A Functional and Serene Home Transformation
Kate had lived in her Lansing home for years, purchased from the original owners, and took pride in maintaining it. While the exterior and main living areas were well cared for, the main floor bathroom and second floor felt underused and inefficient. The bathroom was cramped with a poorly planned shower and outlet placement, while the upstairs had sloped ceilings that made the space difficult to use.
Kate and her husband Brent wanted functional, beautiful spaces that worked for their lifestyle. Their vision? A main floor bathroom that was bright, practical, and whimsical, and a second-floor retreat that was serene, organized, and timeless—all while preserving the home’s character.
The remodel started with the main floor bathroom, allowing their Advisor, Sara Majeske, and the production team to focus on the simpler space first. Kate and Brent worked closely with the design team on layout, materials, and finishes. Neutral tiles paired with a colorful stone niche, custom vanities, and strategic outlet placement maximized both aesthetics and functionality.
Upstairs, the team completely reimagined the second floor, removing the old roof and rebuilding the entire top level. They turned the challenge of short, sloped ceilings into an opportunity to add character, incorporating built-in cabinets, a cozy reading nook, and bench seating.
Kate and Brent collaborated extensively with the team, making thoughtful decisions that balanced style and practicality, ensuring each space suited their lifestyle while improving the home’s overall flow. A walk-in shower with hand-painted tiles and a customized niche was bathed in natural light from the new window, creating the bright, restorative retreat they had envisioned.
Construction began with careful protection of the home using Zipwalls and floor coverings. The main floor bathroom was completed first, then the second floor underwent a partial roof removal and adjustments to improve headroom, install built-ins, and create a cohesive layout. Unexpected issues, like a non-water-tight glass block window, were resolved with tile replacements, and a mini-split system was added to regulate upstairs temperatures.
The results speak for themselves: the main floor bathroom became a bright, functional, and visually engaging space, while the second floor transformed from unused storage into a peaceful retreat with functional built-ins and cozy elements. Kate and Brent now enjoy more usable space, improved comfort, and a home that reflects their personality and lifestyle, all without disrupting their daily routines.
