I’ve noticed that in many houses I visit, the “real” living happens only in the back portion, leaving nice rooms in the front of the house unused. This seems a shame, since people pay their mortgage on all of their square footage.

Have you ever noticed that some houses have grand foyers that are never used, and the door that is used enters into a cramped, less-than-desirable space? I guess those were called “mud rooms” for a reason. I am now calling them “Family Entries” and giving them the respect they deserve.

The small formal dining room has outlived its usefulness these days, because when we have family gatherings, it is simply too small.

PROBLEM

This house was home to an almost-retired couple, and they wanted to plan for that day by remodeling their home. They currently used about one-third of their home, centering their activities in the kitchen (A), eating area (B) and den (C). Furniture placement in the den was difficult because of all the traffic.

The living room (D) was the room that delighted the woman of the house so much because of the abundance of natural light. When I asked her how she used the room, she said she never did.

She also really liked the spacious foyer (E). They wanted to do something to use the dining room (F), but were worried about how it would affect the foyer.

The family entry/laundry room (G) was a thorn in their side. It stayed congested and was the most unattractive space in the house.

They wanted a cohesive home where all of the space was well utilized, with good flow.

SOLUTION

What I saw first was that the kitchen (A) was inefficient, with too much space between counters. It also seemed to be in the wrong place. Since they were ready for a new kitchen (H), I slipped it down and over, consuming part of the dining room (F) and part of the family entry (G).

By relocating the laundry (I) into the front of the dining room (F), it is in its own space with amenities like a folding counter, hanging space and a window. What is left of the family entry (J) is certainly adequate. It now has a window, coat closet, bench and hooks. It is an easy trek into the kitchen (H) with groceries. This new kitchen features an eat-on island and a wonderful corner walk-in pantry (K).

The foyer (L) is improved and enlarged by shifting the closet into the old dining room.
The living room (M) is improved by eliminating the traffic from the den, and added French doors access the former deck (N). The result is a marvelous ‘get away spot’ which, believe me, is important when a couple retires.

The den (C) becomes a real family room (O) when traffic is removed and the gas fireplace is moved. Now, new windows open up a great view of the yard.

Part of what was the kitchen becomes the dining space (P). It is flex-space, allowing the table to extend for family gatherings. What was the eating area (B) now is a little lounge area, just great for enjoying coffee and reading the paper.

New French doors open onto a new deck (R), convenient to the kitchen and family area.

Marcia Lyon is a professional remodeling designer and freelance writer, producing projects locally and several other areas across the U.S. and Canada. Her new book on remodeling design, “The Essential Planner for Home Remodeling,” is available at www.creatingspaces.net. You may contact her at Marcia@creatingspaces.net or at 515-991-8880.