This loft refresh was so satisfying! My clients, a young professional couple currently working on the west coast, asked if I would update a loft they had recently purchased. The natural light was amazing and the place was in good shape, however the paint and lighting fixtures were dated giving it a tired feel.
Other than the time difference, one challenge we faced was that all decisions had to be made remotely -- so one of the first choices we had to make was on our method of communication. As we were all using different kinds of kinds of phones, the couple suggested WhatsApp, a tool that was entirely new to me. I know, I am dating myself,.. but I downloaded it and soon was able to ask questions on the fly, test paint colors in real time and capture the joy in the design process in a way that was as contemporary as my clients.
The goal was to work with the current cabinetry and find a fresh paint color and lighting fixtures that would appeal to potential renters. Here you can see the dated lighting including the sconce in the hallway.
I purchased sample sizes of several neutral colors from my local hardware store. After testing several options, we narrowed down our color scheme to cream, black and khaki.
The first thing I did was paint the entire builder grade fireplace black and it made a dramatic difference. The contrast between the white trim and top with the original coral color paint made the fireplace look less dressed up.
About four coats of black paint later the fireplace looks custom. I added a mirror made from repurposed wood by a local artisan at Weathered Wood to reflect the light back toward the kitchen and dining area.
Swapping in black pendent lighting immediately brought the kitchen and dining area to a more contemporary feel. The khaki color walls made the hints of red in the cabinets recede and showcased the high ceilings and exposed duct work.
The dining room pendants appeared to have a smoky glass in the advertising which I liked, but they turned out to be clear glass. However, I found these super cool smoky glass light bulbs at Lowe's and put them in all the kitchen and dining room fixtures. They create a wonderful ambiance and brought the harmony amongst the various fixtures.
Complementary sconces with a similar matte black finish replaced the dated white ones.
In the master bath, I was able to go from drab to show stopper with the addition of paint and framing around the large vanity mirror.
It took time to sand and repaint the cabinets as well as the doors to their linen and master closet, but the time paid off.
Tip: I found this faux wood board by Intelplastic Group at Lowe's and it was the perfect size to frame out the typical builder mirror. I cut two pieces for the top and one for each side and used Liquid Nails to glue in the lightweight trim. A little painter's tape held it until it dried. Huge bang for the buck for less than $25 dollars!
I am a firm believer that paint can do magic! Look at the difference...
The back wall in the bath had an amazing historical relic from the building. With a coat (or three) of paint, this industrial door became a real focal point.
Lastly, I decided to surprise my clients with an update to the closet in the guest bedroom. I stained the reverse side of rough shiplap, paneled the back wall and built covers for the existing closet organizers. I found the cabinet at a local home goods store and changed out the pulls to make it look custom.
With the restyling complete, I took the owners on a WhatsApp tour -- and I think they liked it! In fact, they've asked me to tackle the master closet next!
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