Finding the perfect house for your family can be fun and exciting, especially when you’re moving from the “burbs” into town.  But many times the houses available to you aren’t exactly your style.  When that happens, it’s time for a home makeover!  I know because I’ve been there a time or two.

Since most homeowners want to move in and get settled before tackling any major renovations, it gives them a chance to get a feel for their new home.  And it also lets them take their time and put some thought into what’s most important to them.  This is exactly the path my client travelled when she hired me to transform her classic white master bedroom into a room that was sleek and modern.

Design Dilemma:

My client purchased this existing home and was never happy with the dental molding throughout the house. Since she preferred clean lines and darker wood, replacing the traditional white bookcases with flutes and rosettes was the number one change to be made.

The open shelves had become a clutter magnet, when what this couple really needed was more storage for clothing and linens.

Because the wet bar was never used, they also wanted it removed and replaced with cabinetry.

What I noticed immediately in the space, and was anxious to change, was the soffit and cove built around the room.   It was used to house recessed can lighting, but it also made the ceilings seem lower and the room smaller.

The last design change my client wanted was a more contemporary fireplace with a TV that blended into the wall.

What we did:

• The white traditional bookcases and bar were replaced by smooth, sleek Shaker doors
• Polished nickel tubular cabinet pulls in sizes proportionate to the cabinets were installed.
• A new fireplace wall was constructed so that everything is pulled forward and flush.
• The lower section is stacked split-faced travertine.
• The black horizontal firebox has a flame strip inside and uses ethanol to burn.
• The homeowners wanted the fireplace to be high enough to see from the bed.
• A sleek new mantel was created from cabinet material.
• This same material was used to frame the new niche for the TV and equipment, keeping cords hidden from view.
• New carpeting was installed
• Paint colors were changed

Replacing the crown molding around the room became a problem when it came to matching angled corners.  So to stay with the contemporary feel, we all made a decision not add it to the new room.

Your Design Action Plan:

Does your home have a room or two that’s in need of a makeover?

Make a list of the features that you don’t like about the room.

Next make a list of the features you do like about the room.

Compare the lists, and start a new list of everything you would like to change.

Create an idea binder or folder where you keep photos from magazines or online sites.