There is such a thing as rooms that are too big. Proportion is very important and if your rooms don’t accommodate pleasant seating arrangements, then the extra space is wasted. Then there’s the distribution of space. When square footage abounds, it’s a shame when entry and work areas are cramped.

Problem

This long, rambling ranch home in Ann Arbor had a lot going for it when I visited the homeowners. I was impressed with the four skylights in the cathedral ceiling on the north side of the house, improving the distribution of natural light. They had not moved in yet and already knew that changes had to be made. The front door (A) was fairly remote from the driveway (B) and with the homeowner’s casual lifestyle; they knew that the heavy traffic would be through the garage (C). The family entry (D) was just a hallway with washer and dryer (E) wedged into place. This hall was also the access for the basement stair (F) and the half bathroom (G). The combo dining (H) / kitchen (I) felt disjointed and I knew that incoming goods would be dumped on the dining table as people streamed into the house. The view (J) was missed even with the many windows on the north side. Since the basement on that side had the walk-out (K) feature, there was no deck or outside entertaining access on the first floor. The back to back fireplaces (L) were a nice feature, but awkwardly placed for seating. The living room (M) was long and lanky, but didn’t connect with the other spaces. The family room (N) was a little small and was also cut-off from the kitchen (I).

Solution

We needed to find a way to utilize the view (J), plus improve the family entry and kitchen areas. We started with a modest addition (O) to capitalize on the view. It had to be convenient to the new kitchen (P) and also connect the main floor to the basement level for outdoor entertaining. To gain the space we needed for a laundry room (Q) and now three-quarter bath (R), we expanded into the garage (C). This was ideal because with the built up floor, we could run concealed plumbing and heat ducts. The new and improved family entry (S) has circulation space plus a recessed “To Go” shelf (T). The new sunroom (O) has a cathedral ceiling and, to make it inviting and special, we added a arched ceiling detail (U) at the entrance. More storage was added, including a closet style pantry (V). Kitchen cabinets and a piano shaped island were placed artfully to take advantage of the existing skylights. A built in restaurant booth (W) fills the transition space between the kitchen and the new sunroom. The balance of the spaces were opened up and re-purposed. The family room (N) is now a bright dining room (X). The living room (Y) is now the most used lounge room with fireplace seating and a sectional for the television.

Marcia Lyon is a professional remodeling designer and freelance writer, producing projects locally and several other areas across the US and Canada. Her new E-book on remodeling design is available on her web site www.creatingspaces.net. Reach her at Marcia@creatingspaces.net or at 515-991-8880.