Split-Level Home Remodel in Mississauga
While this split-level home in Mississauga was well-loved for many decades since its original construction, it was ready for a full home remodel. Refreshing the structure in a way that improved its interior design and function all at once made much more sense for the owners than considering new construction. With our help, the space was transformed from a slightly dated if reliable space into one that is open, inspiring, and much better suited to the residents’ needs. Our team achieved the whole house remodeling project with minimal disruption to the usual routine of the residents as well. It’s not uncommon for major whole house remodeling projects to stretch over many months or even years, but we accomplished this project in just 5 months in total.
Like most split-level designs, this home is set up around staggered floor levels. Each level is set partially above or below the adjacent level, creating a unique appearance and flow. Unfortunately, the space was somewhat closed off, with a disconnection between the rest of the home and the Kitchen and Family Room areas. The split-level structure made it a little tricky to achieve the open-concept layout for the lower level and main floor that the client wanted, but we rose to the challenge! With careful engineering and design work, the desired layout was achieved for improved flow and access. The home is designed with timeless design features like plenty of natural light and visual connection, allowing it to look great for decades to come without constant updates.
Renovation Details
- Total Renovation Cost:
- Designer:
- Project Manager:
- Design Timeline:
- 2 Months: April 29, 2021 – July 5, 2021
- Construction:
- 3 Months: November 2, 2021 – January 24, 2022
- Design Drawings:
Open Layout Goals
The original Kitchen had served the residents well for many decades, but it was simply showing its age. The cabinets were outdated and deteriorating, while the layout was cramped and interfered with easy travel when cooking or entertaining. It was hard to alternate any use of the space because only one area offered enough room for seating, locking the dining area in one corner. There was also a lack of appropriate bright lighting in the task areas, which can become a hazard when chopping vegetables or cutting bread.
The original Family Room was based around a stone-clad fireplace and hearth designed for burning real firewood. While that may have appealed to the original builders, it simply didn’t fit the modern lifestyle of the current residents. It was bulky and rarely used, taking up a lot of space and commanding the visual appearance in a way that was distracting from the rest of the design. Dark paint on the wainscoting, outdated wallpaper, and awkwardly placed center lights all contributed to a design that no longer appealed to our clients. There was little open space for moving around the furniture in the room, making it hard to invite guests in without leaving everyone feeling overcrowded. The bulkiness of the stone hearth didn’t help in that respect.
New Floors Make a Big Difference
Our clients were ready for new flooring because the hardwood and tile used throughout the home were showing plenty of wear. Even with the best care, every home eventually needs updates to replace worn materials like these. A persistent and annoying squeaking noise was also causing issues for our clients, especially in the upper-level hallway area. It was a snap for us to address those issues with sound-dampening floor repairs and underlayment during the installation of the new flooring. Quieting the squeak ensures that no one has to wake up if a resident or guest needs to get up at night.
The main stairs of the home were outdated as well. Beyond style issues, the railing along the upper-level hallway was not up-to-date with current safety standards. It posed a potential safety risk to the home’s inhabitants and guests, but we quickly remedied the problem as part of the overall remodel to update the appearance of the stairs.
A Split-Level Success Story
This Mississauga split-level renovation wasn’t just about open layouts and updated stairs – it was about transforming a cherished family home. The clients, who had lived in their 1965 house for over 20 years, knew this was their “forever home.” But with its dated design and closed-off rooms, it wasn’t meeting their needs anymore.
Inspired by the challenges their brother faced with a DIY renovation, they wisely chose to work with professionals. After researching several contractors, they met with Sosna. Right from the start, the clients felt heard. Our team took the time to understand their vision, lifestyle, and the unique challenges of their split-level home.
Overcoming Obstacles Together
The design phase revealed the extent of the transformation needed. To achieve the open-concept dream, we carefully assessed which walls could be removed while maintaining structural integrity. We collaborated closely with the clients, ensuring the new design was both beautiful and functional.
Unexpectedly, the client faced a major medical surgery just as construction began. Communication became even more crucial. Our project manager and site leader kept them informed every step of the way, ensuring a smooth process despite the circumstances.
The clients were delighted to find a clean and well-maintained construction site whenever they were able to visit. And true to our commitment, the project finished on time and as planned.
Addressing the Family Room
The Family Room improvements were quite dramatic, yet they still retained the charm of the original design. Our contractors safely removed the old-fashioned stone fireplace and hearth to open up more space in the center of the room. An efficient and easy-to-operate electric fireplace adds a cozy place to sit at one end of the room where it doesn’t distract from the rest of the space. It’s surrounded by large format porcelain tiles for a sleek contemporary hearth that better fits the rest of the design. Updated flooring and a lighter color palette brightened the room and gave it a much more welcoming air. A greatly widened archway connects the Family Room with the rest of the main floor for the open layout design the clients prioritized. It’s easier than ever to invite guests in and entertain without leaving everyone feeling separated in different rooms.
Stairway Upgrades
In addition to the upper-level railing safety fixes, we gave the main and secondary stairways an all new look. New oak treads and matching handrails provide a hint of traditional beauty, while the black metal pickets help keep it contemporary. The new engineered hardwood flooring used through the Main Floor area matches the finish on the stair treads to tie the space together.
Our clients are thrilled to cook and entertain in their bright, updated Kitchen. Now that it’s open and connected to the rest of the Main Floor, it’s no longer an isolating space that keeps them separate from their family members or guests. The same concept was used to make the Family Room much more open and inviting. These improvements, combined with the flooring and stairway upgrades, have increased the functionality and improved the value of the home.
A modern design helped bring this well-designed structure out of the 1960s and up to today’s standards of safety and flow. Our clients feel like the home is now unmistakably theirs. With a combination of the Family Room and Kitchen spaces through careful expansion of the existing hallways and archways, we’ve helped give our clients’ home a sense of convenience and comfort that wasn’t always present before. They’re delighted with the transformation and have been showing off their home with a newfound sense of pride.
Beyond the Renovation
Our relationship with the clients didn’t end with the final walkthrough. When they faced unexpected issues – a damaged wall from a baby raccoon rescue and a leak from a new dishwasher – we were there to help.
This project highlights the Sosna difference:
Personalized Approach: We truly listen to our clients, understanding their needs and lifestyle.
Expert Collaboration: Our team of designers and contractors work seamlessly to bring visions to life.
Clear Communication: We keep clients informed throughout the entire process, especially during challenges.
Ongoing Support: We’re there for our clients even after the project is complete.
In the clients’ own words, “Sosna is a renovator you can trust.” Their experience with this split-level renovation is a testament to our dedication to creating beautiful, functional spaces and building lasting relationships with our clients.
Hear From Our Happy Clients!
Hear directly from our happy clients about their Sosna renovation experience.
Let’s Talk About Your Home!
If you’re living in a split-level home, it’s likely that a few decades have passed since it was originally built. These homes were popular in the 1960s through 1980s, but are less commonly built today. You may find the space-saving design has some limitations that are affecting your enjoyment of your home, not to mention dating its interior look.
When you’re ready for a renovation that can bring harmony and beauty to your home all at once, choose Sosna. We are the renovator you can count on in Mississauga and beyond. It’s our promise to every client that chooses to work with us. Contact us today to get started.
