Revitalizing a Unique Home with Creative and Cohesive Design

The Problem

Transforming a Cramped, Dated Home into a Practical and Stylish Living Space

The homeowners had a list of things they wanted to change about their home, starting with fixing the cramped and outdated kitchen that hindered their daily activities. 

They also needed to modernize and open up various spaces throughout the home, including reconfiguring storage in the primary suite, updating outdated bathrooms, and addressing budget constraints while still making impactful changes. 

Their ultimate goal was to combine functionality with distinctive style to create a cohesive design. They wanted their living space to enhance the home’s natural beauty and architectural integrity, while making it their own. 

The top projects they wanted our team to address included: 

• Open up the kitchen to create a more functional and inviting space.
• Provide ample storage and a clean, open layout in the laundry room.
• Reconfigure the primary suite's closet to create usable storage.
• Update the primary bathroom with modern finishes and heated floors.
• Give the lower-level bathroom a complete makeover.
• Rework the lower level by closing off the unusable fireplace, removing the kitchenette, and adding a built-in bench to create a workspace with a view.
• Balance the budget while ensuring impactful home renovations that enhance overall practicality and style.

To address the homeowners' goals and budget, our team developed to approach the renovation in two strategic phases:

Phase 1: 

Phase 1 focused on the most pressing issues – the cramped kitchen, lack of storage, and outdated primary suite. We began by opening up the kitchen, creating a more functional and inviting space that seamlessly connected to the rest of the home. 

A new pantry with site-built shelving by Meadowlark’s carpenters and laundry room were also added, providing much-needed storage and organization. In the primary suite, the closet was reconfigured to maximize usable space and completely updated the bathroom with modern finishes and heated floors, transforming it into a luxurious retreat.

Phase 2: 

The second phase concentrated on the lower level, where we reconfigured the living space to utilize the stunning views better and create a practical workspace. 

We did a Meadowlark Revive+Restore project for their bathroom, keeping the existing HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems intact to stay within budget. To further stretch the budget, we retained the original sliding glass doors and trim on the lower level, focusing on the most impactful changes, such as a custom built-in bench and the strategic addition of electrical outlets in newly framed walls. 

This phased approach allowed us to deliver a comprehensive home renovation that met the homeowners' goals while carefully managing costs.

One of the unique challenges we faced during this project involved the homeowners' clever cat, who had a knack for hiding in the unfinished storage space under the stairs. To address this, we designed a secure storage solution with custom cabinetry doors to keep the cat safely out while enhancing the appearance of the area.

Another challenge was finding the best way to display the homeowners' cherished art collection within the new design. They wanted a space that would showcase their pieces while maintaining the flow and aesthetic of the home. We incorporated an art niche that guides you from the entry and dining space into the kitchen, allowing the homeowners to display their art beautifully without disrupting the overall design.

The Results

A Complete Evolution: From Cramped and Dated to Open, Spacious  and Full of Personality

The home renovation projects resulted in a remarkable home transformation.The reconfiguration of spaces, thoughtful design elements, and integration of the homeowners' personality into the design created a home that is both beautiful and practical.

• The walls were reconfigured, and the kitchen was opened up, creating an airy, practical area that is easy to clean and perfectly suited to the homeowners’ needs.
• Small but impactful changes in the primary bathroom made a significant difference, enhancing the space's functionality and aesthetic appeal.
• By relocating underutilized storage in the basement, we created a more open and connected living space, seamlessly linking the home’s levels.
• The home's clean lines are softened by pops of bold colors and wood surfaces. The kitchen has a modern feel but was designed to feel inviting and practical. 

The project successfully combined the homeowners' whimsical personality with practical design, resulting in a kitchen that works efficiently and reflects their playful style. Warm wood tones kept the interior connected to the surrounding wooded lot, while increasing natural light brightened the space, balancing the dark countertops and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Overall, the homeowners were thrilled with the transformation, which not only met but exceeded their expectations.