Jamaica Plain

The bicoastal client for this project wanted to create an urban oasis when she comes East. She envisioned an open, airy living space with a Main Bedroom suite, as well as private bedrooms for her two college-age boys when they visit, and plenty of storage.

Before purchasing the condominium, she discussed her vision with us. The unit’s soaring Living Room ceiling and view of the woods with a beloved local pond outside the large windows, was the essential existing element that made her future home appealing.

But the floors were badly damaged, the walls were moldy, and the door and window frames rotted. The kitchen was a dark dreary little room that didn’t connect with the main living area, and the bathrooms were dated and poorly laid out. In addition, there were only two bedrooms, not three.

Still, it was clear that with some clever re-working of the layout on both floors, we could make the space work for her and provide for all her needs.

We chose to keep the materials consistent throughout the unit to create a peaceful, unified look. White oak was used for the flooring, kitchen cabinetry, living and dining area built-ins, as well as the fireplace facade, added ceiling beams, and bathroom vanities. We redesigned the kitchen to allow for unique openings to the Living and Dining areas. Our new Main bath layout allowed for a large soaking tub and an additional closet.

For the boys’ separate bedrooms, we divided the one additional bedroom into two with a pair of sliding doors. A comfortable pull-out sofa was chosen for one of the rooms and we still had room for built-ins in each space.

And voila! Now everyone has their own private space, as well as an open main living area to join together for meals and family entertainment.