This month’s project spotlight was an exercise in creating functional open spaces!

Our clients wanted to create an easily accessible guest suite on the first floor of their home, without building a costly addition, and to open up their segmented floor plan. After working through multiple designs, our clients chose to re-purpose their 2 car garage and utilize the space for the new suite. We’ve included the floor plans so you can see the change for yourself!

Of course, no one wants to lose their storage space, so we constructed a 3 car garage, connected to the new space through a breezeway.

On the opposite end of the new breezeway is the family’s new mudroom, with built-in shelving (perfect for muddy boots and coats)! After passing through the mudroom, we reach the all new bright white wet bar (you can also find the new guest suite, but we’re saving the best for last)! Complete with brass hardware, which accents the brass inlaid edging in the Tatami Mosaic backsplash.

Through the glass-paneled door you are welcomed into the newly renovated heart of the home. Removing the half-wall that originally separated the kitchen and living room dramatically improved the functionality and overall look of the space. Our clients asked for an open, airy renovation; and with clear sight lines from one corner to the next, we think we achieved the goal.

The first area in the renovation was the family’s farmhouse inspired kitchen. To help achieve the airy look, our mission was to bring in as much natural light as possible. That’s why our first step in this kitchen was to install new french doors with transoms and three windows above the sink. Paired with the white inset cabinetry and Bianco Drift Caeserstone counter tops, we created a bright, updated space, with plenty of room for friends and family to gather.

Instead of a table, the new cherry wood island serves the new eye popping centerpiece. Topped with Bianco Drift Caesarstone, the island provides a subtle contrast, while also providing functionality with built-in appliances and a prep sink.

To create balance between the stainless steel appliances and cabinetry, our clients chose to use polished chrome hardware. One of our favorite features of this kitchen are the custom ceiling height backlit display cases! These stunning pieces aren’t just for show, the bottom of each provides additional storage, AND they’re accessible from both the kitchen and dining room.

The renovation flows next into the former family A.K.A, the new informal dining room. We used this area as a bridge between the two adjacent spaces, blending the color palette from the family room with the wooden textures and rustic features of the kitchen. A few highlights are the newly installed gas fireplace with quartzite hearth and white mantle surround, the rustic distressed oak and slate gray Feiss Angelo chandelier, and custom upholstered dining chairs at the head of the table.

The new family room addition makes the perfect space for relaxing, or entertaining. The soft color palette easily works with the rustic chandelier and coffee table. To stay consistent with the open airy trend, we included a vaulted ceiling and two full walls of windows with transoms. On the opposing wall a new gas fireplace was installed, perfect for warming up on chilly Autumn nights! The quartzite hearth and fire place surround blends into the ceiling height wall of shelving and cabinetry. The top row includes glass front, back lit doors, for ample storage and beautiful displays.  

Now, our favorite spot and the motivation behind this renovation, the guest suite! The new guest suite is private, tucked away behind the new addition, easily accessible, and full of warm colors to make you feel right at home. The bedroom itself includes vaulted ceilings and 4 windows for plenty of natural light and a spacious appearance. The walk in closet provides additional storage and plenty of space for extended stays. Finally, the full bathroom’s crisp and clean appearance is thanks to the heated cement tile floor and glass enclosed shower.

Like we said before, an exercise in functional spaces! By updating the layout of their home, our clients gained a new guest suite, an open concept family room/kitchen, a mud room, and a wet bar. We hope our clients and all of their guests love their new spaces for years to come!