ORCHARD DRIVE FIRST FLOOR RENOVATION
about the project
What was originally four separate rooms is now one, large great room. A spacious family room now contains comfortable seating with fireplace access, a built-in bar, and dining area. The existing ceiling was removed to expose a vaulted ceiling, allowing light to fill the vast space. Salvaged barnwood wraps the structural beams while painted shiplap adorns the walls and ceiling. New windows and french doors were installed to connect the indoor space with the deck. This space is a hub for entertaining!
The existing kitchen was dark, windowless, and starving for light. While not a full kitchen renovation, this kitchen went through a rather extensive refresh. First, the refrigerator was moved to create better flow and an undisrupted view from the front door to the back vaulted family room. Next, two toned white and chameleon-like blue-green paint colors brightened the dark cherry cabinets. White honed quartzite added another fresh surface, and warmth was introduced in the brass hardware and unlacquered faucet by Perrin and Rowe. Finally, organic texture was added with staggered white zellige tile, a warm barnwood beam and hood mantle and concrete treated hood surround. The result was a brighter, more welcoming transformation for this home and this family.
Rather than fight against the lack of light in the dining room, we embraced it by adding deep colors, rich finishes, and patterns that mimic the original stained glass window. The surrounding rooms are light and bright, while this space is cocooned in warmth and richness, making intimate family meals and sophisticated dinner parties feel indulgent.
Special custom details were needed to complete the space, and we called in some of our favorite craftspeople and artists to help! Zach Wockenfuss collaborated on the design of this massive built-in sideboard which works to cover existing radiators, provide storage, and a special surface to serve meals. The radiator cover cut out shape is inspired by motifs found in the leaded glass windows in the adjacent living room, and the brass mesh backing repeats the brass found throughout the room’s furniture and finishes. The stunning wood used on this piece is a black walnut and special consideration was given to the directional use of the wood’s natural grain within the inset cabinet design. Petite brass hardware from Armac Martin offers a tiny nod to mid century design.
When selected a countertop surface for this stunning built-in, we prioritized sourcing a natural material with old world charm. Mont Surfaces helped us source a fabulous slab of French Breccia De Vendome Marble, and Primo Marble and Granite fabricated and installed it seamlessly. Very simple wall sconces from Schoolhouse Electric were used on either side of the stained glass window to stay in line with the geometric chandelier.
Finally, artwork depicting Pittsburgh urban scenes were commissioned by Joyce Werwie Perry. We were delighted to collaborate with artist, using the room’s colors and mood to inspire these pieces. Truly, Joyce’s multi-layered and textured paintings can stand alone, but they feel right at home in this warm dining room ready to welcome friends and family.
