Stunning Before & After: A Fascinating, Sleek Scandinavian-Inspired Home Remodel
Our clients, both retired professors, approached us to transform a compartmentalized, outdated kitchen and living room into a sophisticated space that balances functionality with a contemporary, Scandinavian-inspired design. We’re grateful to have been a part of such a transformative home remodel.
The Kitchen
The original kitchen was a cramped, inefficient space. Dark cabinetry dominated the room, creating a dimly lit environment. Textured drop ceilings made the already compact space feel even more confined. A constrictive peninsula created fragmented zones, which isolated the cook from the rest of the home. Minimal counter space created a perpetual challenge for our clients who love to cook and entertain. Dated appliances—including a bulky microwave and an aging stovetop—only emphasized the room’s need for a major redesign.
With the help of our expert design team, the new kitchen is a masterful example of home remodeling for contemporary architecture, inspired by the chic simplicity of Scandinavian minimalism.
An elegant central island has replaced the peninsula that once fragmented the space. This multifunctional centerpiece is crafted from warm maple wood and topped with a polished white quartz countertop. This architectural focal point introduces thoughtful functionality through integrated features, like a discreet cutting board pull-out. The island steps down to table height with space for chairs underneath to create a natural gathering space. This design decision transforms the kitchen into a workstation with a more social function. Satin nickel hardware subtly highlights the cabinetry, its minimalist design echoing the kitchen’s clean lines.
The custom slab-style cabinetry in a muted sage green establishes a clean, modern profile. It also allows for appliance upgrades like the new Bosch counter-depth refrigerator, induction cooktop, and minimalist vent hood. Over the island, Nordic-inspired pendant lights add a sculptural flair. The new windows allow natural light to flow freely, where heavy shadows once dominated. The harmonious color palette of sage green, light wood tones, and crisp white provides a serene backdrop that embodies our client’s design preferences.
The Living Room
The home remodeling transformation extended beyond the kitchen. The adjacent living space posed challenges—an environment lacking architectural distinction and cohesive design. The previous living room featured awkward storage solutions that created disruptive sight lines. By removing the physical and visual barriers between the kitchen and living areas, we established a harmonious connection that revitalized the entire heart of the home.
The new hardwood flooring creates visual continuity throughout the living spaces, amplifying the sense of openness. Thoughtful storage showcases our clients’ book collections, travel mementos, and family heirlooms. The new furniture selections complement the soft palette established in the kitchen. The original brick fireplace was enhanced, allowing this architectural element to serve as a grounding focal point and add dimension to the space.
The Berlyn Residence represents the true power of home remodeling with thoughtful design in mind. The ability to transform not just how a space looks but how it functions and feels. What was once a collection of fragmented rooms is now a unified expression of modern living—where cooking, dining, relaxation, and conversation coexist in harmony.
To see more of this home remodel, watch our latest spotlight. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay up-to-date with all of our transformations.
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