the Modern Memaw project
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This 1950s cottage was owned by our client’s grandmother (aka: Memaw) and we loved being a part of its transformation. It reminds us again of the the power of paint and the power of a good attitude. Restored hardwood floors and new appliances don’t hurt either. So many treasures were found when we looked past that dark wood paneling and drab brick exterior. With a little imagination and a little elbow grease, we took this place from ‘house’ to ‘home’.
We had the exterior painted, cleaned up the landscaping and swapped out the front door for one with fresh, mid-mod vibes.
Memaw’s house was well-loved, but just needed some updates to bring it up to speed. We were going for a bright and airy aesthetic and improved functionality.
We were able to keep the vertical paneling by painting it the same white we used throughout the home.
The kitchen ‘before’ in all its glory. Removing that peninsula would open it up and make it feel 10x bigger.
So much improvement already!
From this angle, you can see the dining nook and into the front room of the home.
We were pleased to discover red oak hardwood floors under decades-old carpet. Now to lighten that up for more of a ‘white oak look’. That’s where The Hardwood Co would come in and perform his magic.
This is what’s possible with red oak. Sure, there’s still a hint of pink there. It’s impossible to completely eliminate the pink and red tones. However, with the right finish (our custom mix which we can advise you on here) it’s amazing what can be achieved.
This small cottage needed light floors for the look we wanted to achieve: bright, open, airy and modern.
Photo: Emily Rose Photo
This kitchen did a complete 180. From dark and a little bit sad, to clean and crisp. The warmth of the wood tones completed the look for us.
Photo: Emily Rose Photo
The kitchen island provided seating for three with some extra prep space—something that really comes in handy in a smaller kitchen like this. Peep those red oak floors finished by The Hardwood Co to achieve a ‘white oak look’.
Photos: Emily Rose Photo
Remember that wood paneling and peninsula in this kitchen? What a change, right? The contrast of light walls and dark lower cabinets gave this space a modern cottage feel.
Photos: Emily Rose Photo
Photo: Emily Rose Photos
It’s hard to believe how far Memaw’s cottage has come. Now it’s filled with natural light and an abundance of storage and organization solutions, as well as space to entertain.
Photos: Emily Rose Photo
Photo: Emily Rose Photo
The living room was completely transformed by refinishing the red oak floors to convey a lighter and brighter look, painting the walls a fresh, clean white and adding furniture with a more modern design.
Photo: Emily Rose Photo
One last look at that living room and we have to believe Memaw would be proud. We’re pleased we could be a part of the Modern Memaw Project and we know that she’s going to provide years of enjoyment.
