Modern Eclectic Townhome

When we first started working on this townhome in West Chester PA, we started with the sitting and dining areas of the main floor. The client had recently gotten the floors refinished and wasn't sure how to place her furniture. She wasn't even sure what style she wanted to decorate in, as she hadn't decorated in many years. 

We began with the furniture layout and designed the sitting area to accommodate conversation and reading with a sofa and some comfortable chairs around the fireplace.  For furnishings, we first found a nice, modern rug to anchor the space.  Then we chose an interesting lilac color for the walls that was light enough to not make this north-facing room seem darker, but dark enough to be a bit cozy and give it some warmth.  A blue sofa and gold accents completed the space.

As we worked, the client discovered that she really liked modern and mid-century pieces, mixed with contemporary ones. So, our target style became an eclectic mix of things that have clean lines, but are also textured and interesting to look at. The adjoining dining area has a beautiful, sculpted walnut table base, and a modern buffet to anchor the space. A Serena and Lilly light above the table throws interesting shadows on the walls and ceiling when it's on.

Before: Dining Area

Before: Living Area

After: Living Area

After: Dining Area

The next project we tackled was the primary bathroom. The shower was small and dark and there was a large bathtub by the windows that was never used. For the layout, we turned the toilet so that we could make the shower wider, and take advantage of some wasted space.  The shower now has a large bench, plenty of storage space for products, and a hand shower.  We designed a floating double vanity with light underneath for visual interest and to make the space feel wider. There is a linen closet next to the vanity for plenty of storage space, and an additional vanity where the owner can sit and do hair and makeup. We selected a neutral gray tile for the floor, then warmed everything up with the wood tones and a light peach color for the walls. The space is bright and cheery and suits her well.

Before: Shower

Before: Vanity

Before: Tub area

Last but certainly not least was the kitchen renovation. I have to say, I think we had the most fun doing this project because this time the client requested that I design something that was out of the ordinary.  That was music to this designer's ears! When we were shopping together for flooring, I was inspired by this very graphic WOW tile and thought it would be perfect for the backsplash.  She agreed to it, and we decided that for the biggest impact, it should go from the countertop to the ceiling. The rest of the finishes needed to quietly complement the graphic tile. The flooring is a cement-looking luxury vinyl, the cabinets are a medium-toned wood and the countertops are a simple, white Corian. The blue ceramic lights add a pop of color over the peninsula and work with the existing wall color. 

Before: Range/Sink

Before: Refrigerator/Micro.

Before: Counter/storage

For the layout, we took advantage of the small area that may have been designed as a spot for a table and put double ovens in that corner. The refrigerator was placed on the wall opposite the cooktop, where she would also have her coffee maker and other appliances.  We were then able to slide the cooktop down away from the sink to provide plenty of countertop/food prep. space for multiple cooks, while keeping the peninsula counter for casual dining and visiting.  Glass front cabinets, a modern vent hood and floating shelves lighten up that entire wall and show off the funky tile pattern behind it. There's also plenty of storage space including a spot for the trash can, wine bottles and her printer. The much-improved multi-layer lighting is key to making this room, which is situated in the middle of the house, light and bright. It also provides great task lighting as well as flexible ambient lighting.  This kitchen has all the updated bells and whistles, and the best part is, my client referred to it as her “jacked-up” kitchen. Truly the best compliment!!!

The 3-D visuals helped us communicate our vision to the client and allowed her to see what the spaces would look like before committing to a design.

Kitchen: 3-D view

Bathroom: 3-D view

The changes we made not only improved the look and comfort of the spaces, but the safety and function as well. The client is so happy with all of the work we did, and is enjoying the overall impact of the changes and all of the little details that made this renovation unique to her needs and tastes.

General Contractor: Harlan Custom Contracting

Professional After Photos: Kingdomworks Media