Christmas Greens! We’ve just wrapped up a set of design plans for January construction. The family bath for the Bedford family home is part of an extensive home reno and was inspired by the existing vintage, two sided alcove tub (with rounded corner) tha't’s definitely a keeper. And I continue to be smitten with #Kohler’s Artifacts series which has the perfect modern heritage vibe for this century house, so much so we’re also using this series for faucets in the kitchen.
Interior Design: Floor Plan - Before & After
Before & After floor Plans of a Whole Home Renovation
The before & after plans of this past project are a great example of how effective it can be to assess and make thoughtful changes to a floor plan. This important step is the catalyst to achieving a successful home design or renovation - its also my favourite part of the design process because its when the potential is revealed and solutions are realized. The objective for this plan was to update an 80's suburban home for a busy young family of 4 who love to cozy up for movie nights and also host large family gatherings. The most pressing issue was the need for a more functional kitchen and so the renovation planning started and extended from there. (See plan above and the key issues to be addressed.)
The house had none of the builder upgrades (like hardwood or crown mouldings or granite counters) and so not only was it in need of aesthetic updates the layout didn't function well for their lifestyle. The hard working spaces like the kitchen, entry and laundry areas were inefficient. This put them in a dilemma many home owners face….endure a top to bottom renovation… or.... begin a search for another house that better suited their needs. Both can be equally daunting choices for a busy young family, ultimately they chose to undergo a full renovation but in the hands of a professional team and with the intent that the project wouldn't become an extensive gut-reno. I came on board to re-design the floor plan plus all the new details and finishes that would transform the home - featuring a luxurious new kitchen (which by design, would not be the typical open concept configuration).
The “after” version of the floor plan shown above and below with notations of some of the key changes. Although the changes to the layout were not drastic from a construction stand-point, the combination of those layout improvements with the added functionality and all new materials, finishes and details resulted in a dramatic transformation.
The Art of Planning: Karen's Kitchen
Photo by Donna Griffith, for Style at Home |
In addition to the floor plan I also worked out all of the wall elevations which detail Karen's new cabinetry and will facilitate getting it ordered. The task of pulling this entire plan together is now in her very capable hands and I can't wait to see it all come together. Karen has done some savvy networking to co-ordinate a few great collaborations and sponsors for this project. The design layout reflects the products and publication opportunities that are anticipated thru the collaborations as well as some of Karen’s unique finds so it promises to be an interesting and beautiful transformation story for all parties involved.
You can follow the kitchen reno progress over at The Art of Doing Stuff and I'll post updates here as it starts coming together!
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