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Kenilworth Eclectic Primary Suite

Navy blue cabinets in master bathroomThe saying goes; three strikes and you’re out. Well, this was the case for a primary suite in Kenilworth. Strike 1 – The layout wasn’t working.  The homeowners had to trek through a sitting room and bathroom in order to get to the bedroom. Strike 2 – The aesthetic was tired. Strike 3 – Storage was really lacking. Ready to overhaul the space, the homeowners called upon Normandy Designer Vince Weber.

The homeowner was an architect and worked with Vince to explore many layout options. It was decided that putting the bedroom first, then the closet and the bathroom gave the primary suite a better flow. This means that the old bedroom became the new, bright bathroom.

Master Bathroom with freestanding tub in front of large windows

The new bathroom is simple and eclectic, which better suits the homeowners’ personal taste. It features classic white subway tile, a traditional blue-colored vanity, and gold hardware. The Quartz countertops look like marble to provide durability and enhance the bathroom’s eclectic aesthetic. You’ll also notice contemporary mirrors, light fixtures, and wall-mounted faucets.

“This bathroom had windows on three of the four walls, which was a bit of a challenge,” said Vince. “We placed the free-standing tub along one of the exterior walls and then put a walk-in shower behind the vanity.”

“This was the best spot for the shower. The subway tile on the vanity wall wraps into the shower area, creating a cohesive look,” added Vince.

The new shower has the works – including a bench, body sprays, and a hand-held shower. A blue and white accent tile picks up the colors from the vanity and subway tile. Overall, it is a nice blend of simple and elegant.

The closet has a mix of open and closed storage. The space is large enough that it also serves as a dressing area. Moving into the bedroom, everything was kept clean and simple. Removing the small closets and a radiator also created a nice nook for the queen-sized bed.

Now, the homeowners enter their bedroom and walk through their closets to get to the bath. The new flow is comfortable and provides more privacy in the bathroom. Plus, the style of their master suite matches their taste.

If you’re thinking about renovating your primary bedroom or suite, set up a time with Vince to talk about the possibilities. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery, or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

bedroom Master bathroom vanity with navy paint and separate shower

Don’t Let This Common Addition Mistake Happen To You

It’s easy to get excited about adding on to your house. What are you going to do with all this new space? Bedrooms, living space, an office… the possibilities are endless! But, among all that, what about your existing space? It’s easy to forget. Just ask Normandy Designer Bill Peterson.

“One of the most common addition mistakes is overlooking what you currently have,” said Bill “With so much excitement and attention going towards the new addition, it’s easy to forget that you have to integrate the old with the new.”

“This happened to one of my clients from Edison Park and I was brought in to help. I think sharing their story is a great way to illustrate what I’m talking about.”

A Lesson in Space Planning

Some years ago, freshly minted architecture degree in hand, and before my days of design-build, I met with a nice woman and her contractor. They had spent the past several months trying to resolve the layout of a fairly significant addition to her small single-story raised ranch – adding almost 2,000 square feet to her existing 900 square-foot home.  There were a few issues they were trying to resolve regarding the exterior, but the one glaring problem I noticed was there was no thought given to the original 900 square feet of space.   The homeowner and her contractor were adding all this new space, but as drawn, they would still be living in relatively cramped quarters on the first floor – basically ignoring the 900 existing square feet!

I discussed her needs for space overall and her thoughts about entertaining, working from home, and other various needs.  This helped her re-imagine the existing space –ultimately giving new uses to the old living room, dining room, and bedrooms.  

We converted the living room into a front dining/sitting area and the old kitchen became the perfect size and location for her home office.   We used one bedroom to create the new stair to the upper floor and basement.   All of this freed up space in the new area to create a more comfortable living.   I blurred the line between the old house and the new addition, creating a seamless first-floor addition that is 100 percent functional for the homeowners.   

open floorplan Mid-Century modern kitchen with stained cabinetry in medium wood tonesMoral of the Story

“So, why am I sharing this story? The reasons are two-fold. First, don’t forget about your original space when adding on. You want the old and new spaces to tie together seamlessly. Second, you can create change. For example, a dining room can become an office; a living space can become a master suite. You can shift layouts to fit your needs.”

If you are planning to transform your home or build an addition, set up a time to meet with Bill to start working on a thoughtful and useful design. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens, or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

 

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