Design Build Renovation in Arlington, VA
The homeowners of this classic Arlington, Virginia bungalow, wished to renovate the first floor of their home to be a better reflection of how they live – from the entryway into a more open, flowing, brightly lit collection of spaces. The goal of this design build remodeling project was not to create more space but to maximize the existing space, creating a true cook’s kitchen, a generous home office and storage for all of their needs.
The homeowner, who was trained and had worked as an architect, had given a lot of thought to the layout of the spaces and provided a design direction for the project. BOWA’s in-house architectural design department was able to refine and improve the design by tweaking some of the spaces, subtly changing the size of a few of the rooms and focusing on the finishes and details. From a construction standpoint, the 75-year-old home did present a number of challenges not uncommon to renovating a house of this vintage. Demolition revealed a few surprises in terms of how some things had been built and obstacles to meeting current construction codes, but BOWA was able to find solutions for every issue.
The foyer was meticulously reconstructed within the original footprint and includes a beautiful stone-tiled entry that steps up to a modest sitting area. The aluminum casement windows were replaced with wood double hung windows, with a third unit added on the front-facing wall of the house to let in more natural light. The interior drywall was replaced with cedar shiplap siding with a small reveal to add visual interest and durability. The entry sequence now also features a coat closet, as well as a second storage closet with a built-in charging station and an easily accessible spot for the active owner’s gym gear. The new home office includes space-saving details, such as a wall of custom built-ins providing plentiful display and storage space as well as an integrated writing desk. The powder room, which originally opened directly into the kitchen, was rotated so that the doorway opens into a new rear hall, improving the flow and aesthetic while adding a modicum of privacy.
The true heart of the project is the beautiful chef’s kitchen, in which each aspect was meticulously designed to maximize function, beauty and storage. Though it fits exactly into the existing kitchen’s footprint, a few subtle adjustments make the new space seem much larger and airier than the original. A new bank of windows allows in natural light throughout the day, and a small shift allowed for an entire wall of full-height cabinetry, creating a pantry, broom closet and compact bar and beverage center for the husband who is a passionate connoisseur of beers. The custom white cabinetry at the perimeter is complemented by honed marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. The focal point of the room is the striking center island featuring a rich, contrasting finish for the cabinets and topped by a 2 ½” mitered-edge slab of matching marble.
The homeowners are thrilled with the results of their renovation which, in their words, “exceeded expectations.” The bright and sophisticated remodeled spaces flow seamlessly into the other areas of the home and the new kitchen perfectly suits their passion for food, wine and craft beer.
The homeowner, who was trained and had worked as an architect, had given a lot of thought to the layout of the spaces and provided a design direction for the project. BOWA’s in-house architectural design department was able to refine and improve the design by tweaking some of the spaces, subtly changing the size of a few of the rooms and focusing on the finishes and details. From a construction standpoint, the 75-year-old home did present a number of challenges not uncommon to renovating a house of this vintage. Demolition revealed a few surprises in terms of how some things had been built and obstacles to meeting current construction codes, but BOWA was able to find solutions for every issue.
The foyer was meticulously reconstructed within the original footprint and includes a beautiful stone-tiled entry that steps up to a modest sitting area. The aluminum casement windows were replaced with wood double hung windows, with a third unit added on the front-facing wall of the house to let in more natural light. The interior drywall was replaced with cedar shiplap siding with a small reveal to add visual interest and durability. The entry sequence now also features a coat closet, as well as a second storage closet with a built-in charging station and an easily accessible spot for the active owner’s gym gear. The new home office includes space-saving details, such as a wall of custom built-ins providing plentiful display and storage space as well as an integrated writing desk. The powder room, which originally opened directly into the kitchen, was rotated so that the doorway opens into a new rear hall, improving the flow and aesthetic while adding a modicum of privacy.
The true heart of the project is the beautiful chef’s kitchen, in which each aspect was meticulously designed to maximize function, beauty and storage. Though it fits exactly into the existing kitchen’s footprint, a few subtle adjustments make the new space seem much larger and airier than the original. A new bank of windows allows in natural light throughout the day, and a small shift allowed for an entire wall of full-height cabinetry, creating a pantry, broom closet and compact bar and beverage center for the husband who is a passionate connoisseur of beers. The custom white cabinetry at the perimeter is complemented by honed marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. The focal point of the room is the striking center island featuring a rich, contrasting finish for the cabinets and topped by a 2 ½” mitered-edge slab of matching marble.
The homeowners are thrilled with the results of their renovation which, in their words, “exceeded expectations.” The bright and sophisticated remodeled spaces flow seamlessly into the other areas of the home and the new kitchen perfectly suits their passion for food, wine and craft beer.
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