Condo Renovation: Opening Up a Spacious, Stylish, and Aging-in-Place Home
The Vision
The homeowners, a couple retiring from Florida, were moving to Ann Arbor to be closer to their family. Their previous condo had a contemporary style, and they wanted the same aesthetic for their new property. They also needed to create a home where they could gracefully “age in place.”
Though located in a fantastic spot, their new condo had many original finishes dating back about 30 years, which didn’t match their preferred style. Knowing they would be spending a lot of time with their grandkids and hosting family, they wanted to create a space that was not only stylish but also practical for their lifestyle. Meadowlark Design+Build’s reputation for high-quality work and trustworthiness led them to select us to transform their new home.
The Problem
Create a modern, functional space that fits aging-in-place needs and love for family gatherings.
Creating a contemporary and accessible home that could accommodate both entertaining and aging in place was the homeowners' primary goal. From opening up the kitchen to modernizing the bathrooms and improving accessibility throughout the home, they wanted to ensure the space was functional for both everyday living and hosting family gatherings.
However, the condo needed significant updates before they could move in and make it their own. With a tight timeline before moving their furniture in from Florida, they needed a reliable team that could deliver high-quality work on schedule.
Pre-Move In:
- Objective 1: Update paint and carpeting and address minor plumbing issues before moving in and furniture arriving.
Post-Move In:
- Objective 2: Open up the kitchen to create a more spacious and connected living area for family gatherings.
- Objective 3: Remodel the primary bathroom and laundry room, including raising the washer and dryer, with accessibility in mind.
- Objective 4: Remove the large, inaccessible bathtub to create additional exercise space.
The Solution
To meet the homeowners' needs, we developed a two-phase renovation plan.
Phase 1 focused on essential updates like painting, recarpeting, and addressing minor plumbing issues before their furniture arrived from Florida. This allowed the space to feel fresh and move-in ready, while ensuring the homeowners could trust our team to handle everything in their absence.
Phase 2 was the major renovation. We opened the kitchen by removing a wall, creating a spacious and inviting area for entertaining. A large island was added, perfect for family gatherings. We also reimagined the underutilized hall closet as a pantry and coffee bar for convenience.
To improve accessibility, we raised the washer and dryer in the laundry room and replaced the oversized tub with a more functional space for exercise. Contemporary finishes and easy-to-clean materials were chosen to enhance both style and practicality.
Product Selections
To bring their vision to life, the Meadowlark Design+Build team selected high-quality, contemporary materials that would enhance the space's style and functionality.
- Crystal Cabinetry: Sleek, modern cabinetry that provides both storage and a clean aesthetic.
- Solid Surface Quartz in “Caramel Latte”: A durable, stylish countertop that adds warmth and elegance to the kitchen.
- Virginia Tile Mediterranea Soapstone White: These large 24x24” porcelain tiles have a natural stone look and are perfect for unifying living spaces with easy maintenance.
Project Challenges
Working within a multi-level condo building presented unique challenges, especially with close neighbors and shared spaces. It was crucial to keep the work area clean and minimize disruptions to the surrounding units.
Our team followed strict protocols for noise control and cleanliness throughout the renovation process, respecting both the homeowners and their neighbors. We also coordinated with the condo's site supervisor for mechanical work.
The Results
A condo transformation that’s modern, accessible, and ready for entertaining
After careful planning and execution from Meadowlark Design+Build, we created a beautifully transformed condo that’s modern, functional, and perfect for this couple to age in place.
- The kitchen is now an open, inviting space with a large island ideal for entertaining.
- The aging-in-place features, including an accessible bathroom and raised laundry, provide comfort and ease.
- Contemporary, easy-to-clean finishes bring a sleek, modern aesthetic while simplifying upkeep.
- The condo feels spacious and connected, making it perfect for hosting family and grandkids.
In the end, we delivered a new and improved home that not only met the couple’s immediate needs but also provided long-term comfort. The homeowners are thrilled with the fresh, contemporary style and the thoughtful, practical updates that make their new home a perfect fit for their retirement years.
Bring Your Dream Home to Life with Meadowlark Design+Build
Do you want to transform your home into a space that’s both stylish and functional? Whether you’re looking to update your home for aging in place or to create the perfect environment for entertaining, Meadowlark Design+Build is here to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to start planning your dream renovation!