Farmhouse Fabulous – Part I


kitchen remodel in elmhurst

A No Demo Reno

This much-loved modern farmhouse in Elmhurst is home to a professional couple who raised their family here. However, after many years their needs and style changed, and they were no longer enamored with their simple, straightforward décor. Instead, the couple wanted to update and refresh their space with a more sophisticated and edgy vibe. A place where they could lounge and entertain. Our Lead Designer, Stephanie Cole, worked with the homeowners to capture the ambiance they craved.

Initially, the plan was to remodel the kitchen and powder room. However, to give them a cohesive design, Stephanie and homeowner Teri decided to update the adjoining living and dining rooms as well. The couple liked the results of the makeover so much that they asked us to continue their new style in the main bedroom (don’t miss part II).

Transforming a Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

modern farmhouse kitchen

BEFORE

bright open kitchen in elmhurst

BEFORE

dining room design

BEFORE

We started the design process in the kitchen by replacing the flooring and backsplash, creating a larger island for seating and storage, designing an eye-catching hood, incorporating a large sink, and adding open shelving. Teri was certain that she wanted a fresh, more contemporary feel for her modern farmhouse and was willing to step outside of her current gray aesthetic to accomplish this. She trusted us to enhance the “moodiness” of her space while easing her slightly out of her initial comfort zone.

open space kitchen design

Without any architectural or structural changes, we were able to completely transform the spaces by working with elements of design to balance the interior. As requested, we changed the flooring from an outdated checkerboard pattern to a dark charcoal porcelain tile with matching grout, creating a striking contrast to the lighter hues in the room. The existing perimeter cabinets were painted in Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace, a soft white that pairs beautifully with the Benjamin Moore Steel Wool used to emphasize the island and additional pantry cabinetry. The new island provided ample space for a large Galley Workstation, along with room for three comfortable stools that guests can enjoy while socializing over food prep. Complimentary dining chairs around a classic, minimalistic table were selected in the eat-in kitchen to complete the look.

The new backsplash is a stunning concrete tile. The blue tile is whimsical, providing a perfect backdrop for the custom birch wood floating shelves and coordinating waterfall countertop.

Good lighting can never be underestimated and that includes the fixtures. We kept the existing electrical plan but updated the fixtures with beautiful modern black pendants over the island, kitchen table, and at the windows. The contemporary design and darker lighting palette create an attractive focal point not accomplished by the original translucent glass fixtures common to modern farmhouse design.

Modern Living Room Interior Design

Teri’s living room was already a good size with a fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a view of their lovely backyard. But it felt a bit lifeless.

Stephanie brought the room back to life by painting the walls a soft greige, adding all new furniture in a modern style and incorporating a stunning wall covering as a backdrop to the open shelving.

modern living room design

The newly styled room centers around two charcoal gray sofas made of a rich textured fabric placed on a soft grey graphic rug. We chose striped colorful pillows for the sofa and then expertly layered neutrals so as not to overwhelm Teri. To maintain an organic feel, we incorporated round shapes when selecting many of the accent pieces. The juxtaposition of clean lines and curves is engaging to the eye and evokes interest in the inherent form of the space.

Teri loves a dining room that is bright during the day while providing an ambient evening vibe at night. The existing dining room had elements Teri loved such as the dark walls, but it lacked some of the drama she was craving.

We drew inspiration for the room from a beautiful wall covering. The delicate design of intricate, interlocking circles creates an interplay between lines and curves, a theme that is carried throughout the design. The wallpaper’s dark shades and the elegant metallic tones provided a sexy palette to inspire the sophisticated lighting, artwork, upholstery, and decorative pieces incorporated into this loungy space.

We used a dark teal velvet fabric on the existing dining chairs, which pairs well with the existing walnut dining table. The room now boasts striking gold and brass accessories, including a spectacular round chandelier, creating a gorgeous focal point. The dining room with its edgy, nighttime feel is now Teri’s favorite space in the house

Simple Powder Room Changes Have Stunning Results

The powder room on the first floor was one of the initial rooms Teri wanted TKS Design Group to transform. It was a complete cosmetic renovation, changing out all surfaces and fixtures. Now Teri’s powder room reflects her new contemporary style and blends well with the rest of her home.

Other Areas Receiving Interior Design Love

Never underestimate the power of expert interior design. These spaces went from being passersby to showstoppers. The foyer maintains the circa-linear theme with an angular entrance table anchored by a round beaded mirror in gilded gold. The mudroom has wonderful bones and was simply in need of a refresh, which included new flooring, refinished wooden surfaces and fresh paint.

The intentional pairing of rustic accents with modern selections accomplished the delicate, well-balanced level of design tension that simply begs to be noticed. Through the thoughtful incorporation of form, color, texture and light, the interior of this lovely home was elevated, while maintaining beloved core features. Comfort meets glam in this fabulous modern farmhouse. Which just goes to prove, you really can have it all. Just ask our new fuzzy friend, Rizzo…

living room design detail

Looking to update your home with a more sophisticated vibe? Click here.

Love great design? Join us on Instagram to get your daily dose!

No Comment
Leave a Comment

CHOOSE A LOCATION

NAPLES, FL
4501 Tamiami Trail N, Ste 424
Naples, FL 34103
(239) 378-6599
contact@tksdesigngroup.com
GLEN ELLYN, IL
522 Crescent Blvd
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
(630) 858-4848
contact@tksdesigngroup.com
Chicago, IL
1040 Roscoe St.
Chicago, IL 60657
(630) 488-7481
contact@tksdesigngroup.com