In the Outer Richmond, new homeowners had a charming home blocks from the ocean, but with all the original 1942 finishes in place.  They had a clear vision for the aesthetic they wanted, and with some minor tweaks to the layout and custom built cabinets, the strategic placement of Vitsœ “606 Universal Shelving System” units, and solar-tube skylights to bring in more light at the back of the kitchen the transformation was complete.  In the bathroom we removed the cramped shower and moved the vanity to open the room.  Crisp white picket tiles from Sonoma Tilemakers and green penny rounds on the floor and accented in the niche, provide the background to what is now a function and timeless bathroom.  Now these are spaces they can enjoy for years to come. Staging by Patricia Theel Design and original artwork by Katja Francesca Tapia.

My clients in Midtown Terrace, a time-capsule of mid-century modern homes, were ready to jettison their 80s bohemian kitchen and cheaply remodeled bathroom for something more in keeping with the 50s vibe of the neighborhood.  More functional space that would be contemporary but still have a nod to the past was the call to order. The challenge was that there just wasn’t a lot of room with which to work and no room to expand. The strategic elimination of a linen closet and closing of a door between the bedrooms and kitchen gave up just enough room to create a perfect work triangle. Shallow cabinetry on one wall allowed for all the storage they needed and still provide lots of room for meal preparation. Finishes included custom cabinetry, #Caesarstone counters, and picket-fence shaped tiles from #Sonomatilemakers gave it that mid-mod feel. The bathroom, remodeled in place, was an exercise in restraint. A rift-cut oak vanity and a linen/medicine cabinet tucked in a deep wall provided new storage and oversized hexagon tile offered a visual punch that didn’t overwhelm. Finally, a custom shelving system in a pass through at the top of the stairs finished the space. A contemporary installation in the historic-style of the home added a fun and interesting architectural feature.   Photography Credit:  Clay Seibert

Before you get your new kitchen, you probably have to live with something not-so-functional for a while.  My clients lived without a dishwasher, cabinets that didn’t close, and a vintage stove that didn’t really work.  When they were ready to upgrade their kitchen, we took it down to the studs. Opening the kitchen to the dining room was the first step, followed by a super-functional layout.  Pietra grigio marble counters contrast with the custom white cabinetry and a mix of rustic touches and metals finish the space.  The full wall of hand-cut and hand-glazed subway tile provides a dramatic backdrop without overwhelming. The clients are thrilled to be back in the bright new space with room for entertaining.  Next up, the original 1941 bathroom…