Bringing Life Back into a Space
A before and after look at an ordinary space that was transformed with visual interest.
“Work your magic and do it within a reasonable budget” is what the homeowner told designer, Joanne Palmisano when he hired her for a second project. Located in a 1980’s multi-townhouse building, with no architectural details, Joanne knew her top priority was to add character and warmth to the spaces. Structural changes included creating a mudroom (originally, guests walk right into the kitchen). Adding this entry space allowed for a desk area on the other side of the wall. She removed the dark kitchen cabinets and reconfigured the space, including removing a wall and upper cabinets between the living room and kitchen. These changes created an opportunity for a large island to be put in and for more natural light to shine in from the west windows. Additional lower cabinet space was added to the island for more storage. She used 200+ year old wood for the exposed shelving above the island. A new structural space was built behind the shelves for the refrigerator, hidden plumbing and a new small pantry. The kitchen opens up to the dining room where the walls were paneled with reclaimed white-washed wood, placed on a diagonal to add character and texture. A reclaimed wood table, mid-century chairs, a new three-tiered pendant chandelier and a vintage rug, give the room an elegant and inviting feel. New granite counters and recycled Fireclay Tiles (Debris Series, which are made from 98% recycled toilets and sinks), add rustic luxury to the kitchen and bar. Materials that were not reused, were sold or donated to local rebuilding/recycling centers. Recycling ALL MATERIALS and supporting local artists is very important to Joanne. I find when photographing her projects, there is a sense of home and authenticity that I believe comes from the locally sourced work and materials, and Joanne’s passionate desire to make interior spaces a home for everyone who walks in the door.
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