This bungalow had a great deal of potential, trapped within a largely unworkable layout. While not lacking for square footage, a cramped kitchen and partitioned living room significantly compromised usability and livability. The goal was to open up the floorplan to make maximum use of the interior space available and openness to outdoor spaces and views.
The existing kitchen had a pseudo-galley layout. While a half-wall meant there was some visibility to the adjacent dining area, the overall kitchen layout was not optimal, access to the refrigerator was compromised and the fixtures and cabinets were outdated. While the overall main floor space enjoys a vaulted ceiling, the living room was separated from the kitchen and dining room by a partition wall below the ceiling line, dividing the main floor living space in two.
Removal of the partition wall was only the beginning. Exterior access was significantly expanded, opening a five foot exterior entrance into a 14’ sliding glass doorway. The entire main floor is now able to benefit from expansive exterior views and access to a new outdoor living space.
A small kitchen window was moved and significantly enlarged. This new opening comes all the way down to the countertop, anchoring a relocated and centred kitchen sink. Refrigerator, stove and sink are brought into a meaningful configuration, and an expansive island offers seating, storage and workspace. Additional cabinetry, display cases and a coffee bar were incorporated into the formal dining room, further enhancing storage.
Reducing and relocating the opening to the music room allowed the construction of a new feature wall and fireplace that provides a visual focal point for the newly opened up living room, as well as supporting a flat screen television and built-in cabinets for equipment and storage.
The result is an open, bright and accessible main floor that maximizes usable living space. The vaulted ceilings create an open and expansive feel, and the new sliding window fully connects the inside and outside living spaces together.
You can read more details of the overall renovation here.