Looking at these pictures of before and after, there are 3 main design tools that were handled in creating its transformation; tools that can easily be applied to other areas of HOME:
- Flooring: Flooring is a very impactful aesthetic to HOME appeal, from the type of flooring to the color of it. Flooring is NOT the place to go the inexpensive route. In this case, flooring is used to set off two different spaces and create a “more room” feeling than if the same flooring had been used throughout. Two different materials were used as well as the color varied to transform a bit of an awkward L-shaped space into two distinct room settings and mitigate the sharp feel of the L-shaped glass doors. On a simpler level, you can achieve this using area rugs.
- Don’t be afraid to create ‘divisions’ in spaces as this remodel did by selecting a counter unit to set off the kitchen space from the family room area. They kept the connectivity between the two rooms by creating seating along the counter. This created a coziness to the somewhat small, galley-ish kitchen as well as functionally being an enhancement with increased counter space, storage space, and seating. On a simpler level, you can achieve this using furniture that is not fixed in place.
- Create visually appealing views. In this case, notice the stark cement wall in the before picture and the ‘feel’ to the outdoor space – a bit bleak. In the remodel, the wall is softened and transformed by bright green foliage, inviting the eye to a larger view from inside as well as mitigating the narrow feeling of the patio area and creating a spaciousness that invites. On a simpler level, you can achieve this using potted plants and portable trellised vines.