The Art of the Redo: From congested to airy and upbeat

BEFORE   THE DESIGNER Gladys Schanstra Drury Design (drurydesigns.com) THE CHALLENGE Take a dowdy, cramped kitchen and create a family hub that will function smoothly even in high gear.   THE WISH LIST • IMPROVED TRAFFIC FLOW • MORE COUNTER SPACE • COUNTER SEATING INSTEAD OF FREESTANDING TABLE • A FEELING OF SPACIOUSNESS     … Read more

The Art of the Redo: An everything-including-the-kitchen-sink conversion

BEFORE THE DESIGNER Linda Larisch Insignia Kitchen & Bath Design Group (insigniakitchenandbath.com) THE CHALLENGE Inject a dull, styleless kitchen with urban smarts.   THE WISH LIST • A CENTER ISLAND THAT LOOKS LIKE FURNITURE  • A 48-INCH STOVE • A 48-INCH REFRIGERATOR • A LARGE PANTRY, INCLUDING BROOM STORAGE • BEVERAGE CENTER–BAR AREA • PLACE … Read more

The Art of the Redo: From boring to bold

BEFORE   THE DESIGNER Pamela Polvere (pamelapolveredesigns.com) THE CHALLENGE Inject a dull, styleless kitchen with urban smarts.   THE WISH LIST • WET BAR–BEVERAGE AREA • DISPLAY AREA FOR VINTAGE POTTERY COLLECTION • BANQUETTE SEATING • PLACE TO HIDE SMALL APPLIANCES • MIX OF CABINET AND COUNTERTOP FINISHES • MODERN YET CLASSIC FEEL     … Read more

Refinishing School

A splash of fresh paint, a bolt of fab fabric, and suddenly, everything old is cool again. Hip refinishing and upholstery shops are cropping up all over, and their pros are great at seeing the potential in your grandmother’s old chaise. Most sell completed pieces and also take commissions. Who says a vintage chair can’t learn a new trick?