Main Floor Home Renovation in Thornhill
The home that starts out just right for a couple can quickly become cramped when a family begins to grow. Our clients experienced this as they added two energetic kids and a playful dog to the same space. This left the home not only strained for space but also looking a little outdated.
The Main Floor in particular featured a highly divided layout that just didn’t serve the clients anymore. Walls fragmented the Dining Room, Kitchen, and living areas into separated spaces that just weren’t large enough on their own. It was a struggle to enjoy family time and not so easy to entertain guests either.
The family turned to Sosna designer Camila to create a look that was timeless and would hold up to their active pets and kids. It was a beautiful journey that helped transform the Thornhill home into a bright and functional home.
The big change was just what everyone needed to feel more comfortable in the space. While it wasn’t a completely seamless process from beginning to end, we proved to the clients that we had the experience and skill to tackle all of the challenges that arose along the way.
Explore how we transformed the Main Floor in this Thornhill home and get the inspiration you need to get started on your very own improvements.
Renovation Details
- Total Main Floor Remodel Cost:
- Design Timeline:
- 2 Months – Start Date: June 9, 2023 – End Date: August 4, 2023
- Designer: Camila Tan
- Project Manager: Roman Tchaban
- Pre-Renovation Drawings:
- Proposed Drawings:
- Proposed 3D Drawings:
Transforming a Cramped and Outdated Kitchen
When the clients first started the project, their Kitchen was small and dim. It lacked the counter space they needed for preparing daily meals and snacks for the family. There was also a discrepancy between the amount of storage space available and their needs. The family wanted the kids to have their own study and play table space within the Kitchen area. Yet they were squeezed into a tight corner, only serving to emphasize the lack of space.
In the rest of the Main Floor, the dark hardwood floors had a scratched and worn look that served to create an outdated look. The Foyer had a tight layout that felt cramped and downright uninviting to guests who entered through it. Even the Powder Room on this floor needed an update to add a more spacious and brighter appearance.
A Modern Kitchen that’s Perfect for Family Life
To start the project, we removed as many walls as possible to give the Main Floor a seamless flow that made it all seem much larger. We connected the Foyer, Living Room, Dining Room, and Kitchen into an open concept living area. It took some work, but it was worth it to completely relocate the Kitchen so it could be properly expanded to fit the needs of the clients.
In addition to adding plenty of valuable counter space, we built a large custom island. It created the space needed for involving the kids in meal preparation tasks so they can learn in a hands-on way. The family also found that it doubles as a great place for working on homework. Everyone has found the Kitchen much more enjoyable to use now that it’s completely renovated.
Additionally, we designed a custom and cozy window bench to create new seating opportunities in the space. It creates a casual place for hanging out with the family or reading a good book. It was the icing on the cake of the new Kitchen design that brought a sense of calm modern elegance to this part of the open floor plan.
Overcoming Challenges and Exceeding Expectations
Like many other homeowners we work with, our clients on this project were both excited and slightly anxious about the idea of going through a major renovation.
Our design called for a lot of major structural changes, so it required quite a commitment from both the clients and our team. The clients were unsure about the design decisions at first and worried that the challenges of making changes to structural columns and beams could lead to project drift. We reassured them and met all of their expectations by the end, even with some of the changes that had to be made along the way.
The final result exceeded their expectations, with Daniela even commenting on how thoughtfully we’d designed the flow of the new Main Floor. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and open-mindedness in achieving a truly transformative renovation.
Renovation Hiccups: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
While we did our best to make it a smooth process, the renovation wasn’t completely without its hiccups. We were able to make them right and stayed on schedule with quick replacements.
For example, there was a mix-up with the hardwood flooring and we had to scramble at the last minute to find a suitable option. The flooring arrived in a colour completely different from the chosen sample! It was a logistical challenge, but we managed to find a beautiful in-stock replacement that the clients loved even more than the original. It just goes to show that sometimes unexpected changes can lead to even better outcomes than the ones we originally planned. That’s one of the big differences that you’ll enjoy when you go with Sosna for your renovations.
BEFORE
AFTER
Updates Throughout the Main Floor
The Kitchen was one of the main focuses of the project, but it wasn’t the only part of the Main Floor to receive an update. The Powder Room that once had a practically gloomy look received a complete refresh. New fixtures, a white oak vanity, and beautiful floor tiles significantly brightened the space while also providing practical value for a busy family. It became instantly more appealing to both guests and family members alike.
Finally, we wrapped up the renovation with a lighter and more modern hardwood flooring option for the entire Main Floor. The clients loved the choice and how clean everything looked without the scratched and worn surfaces that were previously present.
BEFORE
AFTER
Giving Our Clients the Fresh Start They Needed
This Main Floor renovation completely transformed the home for our clients. What started out as a cramped and highly segmented space is now a bright, open space that suits the family’s active lifestyle.
They have plenty of opportunities for sharing the space without having to be on top of each other in just one room. The kids can work on projects in the Kitchen while their parents relax in the living area or greet guests in the Foyer.
The Kitchen now truly functions as the heart of the home like it should, allowing everyone to enjoy cooking and eating together for a deeper sense of togetherness that will last a lifetime. The new open layout also benefited the family’s ability to host a gathering, letting everyone mingle and enjoy the space without feeling separated.
Cherished Moments and Project Surprises
This project was filled with laughter and warmth, even amidst the typical renovation chaos. The family’s two kids and their energetic dog quickly became everyone’s favourite sidekicks, adding a playful touch to the construction site. They formed a special bond with the crew, turning the project into a shared experience filled with smiles and wagging tails.
Despite the challenges of living in place while a major renovation was completed, the family managed to maintain the sense of normalcy they needed. We minimized disruptions and worked around their schedule so they could have time together and even worked from home when needed. They really appreciated how the Sosna team went the extra mile to keep things organized and tidy. Coming home to a clean and organized construction zone made all the difference.
BEFORE
AFTER
A Bold and Beautiful Design
While the clients first approached us about just a simple update to the Kitchen, we proved that a full-scale transformation to the whole Main Floor was well worth the investment. Our hard work paired with their willingness to embrace bold design choices led to a one-of-a-kind interior they’ll appreciate for years to come.
Blush pink tiles, bright floral patterns, and an airy feel to the open space all came together to give them the unique space they wanted. Even the hardwood flooring mix-up lead to a design they love even more than the original choice.
In the end, this major renovation turned out to be more than just a basic home makeover. It was a chance for us to create a space that truly feels like home to the clients and reflects their sensibilities and care for each other. It’s a home that nurtures family connections and brings joy to everyday life.
Can You Relate?
Does this sound like something you need? You’re not alone. You’re likely one of the many homeowners living in the Toronto area with a home that feels cramped, outdated, or simply a poor fit for your tastes. If your home is feeling like a poor fit, there’s no need to deal with the challenges of finding a different property and moving.
Instead, let Sosna help transform your living space into a functional and beautiful haven. Our team of skilled designers can help you maximize every square inch of space. We’ll focus on creating a stylish atmosphere that also enhances your quality of life at the same time.
There’s no need to sacrifice functionality for style when you work with our team. We’re a full- service renovation team, ensuring you can trust the work from beginning to end.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a new and improved home.
Author: Camila Tan