Redo Simply

I recently finished this remodel where the homeowner wanted an update in her kitchen and family room. This is a typical remodel request in this area, new countertops, appliances, paint, backsplash, lighting, hardware at a minimal cost but with a big impact. I think we hit the nail on the head with a dramatic change and a more sophisticated look within the confines of the budget. After photo above.

Here's the before photo. The older white appliances had to go as did the tile backsplash and counters. We kept the existing cabinets and stained them and kept the tile floor. The homeowners wanted a darker, cherry stained finish for their cabinetry for a richer look.

The photo above was their existing fireplace wall, directly across from the kitchen. I thought it was just too busy and appeared as a sort of quad diagram, everything divided up in sections, with too many colors and finishes. Something needed to stand out and become a focal point, the fireplace!


Here is the after photo, much neater, tidier, and visually cleaned up. The fireplace has more prominence and the room appears cozy and comfortable. The built-in on the right of the fp was minimized with paint to match the wall with only shelving that contrasts. The long mantel that divided the wall in half was eliminated and a proper mantel stained to match the kitchen was installed. Tile surrounding the fp was changed out to a granite tile that matched the mantel in color. The tv was mounted above the fp instead of pushed back into the far corner as before. We reupholstered the existing seating and did a new textural rug to further enhance the rich look.

I love simplifying spaces so that beautiful features can then be noticed. Visual clutter and too many colors and accessories just create busy, uncomfortable environments. If you unite different features in a room with color or finish, you can make them bolder and more striking. I love how this project turned out, a much calmer and more sophisticated space.

Fabric on the chairs from Duralee, rug through Aston Design Studio. Granite is Crema Bordeaux from Arizona Tile, tile from Daltile, paint is Sherwin Williams, Latte. Photography by Cathi Taraboi Photography.