A Treasure Trove of Inspiration for Modern Family Living

This Project Spotlight is chock full of innovative design details, space-maximizing transformations, and organizational ideas designed to inspire!

This renovation was very extensive in that we touched a majority of the house. The main goal of the kitchen / mudroom portion of the project was to update the existing Colonial style to a Modern Farmhouse design style, while improving functionality and flow. 

We removed all the kitchen and mudroom cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. We also removed the washer and dryer from the mudroom to increase its size and utility for the parents, children, and pets of the very busy family. A new half bath, laundry room, and work-out / multi-purpose room were built in an existing bonus space.

Any kitchen renovation creates some inconvenience for the homeowners during construction. Happily, we were able to provide a temporary basement kitchen, eating area, and laundry in the interim to minimize the impact on daily life for our clients.

We specified a number of selections that created the updated aesthetic the client was going for. We replaced the existing builder’s grade elliptical transom window with an updated Andersen 400 series unit with a rectangular transom above the sink. We included new natural slate tile in the mudroom, garage entrance, and a marble mosaic tile in the existing first powder room. The rest of the first floor received new wide plank engineered hardwood flooring throughout. We used a gorgeous Kohler “Whitehaven” Farm sink accented with a Kohler “Purist” Semi-professional pull down faucet in brushed bronze. The accompanying InSinkErator “Modern” reverse osmosis faucet in “Brushed Bronze” complemented the space nicely. 

We used many natural materials such as a white marble backsplash accenting the honed black soapstone at the perimeter cabinets. To offset the expansive perimeter cabinetry, we fabricated the large island from quarter sawn oak in a light stain and topped it with a light quartzite top. To add interest, a custom curved exhaust hood and honey bronze knobs and pulls were incorporated, as well as antique brass wire mesh inlaid on some of the doors. We used a number of the same series of fixtures and hardware in the mudroom and laundry, but mixed it up with black finishes and MSI quartz tops. For durability and ease of maintenance, wide plank luxury vinyl floor was installed in the laundry, half bath, and multi-purpose room. 

When making design choices for projects, it is always our goal to find innovative space-maximizing solutions, and create conveniences that align with the clients’ lifestyle. In trying to keep the sink centered at the window, we had to get creative with the cabinet layout and incorporated a “blind corner” cabinet. We added an “optimizer” to allow the client to use as much of the cabinet as possible. The homeowners do a lot of cooking, and making sure we had a large range top with multiple burners and plenty of drawer space for pots/pans storage along with utensils and spices was very important in the design. The homeowners tend to hang dry lots of laundry, so we incorporated a hanging rod and hanging drawer. We were also able to install a wall mounted ironing board, and order a door to match the rest of the cabinetry.

 No detail was overlooked when it came to this renovation. We strove to make all of the spaces feel connected without being adjacent. The cabinet color in the kitchen and mudroom were the same “Accessible Beige” by Sherwin Williams, and the bench top in the mudroom matches the accented island cabinetry. While the laundry room was upstairs, it still felt connected  to the kitchen and mudroom.

The transformation is nothing short of dramatic. The homeowners were very engaged from the beginning in the design and selections process, and were a big part in making the project their own. When you walk through the home, you see first-hand what a drastic change occurred, and that we truly achieved the clients’ vision.  All of the spaces feel lighter, brighter, more open, and absolutely beautiful.

A Beautiful Bathroom Renovation, with Future Safety In Mind

One of the best things about renovation is that it allows us to reimagine our living spaces in ways that work better for how we actually live, without leaving the homes we love.

In this Project Spotlight, we’ll go behind the scenes of a gorgeous bathroom renovation that took away unneeded elements, improved and modernized the space, set the clients up for aging-in-place, and reflects a more updated aesthetic.

The overall intent of this renovation was to update the existing bathroom. The existing bathroom’s design and materials were dated. The bathroom included a big garden tub surround that was hardly ever used, fiberglass shower unit with a bulky glass door unit, and linoleum floors. We removed the tub and reallocated that space with a custom window bench flanked by custom linen towers. The shower was a fiberglass unit that was hidden, so we re-oriented the shower location to be more of a focal piece with open glass design, tile floor, tiled walls, shower seat, all new Kohler Margaux® shower controls and rain heads in Vibrant® brushed nickel, with frameless glass walls and door. The toilet was updated to a comfort height Kohler Kelston® toilet. The color scheme went from earth tones of beige and brown to vibrant whites and blues.

With mostly white tile in the shower, we chose to upgrade the shower door and wall glass to “low iron” glass. The low iron glass does not have the greenish tint that standard shower glass normally has, and allows the selected white tile to appear bright white as selected, not green. The eight inch shower head features Kohler’s innovative Katalyst® air-induction technology, which efficiently mixes air and water to produce large water droplets and deliver a powerful, thoroughly drenching overhead shower experience.

The clients had a desire to update while considering some aging in-place options, such as a comfort height toilet, a low shower threshold with shaving shelf, grab bars, an easily accessible shampoo niche, and blocking for future needs. The window seat was designed to have a place to sit outside the shower. All door hardware and sink and shower controls are lever type for ease of use.

Replacing the big inset tub with the built-in window seat and linen towers provides more usable and functional space for the client.  

The overall look of the finished project is classic, elegant, and updated. Our clients are very happy with their beautiful new bathroom, and can enjoy it safely for many years to come.

A Classic Never Goes Out of Style

A bathroom is one of those home improvement projects that you want and need to stand the test of time. Not only will it encounter heavy daily wear and tear, but it’s a room where the essential components are relatively permanent. Few of us would want to re-tile a shower or replumb a new bathtub every few years. 

That’s why it’s so important to make choices and selections that feel just right for your individual home, aesthetic, and lifestyle when undertaking a bathroom remodel. In this Project Spotlight, you’ll see an example of a bathroom renovation that really kept an eye to the classic hallmarks of timeless design, solid craftsmanship, and luxurious details. 

The goal of the project was to completely renovate a large bathroom. The homeowners felt that the existing built-in tub, shower, and vanities were dated. We removed everything: shower walls and floor, tile floor, tub and tub surround, vanities, all fixtures, mirrors, doors, and exhaust fan. The project also encompassed improvements to two closets just off the bath.

The desired aesthetic was a very traditional, yet stylish master bath. The clients worked with interior designer Brooke Weinert on selections to really capture the classic look and feel that they wanted. The outcome demonstrates just how dramatic the change to an existing space can be, when time is spent in the details. Walking into the room, the claw foot tub and designer tub filler capture your eye. The in-laid vanity doors with clear crystal knobs add a touch of nostalgia and class. The subtle addition of chrome in the plumbing and light fixtures adds to the classic feel.

Cabinet maker Robert Page worked with our clients to design and produce two truly one of a kind furniture style vanities, that while elegant, will stand the test of time both visually and functionally. The tile and marble work speak for itself—classic and elegant. The custom full glass shower opens up the space. We upgraded the heavy shower glass to Low Iron, which eliminates the greenish tint of standard shower glass, allowing the dazzling white of the Carrara Marble to show through. We also included an attic mount fan that allows for a more delicate vent and light than a standard ceiling mounted unit. 

“This renovation took place during the pandemic and under Covid safety restrictions and protocols,” says project planner Mark O’Lena. “We had to regroup, and change some of the ways we typically perform our mission. Essentially, adapt and overcome.”

“As a planner we have the opportunity to walk through the project with the client and see the expression on their face when we tour. I am always pleased when the client is pleased, and judging by the reaction, they were pleased. So much so that they have given us the opportunity to work for them again.”

 

 

Aging In Place and Style

Many homeowners come to us with hopes of renovating their current house with an eye to the future. We all want to be able to reside safely in our homes as we age, and there are fantastic design innovations that are making that dream more possible than ever before.

When we approach a remodel with the goal of making it a client’s “forever home”, one of the most important rooms to focus on is the bathroom. This is where we can employ thoughtful design elements and techniques to make it safe and sustainable for an occupant of any age and ability, without compromising on beauty and aesthetic.

This project is a great example of the marriage of sleek, attractive details and smart aging in place strategies. This particular homeowner tasked us with providing a spa-like bathroom that came closer to his desired, more modern aesthetic, while tastefully including a few very important safety features.

To begin the project, the contents of the bathroom were removed down to the framing. A small unused closet was also removed to increase the bathroom space, making movement in the room easier.

We added a curbless shower which includes a linear drain and a hinged open glass shower panel. This curbless design eliminates any kind of step up or down from the shower, greatly reducing tripping hazards under wet conditions. The stunning stainless steel bathroom accessories are multifunctional as both towel bars today and grab bars in the future.

Beyond the safety measures, the finished project presents as a sleek, luxury bathroom with great use of color and line. The grey floor and wall tile are complemented by the white wall-hung sink and Teak towel shelf.  We also created the beautiful custom cabinetry linen shelf which provides ample storage and an attractive design feature.

The client is thrilled with this transformation, and can rest assured that this bathroom will allow him to safely age in place in the home that he loves.

We were thrilled to make his goal a reality, and are ready with the expertise and tools to make that happen for you as well. Give us a call if you’d like to strategize about ways to make your home safe and sustainable for your family for many, many years to come.

 

Sunken Tub, Elevated Design

It’s always exciting for us at Schrader and Company when we are given the opportunity to design and execute something truly unique for our clients. We love to challenge the depth and breadth of our collective craftsmanship, and this Project Spotlight afforded us just such an occasion.

This particular home was designed and built by our client’s father many years ago–a special circumstance in and of itself. When it came time to remodel the bathroom, the goal was to update all of the space’s functional and design aspects while paying respect to one very distinct original feature, the sunken tub.

Our mission was to modernize and reshape that sunken tiled tub while providing our client with a bathroom fit for a five star hotel. To accomplish this feat, we started completely fresh and all of the contents were removed down to the framing. The tub area was reframed to accomplish the client’s desired shape and size. We designed, fabricated and installed a custom vanity, built-in mirror, lighting soffit and two linen tower cabinets all with a white finish and pewter glaze. On top of the stunning cabinetry is a natural stone vanity top with two rectangular, undermount sinks.

A significant design feature of this bathroom is the mesmerizing movement and fluidity of the floor and wall tile. Surrounding the distinctive tub is a frameless rolling shower enclosure that enhances the stunning appeal of the tub and bathroom. Finally, using a darker color paint on the ceiling adds to this bathroom’s serious “wow” factor.

The total effect of all of these thoughtful changes is one of sleek, luxurious elegance. This bathroom would not be out of place in any design magazine.

This was a truly rewarding renovation project that exceeded our client’s hopes and expectations. They love their distinctive, beautiful, modern bathroom and we loved working with them to create it.

It’s a “before and after” transformation we never get tired of looking at, and we think you’ll agree!

  • Before

 

Best in Building Awards 2016: Best Bathroom Over $40,000

img_9508We are thrilled to share that Schrader and Company Construction Services took home a big award at last week’s Capital Region Builders and Remodelers Association (CRBRA) Best in Building 2016 Awards.

We won in the “Best Bathroom Over $40,000” category for a two bathroom luxury remodel in a historic home.

You can go behind the scenes of this renovation in a recent Project Spotlight feature here.

It’s wonderful to have our work recognized, and we look forward to continuing to deliver the best in construction, renovation and design to our clients across the capital region.

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