Brenda and Lyle had lived in their Gleneagles home since 2010, and while the layout still suited their needs, many of the finishes had become worn or outdated. They wanted a fresh, modern aesthetic that would not only enhance their daily enjoyment but also increase the value of their home. With an extended family and several grandchildren visiting often, durability was a key consideration.
The kitchen’s raised eating bar reduced usable counter space, the living room’s two-tiered fireplace blocked sightlines, and the dining room felt closed off due to bulky columns. Their primary ensuite also needed a refresh, balancing function and style while maintaining a warm, inviting ambiance.
While Brenda and Lyle weren’t entirely sure how to achieve their goals, they knew they wanted a lighter, more open feel throughout their main floor. Through our design discovery process, we uncovered their love for bright, beachy destinations and a willingness to incorporate color. This inspired a palette of soft seascape hues, warm natural textures, and thoughtful updates that balanced elegance with comfort.
Kitchen: Removing the raised eating bar and slightly increasing the island’s size provided more functional prep space, making it more family-friendly. The existing cabinets were refinished in a brighter tone with updated hardware and soft-close hinges. A custom-built wine storage solution transformed an unused microwave cutout. Pendant lights replaced old track lighting, adding warmth and character.
Living Room: The bulky, tiered fireplace mantel was replaced with a sleek Marmorino Venetian Plaster finish, creating a clean, Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic while improving sightlines. New lighting and hardwood floors brightened the space.
Dining Room: To open up the floor plan while respecting the budget, we removed the columns but repurposed the existing stub wall bases into custom built-in shelving, adding both function and style. A fresh coat of paint and new statement lighting enhanced the ambiance. The dining nook and dining room lights, which had previously been installed off-center, were repositioned for proper alignment.
Primary Bedroom: A beautiful botanical wallpaper was installed to complement the decorative bedroom pendant light featuring antique gold leaves, adding a soft and elegant touch to the space.
Primary Ensuite: Instead of removing the oversized corner tub, we focused on maximizing the shower area by reclaiming space from the outdated enclosure. The new shower features luxurious marble-look porcelain tile, a stunning cloud-blue scallop tile niche inlay, and polished nickel fixtures. The former glass-block privacy wall was enclosed for a cleaner, more refined look. A Spanish-inspired patterned floor tile added warmth and character, while gold-toned vanity mirrors and antique gold Visual Comfort sconces elevated the lighting and overall elegance of the space.
Lighting & Trim Updates: Throughout the home, many of the original light fixtures were too small and hung too high to properly illuminate the space. Larger, better-positioned fixtures were installed to improve functionality and ambiance. Additionally, the baseboards were updated to a taller profile in a similar style, while the existing window trim was maintained for budget efficiency.
Brenda and Lyle’s home now feels brighter, more open, and better suited to their lifestyle. Thoughtful design choices and durable materials ensure their investment will serve them well for years to come.
Here’s what they had to say:
“We wanted a fresh, updated look but weren’t sure how to achieve it. Michelle’s expertise in selecting finishes, colors, and furnishings brought everything together beautifully. The flow between the renovated spaces feels seamless, and the quality of materials she recommended is outstanding. More than just a designer, Michelle’s careful planning and clear communication ensured a smooth process from start to finish. She provided detailed drawings and specifications that kept the project on track and on budget. Her prompt responses and attention to detail helped prevent delays and unexpected issues, making the entire experience stress-free… Thanks to Room Service Interiors, our home is not only more beautiful but also more functional.”
This transformation not only met their aesthetic and functional needs but also delivered a space they love to call home.