Renovating Tradition: Breathing New Life into My Home
Elizabeth Brumbaugh Quirk is an interior designer with a passion for creating spaces that are both stylish and functional. She believes in blending traditional elements with modern touches to create timeless and inviting homes. She wrote about her recent home renovation.
Home renovation is a journey that blends imagination with practicality, and my recent project was no exception. Nestled in a traditional setting, my home had character and charm, but it was crying out for a modern touch. With a clear vision and a bit of elbow grease, I set out to transform the familiar into something fresh and invigorating.
Initial Steps: Embracing the Vision
The first step in my renovation journey was to establish a design plan that honored the home’s traditional roots while infusing it with contemporary flair. I wanted to brighten the space, making it feel more open and inviting. My design plan revolved around updating finishes, selecting new colors, and choosing modern hardware and furniture that would harmonize with the existing architecture.
Color Palette: A Breath of Fresh Air
One of the most significant changes I made was to the color scheme. The original
tones were warm but dark, which made the rooms feel smaller and somewhat dated. To counter this, I opted for a palette that included soft neutrals, light blues, and crisp whites. These colors not only brightened the rooms but also provided a serene and cohesive backdrop for the new design elements.
Painting the walls a delicate shade of ivory immediately transformed the ambiance. The light color reflected natural light, making the rooms feel airy and spacious. Accents of soft blue in the living room added a touch of tranquility, while the kitchen benefited from a fresh tile backsplash that made the space feel clean and contemporary.
Updating Hardware: Small Changes, Big Impact
Updating the hardware was another crucial aspect of my renovation. The original oil- rubbed-bronze pieces, while charming, had seen better days. I decided to replace them with sleek, champagne bronze hardware. This change might seem minor, but it had a profound effect on the overall look of the house. The new hardware provided a striking contrast to the lighter colors and added a modern edge to the traditional setting. In the kitchen, I replaced the old cabinet handles with minimalist champagne bronze pulls, which paired beautifully with the new Taj Mahal granite countertops. The bathroom also received a hardware makeover, with new faucets, towel bars, and a chic mirror that added a touch of elegance.
Furniture: Marrying Tradition with Modernity
Selecting new furniture was perhaps the most enjoyable part of the renovation. I
wanted pieces that had a sleek feel yet complementary to the home’s traditional
character. In the living room, I chose a comfortable, clean-line sectional in a soft gray fabric. It was paired with a gorgeous teak wood Jason Scott Collection coffee table, blending old and new effortlessly.
The living room also saw the introduction of a sleek, embossed gator recliner and
modern swivel chairs upholstered in a durable, yet stylish, fabric. Above the credenza hung a statement mirror that served as a bridge between the traditional and modern elements, with its classic shape and modern finish.
Final Touches: Bringing It All Together
No renovation is complete without the finishing touches. I added a variety of textiles to soften the look and add warmth. Light, airy curtains replaced heavy drapes, and a collection of cozy throw pillows and plush area rugs completed the transformation.
The renovation process was both challenging and immensely rewarding. By carefully selecting finishes, colors, hardware, and furniture, I was able to brighten and modernize my home while respecting its traditional roots. The end result is a space that feels both fresh and familiar, a perfect blend of past and present that I am proud to call home.
Inspired by Elizabeth's Stunning Renovation?
Brumbaugh’s design services can help you achieve a similar blend of timeless style and modern functionality in your own home.
We offer a comprehensive range of services, from initial concept development to final installation, to bring your vision to life. Our experienced team of designers can help you select the perfect finishes, colors, hardware, and furniture to create a space that reflects your unique taste.
Schedule a Consultation:
Contact Brumbaugh’s today to schedule a free consultation with one of our talented designers. We’ll discuss your project goals, style preferences, and budget to develop a plan that’s right for you.
Shop the Look:
Looking to recreate some of the elements from Elizabeth’s renovation? Visit our online store or showroom to browse a curated selection of furniture, lighting, accessories, and more. We offer a wide variety of pieces that seamlessly blend traditional and modern styles.
