A Classic Rambler with a Twist
Not a single room was left untouched in this house so there is still so much to see. First off…the kitchen. When designing this kitchen, or any kitchen, I make every attempt to include an island. Kitchen islands have become a staple for efficiency in planning. They not only add space for preparation and serving but they also act as casual seating for family and friends. When installing an island we also want to make sure that we don’t sacrifice any space for walkways just to say we squeezed an island into the space. So with this in mind, the kitchen island is a bit different in that the seating backs to the kitchen. Even though the layout is a bit different the impact achieved is exactly what I had hoped for.
Since this rambler had no true original details I played around with the cabinet and tile selections in the kitchen and added some custom design elements in the vent hood, open shelves and end panels. The black island was a first along with the black subway tile. My initial thought was to have all the cabinets black. I changed the plan once I felt that it may be too heavy. The big surprise for me was the response the black subway tile back splash got. Even though the color is dark the glossy finish adds dimension and interest. And the traditional subway tile size in an unexpected color works well for this classic modern home.
The Kitchen
Before 
After
There was a screened in porch at the back of the house that was truly functional just a few short months out of the year. To add finished square footage to the house without building another strucutural addition we enclosed this space, insulated it, dry walled it, added a heat source and flooring to create a useful mudroom. And just because it’s a space you will see coming and going every single day custom details like vertical ship lap and a custom bench are not only functional but attractive to look at…even if they may be covered up with jackets and backpacks.
The Mudroom
The Bathroom
The existing baths on the main floor and the lower level were both transformed. The main floor bath had been updated in 2009 with some quality custom cabinetry in a cream color that just did not work with the rest of the selections in the bath. By painting those cabinets and installing some patterned hexagon tile the space was made modern while keeping all the great storage.
After
In the lower level there was an opportunity to create a bathroom space that was a complete “redo”. The space there before included finishes that were showing their age and the plumbing and electrical also were in need of an overhaul. Creating a larger shower space and installing a larger vanity with more light makes this space perfect for a junior suite or a guest retreat. And that floor tile…a porcelain that has the look of a graphic concrete tile for an unbelievable price.
The Lower Level Bathroom
Before 
After
With all these changes the goal is always to create spaces that became more efficient and useful for how families live in their homes today. There are always challenges unique to each home since we are working within existing floor plans but it is truly worthwhile. Let me know which change was your favorite and one thing that you would not have thought of before…I would love to hear!!!
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Amber
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