Before And After: Inside a Couple's Bold Renovation of a Dilapidated Bungalow

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Emily Henson, a stylist and author, embarked on an extensive two-year renovation of a dilapidated bungalow in Margate, Kent, transforming it into her dream seaside home. Despite initially searching for Victorian townhouses, Henson was drawn to the bungalow due to its garden and ample natural light, even though it presented numerous challenges including dingy rooms, rotten windows, and asbestos-ridden floors. Her renovation approach was largely intuitive, making decisions such as lighting plans and wall colors on the spot, exemplified by her decision to keep the fresh plaster unpainted in some areas. The renovation process began in January 2022. Henson lived on-site throughout the extensive remodeling, which involved her builder dismantling walls and ceilings, and rebuilding the kitchen and bathroom. While she initially hoped to complete much of the work before moving in, the prolonged timeline necessitated living through the construction. Major challenges included replacing nearly everything in the house, from plumbing and electrics to insulation, as well as installing new flooring, a new bathroom, and a kitchen. Henson adopted a hands-on approach, undertaking many DIY projects herself, such as pouring the floors and stripping wallpaper, after initial difficulties with a builder. A significant personal project was refinishing the exterior and painting all the windows, which she documented on Instagram, noting how it transformed her perception of her home. Key design decisions included opening up the living room and kitchen by removing walls and an old fireplace, creating a double-height ceiling, and adding a mezzanine for a library/reading nook. This open-plan layout suited her lifestyle as a single resident and provided an ideal space for entertaining. She also reconfigured the bedroom area, adding an en-suite bathroom by knocking through a doorway from her bedroom and converting a separate WC and bathroom into one large space. Regarding expenses, the most significant splurge was the structural work involved in knocking through walls and ceilings. Conversely, her best bargains included a blue bath and a green sink. The sink was purchased for £100 from a salvage yard, and the bath was acquired for free from Facebook Marketplace after the seller grew impatient waiting for collection. Henson expressed her fondness for a ceramic ceiling light imported from Italy and a red Chinese cabinet that has traveled with her for over two decades. Her custom-made kitchen island, constructed from four antique chests of drawers fitted onto a wheeled birch ply base, serves as a central storage solution, eliminating the need for wall cabinets. For paint choices, Henson left the freshly plastered walls and vaulted ceiling in the main living area and kitchen unpainted, sealing them with Polyvine Decorators Varnish for protection. She applied a similar raw finish in two bedrooms, accentuating them with white borders. The rest of the house was painted with inexpensive basic white paint. Specific colors used include Dulux Tuscan Glade for the kitchen windowsill and pantry door, and June Bug by Valspar for the exterior windows. Henson noted that if she were to undertake the renovation again, she would invest more thought into the lighting plan, particularly regarding the placement of pendants and wall lights in the main bathroom and other rooms. #HomeRenovation #BungalowTransformation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #KitchenIsland #HomeMakeover #SeasideHome #EmilyHenson #Kent

The article details the renovation journey of Christine Bayles Kortsch and her husband, Daniel Kortsch, as they transformed their 1924 Craftsman bungalow in Denver's Congress Park neighborhood. The initial challenge with their 1,800-square-foot home was its traditional bungalow floorplan, characterized by a cramped, narrow kitchen at the back of the house. This layout presented several issues, including a significant lack of natural light, which was crucial for Christine's food photography, and a highly inconvenient back door placement that opened onto an L-shaped staircase, making grocery carrying difficult. A single-width door between the kitchen and dining room also created a constant point of congestion for their family of four, who frequently entertained guests. After years of attempting minor cosmetic fixes like painting dark cabinets white and updating living room furnishings, the couple realized these superficial changes were insufficient to address the fundamental problems of the dysfunctional layout. This realization prompted them to undertake a comprehensive kitchen remodel during the pandemic. For this significant project, they enlisted the expertise of Christine’s sister-in-law, Vivian Bayles, a Manhattan-based interior designer and architect, and local builder Jim Copeland of Copeland Craftworks. The core of the renovation involved a strategic overhaul of the floorplan. Instead of simply modifying the partition wall at the back of the kitchen, they removed it entirely. The small, unusable nook was transformed by replacing its window with a 10-light glass door leading to a new exterior deck. The area previously occupied by the nook now serves as a spacious landing for a new, straight staircase to the basement, significantly improving accessibility and flow. Furthermore, the narrow doorway connecting the dining room and kitchen was dramatically widened, creating a more open and integrated living space. Another key improvement was the removal of a hard-to-access, recessed pantry located behind the old kitchen, above the back stairs. This change allowed for the installation of a full-depth refrigerator, a high priority for Christine, aligning seamlessly with the new cabinetry and appliances. Storage capacity was also enhanced by extending the new cabinets to the ceiling, maximizing vertical space. Rick Lutz, a kitchen designer from Home Depot, assisted with the cabinet configuration, emphasizing efficiency within the existing footprint. To maintain the home's historic character while integrating modern functionality, crown molding was added throughout the kitchen, dining, and living room, sourced from Austin Hardwoods to match the period. For finishes, Christine prioritized texture and a sense of aged patina, moving beyond standard modern choices. She selected durable Super White dolomite for the countertops, which offered a neutral surface ideal for photography while adding a distinctive natural stone element. The backsplash features Liberty thin-brick Clé tile, inspired by early 20th-century New York City, chosen for its uneven, rough texture that introduces character. A notable design decision was to conceal the microwave in a custom cabinet beneath the countertop, avoiding its traditional placement above the range, and Daniel designed and built a custom plaster-and-white-oak hood. The dining area received an unobtrusive chandelier by the Light Factory, a refurbished wooden table, a custom-built bench by Daniel, and vintage 1960s Danish chairs, fostering a rustic, communal atmosphere. The renovation also integrated the kitchen's new aesthetic with the rest of the main floor by updating the living room's fireplace hearth with leftover dolomite and white-oak trim, tying it to the new white-oak floors and complementing the home's existing bold wallpaper. Christine emphasized that the project, constrained by footprint and budget, fostered creativity, resulting in a bright, efficient, and cohesive space that respects the home's history while meeting contemporary needs. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanBungalow #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DenverHomes #HistoricPreservation #FloorplanTransformation #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article details the home renovation project undertaken by Victoria and Marcus Ford, focusing on the transformation of their bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. The couple's approach to home decor is described as "intentional," selecting items that reflect their personalities and bring soul to their living spaces. The bedroom makeover centered on creating a tranquil retreat using a light blue paint color for the walls, complemented by darker blue tones in a patchwork quilt and a Kazak-style rug. Personal touches such as souvenir pennants, vintage tennis rackets, and an old state fair sign were integrated to add meaning. A gallery wall above the bed features reproduced "Black ABCs" flash cards, reflecting Victoria's appreciation for African American culture. For functionality, a multipurpose desk replaced traditional nightstands, accommodating work-from-home needs and paired with a repurposed barrel chair. The bedroom also incorporated a pillow-top mattress from the Country Living Welcome Home collection to enhance comfort. Nautical elements, including a flag with Captain James Lawrence's famous order and wooden African American sea captains, were introduced on a dresser, which was painted in Sherwin-Williams' Courtyard, to align with Marcus's interests. The bathroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, moving from an off-center vanity layout to a symmetrical design featuring two wooden vanities. This transformation incorporated a mix of ribbed hardware, brass sconces, chrome faucets, and brass-framed mirrors to create a layered, evolved aesthetic. A large-scale, four-inch hexagon tile flower motif on the floor provided a fresh yet nostalgic feel. A key design element was the sixty-inch-tall blue beadboard wainscoting, adding both height and texture to the space. The shower area was also expanded by removing a glass door, and its walls and ceiling were covered with handmade dusty blue subway tiles, designed to seamlessly integrate with the bathroom's blue theme. For the laundry room, an unused bedroom and an extra hall closet were combined to create a dedicated and spacious area. The new layout features a space-saving laundry tower, built-in cabinets with folding space, and a small work sink. The couple chose a navy and white striped shirt motif wallpaper, which Victoria found appealing and appropriate for the room's function. A large checkerboard tile floor, laid diagonally, was selected to visually expand the space and complement the wallpaper and navy high-gloss paint on the millwork. A vintage sink, reminiscent of Victoria's childhood, was installed, accompanied by a print from artist Elizabeth Mayville. The article highlights the detailed choices and personal touches that defined each room's renovation, resulting in spaces that are both functional and deeply personal to the homeowners. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #BedroomMakeover #BathroomRemodel #LaundryRoom #DecoratingIdeas #CountryLiving #HouseTour

The article details the transformation of an ordinary ranch house in Lexington, Virginia, into a stylish hunting and fishing retreat. Situated on 100 acres overlooking Buffalo Creek, the property was acquired by Tod and Jenny Childress with the vision of creating lasting family memories, particularly through outdoor activities like trout fishing. The existing house, however, required significant renovation to align with this vision. Charlottesville-based Rosney Co. Architects led the extensive renovation, focusing on redesigning the structure to embody a classic hunting and fishing lodge aesthetic. A key aspect of the project involved working within the existing footprint of the house to preserve its original character while significantly enhancing its functionality and charm. The primary addition to the property was a large porch featuring a fireplace, which has become the main living area for the family, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living and providing a central gathering space. The renovation incorporated numerous aesthetic upgrades, infusing rustic charm throughout the home. This included revamping almost every surface with reclaimed wood, contributing to a warm and authentic lodge atmosphere. Practical spaces were also integrated, such as a bunk room designed to accommodate additional guests, and a mudroom, essential for storing outdoor gear after excursions on the water and in the field. Beyond the main house, the project also included the construction of a barn for equipment storage, complete with a wine cellar beneath it, and the addition of an outdoor shower, further enhancing the retreat's amenities. Emphasis was placed on incorporating Southern heritage and local craftsmanship into the design. For instance, the fireplace on the new porch was built using local stone, and the flooring was milled from local black locust wood. In the kitchen, the sink and countertops were crafted from Albarene Soapstone, sourced from mines within Virginia. Local blacksmith Corry Blanc, a past recipient of a Garden & Gun Made in the South Award, contributed significantly by forging the range hood, all cabinet hardware, and numerous other exterior finishes, ensuring that every detail reflected a sense of place and local artistry. This renovation transformed the property into more than just a weekend getaway; it became a home designed to be cherished and passed down through generations. The thoughtful integration of natural materials, local craftsmanship, and functional spaces tailored to an outdoor lifestyle successfully created a unique and inspiring retreat that celebrates the Childress family’s love for the outdoors. #RanchHouseRenovation #HomeTransformation #VirginiaHome #HuntingLodgeDesign #FishingRetreat #SouthernArchitecture #ReclaimedWood #LocalCraftsmanship #OutdoorLiving #HomeAndGarden

Ashley and Max, newlyweds, recently transformed their 1,068-square-foot 1920s bungalow in Madison, Wisconsin, into a cozy and personalized home. The couple moved from Boston, where homeownership was financially challenging, to Madison for Max's PhD studies at UW Madison. Inspired by Ashley's father, a civil engineer with a construction background, they sought an older home with character that they could renovate themselves. They purchased the bungalow, which, despite being livable, was in need of significant updates. The kitchen, in particular, was outdated and poorly designed, with an illogical layout that included the refrigerator obstructing a bedroom doorway. The outdoor space was also overgrown, and the interior walls featured bright orange and yellow paint. Their renovation journey began with gutting and revamping the kitchen. Max personally laid the new tile, while Ashley's father and uncle assisted with painting and assembling ready-to-assemble cabinets. This collaborative family effort resulted in the kitchen becoming one of their favorite rooms. Beyond the kitchen, they meticulously repainted all interior walls and the exterior siding and trim. Ashley also worked with a local nursery to select native plants for the yard and uncovered a hidden patio and fire pit, which they later used as the venue for their wedding in July 2022. This personal connection imbued the home with significant sentimental value, symbolizing their shared commitment and teamwork. The couple's personal interests are visibly integrated into the home's aesthetic. Ashley, with a background in art and poetry, and Max, a PhD student in U.S. history and education policy, appreciate older items, which aligns with the bungalow's 1920s architecture. Original features like scalloped arches, a large multi-panel dining room window, and 1920s bathroom tile were preserved and highlighted during the renovation. Ashley curated a gallery wall from her extensive collection of personal artwork, travel photographs, old maps, and souvenirs, creating a deeply personal and meaningful display. Their furniture selections reflect an eclectic approach, combining sentimental family heirlooms, such as a leather chair from Ashley's grandmother, with self-built pieces like a bookcase/TV stand, and budget-friendly finds from IKEA and Facebook Marketplace. This mix of textures, colors, and styles, featuring pops of orange and green against neutral tones, contributes to the home's warm and personal ambiance, with each item holding a unique story. The dining room, open to the living space, stands out as Ashley's favorite area. She envisioned it as a versatile space for work, reading, art, hosting, and games, appreciating the abundant natural light from the large window and the conversational appeal of the gallery wall. A bright yellow front door further adds to the home's charm. Their latest acquisition was an Art Deco mirror, a $20 Facebook Marketplace find, placed above an IKEA bar cart, highlighting their knack for discovering unique pieces affordably. Their advice for creating a beloved home centers on choosing items that bring joy, rather than strictly adhering to matching aesthetics, and experimenting with various colors, materials, textures, and furniture styles to achieve a cohesive and personal space. #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #DIYHome #EclecticDecor #HistoricArchitecture #CoupleGoals #PersonalizedHome #MadisonWisconsin #HouseTour

Carole and Don Watanabe have transformed an ordinary 1963 California ranch-style house in Sebastopol into a unique and vibrant living art piece called Chez La Vie. Carole, a multi-talented artist, and Don, an architect, collaborate to create a home that is an ongoing project of artistic expression and precision. The property encompasses multiple structures, including their main residence, an attached apartment for Don's father, an appealing guesthouse known as the Art Chapel, and various utilitarian sheds that are integrated into the artistic landscape. The main house immediately catches the eye with its vibrant ultramarine blue exterior, trimmed with deep turquoise and brick red. A wide berm in front of the property features Carole's "drive-by gallery," where steel frames crowned with corrugated aluminum roofs will display sheet metal paintings by local children, sold to support school art programs. The entrance to their home and Don Sr.'s apartment are adorned with enormous antique Indonesian facades made of intricately carved teak. Tall columns flanking the Watanabe entrance are covered in colorful spirals, created by Carole using abandoned mirrors and broken ceramics, giving them a jewel-box appearance. This use of found and repurposed materials is a hallmark of Carole's work, with a significant portion of the home's materials sourced from salvaged items, often acquired for minimal cost from places like a Santa Rosa Goodwill store. The backyard features a stream circulating water through the Paradiso Pond, which Carole considers her most significant work. The pond, a 4-foot-deep, rubber-lined creation, is landscaped with truckloads of rock and adorned with lilies and other water plants, evoking a Monet painting. On the western edge of the property, an outdoor fireplace, a table under a large tree, painted chairs, tiled tables, carved benches, tiny sculptures, clever mobiles, and painted fences contribute to the whimsical atmosphere. A curving dragon made of random ceramics weaves through the garden, intersected by brick pathways leading to a double-doored gateway to the neighbor's property. Inside, the whimsical aesthetic continues with furniture crafted from discarded wood and an assortment of found objects. Walls are accented with Carole's cursive writing and display her paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Recessed altars and mirrors decorated with colorful tiles are present throughout the interior. The flooring varies from room to room, incorporating area rugs and even a floor covered with squares of fabric and old photographs sealed with Varathane. The master bedroom features a custom-made headboard and Carole's handwriting on the walls, while her studio serves as her creative sanctuary. The Watanabes envision Chez La Vie as an "elder compound" where they can age gracefully amidst their beloved creations. They plan to host art openings in their spacious backyard, with a pizza oven available for guests. Banners of art, much of it created by children, will adorn patios and fences, transforming the home into an interactive gallery open to the public. #HomeTransformation #ArtisticHome #RanchHouseRenovation #SebastopolHomes #CreativeCouple #FoundObjectsArt #GardenDesign #SustainableDesign #SonomaHomes

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century Newton home, transforming it into a luxurious yet family-friendly space for a family of six. The homeowners, moving from a condo, were drawn to the original charm of the 1848 abode, including its authentic millwork, curved staircase, and glass-etched double front doors. Their vision was to infuse the historic property with a fresh, modern energy while preserving its inherent character. Interior designer Cara Fineman spearheaded the "glow up" primarily focusing on the first floor. This involved minor modifications to improve livability in the kitchen, pantry, and three bathrooms. Key updates included new countertops, tile backsplashes, brass hardware, and modern fixtures. Notably, the existing custom Kochman Reidt + Haigh kitchen cabinetry was in excellent condition, necessitating only a fresh coat of wispy white paint. The adjacent pantry and wet bar received a more dramatic makeover with bold new color schemes on existing cabinets, complemented by Aux Abris grasscloth and Ferrick Mason wallcoverings, along with linen window treatments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fineman's design strategy for the study, family, and living rooms centered on integrating soft furnishings crafted from family-friendly textiles and contemporary lighting. In the family room, a spacious and plush sectional, ottoman, and lounge chairs were installed to create a comfortable gathering space. The living room now features a sleek game table made of lacquered swirl resin, designed to encourage board games and social activities. A significant design element across the communal spaces was the strategic incorporation of color and pattern, particularly through wallpaper, fulfilling the clients' desire for a vibrant and dynamic interior. The home boasts a sophisticated yet serene atmosphere, achieved through a diverse material palette including silk, grasscloth, antique brass, velvet, and rattan. A personalized sanctuary was created for the mother of the house in the first-floor study. This feminine space, designed for quiet reading, features an opal wall color, warm artwork, and bookshelves filled with books, accompanied by an overstuffed sofa for relaxation. Despite having four young children under the age of six, the first floor was intentionally designed to feel luxurious and mature without being overly precious or inaccessible to the kids. The design philosophy emphasized materials that were not easily damaged and the rehabilitation of existing elements rather than complete replacement, such as using natural fibers and updating existing cabinetry. This approach allowed for the preservation of the home's originality while adapting it to the contemporary needs of a young family. The playroom, adjacent to the boys' bedroom, features a lively Serengeti wallpaper, beanbags, storage baskets, and wall shelves, designed to be age-appropriate yet durable for a growing family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NewtonHome #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #ModernDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign

Designers Kate Lydon and Anton Willis embarked on a decade-long renovation of a 1,150-square-foot, 1916 bungalow in Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood. The bank-owned property, initially in a dilapidated state with weeds and broken glass, presented a unique challenge due to its “telescoping” structure, featuring additions of decreasing quality and a narrow, 12-foot-wide footprint. The couple, fresh from their master’s degrees in architecture at U.C. Berkeley, aimed to transform the property into a functional and thoughtfully designed family home, prioritizing humble materials, quality of space over quantity, and structural elements as design opportunities. The initial phase of the renovation focused on essential improvements to make the bungalow livable. This included redoing the foundation with continuous, board-formed concrete to modernize the front facade, replacing the roof, painting, and extending the front porch. During this period, they also renovated two bathrooms, fabricating slab counters with the help of a friend and crafting recycled Douglas fir vanities themselves. As their family grew, they converted the garage into a 250-square-foot studio/ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) to accommodate visiting grandparents, emphasizing the principle that “basic changes were also design moves.” When further renovation plans became too extensive for them to manage alone, they enlisted the help of architect Laura Boutelle, a friend from their time at Cal. Boutelle collaborated with the couple to develop a comprehensive strategy for reconfiguring the house. Her design introduced an upstairs bedroom and bathroom, relocated the kitchen to improve its connection with the living and dining areas, and centrally situated a new stair and bedroom suite. A key aspect of the expansion involved extending the house sideways into an unused driveway, creating a private patio where the family now dines regularly. Throughout the construction, Lydon and Willis worked closely with Boutelle and contractor Gustavo Portillo, who had previously overseen their ADU project. This collaborative approach allowed for on-site design adjustments, such as vaulting the living room ceiling and adding skylights after observing how open and airy the space felt without the old low ceilings. The interior design emphasized simple materials like birch plywood and salvage yard marble, creating a cohesive aesthetic. The final renovation resulted in a home that, without the ADU, measures approximately 1,700 square feet, yet feels spacious due to its clever design and thoughtful use of space, reflecting the family’s values and lifestyle. #HomeRenovation #OaklandBungalow #TemescalNeighborhood #ArchitecturalDesign #BeforeAndAfter #SustainableMaterials #FamilyHome #AdaptiveReuse

Shane Stratton, owner of Stratton Exteriors and Urban Properties in Nashville, undertook the renovation of a 1930s bungalow-style duplex, transforming it into a 3,100-square-foot single-family home. The project began in late 2013 with the intention for Shane and his fiancée, Paige, to live there after their wedding. Collaborating with architect David Baird of Building Ideas, they developed an open floor plan suitable for entertaining, which involved significantly altering the internal architecture while preserving the front exterior and stone siding. The original 1,800-square-foot duplex was expanded, reflecting a meticulous and unhurried approach to design and construction. A key element of the renovation is the kitchen, which features an island painted in Stratton Blue by Benjamin Moore, a color originally considered for the exterior. This vivid blue island serves as a focal point, complemented by rustic wooden beams salvaged from an old warehouse. The design seamlessly blends a cook's kitchen aesthetic with an open and relaxing atmosphere, offering a view of the fireplace. The couple's collaboration involved Paige directing the floor plan post-marriage, while Shane focused on integrating details that honored the home's history, such as salvaging much of the original flooring. This approach successfully fused traditional elements with modern features like wainscoting and a contemporary fireplace design, keeping the home fresh and updated. After completing the renovation, Shane and Paige decided to sell the home, despite their emotional connection to the project. Shortly after listing, Michael Lohmann, director of photography for ABC’s "Nashville," discovered the property. He was immediately drawn to its exterior, open-living floor plan, large windows, and the kitchen's rustic beams. Lohmann recognized that these features created a unique look that aligned with the personality of the show and its character, Gunnar Scott, a young, successful musician. The home's suitability for filming was further enhanced by its "great depth in every direction," ample spaces, and the newly added garage, which was converted into a recording studio for the show. The renovated home now serves as Gunnar Scott's residence in the third season of "Nashville." Lohmann emphasized that the home's aesthetic fit the character by presenting a realistic aspiration for a successful musician, noting its unique look. The article highlights how the renovation successfully balanced contemporary design with traditional elements, integrating reclaimed materials like original flooring and wooden beams to add rustic charm, while modern features ensured functionality and style. The interior spaces are characterized by natural light, open layouts, and a harmonious blend of textures and colors. Additional details of the renovation include an updated farmhouse look in the bathroom, featuring six-foot tile pieces mimicking barn wood and granite countertops. The first-floor master bedroom is spacious with rich hardwood floors and abundant natural light. The second floor also benefits from an open layout, maximizing living and entertaining areas. The exterior additions increased the home to over 3,000 square feet, offering four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and an outdoor patio space. Resources for mimicking the home's style are provided, including specific brands and paint colors, alongside design tips from Shane Stratton emphasizing the blending of old and new elements, and the strategic placement of architectural details like accent walls, beams, or posts to create eclectic appeal. #HomeRenovation #BungalowStyle #NashvilleRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OpenFloorPlan #KitchenDesign #RusticModern #ArchitecturalSalvage #TelevisionSetDesign

This article details the renovation journey of Audrey and her husband, who transformed their 1,001 sqft 4-room HDB flat in Geylang into a bright, open-plan 2-bedroom home. Initially, they expected a straightforward renovation for their recently MOP-ed (Minimum Occupation Period) unit, budgeting between $40,000 to $50,000. However, upon handover, they discovered numerous issues, necessitating a more extensive overhaul and an adjusted budget of $50,000 to $60,000. The couple's primary design goal was to create a spacious feel reminiscent of their childhood homes from the 1980s, which meant maximizing communal areas and natural light. They achieved this by removing the walls of two common bedrooms, merging them into an expansive living and dining area. This reconfiguration created a 'dumbbell layout,' with the master bedroom and a new study flanking the central communal space. The decision to convert the 4-room flat into a 2-bedroom home was also a strategic move to future-proof their living space, allowing for potential children to share a large room, echoing their own upbringing. A key design element was the open-concept kitchen, which now extends into what was originally the dining area. The island, featuring a sleek black countertop, serves as a central gathering point and provides ample space for cooking and baking. Appliances and taller carpentry are flushed against the wall, maintaining a seamless look. Modifications included changing a louvre window in the kitchen to a fixed glass pane for easier cleaning and better enclosure when cooking, and installing a full-height pantry. The original living room was converted into an enclosed study, providing privacy for remote work and creating a distinct foyer area. A pocket sliding door, intentionally transparent, enhances the open feel and allows light into the kitchen. In the master bedroom, a wall was pushed out to accommodate a wardrobe, and an open wardrobe design was chosen to save on carpentry costs. The room is also arranged to comfortably fit a king-size bed and a future baby cot. Bathroom renovations included minor cosmetic changes in the common bathroom, such as replacing feature tiles with white ones and upgrading fixtures. The master bathroom underwent more significant layout changes, with the shower area relocated for privacy and optimized for length. The sink was shifted to accommodate a long vanity, and a sliding door replaced a swing door to save space. Overhead pipes in both bathrooms were boxed up for a cleaner aesthetic. Audrey and her husband collaborated with The Association, an ID firm, which aligned with their vision of creating a flexible, canvas-like home that could evolve with their needs. They prioritized an ID firm that understood their design principles, emphasizing minimal built-ins. Furniture sourcing was challenging due to the ongoing renovation and logistical constraints, leading them to purchase items one by one and embrace pre-loved pieces from platforms like Carousell. Their general rule for furniture was that materials, colors, and shapes should complement each other, especially crucial in an open-concept home where spaces blend seamlessly. Reflecting on their journey, Audrey highlighted the challenges of property hunting during the lockdown and the unexpected lack of transparency in the renovation industry, which required them to be proactive in coordinating schedules and managing expectations. A key lesson learned was that if they had known the extent of the overhaul required, they might have chosen a flat with a more appealing original layout or one truly in need of a complete makeover. She advises new homeowners to leverage hand-me-downs and pre-loved items for furniture and to prioritize a clear vision of their lifestyle over a rigid design style, encouraging flexibility and evolution in their home's aesthetic. #HDBRenovation #HomeTransformation #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #SingaporeHomes #HomeownerStory #RenovationBudget #ModernHome

Emily Pun, an interior architect, and her partner, Jono Taylor, undertook a significant renovation of a dilapidated three-bedroom Victorian terrace in East Ham, East London. The couple, who relocated to the UK in 2017, decided to move from their two-bedroom Georgian maisonette in Leyton during the pandemic, driven by a desire for more space, a larger garden, and a creative project. Despite a limited budget, they focused on areas of East London with potential and found a neglected Victorian terrace that, despite damp and mold issues and having been rented out to multiple tenants, had elegant proportions and a good-sized garden suitable for an extension. Their vision was to create a balanced and cohesive home where every space flowed naturally. To achieve this, they collaborated with architect Marilena Walton to design a side and rear wraparound extension, expanding the kitchen to the full width of the house and creating a seamless connection to the garden. This extension incorporated semi-recessed sliding doors, a built-in window seat, and a side-pitched roof with exposed oak beams to enhance height and natural light. They moved into the house in July 2022, and while living there, they began preliminary work on the main bedroom and living room, stripping them back, sanding floorboards, and reinstating period features like cornicing and ceiling roses. A notable achievement was restoring an original slate fire surround and repositioning it in their bedroom as a focal point. Upon the arrival of their build team, the main renovation phase commenced, lasting 20 weeks. During this period, Emily and Jono moved out but maintained weekly site visits to ensure design details were executed to a high standard, actively participating where possible. The new kitchen became a central feature, featuring a dedicated utility area with open shelving and strategic doors and walkways to create a circular flow downstairs. Emily selected red and black reclaimed quarry tiles for the flooring, intending them to be a focal point, complemented by warm oak-fronted cabinetry and durable quartz worktops. The outdoor space was equally important. Working with gardener Susanna Grant, they meticulously leveled the garden to create a smooth transition from the sliding doors to the patio. The garden was designed with pavers weaving through greenery and wildflowers, and a bespoke oak bench and large planter (which also serves as storage) were added to complete the integrated look. The rest of the house received comprehensive upgrades, including new double-glazed timber sash windows, updated electrics, and plumbing. For the interior, Emily embraced the north-facing living room's natural darkness by painting it a moody green and incorporating natural textures. The home's overall neutral palette was enlivened with earthy color accents and thoughtfully chosen art and furniture. Emily reflected on the renovation process, acknowledging that it pushed them to their limits but also deepened her passion for interior design. This experience inspired her to establish her company, Den, to assist others in their renovation journeys, aiming to provide guidance and support throughout the design and construction phases. The couple expressed immense pride in their transformed home, finding the evolution of their living space deeply rewarding and motivating to extend their expertise to others. #VictorianTerrace #HomeRenovation #EastLondon #InteriorDesign #KitchenExtension #GardenRedesign #PeriodFeatures #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorArchitecture

Kelly and Ben Wells embarked on a renovation project for their 1942 Atlanta home, specifically targeting its outdated kitchen and compartmentalized floor plan. They were drawn to the house precisely because it lacked a newly remodeled kitchen, presenting an opportunity to personalize their first home. The original layout was characterized by small, separate rooms that hindered social gatherings. To address this, the couple undertook a significant renovation that involved removing walls to merge three distinct areas into an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen space. This transformation aimed to create a cohesive and flowing environment suitable for their social lifestyle, marking a shift from a choppy to a modern motif. The home will be featured in the Junior League of Atlanta Tour of Kitchens. The renovation, which spanned five months, involved a comprehensive overhaul of the kitchen, including gutting and repositioning its layout. The main living area, originally split-level, was leveled to establish a continuous space, and the guest bathroom also underwent renovation. In the kitchen, transitional-style cabinetry from Schrock was installed, complemented by Statuario Maximus Caesarstone quartz countertops fabricated and installed by Stone Design. Floating shelves crafted from rift-cut oak by Jay Rambo Co. were integrated above a backsplash of weathered white Cle Tile. The kitchen was further equipped with high-end appliances from Viking, including a refrigerator, oven, and microwave, along with a brass faucet from Newport Brass. An exposed brick fireplace was enhanced with a reclaimed wood mantel from Atlanta Specialty Woods. The interior design style of the home blends transitional aesthetics with modern farmhouse elements. The Wells emphasized incorporating a mix of furniture styles and heirlooms to create a personalized and authentic living space, advising against a purely 'store-bought' look. Their décor includes pieces from a variety of retailers such as Serena & Lily, Ballard Designs, RH, Rejuvenation, Crate & Barrel, Redefined Home Boutique, Pottery Barn, Casabella, Anthropologie, and HomeGoods. Textiles and rugs were sourced from West Elm, Scott Antique Market, Amber Interiors, Serena & Lily, Peridot, Anthropologie, and HomeGoods. Lighting fixtures are from Circa Lighting and Serena & Lily, while art pieces come from Christine Flynn, Peridot, One Kings Lane, and Rejuvenation. The guest bathroom features honeycomb and subway tiles, with a vanity from RH and accessories from Rejuvenation. The master bedroom incorporates linens from West Elm and decorative pillows from Scott Antique Market, with a reading nook transformed from a former master closet. The 2,300 square-foot home in Atlanta's Springlake neighborhood comprises four bedrooms and three bathrooms. #HomeRenovation #KitchenRemodel #OpenConcept #InteriorDesign #TransitionalStyle #ModernFarmhouse #AtlantaHomes #HomeDécor #FloorPlanTransformation

The article explores the varying reactions to before-and-after home renovation photos shared online, highlighting the current trend of minimalist and 'millennial gray' designs contrasted with older, more maximalist styles. The author, a self-proclaimed maximalist, expresses a love for home renovations but notes a growing disappointment with some modern makeovers that strip away charm and history in favor of contemporary, sometimes 'soulless' aesthetics. A significant point of contention revolves around the replacement of original hardwood floors with gray plank vinyl, a choice frequently criticized for sacrificing authenticity. The article presents several examples of home renovations, primarily from Reddit, showcasing different approaches and outcomes. The first example features a kitchen and living room updated to a modern style, which the author describes as consistent with 'millennial greige' aesthetics. Another renovation details a 1920s New England bungalow kitchen makeover, where original architectural elements like an arch and parquet flooring were removed, prompting the author's lament. A bathroom renovation is highlighted for its sleek, hotel-like appearance, though it's suggested that a splash of color or plants could enhance it. One particularly 'controversial' renovation involved transforming a retro bathroom into a 'clean contemporary' space. While the aesthetic change was significant, the homeowners justified it by citing extensive water damage, mold, and rot behind the original fixtures, indicating that some changes are born out of necessity rather than mere stylistic preference. Another example shows a DIY kitchen renovation in an 1870 farmhouse, which resulted in a modern green kitchen that the author found stunning, while also appreciating the retro vibe of the original. The discussion extends to minimalist updates, exemplified by a Kim Kardashian-esque bathroom renovation that received mixed reviews for its institutional and drab feel. The removal of a pink 1970s bathroom is noted, with the author expressing personal sentiment for the vintage style. A refreshing contrast is presented by a 1900s Victorian bathroom where historic charm was deliberately restored, demonstrating that not all renovations lean towards modern minimalism. Other examples include painting a brick fireplace white, updating a cabin-like bathroom to be more modern and minimalist, and painting a knotty pine bedroom gray, which sparked debate among online commenters. Finally, a modern update to a 1909 home's bathroom drew criticism from a community dedicated to century homes, underscoring the divide in renovation philosophies. The article concludes by observing that white with contrasting black or gray accents appears to be a dominant trend in 2020s home design. The author expresses curiosity about how these current trends will be perceived in the future, implying that design cycles are cyclical. The piece invites readers to share their opinions on the featured renovations and to speculate on future home design trends. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #HomeImprovement #MillennialDesign #ModernDesign #VintageHome #DIYHome

Architect couple Maddalena Cerruti and Vincent Baisnée embarked on an ambitious project to transform a 100-year-old derelict stone house in the Ligurian hills of Italy into a sustainable and energy-efficient home. Their journey began in 2018 after meeting while volunteering for an architecture NGO in Tanzania, where they discovered a shared vision for sustainable architecture. After saving money while working in Australia, they returned to Europe to establish ateliermavi, their architecture studio, with this renovation serving as their inaugural project and first home. The search for a suitable property led them to a rundown house in Liguria, close to their respective families in France and Italy. They acquired the property, which was in a state of complete ruin with no electricity or water connections and had been vacant for over 30 years, for €44,000, significantly below its asking price. The 807-square-foot structure, crafted from local stone, presented numerous challenges including crumbling mortar, broken windows, a damaged roof, and interiors filled with debris. Their renovation strategy focused on using natural and locally sourced materials, emphasizing sustainability and respect for the building's history. The initial phase involved extensive outdoor work, clearing a 32,292-square-foot garden spread over seven staggered terraces, a task that took six months. Following this, they tackled the interior, stripping the property back to its core. They prioritized the removal of the old, dilapidated roof and internal walls, replacing them with structurally sound elements and natural insulation materials like hemp and lime. Legal requirements in Italy mandated hiring local builders for certain structural works, such as demolishing and rebuilding a back stone wall and constructing a new retaining wall. Despite these constraints, the couple actively participated in numerous DIY tasks, including removing 141 cubic feet of old plaster and replastering with a hemp and lime mix for insulation. They meticulously salvaged materials, reusing two chestnut beams from the old roof to create almost a dozen lintels for their new windows. The installation of a new, modern roof with hemp fiber insulation panels was a significant milestone, though they had to adhere to municipal regulations for Marseillaise tiling. They rebuilt external walls using one-foot hemp blocks and clad them with salvaged stones to maintain the original aesthetic. The internal flooring involved excavating the ground, laying a gravel layer for ventilation, and pouring hempcrete screed for insulation. They then installed stud walls to define rooms, strategically placing living areas to maximize natural light. For interior insulation, they used dry-wall (Fermacell) and hemp fiber. Custom timber windows, a significant investment at €18,000, were installed to ensure airtightness and energy efficiency. The complex process of plastering the internal walls, including the new hempblock walls and Fermacell surfaces, was a major undertaking. They also repointed the original stone walls after removing old mortar. By October 2023, the home had electricity, and they began painting and installing flooring. Reclaimed terracotta bricks were used for the floors, with careful preparation and laying in various patterns. They also built a stand for a highly efficient wood-burning stove and installed a solar thermal system for hot water. The kitchen features self-assembly units from Cubro, made from birch plywood and linoleum, a natural material. The bathroom incorporated a lime and screed floor, rough lime render, and a traditional waterproof plaster called Pastellone, creating a durable and eco-friendly finish. The couple created an outdoor patio using salvaged stone slabs from the original house. They moved into the restored property, noting that while details remain to be finished, the thermal comfort is exceptional. The renovation improved the house's energy performance from Class G to the highest Class A4, according to the Italian energy performance certificate. The surrounding land offers lavender and olive trees, with the latter still harvested by the former owner for local olive oil, and the couple restored demijohns found on-site as a nod to the home's history. Their advice for similar projects emphasizes not underestimating the job or budget, and having endurance during difficult times. This renovation not only provided them with a home but also allowed them to deeply integrate theoretical and practical aspects of architecture, enhancing their knowledge of materials and techniques, which they now apply in their architectural studio, ateliermavi. #HomeRenovation #SustainableArchitecture #NaturalMaterials #EcoFriendlyHome #ItalianStoneHouse #DIYRenovation #EnergyEfficiency #ArchitectCouple #LigurianHills