Colorful Craftsman
Full Design Services
Eclectic
Colorful
CLIENT:Contenta & Erik
LOCATION: Gibsonia, PA
After nearly two decades of raising their daughters in this welcoming home, the time had finally come to renovate the first floor. This complete transformation incorporated rich, warm colors that flow seamlessly throughout the space, with significant upgrades to both the kitchen and living room. The renovation extended to new flooring throughout, a refreshed powder room, an updated foyer, and elegant dining room modifications.
The kitchen showcases custom cabinetry finished in historical Craftsman colors, complemented by durable textured granite countertops that elegantly replicate the look of soapstone. A rustic cream backsplash, iron hardware, and carefully selected lighting complete the aesthetic. Modern, professional-grade appliances were thoughtfully integrated to provide a superior cooking experience while preserving the space’s traditional charm. The cooktop’s flush installation with the countertop creates a sleek, seamless appearance.
The layout was updated by removing the closet-style pantry in favor of cabinets. A coffee and tea area was added with its own bar sink and display cabinet above. The peninsula was removed and replaced with a long butcher block island designed to feel like a piece of furniture. Not only is it beautiful, but it also holds an incredible amount of storage for spices and the family’s coffee mug collection.
The eat-in kitchen was redesigned with a built-in banquette for relaxed seating so the couple could enjoy each other’s company while they relaxed and cooked for one another.Â
The powder room was completely redesigned with a marble mosaic floor that evokes traditional patchwork motifs; the beadboard wainscoting adds charm and a simple foundation to support the playful William Morris Co. wallpaper. The heavily carved antique-inspired vanity adds some gravitas that is countered with a whimsical bird mirror. The dining room was updated with terra cotta wallpaper and custom window treatments featuring a large floral paisley pattern.
In the living room, the layout was completely turned around to place the television between the windows. All new furnishings in warm woods and colorful but traditional patterns carry the palette through the first floor. The room is set up for entertaining with ample seating, side tables, and ottomans. The pops of green add a visual surprise and draw your eye to the natural surroundings.
Goals:
The primary goal of this remodel was to maintain and even add to the character of the home. It was very important to present a design that kept the warmth and charm of the home intact. We didn’t want our clients to feel like they had moved or lost their family memories with the updates.
Challenges:
One of the biggest challenges we faced was balancing so many elements that have a lot of impact. The fear of the house no longer feeling like their home was also at the forefront. We were also adding a lot of features that needed to be considered as it was years of design dreams finally coming to reality. When a design has this scale and level of pattern and color, it takes a lot of trust in your design and construction team to feel confident in the process.
Solutions:
Starting the design with a bold moodboard that incorporated many of the family’s personal preferences was key to creating a truly bespoke design that kept their home feeling like their home. From there, with a lot of trust and open communication, we were able to improve on every space we updated and add personalized touches. The effective new layout, warm finishes, and layers of complimentary patterns and textures give this first-floor remodel the feeling that it’s always looked like this.
Only the good stuff, promise!