Interiors Bob Michels Construction, Inc.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The interior of this 1987-built French Country cottage lacked design and functionality. Additionally, all spaces throughout the home were dated and underwhelming. From the start of the remodel, we knew that we would be completing renovations throughout the entire home; therefore, we planned the remodel in phases with a grand plan in mind. Doing so allowed for us to keep consistency between the floors and let the owners live in the home during the renovations. The phases included remodeling the lower level, main floor, and upstairs. The existing lower level was unfinished. Within that area we created a space to entertain. The finished lower level features a hammered copper bar top, game room, guest bedroom, guest bathroom, and entertainment area. Upstairs, we completely reconfigured the master suite. The existing suite was broken up. The sink and bathtub were on one side of the suite and the toilet and shower were in another space. Functional layout? We said NO! Our solution to increase the functionality of the suite was to swap the location of the bathroom with the closet while still keeping some closet space in the bathroom. We also raised the ceiling above the bed, added a balcony off of the double doors, and built a walk-in closet. The newly updated space is a retreat from the rest of the home. In addition to updating the master suite, we renovated the guest bathroom and all the other rooms upstairs. On the main floor, we opened the spaces up, altered the staircase and entryway, swapped the location of the dinning room with the kitchen, and completed cosmetic work throughout. The kitchen remodel was a significant challenge. The existing kitchen was crammed into a corner of the main floor and was surrounded by structural posts, which needed to be removed. Because of this, the kitchen lacked storage, counter space, and functionality. Additionally, the cabinets, appliances, countertops, lighting, and flooring needed to be updated. With the help of our design team and extensive planning, we decided the best option was to relocate the kitchen to the dining room. Reconfiguring the spaces allowed for more storage, counter space, and room to entertain guests. The new kitchen is open, bright, and inviting.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: con$nued The newly renovated interiors have many unique qualities and features such as the original large stone masonry wood burning fireplace centrally located in the home, knotty alder wainscoting, exposed reclaimed beams and flooring, and an open main floor plan that extends into a four-season porch. Additionally, this home was updated to be environmentally friendly. Icynene spray foam, Marvin Windows, and Manomin reclaimed beams and flooring were all installed. This home is Minnesota Green Path Advanced Certified and scored 64 on the HERS index meaning that it is 36% more energy efficient than the HERS reference home built to code in 2014.
FLOOR PLAN: before
FLOOR PLAN: a-er
BEFORE PHOTO: #1 The existing dinning room was too large of a space. Valuable storage was going to waste. It lacked design and was rather boring.
AFTER PHOTO: #1 The relocated dining room feels grand yet comfortable. The windows make the space bright and open.
BEFORE PHOTO: #2 The existing entry way was very simple. We reconfigured the direction of the stairs to face the dining room rather than directly at the front entrance.
AFTER PHOTO: #2 The staircase is now tucked in which makes more space for the entry.
BEFORE PHOTO: #3 The existing kitchen was crammed into a small corner of the home and lacked functionality and storage. The cabinets, appliances, countertops, lighting, and flooring were dated.
AFTER PHOTO: #3 The kitchen is now open and bright. New cabinets, appliances, countertops, lights, and flooring were all installed. The new kitchen sits in the old location of the dining room.
AFTER PHOTO: #4 The new flooring, entertainment center, and beams make the living room cozy and inviting while not taking attention away from the original stone masonry wood burning fireplace.
AFTER PHOTO: #5 The lower level features a bar, game area, guest bedroom, guest bathroom, and entertainment area.
AFTER PHOTO: #6 The laundry room has two dryers, a pull out ironing board, and ample storage and counter space for folding clothes. Additionally, the laundry room is located upstairs.
AFTER PHOTO: #7 The master bedroom is a quiet escape from the rest of the home. It features a walk-in closet and balcony.
AFTER PHOTO: #8 The master bathroom has his and her vanities, walk in shower, and walk-in closet. The space is comfortable yet elegant.