well connected remodel

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This remodel by Jeff Sweitzer has transformed a closed-off workspace cubicle into a well-connected nerve center

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In houses built around the middle of the last century the kitchen seldom got much of a look-in. Relegated from sight, small and often ill-equipped, it was more like an appendage than the heart of the home.

This was the scenario when architect Jeff Sweitzer was asked to transform a tired black-and-white kitchen into a well-connected hub for this house. However, together with improved connectivity, the kitchen had to look the part within the 1957-built residence that had been kept predominantly in its original style.

"In terms of connections, I removed a structural wall that had all but closed off the corner breakfast nook from the kitchen. I had to replace this with a structural beam that is visible in the now open-plan space.

"On the other side of the space I added a door between the media room and the breakfast nook. At the same time, I also improved connection between the dining area and the kitchen.

"This was achieved by introducing a panel that slides along the countertop between the two spaces. When closed, the kitchen achieves a degree of privacy and when open the rooms are visually connected even offering views from the breakfast corner right through the entire area. Pocket doors now provide easy egress between the living and kitchen spaces.

Mindful of the owner's request to tie the space to the home's 1950s origins, Sweitzer created the dividing panel with a Mondrian-like pattern. The architect says several aspects of the design call to mind that period.

"Rectilinear shapes, with emphasis on both horizontal and vertical lines, are part of this and so is the use of materials at least up to a point," says Sweitzer. "The classic veneer, for example, is not classic at all instead, it is a reconstituted mahogany veneer, with vertical embedded lines running down it. This effect looks like a natural wood grain, but is not. Similarly, porcelain tiles seem a conservative choice, until you see their ornate striated surfaces."

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Story by: Trendsideas

08 Jul, 2012

Renovation

Trendsideas

Home kitchen bathroom commercial design

well connected remodel

US2805