facebook pixel Skip to main content
Case Study

Main-Level Renovation Transforms a 1950s Home into an Open, Modern Family Space

By December 30, 2025No Comments5 min read
After image of living space

Background

This main-level renovation transformed a dated 1950s single-story home into a bright, open, and functional living space tailored to a growing family. The original layout featured small, compartmentalized rooms that limited natural light, restricted flow, and made entertaining difficult.

The homeowners wanted to modernize their home while improving everyday livability. With plans to add a second story, the first-floor renovation needed to stand on its own while seamlessly supporting future expansion. Tabor Design Build was brought in to reimagine the main level with a focus on openness, functionality, and timeless design.

Client Requirements

The homeowners approached the project with a clear vision for how they wanted to live in their home. Their primary goals included:

  • Creating an open-concept main level for entertaining and family gatherings

  • Designing a highly functional, modern kitchen suited for frequent cooking and baking

  • Improving circulation and sightlines between kitchen, dining, and living spaces

  • Repurposing underutilized rooms to better support daily life

  • Incorporating custom storage solutions to reduce clutter

  • Selecting durable, high-quality materials with a timeless aesthetic

The design also needed to accommodate the family’s specific lifestyle needs while increasing comfort and long-term usability.

before spaces combined to create a large kitchen

Design Process

Our design team began by studying the existing floor plan to identify structural and spatial barriers that disrupted flow. The goal was to open the space without losing definition between key living zones.

Through collaborative design sessions, we focused on:

  • Removing walls that divided the kitchen and dining room

  • Establishing clear zones for cooking, dining, relaxing, and entertaining

  • Maximizing natural light throughout the main level

  • Integrating storage where it would be most effective

  • Balancing modern design elements with warmth and comfort

Every decision was guided by how the homeowners would use the space on a daily basis — ensuring the finished design felt intuitive, inviting, and purposeful.

Key Transformations

A Kitchen Designed for Cooking, Baking, and Entertaining

The original kitchen and dining room were too small to accommodate the family’s needs. By combining the two spaces, we created a spacious, open kitchen that now serves as the heart of the home.

Key features include:

  • A custom kosher kitchen layout with separate prep and storage zones

  • Two self-cleaning GE convection ovens to support frequent baking

  • A spacious pantry cabinet for organized storage

  • Calacatta quartz countertops for a clean, elevated look

  • Metro Woodworking Cape Verde cabinetry with modern lines

  • A herringbone tile backsplash with subtle accent colors

  • Statement pendant lighting to enhance warmth and ambiance

This kitchen now functions beautifully for everyday meals and large gatherings alike.

Dining Space Created from a Former Back Porch

The enclosed back porch was previously disconnected from the rest of the home. We opened this space to the kitchen and transformed it into a stylish dining area designed for entertaining.

Highlights include:

  • A custom built-in hutch with quartz countertop

  • Mid-century modern globe chandelier as a focal point

  • Seamless integration with the kitchen and living spaces

The new dining room improves flow and provides a welcoming place for family meals and celebrations.

before and after spaces removed fireplace

Living Room Enhancements for Entertaining

The homeowners requested removal of an unused fireplace that disrupted the room’s layout. We enclosed the firebox with matching stone and replaced the raised hearth with flooring that blends seamlessly into the space.

A custom dry bar was added near the entry to enhance entertaining and provide elegant storage for wine and spirits — creating a welcoming first impression for guests.

bedrooms were transformed into a spacious family room

From Bedrooms to a Flexible Family Room

Two original bedrooms were combined to create a spacious family room designed for movie nights, game nights, and everyday relaxation. The transformation allowed the family to enjoy a dedicated gathering space without compromising flow or openness.

Adding Function with a Mudroom and Powder Room

With a new second-story addition, the main-level full bathroom was no longer necessary. We converted it into a mudroom and powder room, improving daily organization and convenience.

Features include:

  • Built-in storage and bench seating near the front entry

  • A powder room with pedestal sink, lighted mirror, and playful wallpaper

This thoughtful reconfiguration added function while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic.

Project Highlights

  • Open-concept main-level renovation

  • Custom kosher kitchen with separate storage zones

  • Calacatta quartz countertops and modern cabinetry

  • Herringbone backsplash with accent colors

  • Dual GE self-cleaning convection ovens and induction appliances

  • Former back porch converted into dining room

  • Fireplace removal with seamless stone integration

  • Custom dry bar for entertaining

  • Bedrooms transformed into a family room

  • Full bath converted into mudroom and powder room

  • Durable LVT flooring and upgraded lighting throughout

Final Result

This main-level renovation transformed a once-cramped 1950s home into a modern, functional, and inviting living space designed for real life. The new layout supports connection, enhances flow, and reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle — providing a home that feels both elevated and comfortable for years to come.

Let’s Talk!