Project Overview (Design-Led Snapshot)

This first-floor renovation transformed a series of underused, segmented rooms into a light-filled, open living space designed for entertaining, creativity, and everyday functionality.

Understanding the Client & Existing Conditions

The original first floor was divided into three small rooms—a dining room, an undersized kitchen, and a family room that saw little use despite having direct access to the backyard. While each room had a window, the separating walls blocked natural light, leaving the entire floor feeling dark and disconnected. With a 2,500-square-foot footprint, the clients had the opportunity to rethink the layout entirely to better suit how they live and entertain.

Design Process & Planning

Through early layout studies, we explored how removing walls could dramatically improve light, flow, and usability. The clients’ love of entertaining, along with the homeowner’s identity as an artist, informed both spatial planning and material selection. Design decisions were made collaboratively to ensure the new layout supported function, display, and cohesion—while remaining warm and livable.

The Renovation Solution

By removing the walls between the kitchen, dining room, and family room, we created an open plan that allows natural light to pour in from multiple directions. The kitchen was expanded into a generous, highly functional space featuring abundant countertop area, a breakfast counter for casual gathering, and ample storage.
With the kitchen now open, the wall formerly belonging to the dining room became the perfect location to showcase the client’s master project painting, integrating personal artwork into the heart of the home. Cabinetry was finished in a sophisticated two-tone palette—Cherry Java for the base cabinets and Cashmere for the upper cabinets and refrigerator surround—paired with a natural stone countertop that subtly pulls these tones together.

Design Details & Features

• Reconfigured first-floor layout with walls removed for openness and light
• Expanded kitchen with breakfast counter and increased storage
• Dedicated wall space for displaying original artwork
• Two-tone cabinetry in Cherry Java and Cashmere
• Natural stone countertops complementing cabinet finishes
• Feathered-in hardwood flooring from the living room to unify the space

Favorite Design Feature

This renovation stands out for how seamlessly art, function, and flow come together. By opening the floor plan and thoughtfully integrating personal expression, the space now feels cohesive, inviting, and truly reflective of the homeowners.

This project reflects our belief that great design is the foundation of a successful renovation—transforming underused spaces into thoughtfully planned, beautifully executed homes that support how our clients live, gather, and create now and into the future.