The Quinlan
Elmvale Acres
Homeowner moved from ultra modern home and wanted to replicate the feel of their previous home.
Kitchen & powder room were a must and had to respect mid-century but be up-to-date. Concrete look countertop used to mimic mid-century ‘Formica’ type countertops.
Original type of hardwood matched for kitchen floor thereby achieving continuity.
Less than 8’ ceilings required new windows, high quantity of LED pot lights and in conjunction with removal of partition walls and recessing lintels into flush beams – all work to infuse more light into home.
Subtle colour palette throughout with some bold accents maintains both mid-century and today’s styles.
Fireplace detail with four textures of same tile is flanked by black shelves & bases – creating the right contrast.
Replacement of painted wood railing with birch handrail and stainless steel spindles updates stairwell.
The floor plan is a traditional layout: entrance, stairs to second floor, living room across front of house, dinner in rear corner and kitchen anchoring the other corner.
To achieve the open concept and give the impression of greater volume to less than 8’ ceilings, door lintels were moved up into ceiling as flush beams which eliminated non-load bearing partition walls.
Full frame replacement for windows increased glazing size allowing more natural light into the home. For added benefit, LED pots were introduced throughout ground floor.
Without a major revision to the kitchen, the project would not have proceeded. Previous layout did not accommodate any modern living style and would not serve for a young family. Window was eliminated to gain wall space and placement of induction cooktop.
Main bathroom accommodates entire family’s needs with double sinks on 8’ vanity and a large linen closet for all bath supplies.
Challenges addressed: Managing the client’s expectations based on their previous home against the reality of site conditions. A completely open-concept ground floor was not possible due to existing conditions. Load bearing and mechanical wall(s) had to remain. A further enlarge front addition was not permitted by Zoning regulations without an application to the Committee of Adjustment. And a favourable decision was not likely. A significant challenge was the budget. Additional budget may have allowed for structural reinforcement to reduce load bearing and mechanical wall requirements.