Remodeling Month: Two Sisters’ Heart and Soul Renovation
This remodeling project took us to Palos Verdes Estates, California to help two sisters, Mary and Ann Steiner reimagine and transform their beloved childhood home. This house became the centerpiece for their future after the passing of their parents. It was important to us that we started this renovation with the intent to preserve the memories and sentimental value of the home, especially because this is where Mary and Ann will eventually be living out their golden years together.
We wanted to create a space for them that felt like the home they knew but invited a new breath in the same instance. They used the term “aging-in-place” for their plans, but after meeting them we made the change to “thriving-in-place.” It seemed more fitting given the beautiful and vibrant energy these ladies possess.
The home’s original design boasted a mid-century modern flair, a style the sisters deeply appreciated and wanted to preserve. When redesigning the space, we kept key elements like the Palos Verdes stone fireplace, warm wood paneling, and classic tongue & groove ceilings by simply refreshing and accenting them with timeless furniture pieces and subtle pops of color. This created an exciting living space where Mary and Ann could enjoy time with family and friends.
One piece in particular that was emphasized by the sisters to us was an organ their mother used to play. We agreed that we couldn’t reconfigure the space without it, so we did so and it’s beautiful. From there we reconfigured the home to include two ensuite bathrooms, providing Mary and Ann the privacy they need. With this in mind, we designed the family room as an inviting space for them to come together and do what they enjoy most, movie nights!
The kitchen has been completely opened up to invite as much natural light as possible. At the same time, the previously outdoor area was redesigned to be a charming office, featuring a pair of the home’s original cozy chairs that were a perfect fit.
When addressing the windows, we knew that it was important to keep that ocean view in Ann’s room. The configuration of the large windows also invites tons of natural light. This touch was important because we wanted to make the house feel alive during the day.
This remodeling project became more than a job for us, it was a labor of love. Mary and Ann have become like family, sharing in our lives as much as we have shared in theirs. From racing together, and running a half marathon to traveling with us to Hawaii, the bonds we’ve formed now extend beyond the walls of their beautifully remodeled home.
In every corner of their home, there lies a story of two sisters, a lifetime of memories, and a future filled with love. It has been an honor to help Mary and Ann create a space where they can continue to thrive, together.
