When working on this dollhouse, my first priority is planning the interior renovation. The existing flooring and wallpaper are firmly attached, so I will preserve them and apply new finishes directly over the current surfaces.
I began by removing all picture frames, lamps, and curtains, with the intention of reattaching the curtains later. The baseboards were particularly challenging and required chiseling. I also removed the electrical outlets and second-floor carpeting, which was too bulky to cover with new flooring. The walls and floors are mostly smooth, with only minor rough areas around the electrical outlets. These imperfections will not be significant since everything will be covered and trimmed.
Given the dollhouse's small size with only three rooms, I plan to add partitions to create a bathroom and kitchen. By positioning the partitions slightly off-center towards the right, I can create a more spacious living room and bedroom that can comfortably accommodate furniture.
I used foamcore for the first floor partition because it is sturdy, easy to cut with a utility knife, and allows for flexible design. I intentionally did not extend the partition to the back floor edge, creating an open walkway between the living room and kitchen. This approach also provides space for a small dinette or breakfast area. To ensure the partition is straight and evenly positioned, I used tacky glue and wood trim scraps as guides at the floor and ceiling levels. It is crucial to install partitions before applying any interior finishes.
