See How a DIY-Loving Couple Transformed Their Bedroom, Bathroom, and Laundry Room

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

Sweet Laurel cofounders Laurel Gallucci and Claire Thomas embarked on a significant home renovation after Gallucci and her husband, Nick, purchased a fixer-upper. Their initial project involved transforming the old master bedroom into a combined laundry room and a master bathroom. This layout change provided them with considerably more space, addressing previous limitations such as sharing a single sink, which Gallucci noted was functional but that having two sinks was a pleasant upgrade. A unique feature of the new bathroom is the integration of an infrared sauna system directly into the sealed-off shower, complete with a spacious bench for relaxation during eucalyptus oil–scented steams. The shower's design also incorporates a sophisticated sound system, a detail Nick, a former audiophile, meticulously oversaw. Given the shower's generous size, comparable to a car interior, he enjoyed designing the acoustics to allow for loud music playback without disturbing other areas of the house. Gallucci, on the other hand, prefers calming sounds and classical tunes for her shower experience. Nick, who works as a sustainability engineer, also focused on practical amenities, including heated floors and an advanced Toto toilet. While Nick handled the technical aspects, Gallucci and Thomas concentrated on the aesthetic, particularly the color palette. Their inspiration for the floor-to-ceiling emerald green hue came from Gallucci’s appreciation for Old Hollywood and Art Deco styles. To achieve a striking monochromatic effect, every surface was covered in this shade. Dunn-Edwards’s Mission Jewel paint was used for the walls and ceilings, while Fireclay’s hexagon and herringbone tiles in Venetian Green adorned the shower interior. Thomas emphasized the importance of texture in a monochromatic room, noting that pattern is an effective way to introduce it. The combination of hexagon and herringbone tiles, including a distinct herringbone orientation on the shower stall's ceiling, was chosen for its timeless appeal and ability to add visual interest. The tile installation was a month-long process, requiring meticulous work from the tile setter. The couple, both tall, deliberately positioned the single window in the room to allow views of the sky and trees while maintaining privacy. Two oversized round mirrors were incorporated to maximize natural light within the emerald green space. Thomas explained that choosing a rich, deep color and applying it extensively can surprisingly make a room feel more expansive rather than cave-like. The chosen shade successfully achieved this desired effect, creating a vibrant and luxurious master bathroom. #BathroomRenovation #EmeraldGreen #TileDesign #HomeRenovation #MasterBathroom #InteriorDesign #MonochromaticScheme #ArtDeco

Marie Lu, a bestselling author, and Primo Gallanossa, a game designer, sought a flexible and inspiring urban sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles's Arts District. They commissioned architecture firm CHA:COL to transform a 1,450-square-foot live/work loft into a space that could accommodate their writing and game design needs between frequent travels. The design brief emphasized creating a creative den for work, relaxation, and retreat. CHA:COL, led by design principals Apurva Pande and Chinmaya Misra, drew inspiration from the couple's professional backgrounds, particularly the game "Monument Valley" and the whimsical geometries of M.C. Escher. The central element of the loft is the "Writer’s Block," a custom-designed, multifaceted piece of oak veneer millwork. This versatile unit functions as a desk on one side, a lounge on the other, and incorporates shelving, effectively dividing the space while offering multiple uses. The design aimed to allow the clients to navigate and inhabit the loft in unique ways, much like Princess Ida moves through different levels in the Monument Valley game. The loft's design integrates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements. For example, white oak planks from the Writer’s Block seamlessly transition into FLOR carpet tiles that extend up an opposing wall, complemented by a matching mural. This playful mashup creates an optical illusion, making the two-dimensional elements appear three-dimensional and vice versa. Extensive studies were conducted to achieve the precise geometry for the wall art, eventually simplifying to paint swatches to complete the effect. Beyond the primary workspace, the loft also includes dedicated sleeping and kitchen areas. The kitchen features IKEA cabinets and a peninsular bar designed to encourage social interaction. Acoustic considerations were incorporated into the design, and the space is illuminated by a Zaneen pendant in addition to natural light from a facade of windows. The bathroom features a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic with a custom white lacquer vanity and Porcelanosa tiles. The sleeping area is discreetly tucked away at the back of the loft, illuminated by a George Nelson Saucer Lamp. The project successfully created a highly functional and creatively stimulating environment. Initially conceived as an occasional getaway, the loft proved so effective that the clients found themselves spending more time there, reducing their need for frequent commuting. The design prioritized a simple, streamlined palette and carefully selected light fixtures that enhanced the spatial flow and movement within the loft, creating an urban oasis that fosters creativity and well-being. #LiveWorkLoft #CreativeSpace #GameDesignInspired #MultifunctionalFurniture #LosAngelesArchitecture #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #CustomMillwork

A couple in Aliso Viejo, California, successfully renovated their primary bathroom without an extensive budget, demonstrating that smart design choices can lead to significant savings. The homeowners, who had previously undertaken DIY updates in other parts of their home, enlisted Julie K. Beuerlein of JKB Home Design to oversee the bathroom makeover. The primary suite's bathroom, built in the 2000s, was described as bland, boring, and beige, but crucially, it possessed a functional layout. This existing good layout was a major advantage, as it meant extensive construction or demolition, which would have been costly, was not required. The project focused instead on cosmetic changes, termed a "lipstick remodel" by the designer. The design objectives were to transform the outdated bathroom into a sophisticated yet comfortable space. Since the budget did not permit significant structural alterations, the team maximized the existing layout and retained elements that were still usable. The bathroom featured separate vanities, a walk-in shower, a whirlpool tub, and a separate water closet, a configuration that already met the homeowners' needs structurally. The renovation's primary focus was to address the dated materials, vanilla color palette, and an outmoded tub. Julie and her team implemented several cost-effective strategies, including painting the existing vanities a dark charcoal, adding custom wood frames to the large, unframed mirrors, and replacing the countertops with a subtly veined quartz. Hardware and fixtures were updated to brass, chosen for its moody and rich contrast against the dark paint and tile, and its timeless appeal, avoiding trendy finishes like black that might quickly become dated. Brass hardware was installed on cabinet drawers and doors, complementing the new quartz. To ensure a cohesive aesthetic between the primary bathroom and the connected primary bedroom, wood-look porcelain tile from Bedrosians was installed throughout both areas, as there was no door separating the spaces. One of the most significant transformations involved the tub and shower area. The original setup included a dated drop-in whirlpool tub and a cramped, doorless shower, complicated by two large, off-centered windows. The solution involved installing a new bathtub, centering it perfectly with the picture window. The same quartz used for the countertops was extended to create the tub surround and a bench within the new shower, designed with a generous ledge for practical use. Glossy black wall and ceiling tiles were introduced as a dramatic contrast to the white quartz, and a woven light fixture above the tub added softness and texture. The homeowner's previous complaints about the shower, such as its perceived small size, lack of a comfortable leg-shaving spot, and coldness due to the absence of a door, were addressed in the redesign. The homeowners were particularly impressed by how key decisions, such as strategic lighting, painting existing fixtures, and leveraging the existing layout, created a dramatically new look without the need for a complete overhaul or moving out during construction. Julie emphasized that a successful "lipstick remodel" hinges on considering the overall layout, and the condition of existing vanities, plumbing, and lighting fixtures. If the layout is functional, painting, adding hardware, and replacing fixtures, countertops, or flooring can yield a substantial impact. She also advised against chasing fleeting trends, recommending classic materials and colors, and creating a layered look by mixing materials and tones that harmonize with the home's architecture rather than appearing as if everything came from a single store or design style, ensuring a timeless and natural feel. #BathroomMakeover #BudgetFriendlyRenovation #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #HomeTours #DecoratingAndDesign #BathroomRemodel #CostSavingTips

Patti Wagner and her husband, Brian, undertook a do-it-yourself renovation of their 47-square-foot Tudor bathroom, focusing on replacing the dated flooring while preserving the historical charm of the chartreuse wall tiles. This two-month project involved a significant overhaul, including stripping 89 years of paint from the walls and removing old floor tiles, highlighting that such a project is achievable for patient and willing individuals. The initial phase of the renovation involved careful preparation. The couple started by removing essential bathroom fixtures such as the sink, toilet, and radiator. This step required meticulous planning to avoid damage to existing structures. For tile removal, an angle grinder equipped with a diamond blade was used to precisely cut along grout lines and through the old mortar base. Following this, a hammer and chisel or flathead screwdriver were employed to delicately detach the tile pieces. A primary concern during this stage was to prevent any damage to the wainscoting while extracting the old flooring. In line with their goal of honoring the home's original Tudor architecture, the Wagners selected a flat-finish white hexagon tile for the new flooring. This choice was deliberate, as it complemented the bathroom's original green wall tiles, maintaining a cohesive and historically appropriate aesthetic. The decision to work with existing elements, rather than completely replacing them, underscores a thoughtful approach to renovation. The subsequent steps involved laying the new floor. They first installed wire mesh, followed by pouring a self-leveling concrete base to adjust the floor height appropriately. Once this concrete layer had dried, a thin-set mortar was used to securely place the new hexagon tiles. The final touches included applying grout and a grout sealer, noting that the tile itself did not necessitate a separate sealant. The couple emphasized that the most challenging aspect of the entire process was sustaining momentum and committing consistent time to the work, particularly with young children in the household. Their experience demonstrates that patience and perseverance are crucial for the successful completion of such a project. #BathroomRenovation #DIYHomeImprovement #FloorTiling #TudorArchitecture #HomeRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter

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

This article highlights two residential design projects in Edmonton, focusing on how local designers transformed family living rooms into functional and stylish spaces that balance lounging and entertaining. The first project, led by Jehan Hamdan-Fayad of Modern Era Design, involved finishing a basement in a MacTaggart home for a family of four. The initial stage focused on presenting various options for mirrors, lighting, flooring, counters, and 3D renderings for a potential bar area. Once the client hired a contractor and completed the structural work, Hamdan-Fayad returned for stage two, which involved finalizing lighting choices, the overall color scheme, incorporating metal cladding wallpaper on a feature wall, and furnishing the space. A key element of this basement transformation is a full band setup, catering to the family's shared love for music, including guitars, drums, amps, speakers, and microphones. The space also features a wet bar, designed to accommodate guests during musical jams or karaoke sessions. Hamdan-Fayad emphasizes the creative freedom and potential for surprising clients when working with unfinished basements, aiming to create comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environments rather than typical 'dungeon-like' basements. The result is a basement that serves as a stylish music venue, complete with a large, comfortable couch and an industrial-chic aesthetic. The second project, undertaken by Tracy Fortin of Flawless Interiors, focused on renovating a Riverbend family's living area, which eventually extended to the entire house. The primary goal was to make the living room a more utilized space, as the family had previously underused it. The renovation involved reconfiguring the layout, moving a piano from a less-used front living room to a newly opened main floor area. This was achieved by transforming the original living room into a dining room and removing a small office wall. A significant change involved replacing a bay window with a new backyard-facing window and demolishing a wall, which paradoxically increased the amount of natural light in the space. Fortin also addressed the flooring, replacing the original dark slate with porcelain tile in a herringbone pattern, chosen for its functionality and scratch resistance, and offering a unique alternative to common hardwood or luxury vinyl plank options. Despite the children largely having grown up and moved out, the redesigned space remains family-focused, emphasizing activities like reading by the window over screen time, reflecting the family's academic interests. The room, which previously had yellow walls and a closed-in feel typical of early '90s homes, now presents a transitional and family-friendly environment designed for comfort and togetherness, especially when the extended family gathers. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LivingRoom #ResidentialRenovation #FamilySpace #InteriorStyling #BasementRenovation #FunctionalDesign

This article details the comprehensive bathroom renovation undertaken by Laura Yeh, an art director, and Zach Jenkins, a design lead, in their 100-year-old Park Slope, Brooklyn, apartment. Before the renovation, the 60-square-foot bathroom was cramped and dated, featuring a tub-shower combo with a sliding glass door and uninspiring gray wall tiles, likely untouched since the building's conversion into a co-op in the 1970s. A significant inconvenience for the couple was the absence of an in-unit washer and dryer, necessitating frequent trips to a laundromat and the arduous task of carrying laundry up and down four flights of stairs. The renovation, spanning three months, involved stripping the room down to its studs, which allowed the couple to reclaim valuable space for a new laundry closet. This transformation addressed both the aesthetic and functional shortcomings of the original bathroom. The couple aimed to create a zen and highly functional double-duty zone. To enhance storage and create a sense of spaciousness in the small area, Yeh and Jenkins opted for a sleek, ceiling-high medicine cabinet. They also integrated open storage for frequently used items, such as toothbrushes, incorporating a built-in ledge above the sink that seamlessly blends with the wall. This minimalist approach was extended into the shower area with a recessed niche for soap and shampoo bottles. Yeh emphasized that this symmetry helps the small space feel larger than it is. A key innovation of the remodel was the creation of a laundry closet. During demolition, the couple, along with their contractor, discovered enough space near the bathroom door to build a floor-to-ceiling cabinet to house stacked washer and dryer units. To conceal these appliances, Jenkins, leveraging his woodworking expertise, crafted custom cane-paneled doors. These doors were designed to match a smaller adjacent closet that stores linens and towels, which also includes a small cubby for detergent and cleaning supplies, ensuring no space was wasted. The DIY aspect of the cane doors also helped save costs on professional custom work. Further aesthetic and functional improvements included a vibrant Shore Rugs mat made from rubbery cables, adding a touch of fun and unexpected color. The couple also installed Forbes and Lomax antique bronze light switches and outlets throughout the apartment, with Yeh noting that the black accents contribute to a more modern feel. The tiling strategy also played a crucial role in the renovation's success. Unglazed Heath tiles in Natural White were installed on nearly every surface, providing texture. Crucially, these tiles were arranged in a vertically stacked bond configuration, a deliberate choice by Yeh to draw the eye upwards to the ceiling and the newly installed skylight, thereby enhancing the perception of height and light. Despite retaining a tub-shower combination, a streamlined glass partition replaced the old, fussy door, contributing to the modern and spacious feel. The article concludes by highlighting specific products and design elements used in the renovation, offering readers inspiration and practical ideas for their own home projects. #BathroomRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #LaundryRoom #DIYHomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #SpaceOptimization #ModernBathroom #NYCArchitecture #HomeRenovation

Laura Yeh, an art director, and Zach Jenkins, a design lead, undertook a comprehensive renovation of their 100-year-old Park Slope, Brooklyn, apartment's bathroom. The original bathroom, estimated to have last been updated in the 1970s, was characterized by its cramped layout, preventing simultaneous use by the couple, and featured a dated tub-shower combination with a sliding glass door and uninspiring gray wall tiles. A significant inconvenience was the absence of an in-unit washer and dryer, necessitating frequent trips to a laundromat for laundry, an arduous task given their four-story walk-up. Beginning in 2018, the couple initiated a full-scale remodel that lasted three months, involving stripping the room down to its studs. This extensive work allowed them to redefine the 60-square-foot space, ultimately integrating a much-desired laundry closet. The renovation transformed the bathroom into a functional and aesthetically pleasing "zen, double-duty zone. To maximize storage and maintain a streamlined appearance in the small area, Yeh and Jenkins opted for a sleek, ceiling-high medicine cabinet. They also incorporated open storage for frequently used items and designed a built-in ledge over the sink that seamlessly blended with the wall. This minimalist approach was extended into the shower area with a niche for toiletries, creating a sense of symmetry that visually expanded the compact space. A key innovation of the renovation was the inclusion of a laundry closet. During the demolition phase, Yeh, Jenkins, and their contractor discovered sufficient space near the bathroom door to install a floor-to-ceiling cabinet housing stacked washer and dryer units. To conceal these appliances, Jenkins, utilizing his woodworking skills, crafted cane-paneled doors that matched a smaller linen closet located opposite, which also featured a small cubby for detergent and cleaning supplies. This DIY effort saved costs and effectively optimized every inch of space. The couple also focused on design details to enhance the bathroom's aesthetic. They selected a vibrant Shore Rugs mat, made from rubbery cables, to introduce a playful element. Forbes and Lomax antique bronze light switches and outlets were chosen to add a modern touch. For the walls and shower, they used unglazed Heath tiles in Natural White, installed in a vertical stacked bond configuration. This vertical arrangement was strategically chosen to draw the eye upward, highlighting the room's skylight and making the space feel taller. The renovated bathroom maintained a tub-shower combination, but a streamlined glass partition replaced the old sliding door, contributing to a more open and contemporary feel. The new design also provides a cozy bathing experience with recessed lighting above the tub. #BathroomRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #NYCRealty #LaundryRoom #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #BrooklynApartment

Laura and Rian, a couple from the Midlands, successfully reconfigured the ground floor of their home to create a dream open-plan living space, saving over £30,000 in building fees by opting for a room swap instead of an extension. They transformed their overly large living room into an open-plan kitchen and dining area, and subsequently converted the old kitchen into a cozy snug. This innovative approach allowed them to achieve their desired home layout, which better suited their growing family with two young children, without incurring the substantial costs associated with a traditional extension. Upon moving into their home, the existing kitchen was small and separate, posing challenges for Laura, a homes journalist, who needed to supervise her toddler while cooking. Initial quotes for a kitchen extension were around £30,000, a sum that was prohibitive when combined with the cost of a new kitchen, flooring, and finishing touches. Laura, drawing on her expertise, decided to explore alternative layouts by printing floorplans and sketching new configurations. She realized that their existing living room was excessively large, with furniture only occupying a third of the space, making it an ideal candidate for conversion into a spacious kitchen and dining area. The adjacent old dining room was then designated to become an open-plan sitting area, and the original kitchen was reimagined as a snug living room. The couple undertook a significant portion of the renovation work themselves. They stripped out the rooms, removing old wallpaper, carpet, and a fireplace. Rian, on furlough from his job as a pilot, taught himself plumbing through YouTube tutorials to reposition radiators and manage the kitchen's plumbing. While they largely agreed on design choices, a minor disagreement arose over keeping a 1960s archway, which Rian initially wanted to remove but later grew to appreciate. A family friend who was a builder assisted with structural changes, including adjusting window openings, adding a side door, and relocating the room's entrance to offer a view of the garden upon entry. Professional help was enlisted for kitchen fitting and flooring installation, acknowledging the limits of their DIY capabilities. For the kitchen design, they utilized a free Zoom consultation with Magnet, opting for a modern take on a traditional style with blue and grey Shaker units and white quartz worktops. The layout featured a U-shaped kitchen with an island that served as a breakfast bar, equipped with an AEG double oven, induction hob, and integrated fridge, freezer, and dishwasher. Finishing touches included herringbone luxury vinyl flooring from Karndean and marble hexagon tiles from Topps Tiles for the splashback. The dining area was furnished with velvet sofas from Swyft and a black glass storage cabinet from JYSK. Approximately a year after completing the kitchen, they tackled the transformation of the old kitchen into a small living room or snug. Again, they performed most of the work themselves, aside from plastering and floor fitting. This snug, completed in March, became a perfect retreat for watching TV after the children were asleep. It featured a corner sofa from Next, accessorized with cushions from Dunelm, and walls painted in 'Good Intentions' from COAT Paints. A natural rattan lampshade from MADE.COM added to the ambiance. Travel photographs from before they had children adorned the walls, adding personal touches and complementing a bottle green velvet snuggle chair from Next that offered garden views. A bespoke, built-in media unit, painted by Laura in a color matched to 'Green Smoke' by Farrow & Ball, provided storage and concealed the TV, serving as a display for books, plants, and decorative items. The entire renovation project demonstrates how strategic room swapping and dedicated DIY efforts can result in a personalized, functional, and cost-effective home transformation. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #KitchenDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #CostSaving #RoomSwap #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign

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

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

A couple residing in Long Beach, California, who had been renting their 1960s home for approximately five years, decided to purchase the property. With a baby on the way, the husband opted to trade in his sports car for a down payment. Following the acquisition, they enlisted the expertise of interior designer Natalie Myers, founder of Veneer Designs, to undertake significant renovations they had long envisioned. The primary focus of this renovation project was the kitchen. Upon her initial assessment, Myers observed that the kitchen, while likely contemporary in its original construction, appeared dated and somewhat "folksy" with a distinct mid-century aesthetic. The existing galley layout presented a constraint, preventing any expansion. Consequently, the design strategy centered on enhancing the brightness of the space. A key factor in managing the project budget was the decision to retain the current positions of most cabinets and appliances. Myers implemented several key updates to achieve the desired transformation. For the cabinetry, she adopted a modern interpretation of "tuxedo cabinets," which traditionally feature white upper and black lower units. Her design incorporated ash-wood cupboards for the upper sections, complemented by grayish-sage doors for the lower cabinets, a color closely matched by the backsplash tile. This color scheme was extended to a new pocket door separating the kitchen from a home office, adding visual interest and creating the illusion of higher ceilings. Another distinctive element introduced was the use of terrazzo for the countertops. Instead of the more common tile form, Myers specified terrazzo slabs, extending the material to wrap around the kitchen peninsula. This particular Alabaster Verde product from Concrete Collaborative was utilized efficiently, with remnant pieces from the custom-fabricated counters forming the peninsula. This feature not only provided an additional surface but also incorporated an opening with a stool and extra cabinetry, designed to accommodate the husband's mother and facilitate her involvement in kitchen activities. In terms of flooring, hardwood was selected over tile, primarily for its cost-effectiveness. Myers noted that hardwood offered significant savings in both material and installation costs compared to tile. Wide-plank boards from Stuga, featuring an ultra-matte sheen, were chosen to provide a natural aesthetic while offering durable protection against everyday wear and tear, particularly important with a new baby. The layout of appliances saw a minor yet impactful adjustment: the dishwasher was relocated to the opposite side of the sink. This modification created space for a recessed microwave and streamlined the post-dinner cleanup process. Myers highlighted the ergonomic benefit of having the dishwasher positioned to the right of the sink for right-handed individuals. A two-drawer dishwasher from Fisher & Paykel was installed, allowing the couple to run smaller, more frequent loads, a practical advantage for handling baby bottles. The backsplash presented a unique design challenge. Myers opted for a combination of Fireclay’s Dot Dash 7 tile and Field tile. While the 4x4-inch squares offered numerous layout possibilities, the wife, an artistic director, desired a dynamic pattern rather than a simple polka-dot arrangement. After exploring various iterations in AutoCAD, a design featuring half-circles and pill-like shapes was chosen and meticulously executed by the subcontractor. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the comprehensive renovation, equating its value to the sacrifice of the sports car. #KitchenRenovation #GalleyKitchen #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoCountertops #TuxedoCabinets #HardwoodFlooring #ApplianceLayout #BacksplashTile

This article details the collaborative effort behind the transformation of a formerly notorious beach lot at 11 E. Asheville Street into a modern coastal haven in Wrightsville Beach. The project was a result of the combined expertise of homebuilder Tanner Konrady of Konrady & Son Construction, Architect Eric Jabaley of Dogwood Architecture, and Lead Designer Brandy Crawford of Bridgett Mazer Interiors, all working closely with homeowners Wanda and Ron Copley. The Copleys initially purchased a property known for its past as a fraternity party house, with the intention of tearing down the existing structure and building a new home. Their decision to work with Tanner Konrady stemmed from his previous work repairing their condo after Hurricane Florence, establishing a foundation of trust. Konrady, a fourth-generation builder with extensive experience in coastal construction, emphasized the importance of durability and low maintenance in beach environments. His approach involved building with consideration for salt air, high humidity, storm exposure, and sun damage, utilizing materials like closed-cell foam insulation, sound-dampening interior walls, hurricane-rated windows, and pre-finished PVC siding and concrete-look panel systems that are designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Konrady's team also facilitated the installation of expansive sliding doors and oversized windows to maximize ocean views and promote indoor-outdoor living, requiring careful structural planning. The architectural vision, led by Eric Jabaley, focused on creating a modern yet coastal-inspired home that blended with the local aesthetic while capturing ocean views. Jabaley worked to incorporate Wanda Copley's sophisticated vision, which desired a modern design rooted in the Wrightsville Beach vernacular. A key design element is the top-floor main living area, which extends onto a spacious wraparound porch through large sliding doors, effectively creating an additional outdoor room for relaxation and entertaining. This seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces allows residents to fully experience the coastal environment. Brandy Crawford, the lead designer, guided the interior aesthetic toward a "coastal modern" style, incorporating light, clean lines, and a less fussy approach. Wanda Copley's bold sense of style and love for color, particularly pink, were central to the interior design. This is most notably expressed in "The Pink Room," an office that doubles as a guest suite, featuring a hot pink sleeper sofa, ottomans, acrylic chairs, and pink cabinetry. Other design highlights include a powder bath with a floating, backlit vanity, and a wall-mounted resin art installation by Alex Turco in the second-level sitting room, referred to as "living glass." The home also includes an independent downstairs suite for the Copleys' daughter, complete with a kitchenette, en suite, and private porch, designed for independent living. The success of the project is attributed to the strong synergy and communication among the homeowner, builder, architect, and designer. The team's collaborative approach and shared commitment to the client's vision resulted in a custom-crafted home that reflects a unique lifestyle and personality. The project serves as an example of how a unified team can transform a challenging property into a beautiful and functional coastal residence, built to withstand environmental elements while exuding modern elegance. #CoastalRetreat #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #WrightsvilleBeach #Architect #CoastalConstruction #Homebuilder #ModernHome #Innovation

Kia and Bob Barker, residents of Oak Hill, undertook a significant renovation of their master bedroom and bathroom in their 5,000-square-foot French manor-style home. The couple, parents to three young children, desired a private sanctuary to escape their demanding daily routines. Their existing master suite, characterized by a dated 1990s aesthetic, featured a heavily draped pink-and-blue bedroom with a terracotta Southwestern-style fireplace and a builder-grade bathroom with dark counters and unattractive tiles. They enlisted Oakton-based interior designer Pamela Harvey to transform the space. Harvey aimed to blend Kia's traditional preferences with Bob's more modern tastes, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable retreat. The renovation began with the bathroom, which was poorly designed, featuring a walk-in closet off the bedroom and a divided layout with a sunken tub and small shower in one section, and vanities in another. Collaborating with builder and building engineer Bob Street, Harvey reconfigured the bathroom's layout, moving the closet to the back and completely opening up the space, retaining only the enclosed WC in its original position for cost efficiency. The new bathroom layout includes a wall of double vanities and lower cabinetry, a built-in dressing table with a tall corner storage tower, a double shower, and a freestanding tub in its own niche. Bob Barker, who favored a spa-like, modern bathroom, influenced the inclusion of heated floors, dual-head rain showers, and a sculptural tub. Both Kia and Bob appreciated marble, leading Harvey to select Calcutta Gold for the floors and a laser-cut chevron wall in the shower, appreciating its warm and cool tones. To prevent the strong veining of Calcutta Gold from being overwhelming, Harvey incorporated calming Mystic White marble for countertops, shower sidewalls, and as a “pencil liner” atop the bricked Calcutta Gold wainscoting in the bathtub niche. Additional bathroom design elements include an L-shaped arrangement of vanities and a dressing table against a contemporary damask-patterned wall covering, pearl-gray cabinetry with crystal knobs and polished chrome pulls, champagne-finish framed vanity mirrors, and a subtle sky blue paint on the ceiling. Acrylic accents, such as drapery hardware, a dressing table stool, and a tub table, were used to maintain an open, airy, and light feel. For the master bedroom, Bob Barker was keen on a complete overhaul, describing the old space as “hideous” and wanting a stylish, magazine-like appearance. Harvey addressed this by replacing the old fireplace with a contemporary one featuring a seamless sheet of smooth porcelain and a floating gas-fueled firebox. The bedroom’s color palette extends the neutral tones from the bathroom, incorporating charcoal grays, chocolate taupes, and forsythia yellows, with warm gold as the metallic accent. The design achieves a sophisticated, modern elegance with traditional grounding elements, fostering a relaxed atmosphere suitable for both adults and children. Kia desired a softer, more romantic bed, leading to the selection of a charcoal gray velvet platform bed with gray piping. This was layered with crisp white bedding and numerous pillows in the room's color scheme. Bob's preference for modern design was reflected in the inclusion of leather chairs and a white lacquered desk with shagreen drawer fronts and a sculptural metallic base, serving as a functional yet artistic element in the spacious 380-square-foot room. Harvey opted for mismatched nightstands—a darker faux reptile-finish chest for Bob and a white lacquer one for Kia—to add visual interest and avoid a overly matched look, while fluted gold gourd-shaped porcelain bedside lamps and gold-framed wall mirrors provided cohesion and glamour. A beaded chandelier and an acrylic-based, tufted botanical print bench further enhanced the stylish touches. Harvey utilized a mix of fabrics, including velvet, leather, linen, and textured embroidered materials, and incorporated diverse patterns in the window treatments, which featured floor-to-ceiling textured linen panels and flat valances with embroidered floral designs, along with pull-down blackout shades. The completed master suite provides the couple with a cherished retreat, where they can relax and unwind after their children are asleep, establishing new rules to preserve the sanctity of their newly remodeled space. #MasterSuiteRemodel #InteriorDesign #OakHillRenovation #LuxuryBathroom #BedroomDesign #HomeRenovation #PamelaHarvey #MarbleDesign #FamilyHome