From Traditional to Transitional Design
25-Year-Old House in a Very Desirable Neighbourhood in Ottawa
The Stated Objective for the Custom Construction and Renovation Project in Kanata, Ottawa:
Create a transitional design, unlock the bones of the house and maximize the space and features for family and general entertaining.
The Project Work:
Stippled ceilings were removed, and multiple coats of drywall compound were applied. Time consuming and very messy but worth the clean look. The existing fireplace was tested for safety and longevity before remodeling the fireplace feature. Fireplace failed inspection and was replaced. Original fireplace was dwarfed in a two-storey room, a new floor to ceiling design created proportionality and a focal point for the fireplace within the room.
Wing walls and bulkheads, typically used to define rooms, were removed which created an open concept floor plan. Bulkhead, wing walls and double doors in the foyer were removed. Bulkheads were demolished and structural headers were removed and replaced with flush beams.
The net effect was a more spacious main floor with better space utility, a natural light flow and better overall look and atmosphere.
Doors, casings and baseboard were replaced with current design products. Oversize doors were installed to take advantage of the 9’ ceilings which added to the open concept design. Baseboards were installed without shoe mold to create a cleaner final appearance.
The staircase was renovated to replace carpet with hardwood, the handrail was retained but modified and painted black and spindles were replaced with a current design product. The hardwood flooring was replaced because there were multiple types of hardwood from prior renovations and additional hardwood was required for the kitchen for this exceptional custom home renovation project in Kanata.
The kitchen was redesigned to be an updated look with far better storage space utilization and a more open flow and feel. Storage improvements came by using drawers within drawers, full height uppers and full use of all space within the island. A more open look and feel was achieved by a small reduction in the size of the island choosing a built-in-fridge and installing a microwave drawer.
All lighting was replaced with LED white colour temperature adjustable lights and new feature light fixtures. A smart home system installed for lighting control, music and video security.
Unique Features: Repurposing Space:
- The house features a spiral staircase which meant there was dead space behind the framing in the dinning room which was repurposed into a built-in wine wall.
- With a new kitchen that created far more storage, the pantry was repurposed into a bar area for entertaining.
