Fresh and functional living space for hosting large family get-togethers and a kitchen to support cooking for a crowd—including huge all hands on deck canning sessions—was top-priority for this client. Additionally, they were interested in converting their screened-in porch to an all-season play room for a fun hang out adjacent to the main living space.
Updating laundry and bath rooms were also on their wish list as well as the use of fun colors and patterns for happy feels throughout. We created a hard-working haven with an upbeat yet relaxing tone for their growing family to enjoy together for many years to come!
Before
Crowded Kitchen + Choppy Floor Plan + Underused Formal Dining Room + Outdated Bathroom + Limited Season for Screened In Porch + Laundry Room Lacks Function + Dull Color Palette
After
Large Kitchen with Ample Cooking Space + Comfy Kitchen Seating for Large Family Get-Togethers + Connected Open Floor Plan + Reallocate Underused Formal Dining Room to Den + Enclose Foyer to Create Welcoming Entrance + Update Bathroom Selections + Condition Screened In Porch for Use All Year + Create Play Space for Kids + Elevate Laundry Room Space to Include Modern Mudroom Amenities
Design Process
During our initial in-home working session, we explored the entire main living area for ways to better utilize the space available. Immediately we saw potential for removing walls between the kitchen and living room to open up the floor plan. We re-imagined the first floor plan almost completely, reallocating underused space in support of enhanced living elsewhere in the home.
In our 3-D virtual design presentation, we were able to share the new floor plan and updated selections with our clients, including our ideas for where to showcase the family Christmas tree (a very special seasonal feature in their house) and the new hard-working kitchen, mudroom, playroom and living room we planned. Then we got to work bringing this dream to life!
Design Concept
Space optimization is our superpower, and this renovation spotlights what is possible within existing walls with the creative eye of an experienced designer at the lead. We created a relaxed new way of living for this family that functions all seasons, all times of the day, for everyone in the house…plus guests!
The underused formal dining room was converted to a den, faced with artistic barn doors. Dining room walls were also re-arranged to create a welcoming dedicated foyer entrance.
The existing fireplace wall was removed to support better connectivity between the living room and kitchen, instantly opening up the floor plan. The existing staircase was then closed off and a new fireplace wall was constructed as a focal point in the new open great room.
A double-width slider door was installed in the sunroom, better connecting indoor and outdoor living spaces. The sunroom was then conditioned for enjoyment throughout the year.
The first-floor powder room was reduced in size slightly to allow for 6 spacious mudroom lockers (one for each family member!) and lots of extra storage in the laundry room.
The kitchen was overhauled to increase cooking, sitting and storage space. Removing the wall between the living room increased space available in the kitchen allowing for a double island and full-size table providing seating for 12+.
Our team provided design vision, material selection, product sourcing, and staging of furnishings. Additionally, we were engaged through construction as client advocates and design support to our builder partner.
See below for before and after photos and then see even more after photos here!
Design Features
Pops of fun color against a neutral backdrop were a common theme in this design—the deep teal mudroom cabinets being a favorite color choice! Fun tile patterns in the mudroom and bath make an exciting statement too.
A playful light teal paint was used on the tongue and groove ceiling in the screened in porch. Intended to be a hangout room for children in the home, the porch was furnished with a relaxing lounger sofa, table and chairs for homework, and a soft wood paddle fan overhead to keep things cool.
We were able to reuse the client’s newly purchased sectional couch in the great room and repurpose a loveseat from their original kitchen hearth zone in the den. We also added a desk nook to the den for a private working space away from the more active living zones.
A space to display the family Christmas Tree was a client must and electrical outlets were added accordingly. Taking this feature’s seasonality into consideration, a removable accent chair was used as a placeholder outside of the holiday season.
A dual-use fireplace wall is the center of attention in the great room, with media on one side and cozy fire vibes on the other. This working wall has ample storage and shelf space too, and makes an eye-catching statement in the main living area with a custom wood and natural stone design.
The traditional pantry closet was removed to make way for pantry cabinets in the kitchen, including a special section just for baking. A fun pull-out coffee bar was also integrated into the corner cabinet design. Double islands in the kitchen provide the perfect work space and extra seating too. We incorporated a stunning rustic dining table with elegant plush seating to accommodate large casual family dinners. We also added a cozy kitchen lounge area with comfy seats and ottomans for sipping coffee or hosting visitors while working in the kitchen. A timeless combo of white cabinetry and dark-stained wood islands pairs nicely with grey-veined white quartz countertops and a mix of neutral patterned tile backsplash details. A faux wood beam was also added to the ceiling for an extra layer of design detail.
We design with intention, elevating our client’s living to match their life and style. We’re here to help you achieve your design dreams, contact us to get started on your own special renovation!
Happy Home. Happy Life
Design: Everything Home Designs | Build Partner: Parsetich Custom Homes | Photographer: Sarah Shields
