Nina Schmidt had the opportunity to work with an awesome family to completely transform the main floor of their split-level home. We’re excited to share their story and the amazing transformation of the project! This is the second week of this two-week series. Just in case you missed it, here is Week 1.
The Before
In the first week, we discussed the kitchen renovation. This week we’ll take a look at the living and entry space. The home’s main floor was previously divided into four small living spaces consisting of a living room, formal dining room, kitchen, family room, along with the entry. The entry consisted of five openings. The living room had two grand pianos for their children to practice and the family room was separated from the kitchen by a tall peninsula cabinet which had once housed a built-in TV.
The Design
Nina and the homeowners determined they needed to open up the entire main floor. This would provide them with a larger living room and the perfect place for their grand piano. A structural engineer was brought in to help determine how they could support the roof load while removing all the walls. The structural engineer determined a support column would be necessary. The column was placed in the center of the room behind where the couch would be located.
Nina not only worked with the homeowners on the floorplan but their furniture layout as well. This helped the homeowners fully visualize their new space and see how the updated main floor would accommodate their family of 6.
The Finishes
Because the rooms were opened up into one room, making the design cohesive throughout was important. All of the walls were painted Repose Gray by Sherwin Williams. Also, the trim paint for the entire floor was custom matched to the cabinetry. The new hardwoods laid throughout the main floor helped tie everything together. Removing the front entry green slate stone set in concrete proved challenging but the new hardwoods were worth the extra effort.
The living room previously had dark beams, a popcorn ceiling, and a ceiling fan. The beams and ceiling fan were removed making the ceiling height feel taller. The popcorn ceiling was also removed and new LED can lights were installed throughout the ceiling.
Removing the brass fireplace cover and replacing it with a decorative screen instantly modernized the fireplace. The fireplace brick, mantle, and built-in shelves received fresh coats of white paint to match the trim.
A new front door was installed and the interior side was painted naval to match the island. The front closet louvered doors were replaced and fantastic crystal glass knobs were added.
Lastly, the railings and wood next to the stairs were painted white and a fun Serena & Lily wallpaper was hung on the walls going to downstairs.
The Result
The entire main floor of this home was truly transformed. No detail was too small in the design and the overall effect is spectacular. What once was dark and cramped is now spacious, light and airy. There is plenty of room for entertaining while still feeling cozy. The homeowners are naturals at interior design and their home showcases that.
Nina earned her interior design degree from WATC in 2009. For over 5 years, she worked as an interior designer for a remodeling company in her hometown of Wichita, Kansas. She has won the hearts of many satisfied clients with her endearing personality, sense of style, attention to detail, and strong organization skills. Now, Nina is excited to be a part of the Schloegel design team.