BEFORE & AFTER SERIES: FROM A WEARY MID-CENTURY HOUSE TO A TROPICAL MODERN FAMILY HOME

It all started when…

this young couple with their two little children found a property ideally located but with a heavy work needed. Time had stopped in this 1950 classic. Low ceilings and a series of enclosed rooms made it look dark and unappealing.

Before, the 1970’s vinyl floor treatment of this kitchen covered the original terrazzo floors dating from the construction of this mid-century house. Our approach was to reveal the best qualities of the original design while keeping it relevant for a modern family lifestyle.

Honoring the mid-century spirit of the property, our minimalist approach in designing the new kitchen is meant to simplify the space visually and bring the attention on the classic walnut veneer and terrazzo finishes iconic of the 1950’s era.

After: The enlarged and open kitchen is now the heart of the house welcoming friends and family gatherings. The existing Terrazzo floor hiding underneath the old vinyl has been refinished and polished to its original beautiful vibe.

Beyond opening up the kitchen for a more fluid space, the connection to nature especially the tropical and lush environment of the existing surroundings was vital in the overall design and remodel of the house. Letting the natural elements in, blurring the lines between the outdoor and indoor spaces, brings balance and harmony throughout the house. We enlarged the existing windows whenever possible for this sole purpose, letting natural light and nature be an integral part of the family lifestyle.

Before: The odd triangular shape of the existing kitchen reduced the functionality of the space and added unnecessary visual cluster.

To overcome the low ceilings, our intention was to frame the spaces horizontally like a 16:9 ratio frame. We carefully selected the walls to tear down and the ones to keep for functionality.

By doing so, we were able to open the kitchen and have it become the heart of the house. Designing generous storage spaces in the kitchen island and floor to ceiling cabinets as a back wall, allowed to have a panoramic window in the kitchen and no upper cabinets.

Creating a functional kitchen without overpowering the walls with cabinets was paramount for an open and harmonious flow throughout.

Adjacent to the kitchen is the staircase, with very little light coming in. A staircase is often a great opportunity to make a beautiful design statement adding character to the space. By simply bathing this space with natural light we are able to transform it greatly.

Before: The staircase to the upper bedrooms is located behind the kitchen wall. Facing the stairs, a solid wood door leading to the garden blocks the natural light.

After: Removing the built-in planter and the wall under the staircase created a lovely alcove for a kid’s nook. Replacing the solid door with a floor-to-ceiling window alters the entire energy of the space.

In respect of a tight budget, we had to be very selective and only focus on making changes that would make a significant impact. Here again, the enlargement of the bathroom window in the master suite was one of these choices.

Before: A couple of windows were not conveniently placed to position the bed and the enclosed bathroom made the space feel more like a guest bedroom rather than a full master suite.

After: The new floor-to-ceiling opening brings the lush landscape in, filtering the light and providing privacy. A toilet room and separate steam shower are concealed behind frosted glass doors while the floating vanity offers enough storage for the everyday necessities.

Before: the dark master bedroom with a small bathroom and walk-in closet was making this bedroom uninviting for relaxation.

To tackle the woefully dark bedroom and make it feel like a master suite, we introduced an open bathroom and carried out our intention to connect the indoors to the tropical landscape. Turning the small existing window into a floor-to-ceiling opening makes a dramatic impact and reflects a calming yet inspiring lifestyle. This small change adds depth and dimension to the new master suite.