Re-Designing the Space

As we talked with the client, we quickly identified their desire to bring more light and openness to the home’s main living areas, something that’s not typical in a 1920’s Tudor-Style home. Our original remodel of the home came at a time when their children were young and living at home. Today, as empty nesters, the client wanted to use the space differently. They openly shared their goals of having more space, improving the flow, and incorporating the outdoors into their home. Having worked with RIGGS on multiple projects in the past, they knew they could trust our proposed solutions and welcomed our ideas.

The first idea was a big one. As we examined the layout, we recognized that the kitchen was simply not in an ideal location for how the clients wanted to live and entertain. When the children lived at home, it served them well, but today’s needs called for a different solution. Our suggestion was to move it to the other side of the house where it would find itself in the heart of the action for entertaining. Once that was agreed upon, we suggested a series of modifications to the main floor layout, including the removal of walls to brighten the space and improve flow, as well as building a new bathroom and entry area to serve the backyard pool.

The Kitchen Remodel

A larger, light and airy new kitchen was created for the home, featuring a wall of windows to allow the client a full view of their property, as well as a simplification of the space for a more open feel. No wall cabinets were included in the design, which initially was difficult for the clients to understand. We alleviated their concerns by adding a butler’s pantry to maximize storage and house their double oven, a beloved appliance they wanted to keep, but for which there was little wall space in the main kitchen area. They were pleased that the design gave them everything they were asking for.

Existing cabinetry was used, while unique and beautiful tile was installed on the walls. A custom cabinet was designed for the end of the island to house dishes and glassware traditionally stored in wall cabinets, providing further confidence to the client that the removal of wall cabinets was realistic. The installation of additional windows maximized the light coming in to the space. All of these details worked together to create the modern and open feel that the clients dreamed of.

The Home “Remix”

In addition to the relocation and remodeling of the kitchen, this project also included the removal of many walls to open the flow of the home and create more usable, connected space. Areas that were part of this phase of the remodel included the home office, dining room and a loft area that the clients lovingly refer to as “the tree house.” Opening up the tree house created a family room, allowing the client to relocate the television from the formal living room and into this more casual space. A new office space was also created, while the former home office space was transformed into a new dining room by enlarging the opening, now designed to match the beautiful arched openings throughout the home.

These spaces, among others in the home which often were ignored, are now functional, connected and used by the client on a daily basis.

The Bathroom Remodel

The property features a large pool in the backyard, so the clients wanted to create an entry area and bathroom that would be accessible to visitors of the pool. We designed a simple yet striking fully tiled bathroom that would stand up to the wet feet and swimsuits that the room was sure to welcome. The entry area serves as an indoor “pool house” right in their own basement, serving as the perfect changing room, providing guests a great place to hang towels, kick off their flip flops, and store other pool toys and accessories. The creation of this space allowed the homeowners the functionality of a full pool house, eliminating the need to build a standalone, outdoor structure to serve this purpose.

The Basement Remodel

As is the case with many older homes, the basement had low ceilings and space that wasn’t ideal for use by the client, most notably, the man of the house who sought a space that would function well for his daily activities of watching sports, caring for the family dog, and outdoor grilling.

To address his needs, we opened up the space, raising the original ceiling as much as possible. We went on to remodel the bar area to create a mini-kitchenette, and designed the space with an open, more modern feel to replace to existing 1950’s style that had previously been in place.

The client also expressed his desire for the lower level space to flow seamlessly into the outdoors. We achieved this through the installation of an 8-foot sliding patio door which opens onto a large outside living area featuring an outdoor kitchen and television.

The Results

The client couldn’t be more pleased with the work we performed on their whole house remodel. All rooms in the home welcome more light, and rooms that previously went unused are now seeing daily activity and purpose. The flow of the home is now perfect for entertaining, something the clients love to do. The client can serve outdoor guests directly through her kitchen windows. The opening of the interior space created improved sight lines throughout the home, bringing the outdoors and the pool area in view and making the outdoor spaces feel closer.

Visitors to the home, including their grown children, are enjoying the home in new ways and making new memories along the way.

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Have you been thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Perhaps you’re ready to get rid of the old pink tile, outdated cabinetry or dingy tub and shower, but you’re not quite sure where to start, or know what options are out there today. The RIGGS team is here to help! We’ve compiled a list of the top trends we’re seeing in St. Louis homes this year so that you know what’s hot, and what you may want to keep on your radar as you plan your bathroom remodeling project.

Freestanding Tubs

The tub as you know it is a place to bathe, but this year we’re seeing the bathtub take center stage as a beautiful piece of furniture. You’re probably used to seeing the tub placed in a corner or built into an alcove, but today, tubs are standing alone with no platform or steps surrounding it. Many beautiful designs and shapes are available, depending on your taste and design style. Whether you choose a vintage claw-foot or modern soaking tub, this freestanding item will provide any master bathroom an elegant, quiet and serene atmosphere.

Oversized Showers

If a freestanding tub isn’t your cup of tea, or if you have a lot of space to work with, oversized showers with multiple jets, shower heads, and steam options remain very popular in 2017. In fact, many homeowners have chosen to remove their tubs altogether to allow for large showers in their bathrooms! That’s because they can provide a spa-like experience for your everyday use. These types of showers can be designed with an endless variety of beautiful tile and glasswork to create the look and feel you’re after.

Floating Vanities

If you’re looking to make your freestanding tub or oversized shower the focal point of your space, you may want to consider the floating vanity. Minimalistic in design, these vanities provide a more modern and open feel in your bathroom. In many cases, you can expect for the design to offer drawers over doors to address your storage needs. Whether you prefer traditional or modern styling, the design of the floating vanity exudes uniqueness, and preserves space in your bathroom.

Smart Storage

Speaking of space, let’s talk about smart storage. Most bathrooms include some form of cabinetry for storage, and the good news is that cabinet manufacturers offer interior options to help you keep all your essentials organized. Smart storage cabinetry includes pull-outs, roll-outs and other special features that pack maximum utility into minimum space.

Round Mirrors

Mirrors are getting a makeover this year, replacing its traditional square and rectangular shapes with round, curved edges. This represents a departure from what we’re used to seeing in bathrooms and adds a dynamic focal point to the space. Round mirrors can create a unique and simple element that’s understated with a design that has the potential to stand the test of time.

We hope these trends for 2017 have inspired some ideas for your own home! Incorporating fresh designs into your bathroom will not only add value to your home, but will also allow you to give it your personal touch, and enjoy the time you spend there.

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A sliding barn door is a great way to add extra space to your bathroom.  You simply install the track above the door opening and hang the door.  Slide it over the opening for privacy and then slide it away to create the illusion of a larger space.  Barn doors are also easily customizable to match the existing aesthetic of the room.  Add a door with a flat surface and fun colors for a modern look or go for a more rustic look with a door that has some character and neutral, earthy tones.

There is no such thing as too much storage.  Floating shelves are an awesome way to create extra storage while still saving up floor space.  Keeping your shelves off the floor will make your bathroom look larger.

Crown molding is incredibly versatile.  Pair up some molding with fun colors to create a unique and unexpected look.  Use some trim to create a bathtub surround.  You can even add trim to your bathroom door to give it some character.  It is simple to add and it can completely change the look of the room.

A great way to repurpose items you already own is to use old pieces from other rooms in your home to upgrade your bathroom.  A wine rack can be a great way to store and display rolled up hand towels.  Glass jars are a fun and whimsical way to store everyday items, like cotton balls and swabs. An antique decanter or olive oil jar is a great way to display your mouthwash without the chunky plastic bottle.  A small serving tray on your bathroom counter is a great way to keep your area organized and free of clutter.  All of these little things are easy ways to transform your master bath.

Don’t let the idea of a remodel keep you from creating the master bathroom of your dreams.  These are just a few fun, easy ways that can completely upgrade the look of your bathroom.  Looking to make some bigger changes? RIGGS can create the master bathroom that you’ve always dreamed of.  We are happy to help you through this process and answer any questions you may have.  Contact us today so we can bring your ideas to life!

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As you know, functionality has always been a vital piece of our approach to remodeling. By eliminating the large whirlpool bathtub and building a more open shower, you create a space that can serve a variety of needs. For one, it gives you the ability to include a shower seat and a hand shower on a slide bar. This will elevate the overall comfort level, making showering an enjoyable experience well into your golden years.

 
As you can see, the openness of the shower would even allow for addition of a shower chair, giving you the ability to age in the friendly confines of your own home.

To see some examples of the bathrooms that we have designed, please feel free to peruse our photo gallery at riggscompanystl.com.

 
If you are looking to update your home—RIGGS is here to help! Drop us a line today at 314.821.7646.

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In the past, tile was seen as an essential component of the bathroom. While its elegance made it popular with designers and homeowners, it was actually its ease of cleaning that made it the recommended choice.

Today, tile still has that great functional aspect to it, but it is also being used as a focal point in the design of the bathroom.

Here are a few examples:

• Glass Tiles: Glass tiles in aqua and sand tones can be leveraged to create a spa-like atmosphere.
• Graphic Tiles: These types of tiles in glass or stone can create a very modern and contemporary feel.
• Subway Tile: White subway tiles can be used to make the space feel clean and bright with a retro feel. Additionally, Swanstone has developed a faux tile that doesn’t involve grouting and is easy to maintain.

Like everything, there is a wide range of materials and pricing in the world of tile. At RIGGS, we help homeowners create the design they like, and our Selections Manager, Kristyn Brennan, helps them choose tiles that will make that look come to life all while staying in budget. Let us show you how tile can transform your bathroom!

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Recently, we completed a bathroom remodel in which we not only brought up to snuff, but helped the family gain additional space for better serviceability. In this specific home, we moved a wall to expand the bathroom and provide a more comfortable and usable area. While the short term goal was to simply create a more comfortable area, this new bathroom will serve this family well into their golden years.

As we age, it is important that the rooms in our home have enough ample space to accommodate our ever changing needs. The new bathroom will now be able to service medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and bath lift systems.

Aside from the bathroom being spacious, its décor is now up to par, too.  Beautiful tile work was incorporated into the design, as well as a freestanding, furniture-style vanity, and all new flooring, lighting and fixtures. Visit the photo gallery to see more before and after photos of this great bathroom remodel!

Looking to remodel your bathroom? We can help!  We offer superior design, planning and remodeling solutions that are second to none. Drop us a line or visit us online 24/7 at www.riggscompanystl.com

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