Bold, Bright, and anything but Boring!
Who says remodeling has to be boring or beige?
We updated an architecturally traditional home into a vibrant, style-savvy dwelling. We ditched the cookie-cutter look and embraced bold color, smart design, and timeless charm.
Here’s how we updated this home into a true reflection of the homeowners personality.
Cabinet Crush: Custom, Colorful & Completely You
We said goodbye to builder-grade blah and hello to custom cabinetry that brings real character into this home.
When my client first moved into her new home, she knew she wanted a relaxed space to entertain. We wanted to get rid of the overly formal and stuffy feeling of a formal dining room with the goal of creating an updated modern yet swanky lounge space.
The existing artwork has vibrant colors and was a must-stay in the room. Drawing inspiration from the artwork, we incorporated vibrant jewel tones mixed with metallic gold into the area rug and furnishings.
The new lounge space now feels sophisticated!
Deep charcoal gray (Sherwin Williams Iron Ore) painted cabinets paired with walnut shelves were selected for a dramatic yet chic look. We added a statement backsplash and pendant lighting for that boutique vibe.
Cabinets aren’t just storage—they're a style statement.
The wet bar lounge cabinets offer much needed additional storage and serve as a place to mix up cocktails or brew coffee.
The opening to the kitchen was narrow, so we widened the opening and removed the arch top.
Widening the opening allowed for:
The Lounge space to feel bigger.
The window ledge depth was increased to accommodate banquette seating allowing for a quaint dining table to fit into this nook.
Not sure if you noticed the hideous orange cork flooring that was in the kitchen (scroll back up to the Kitchen before photos).
We now have neutral toned Luxury Vinyl Tile that mimics stone and updates the entire kitchen! The neutral tones tie together the entire homes color palette.
2. The Fireplace Glow-Up: Classic Meets Contemporary
Keeping the soul of your traditional home intact doesn’t mean you have to settle for a dated fireplace. Reface with sleek tile or painted brick, add a modern mantle, or incorporate a bold color to make it a true focal point.
The original gas fireplace insert was off-center in the room and the mantle was WAY too high. We didn’t love the asymmetrical single (very deep) shelving alcove on the left hand side.
With the help from 3D renderings, we were able to visualize a centered gas insert with symmetrical shelf alcoves.
Brick veneer is an economical way to add texture to a space. It’s less expensive than actual brick and easier to install. We chose white brick veneer for the face of the fireplace and a large format ceramic tile for the hearth.
We plan to use left over brick veneer as the kitchen backsplash as a future project!
This fireplace is now the perfect blend of old-school charm and new-school cool.
3. Color Confidence: Paint Like You Mean It
Neutrals are nice, but bold is better when it reflects your energy. Feature walls, jewel-toned built-ins, or a statement front door can instantly level up your space. Don't be afraid to go all in. Add colors to your home that make you happy!
The Home Office is directly across from the Lounge so we repeated the dark charcoal cabinetry and walnut for the custom built-in desk.
Colorful artwork and accessories add visual interest and tie the room together.
4. Finishing Touches: Chic Details That Pop
The attention to details made a difference to this home redesign. From functional custom cabinets to new door hinges on all of the interior doors, no detail was spared!
talk about personal touches
When adding finishing touches to your home, think patterned tile, vintage light fixtures, and personalized decor that reflects your story.
This is where your creativity gets to shine—mix textures, eras, and influences to create something uniquely yours.
The End Result
Your home should feel like a celebration of your life, your style, and your freedom to choose exactly what you love. Whether it's colorful cabinetry, an artful fireplace, or fearless paint choices, remodeling a home is more than just a makeover—it's a personal statement in 3D.
Thinking of starting your own vibrant home makeover? It doesn’t have to happen all at once.
This project was phased over the course of two years. By focusing on one room at a time, we were able to budget for specific items on the wishlist. The client saved up money for each component and discussed what elements were a must and what could wait.
If you’d like to get started on discussing your home renovation, share your plans or ask me for next steps —drop a comment or DM us for inspo!
*Shout out to Jordan Vilonna with Lighthouse Visuals for taking incredible photos!!*
Did you know that eDesign can keep you from making costly design mistakes? We can design with your existing furniture or start from scratch!
-Tiffani Michalenko
HSR Certified Home Stager & Expert eDesigner