, equipment, and finish surfaces must remain properly protected from sanding dust, cutting dust, splatter, and residue throughout the work.

Final Appearance Goal

The finished room should feel warm, bright, custom, and high-end, with natural pine ceilings preserved, vertical walls fully painted and refined, doors and trim finished in a clean Alabaster satin, and kitchen cabinetry finished in a consistent Clary Sage semi-gloss from top to bottom.

Summary of Agreed Final Direction

Final Approval Language

Proceed with natural pine tongue and groove ceilings with no paint on any ceiling boards and no paint on any ceiling-to-ceiling trim, including sloped ceiling trim. All such ceiling wood surfaces are to be finished only per the Surface Preparation Requirements above using Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin .

All 100% vertical tongue and groove wood walls, along with trim where wall meets wall and wall meets ceiling, are to be painted solid Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell.

All window trim, window sills, base moulding, shoe moulding, closet opening trim, door casings, and approved doors are to be painted solid Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin.

Approved doors include the 32" x 80" restroom door, the 36" x 84" door at the bottom of the stairs, and all three closet doors. All are to be painted on both sides and all edges. The closet doors have flat wood inside faces and tongue-and-groove outside faces, but both faces still receive the approved door finish.

All kitchen cabinets from top to bottom, including cabinet faces, cabinet boxes, outside cabinet walls, crown moulding, base moulding/kick plates, and inside cabinet doors, are to be painted Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss.

All pine tongue and groove wood walls must be patched where needed, including large gaps and nail holes, sanded smooth, cleaned of all dust, and primed with Sherwin-Williams Extreme Bond® Interior/Exterior Primer (water-based) before finish painting. Finish coats on these painted wall surfaces shall be Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell.

The 2nd floor restroom and closet are to be completed per the dedicated restroom section above, including relocation of the Navien NPE-180A2 water heater, painted restroom walls in Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell, approved trim and doors in Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin, sealed natural wood restroom ceiling per the Surface Preparation Requirements using ultra flat varnish, waterproof LVP flooring, and drywall/paint finish at the former water heater closet.

All work shall also comply with the project’s Dust Containment, Protection, and Cleanup Requirements and Application Method Requirements, including proper protection of installed appliances, fixtures, and equipment, complete dust removal before coatings are applied, and use of the specified tools and application methods for walls, trim, doors, and cabinets.

Execution Schedule (9-Day Work Plan – Follow Exactly)

This project must be completed in the exact order shown below. Do not skip steps, do not overlap phases, and do not proceed until required dry times are met.

CRITICAL PROTECTION REQUIREMENT (NON-NEGOTIABLE)

Before any sanding, cutting, priming, or painting begins, ALL of the following must be fully covered and protected:
  • All appliances (dishwasher, refrigerator, range, microwave, vent hood)
  • Farmhouse sink and faucet
  • Mini-split unit
  • All windows (glass, frames, and sills)
  • All flooring and finished surfaces
Protection must prevent dust, paint, overspray, splatter, and debris from contacting these surfaces. Nothing is to get on or into these items.

DAY 1 – PREP + PROTECTION (8 HOURS)

  • Hour 1–2: Fully cover and protect all appliances, windows, floors, and fixtures
  • Hour 3–6: Patch all walls, trim, and doors. Fill all nail holes and gaps
  • Hour 7–8: Begin sanding patched areas (walls and trim)

DAY 2 – FULL SANDING + DUST REMOVAL (8 HOURS)

  • Hour 1–4: Sand all surfaces (walls, trim, doors, ceiling)
  • Hour 5–6: HEPA vacuum ALL surfaces (walls, trim, doors, ceiling, grooves, sills)
  • Hour 7: Wipe all surfaces with damp microfiber cloths
  • Hour 8: Open window + run fan outward. Leave room for dust to clear

DAY 3 – CEILING CLEAR FINISH (COAT 1)

  • Hour 1: Final dust check. Wipe if needed
  • Hour 2–5: Apply thin, even coat of matte clear finish to ceiling
  • Hour 6–8: STOP. Leave area undisturbed for drying

DAY 4 – CEILING CLEAR FINISH (COAT 2)

  • Hour 1–2: Light sand ceiling (220 grit), vacuum, and wipe clean
  • Hour 3–6: Apply second thin coat
  • Hour 7–8: STOP. Drying only. Do not touch ceiling

DAY 5 – PRIMER (WALLS + TRIM + DOORS)

  • Hour 1: Light dust removal if needed
  • Hour 2–6: Apply primer to all walls, trim, and doors (both sides)
  • Hour 7–8: STOP. Allow full drying (minimum 4 hours)

DAY 6 – WALL PAINT (COAT 1)

  • Hour 1: Check for dust or debris
  • Hour 2–3: CUT IN WALLS: Using a brush, carefully paint all edges where walls meet trim, ceiling, and corners. Create clean, straight lines before rolling
  • Hour 4–6: Roll full coat on all wall surfaces
  • Hour 7–8: STOP. Allow drying (minimum 4 hours)

DAY 7 – WALL PAINT (COAT 2)

  • Hour 1: Light sand if needed. Clean dust
  • Hour 2–3: Cut in walls again
  • Hour 4–6: Apply second full coat
  • Hour 7–8: STOP. Drying only

DAY 8 – TRIM + DOORS (COAT 1)

  • Hour 1–2: Light sand all trim and doors. Vacuum and wipe clean
  • Hour 3–6: Paint all trim, base, casings, and doors (both sides)
  • Hour 7–8: STOP. Allow drying

DAY 9 – TRIM + DOORS (FINAL COAT + CLEANUP)

  • Hour 1–2: Light sand, vacuum, and wipe
  • Hour 3–6: Apply final coat to trim and doors
  • Hour 7–8: Remove tape, remove all coverings, full cleanup, final inspection
FINAL EXPECTATION:
Work must be completed cleanly, in order, and without rushing. All appliances and windows must remain perfectly clean and protected. No dust, paint, or residue is acceptable on any finished surface.

Overall Look, Feel, and Design Intent

This Carriage House has been thoughtfully designed to feel warm, refined, and timeless - a space where natural materials, soft color, and clean craftsmanship all work together. The goal is not just to finish the space, but to create an environment that feels intentional, calm, and elevated the moment you walk in.

The foundation of the design begins with the natural 7-inch tongue and groove pine that wraps both the walls and the vaulted ceiling. The ceiling, finished per the dedicated Surface Preparation Requirements using ultra flat varnish, allows the true character of the wood to remain visible, adding warmth, texture, and architectural interest across the entire space. With ceiling heights reaching over 9 feet and sloping down toward the dormers, the wood creates a cohesive envelope that feels both expansive and inviting.

The flooring - a high-traffic rigid core luxury vinyl plank in a restored wood tone - introduces a balanced mix of gray, light brown, and soft white. This grounding layer ties together both warm and cool elements in the room, allowing the finishes above to feel connected rather than competing.

The kitchen serves as a focal point, anchored by Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage cabinetry in a semi-gloss finish, including matching crown and base moulding. This soft, muted green brings a natural, calming presence into the space while allowing the surrounding materials to complement rather than overpower. The cabinetry is paired with a 1.25-inch white quartz countertop featuring subtle gray and tan veining, adding a clean, refined surface with just enough movement to create visual interest.

The backsplash - a handmade-style 2.5" x 8" glossy subway tile in a soft warm white tone with Frost grout - introduces a gentle texture and light reflection. Its slightly imperfect, artisanal appearance adds character while maintaining a clean and timeless aesthetic.

Large windows on multiple walls allow natural light to fill the space, enhancing the warmth of the wood and the softness of the finishes. The combination of fixed-pane feature windows and operable windows with deep sills provides both visual openness and functional comfort.

To unify the entire space, all approved non-cabinet trim, door casings, and approved doors are painted in Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin finish with all walls painted in Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell. This approach creates a seamless, cohesive look that allows the architecture and materials to take center stage rather than introducing unnecessary contrast.

Alabaster is a soft, warm off-white with subtle beige and gray undertones, chosen specifically for its ability to bridge both warm wood tones and cooler stone and tile finishes. It provides brightness without feeling stark, and warmth without appearing overly creamy, resulting in a calm and balanced backdrop throughout the Carriage House.

The overall result is a space that feels collected, natural, and quietly sophisticated - where every material and finish supports the others. The design avoids trends and instead focuses on longevity, craftsmanship, and a cohesive visual flow from floor to ceiling.

Pre-Work Crew Alignment Checklist (Must Be Reviewed Before Starting)

The following questions and answers define exactly how this project is expected to be executed. The crew should review and confirm understanding of each item before beginning any work.

  1. What is the overall look and feel we are trying to achieve?
    A clean, cohesive, and high-end finish where all surfaces feel intentional, smooth, and consistent. The space should look calm, unified, and professionally executed with no visible shortcuts.
  2. Why are we using one color throughout the space?
    To create a seamless and unified look. Using one color avoids visual clutter and allows the architecture, wood, cabinets, and materials to stand out instead of competing.
  3. What paint colors, products, and finishes are being used?
    Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW 7008 is the approved wall and trim/door color for painted non-cabinet surfaces.
    Walls: Sherwin-Williams Cashmere® Interior Acrylic Latex - Alabaster SW 7008 - Eggshell
    Trim, window trim, sills, base/shoe molding, closet opening trim, door casings, and approved doors: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Alabaster SW 7008 - Satin
    Cabinets: Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel - Clary Sage SW 6178 - Semi-Gloss
    Ceiling boards and ceiling-to-ceiling trim: not painted; finish only with Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin per the Surface Preparation Requirements
  4. Where does the semi-gloss finish apply?
    Kitchen cabinets use Emerald Urethane Semi-Gloss. Everything else is satin unless specifically noted otherwise, such as the walls in eggshell finish.
  5. Where does the satin finish apply?
    All approved satin trim elements including window trim, window sills, baseboards, shoe molding, closet opening trim, door casings, and approved doors use Emerald Urethane Satin.
  6. How do we ensure the difference between eggshell and satin looks clean?
    Maintain sharp, straight cut lines. Do not overlap finishes. Ensure even application so sheen differences look intentional and not blotchy or inconsistent.
  7. What is the required prep process before painting?
    Patch all holes and imperfections → sand smooth → clean surfaces → remove all dust completely → apply the approved primer where needed → lightly sand primer as needed → then apply finish coats. No paint should be applied over rough, dusty, or unprepared surfaces.
  8. How should tongue and groove wall seams be handled?
    All visible imperfections must be addressed so the surface appears smooth and consistent. Seams should not draw attention or look uneven after painting.
  9. What should be done if existing surfaces are uneven or poorly patched?
    They must be corrected before painting. Do not paint over defects. All surfaces should be made smooth, flat, and visually consistent.
  10. How do we ensure straight, clean lines at all transitions?
    All edges must be carefully cut in or taped to produce crisp, straight lines where walls meet trim, ceilings, cabinets, doors, and other surfaces. No wavy or uneven lines are acceptable.
  11. What does proper caulking look like?
    Minimal, clean, and smooth. Caulk should only fill necessary gaps on painted surfaces and should never appear thick, smeared, or messy. It should blend seamlessly once painted. Wall-to-ceiling transitions at natural wood ceilings are not to be caulked unless approved.
  12. How should the stairwell and landing be treated?
    The walls, trim, doors, and all painted surfaces within the 4-step section, 4’ x 4’ landing, and 13-step stairwell must be finished to the exact same standard as the main room - with no shortcuts or reduced quality due to difficulty or access.

    The crew should not focus on finishing the stair treads or landing surfaces themselves. After painting is complete, the following will be installed: 1" thick Red Oak treads and nosings on all steps, 1/2" thick solid wood risers, 1/4" thick Red Oak cover on the landing.

    These installations will occur approximately one week or more after painting is completed.

    The Red Oak treads and nosings will be light stained (final tone to be determined based on the finished space), and all risers will be painted to match the trim and base/shoe molding finish.

    At the top of the stairs, Iron Works will install a rubbed oil bronze railing mounted on Red Oak planks, with the wood stained to match the stair treads and nosings.

    The painting crew’s responsibility is to ensure that all surrounding surfaces are properly prepped, painted, and protected so that these final installations can be completed cleanly and professionally.
  13. What challenges are expected in the stairwell?
    Tight angles, lighting differences, and access. These must be managed carefully to avoid drips, missed spots, uneven finish, or damage to surrounding completed surfaces.
  14. How do we maintain consistency from bottom of stairs to top of room?
    Apply paint evenly, maintain consistent prep and technique, use the approved products for each surface, and ensure color and sheen are uniform across all surfaces without variation.
  15. How should work be checked under different lighting conditions?
    Inspect surfaces in both natural daylight and artificial light to catch imperfections, streaks, lap marks, or uneven coverage.
  16. How should dust, sanding, and cleanup be handled?
    All installed appliances, fixtures, equipment, doors, and finish surfaces must be properly covered and protected before sanding, cutting, patching, priming, painting, or clear finish application begins. All sanding dust must be removed completely before any coating is applied, and final cleanup must leave the room, appliances, windows, trim, doors, and fixtures clean and free of dust, splatter, and residue.
  17. What application methods are required?
    Use the approved tools and application methods described in the Application Method Requirements section, including the correct roller nap, quality brushes, and careful layoff technique for walls, trim, doors, and cabinets.
  18. What would make this job immediately pass inspection?
    Smooth, even surfaces; straight lines; consistent finish; tight trim work; clean door finish; properly protected natural wood ceilings; clean cabinet finish; no visible defects; and a clean, professional appearance throughout.
  19. What must be done before calling the job complete?
    Perform a full walkthrough, complete all touch-ups, ensure consistent sheen, fix any defects, verify that all work matches this document, and thoroughly clean all surfaces including floors, windows, trim, doors, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures.

Expectation: This project should reflect high-quality workmanship from start to finish. Every detail matters, and the final result should appear clean, intentional, and professionally executed in all areas of the space.



Responses to Change Requests

From time to time, an alternate product or method may be suggested during the course of the work. When that happens, the following response applies unless Kevin Crothers personally approves a change.

After careful review, the change request to use Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish for all natural wood ceiling surfaces has been approved.

Bona Mega ONE® Waterborne Wood Floor Finish - Satin

This product is approved for this application based on its superior adhesion, durability, and clarity. It provides a strong, consistent bond to the wood surface while maintaining a clean, refined appearance.

This decision is final. Do not substitute with any other product unless Kevin Crothers gives direct approval.

The reasoning is straightforward:

  • Bona Mega ONE provides a stronger, more reliable bond to wood surfaces, helping ensure long-term durability and performance.
  • It offers excellent clarity and a more stable finish, reducing the risk of yellowing or darkening over time compared to traditional oil-based products.
  • The finish maintains a clean, natural wood appearance without excessive color shift.
  • When applied correctly in thin coats, it will not create a heavy or plastic-like appearance and will preserve the character of the tongue-and-groove pine.
  • This product allows for a controlled, even application across large ceiling surfaces for a consistent, high-end result.

Application requirements remain exactly as specified:

  • Apply thin, even coats only
  • 2 coats standard
  • 3 coats maximum only if needed
  • Light sanding between coats with 220 grit
  • No heavy buildup in grooves, seams, or joints

The required result is a clean, natural, satin-finished pine ceiling that looks refined, warm, and high-end without appearing overly coated, glossy, or uneven.

Important: If a different ceiling finish product is proposed, the answer is no unless Kevin Crothers personally approves the change in advance.