Search results for "Underutilized" in Home Design Ideas

Goals
While their home provided them with enough square footage, the original layout caused for many rooms to be underutilized. The closed off kitchen and dining room were disconnected from the other common spaces of the home causing problems with circulation and limited sight-lines. A tucked-away powder room was also inaccessible from the entryway and main living spaces in the house.
Our Design Solution
We sought out to improve the functionality of this home by opening up walls, relocating rooms, and connecting the entryway to the mudroom. By moving the kitchen into the formerly over-sized family room, it was able to really become the heart of the home with access from all of the other rooms in the house. Meanwhile, the adjacent family room was made into a cozy, comfortable space with updated fireplace and new cathedral style ceiling with skylights. The powder room was relocated to be off of the entry, making it more accessible for guests.
A transitional style with rustic accents was used throughout the remodel for a cohesive first floor design. White and black cabinets were complimented with brass hardware and custom wood features, including a hood top and accent wall over the fireplace. Between each room, walls were thickened and archway were put in place, providing the home with even more character.

This project started as a kitchen remodel but evolved into a partial redesign and home refresh. Both interiors and exteriors were reimagined to update this traditional Spanish home into a transitional retreat.
The common area floorplan was redesigned to absorb the previously underutilized formal spaces into everyday areas. A large walk-in pantry was added while the kitchen flows from the family room to the dining area, with sightlines from the front and back of the home.
Architectural elements such as ceiling details and the central staircase were redesigned to fit the home's original character while still feeling updated. The bedrooms and bathrooms were revitalized upstairs with all-new finishes, making the entire home feel fresh and new.
An overall neutral color scheme means this home will remain timeless and continue to serve this family for years to come. Simple elegance defines this home. It's the perfect mix of subtle details, ornate craftsmanship, and contemporary elegance.

This renovation focused on improving functionality, storage, and overall flow while creating a more refined and cohesive aesthetic throughout the primary bathroom, mudroom, laundry area, and powder room. The design introduces custom built-ins, enhanced organization, updated fixtures, and durable materials while replacing dated finishes with a cleaner, more contemporary look. The project also reimagines underutilized spaces to better support the homeowners’ daily routines.
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This full first-floor renovation transformed a family home in Northwest Indiana, originally built in the early 2000s, into a personalized, highly functional space that better reflects the lifestyle and taste of its four residents. The remodel included the kitchen, living room, a reimagined dining room turned sitting room, office, mudroom, and laundry room.
The clients’ main objective was to move beyond dated, builder-grade finishes and create a home that felt curated, warm, and distinctive—infused with layered textures, custom details, and a sense of ease. The living room posed the biggest design challenge, with awkward furniture placement due to two structural columns. We used these features to anchor a revised layout, integrating custom built-ins for storage and balance, and adding mixed metals and refined textures for visual depth.
A former dining room was transformed into a moody sitting room—contrasting the neutral palette used throughout the rest of the main floor, while still complementing it. The mudroom was reworked from a tight, underutilized space into a practical, polished drop zone with custom cabinetry and stylish utility.
Throughout the renovation, our team focused on improving flow, enhancing functionality, and blending each room’s unique character into a cohesive, elevated whole—resulting in a home that’s as livable as it is beautifully tailored.

This long-time family home was ready for a thoughtful evolution. Originally built years ago, the homeowners came to us seeking a comprehensive renovation that better reflected how they live today — entertaining frequently, welcoming their grown children home for holidays and summers, and desiring spaces that feel elevated, functional, and deeply personal. What began as a kitchen and bath update ultimately became a whole-home transformation, touching every floor — from the main living level to the bedroom floor and even the attic.
On the first floor, we completed a full gut renovation and thoughtful reconfiguration of the layout. Walls were removed — including a former pantry and powder room — to dramatically improve sightlines and flow between the kitchen and living room. The kitchen footprint was expanded to accommodate a generously sized island designed for gathering. A two-tone cabinetry palette establishes subtle zoning: Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue anchors the island and refrigerator surround, while White Tie brightens the perimeter cabinetry. Paneled appliances conceal the dishwasher and trash, while a stainless refrigerator adds balance and contrast. Antique brass hardware and oversized statement pendants layer in warmth and charm. Inside the cabinetry, custom storage solutions — from built-in spice racks and pull-out trays to a dedicated Tupperware drawer with lid dividers — ensure everything has its place.
The former dining room was reimagined as a full-service butler’s pantry, complete with a second prep sink, paneled beverage drawers, an ice maker, glass display cabinetry, and abundant storage. Two built-in desks and a bench create a flexible zone for puzzles, homework, or casual seating. By relocating coffee and cocktail service to this dedicated space, the main kitchen remains uncluttered — even during large gatherings.
The powder room was thoughtfully relocated to support the new layout and transformed into a jewel-box moment for guests. Schumacher’s Romantic Bosphorus mural wallpaper creates a hand-painted, immersive experience. A custom console vanity with a Carrara marble top and backsplash pairs beautifully with an antique brass wall-mounted faucet, layered with warm lighting and brass finishes for an unforgettable impression.
Beyond the kitchen, we opened up the living room and installed a custom bi-fold door system that seamlessly connects the interior to the screened-in porch, enhancing indoor-outdoor living. A bespoke music room was also created on the main level, complete with integrated soundproofing and custom cabinetry designed to house instruments, sheet music, a piano, and a concealed sound system — allowing the family’s love of music to be fully supported without visual clutter. Throughout the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished, and new decorative lighting and upgraded recessed lighting were installed to elevate both ambiance and functionality.
On the bedroom floor, every space received a refresh. Each bedroom was thoughtfully updated with custom wallpaper and wall coverings, while the shared bathroom was fully renovated to incorporate a highly functional laundry area. Durable finishes, smart storage solutions, and a clean layout ensure it works seamlessly for adult children when home while still serving daily needs year-round.
The primary bathroom was transformed into a serene retreat designed for daily restoration. A soft neutral palette and layered materials create a calming environment, while half of the space functions as a wet room where the tub and shower share one expansive area. Porcelain tile with a Calacatta marble look delivers timeless elegance without the maintenance of natural stone. Champagne Bronze fixtures complement natural cherry cabinetry — a nod to the homeowner’s passion for woodworking — and thoughtful recessed niches provide clean, hidden storage.
Even the attic was elevated to support modern living. Previously underutilized, the space was upgraded to serve as a dedicated home office for the homeowner, who works there daily. Improved lighting, finishes, and function transformed it into a productive and comfortable retreat tucked away from the main living areas.
Integrated technology plays a key role throughout the home. A Control4 smart home automation system was implemented to seamlessly manage sound, lighting, and comfort. Custom blinds, drapery, and upholstery were carefully coordinated and fabricated to complement each space, adding softness and cohesion from room to room.
This project represents more than a renovation — it is a full reimagining of how the home supports gathering, creativity, comfort, and daily life. Every floor was thoughtfully considered. Every space was elevated. And the result is a sophisticated yet welcoming home designed to serve this family beautifully for years to come.

Inspired by the ambiance of a whiskey speakeasy, this Lenexa, Kansas basement remodel was designed for homeowners who love to entertain. The finished basement features a color-drenched bar with deep blue cabinetry and matching tile, panel-ready refrigeration, a dishwasher drawer, and floating shelves with integrated LED lighting to display a curated whiskey collection.
To enhance entertaining, a new door was added to connect the basement directly to the screened-in porch, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow for gatherings. Thoughtfully planned gathering spaces allow guests to move comfortably between the bar, lounge, and outdoor areas. Designed shortly after the homeowners moved into the property, this basement renovation transformed an underutilized lower level into a welcoming destination for hosting friends and family.

Everything is bigger in Texas, and this family’s over-sized and under-utilized mudroom was no exception, but they longed for this space to make more sense for their lifestyle and home. Designer Elizabeth Tranberg came to the rescue reinventing the space to hold both the coats and bags as well as the washing and the drying of them. Artwork that was passed down through the family was used as inspiration for the space, with Elizabeth utilizing Wood-Mode’s Edgemont Recessed door style with custom finish Driftwood on Plain Sawn White Oak, and Prairie Green to allow the art to stand out. Cabinets and pull out draws store everything from rain boots to booting up devices with a docking station drawer. And a statement slat wall constructed out of PLG panels with hooks for coats adds floating shelves above to highlight family heirlooms, bringing the life and style to the space.
Designed by Elizabeth Tranberg
The Kitchen Source

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

This basement renovation in Foxcroft was designed in partnership with Habitude Interiors to create a comfortable and highly functional extension of the home. The goal of the project was to transform the lower level into a warm, inviting living space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the house while adding practical everyday functionality.
The renovation included a custom bathroom, home bar, living room, bedroom, dining space, mudroom, updated staircase, and a thoughtfully designed under-stair built-in nook. Each area was carefully planned to maximize storage, improve flow, and create a cohesive design aesthetic throughout the basement.
By combining timeless finishes, custom millwork, and layered textures, this once underutilized basement was transformed into a beautifully finished living environment perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and hosting guests.

The detailed plans for this bathroom can be purchased here: https://www.changeyourbathroom.com/shop/felicitous-flora-bathroom-plans/
The original layout of this bathroom underutilized the spacious floor plan and had an entryway out into the living room as well as a poorly placed entry between the toilet and the shower into the master suite. The new floor plan offered more privacy for the water closet and cozier area for the round tub. A more spacious shower was created by shrinking the floor plan - by bringing the wall of the former living room entry into the bathroom it created a deeper shower space and the additional depth behind the wall offered deep towel storage. A living plant wall thrives and enjoys the humidity each time the shower is used. An oak wood wall gives a natural ambiance for a relaxing, nature inspired bathroom experience.

MMI Design was hired to assist our client with with an extensive kitchen, living room, and dining remodel. The original floor plan was overly compartmentalized and the kitchen may have been the tiniest kitchen on the planet! By taking out a wall which separated the spaces and stealing square footage from the under-utilized dining room, MMI was able to transform the space into a light, bright and open floor plan. The new kitchen has room for multiple cooks with all the bells and whistles of modern day kitchens, and the living spaces are large enough to entertain friends and family. We are especially proud of this project, as we believe it is not only beautiful but also transformative in terms of the new livability of the spaces.

The original kitchen felt undersized for a 4,500-square-foot home, with adjacent formal spaces left unused and disconnected from daily life. The homeowners envisioned a larger, more welcoming kitchen that could better support cooking, entertaining, and gathering.
The renovation reworked the layout by incorporating the underutilized sitting room, allowing the kitchen to expand and open directly to the formal dining area. This created a more spacious and highly functional flow between spaces. A 10-foot walnut-stained island anchors the kitchen, complemented by a matching glass-front curio cabinet, chef-grade appliances, and dual sinks designed to support multiple cooks. A large window above the sink brings in natural light and frames views of the backyard, while a dedicated scullery provides additional pantry storage and prep space, keeping the main kitchen organized.
The result is a kitchen that feels open, intentional, and well-suited for both everyday living and entertaining.

Two phases completed in 2020 & 2021 included kitchen and primary bath remodels. Bright, light, fresh and simple describe these beautiful spaces fit just for our clients.
The primary bath was a fun project to complete. A few must haves for this space were a place to incorporate the Peloton, more functional storage and a welcoming showering/bathing area.
The space was primarily left in the same configuration, but we were able to make it much more welcoming and efficient. The walk in shower has a small bench for storing large bottles and works as a perch for shaving legs. The entrance is doorless and allows for a nice open experience + the pebbled shower floor. The freestanding tub took the place of a huge built in tub deck creating a prefect space for Peleton next to the vanity. The vanity was freshened up with equal spacing for the dual sinks, a custom corner cabinet to house supplies and a charging station for sonicares and shaver. Lastly, the corner by the closet door was underutilized and we placed a storage chest w/ quartz countertop there.
The overall space included freshening up the paint/millwork in the primary bedroom.
Serving communities in: Clyde Hill, Medina, Beaux Arts, Juanita, Woodinville, Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue, Sammamish, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Mill Creek

Only a few minutes from the project to the Right (Another Minnetonka Finished Basement) this space was just as cluttered, dark, and underutilized.
Done in tandem with Landmark Remodeling, this space had a specific aesthetic: to be warm, with stained cabinetry, a gas fireplace, and a wet bar.
They also have a musically inclined son who needed a place for his drums and piano. We had ample space to accommodate everything they wanted.
We decided to move the existing laundry to another location, which allowed for a true bar space and two-fold, a dedicated laundry room with folding counter and utility closets.
The existing bathroom was one of the scariest we've seen, but we knew we could save it.
Overall the space was a huge transformation!
Photographer- Height Advantages

This finished basement renovation in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania was designed to transform an underutilized lower level into a spacious and highly functional living area for relaxation, entertaining, and everyday family use. Completed by Craftsworth Construction, this Delaware County basement remodel creates a bright, open layout that adds significant livable square footage while maintaining a clean and timeless design.
The newly finished basement features a large open entertainment space anchored by custom built-in cabinetry and shelving surrounding a wall-mounted media center. This built-in storage solution keeps the space organized while creating a natural focal point for movie nights, sports viewing, and family gatherings.
Throughout the basement, luxury vinyl plank flooring was selected for its durability, warmth, and moisture resistance—an ideal flooring solution for finished basement spaces. The neutral wood tones help brighten the lower level while complementing the clean white trim, columns, and millwork used throughout the design.
A custom basement wet bar with blue cabinetry adds both style and function to the entertainment area. The bar includes quartz countertops, glass-front beverage refrigerators, a bar sink, and floating wood shelves that provide additional storage and display space. This feature makes the basement perfect for hosting guests, game days, or casual family gatherings.
Recessed LED lighting was installed across the entire ceiling to ensure the basement feels bright and inviting despite being below grade. Multiple zones were created within the open floor plan to accommodate a variety of uses, including a lounge area, entertainment space, and additional flexible living areas.
The finished result is a modern, fully finished basement that feels like a natural extension of the home’s main living areas, providing a comfortable space for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday living.
This project was completed by Craftsworth Construction, a basement finishing and remodeling contractor serving Newtown Square, Delaware County, West Chester, and homeowners throughout Chester County and the greater Philadelphia Main Line area.

Living Room in Old Paint Drive | Room Type:
Entry / Game Room |
Project Name:
Old Paint Trail |
Key Feature:
A redesigned front entry game room that serves as a welcoming focal point immediately visible when entering the home.
Challenge:
The home featured beautiful desert views but felt dark and underutilized. The front space also needed a clear purpose while making a strong first impression since it is the first area seen upon entering the home.
Solution:
The space was lightened up and transformed into a functional game room that feels both visually inviting and practical for the family. The redesign created a beautiful focal area that enhances the home’s entry experience.
Timeline:
Completed in 2018

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Before: The backyard features an aging red paver patio with significant grass and weeds growing throughout the joints, creating an uneven and dated appearance. A small fire pit sits off to the side, while the existing deck provides access to the home. The space has good size and potential but lacks definition, functional entertaining areas, and cohesive landscaping, making it feel underutilized despite the large backyard.

Near Downtown Denver, this hayloft above a carriage house, now garage, was an underutilized storage space. Our client wanted to turn it into an office for her at home business. On a fairly tight budget we were able to clean it up. In the process we discovered the beautiful framing of the roof structure that we decided to highlight. The whole team was thrilled with the result.

This project is an incredible transformation and the perfect example of successful style mixing! This client, and now a good friend of TVL (as they all become), is a wonderfully eclectic and adventurous one with immense interest in texture play, pops of color, and unique applications. Our scope in this home included a full kitchen renovation, main level powder room renovation, and a master bathroom overhaul. Taking just over a year to complete from the first design phases to final photos, this project was so insanely fun and packs an amazing amount of fun details and lively surprises. The original kitchen was large and fairly functional. However, the cabinetry was dated, the lighting was inefficient and frankly ugly, and the space was lacking personality in general. Our client desired maximized storage and a more personalized aesthetic. The existing cabinets were short and left the nice height of the space under-utilized. We integrated new gray shaker cabinets from Waypoint Living Spaces and ran them to the ceiling to really exaggerate the height of the space and to maximize usable storage as much as possible. The upper cabinets are glass and lit from within, offering display space or functional storage as the client needs. The central feature of this space is the large cobalt blue range from Viking as well as the custom made reclaimed wood range hood floating above. The backsplash along this entire wall is vertical slab of marble look quartz from Pental Surfaces. This matches the expanse of the same countertop that wraps the room. Flanking the range, we installed cobalt blue lantern penny tile from Merola Tile for a playful texture that adds visual interest and class to the entire room. We upgraded the lighting in the ceiling, under the cabinets, and within cabinets--we also installed accent sconces over each window on the sink wall to create cozy and functional illumination. The deep, textured front Whitehaven apron sink is a dramatic nod to the farmhouse aesthetic from KOHLER, and it's paired with the bold and industrial inspired Tournant faucet, also from Kohler. We finalized this space with other gorgeous appliances, a super sexy dining table and chair set from Room & Board, the Paxton dining light from Pottery Barn and a small bar area and pantry on the far end of the space. In the small powder room on the main level, we converted a drab builder-grade space into a super cute, rustic-inspired washroom. We utilized the Bonner vanity from Signature Hardware and paired this with the cute Ashfield faucet from Pfister. The most unique statements in this room include the water-drop light over the vanity from Shades Of Light, the copper-look porcelain floor tile from Pental Surfaces and the gorgeous Cashmere colored Tresham toilet from Kohler. Up in the master bathroom, elegance abounds. Using the same footprint, we upgraded everything in this space to reflect the client's desire for a more bright, patterned and pretty space. Starting at the entry, we installed a custom reclaimed plank barn door with bold large format hardware from Rustica Hardware. In the bathroom, the custom slate blue vanity from Tharp Cabinet Company is an eye catching statement piece. This is paired with gorgeous hardware from Amerock, vessel sinks from Kohler, and Purist faucets also from Kohler. We replaced the old built-in bathtub with a new freestanding soaker from Signature Hardware. The floor tile is a bold, graphic porcelain tile with a classic color scheme. The shower was upgraded with new tile and fixtures throughout: new clear glass, gorgeous distressed subway tile from the Castle line from TileBar, and a sophisticated shower panel from Vigo. We finalized the space with a small crystal chandelier and soft gray paint. This project is a stunning conversion and we are so thrilled that our client can enjoy these personalized spaces for years to come. Special thanks to the amazing Ian Burks of Burks Wurks Construction for bringing this to life!
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