When we first stepped into this 3,000+ sq. ft. home in Garner, NC, it was a trip back to the 1980s. Dark wood accents dominated the interior, structural issues were evident, and quirky features like three toilets in the master bedroom and a washer and dryer awkwardly placed in the back foyer made the home feel anything but cohesive. However, with its one-acre lot, expansive square footage, and a detached garage with a bonus room, this house had undeniable potential.
We envisioned renovating this dated and unusual property into a stunning, functional, and family-friendly retreat. By reimagining every corner, fixing foundational issues, and prioritizing thoughtful design, we transformed this home into a show-stopping masterpiece.
1. Tackling the Quirks: From Strange to Sensational
Some of the home’s original features were perplexing, but we saw them as opportunities for innovation:
- Master Bathroom Reconfiguration: The master suite’s three toilets (yes, three!) were removed and replaced with a luxurious spa-like bathroom featuring a double vanity, soaking tub, and walk-in shower. The remaining space was used to create an expansive walk-in closet with features like drawer section, cubbies, and hanging racks.
- Sunroom Makeover: The sunroom’s low 7-foot ceiling and step-down entry posed challenges, but we saw potential. By raising the ceiling and leveling the floor, we turned this once-awkward space into a bright, airy kitchen—the centerpiece of the home.
- Back Foyer Update: The washer and dryer, originally in the middle of the back foyer, were relocated to a dedicated laundry room, freeing up valuable space to create a beautiful mudroom, which we accented with shiplap and cubbies for shoe storage.
- Upstairs Bedrooms: The upstairs originally had a bonus room and one bedroom with many strange closets along the way. Our strength is in re-imaging layouts and creating functional spaces, so we did. We turned that dated bonus room into a large bedroom by adding a closet while providing the flexibility of keeping it as a bonus room. We removed walls and closets to create a hallway that provided an entrance to the other two bedrooms. In the old awkward closet area, we saw an opportunity to create two workstations with built in/foldable desks. This once awkward space now turned into a showstopper for the second level.
2. Opening Up the Main Floor
The original layout of the main level felt closed-off and dark, with unnecessary walls and poorly defined spaces. To modernize the home and create a family-friendly atmosphere, we embraced an open-concept design.
- Wall Removal: We eliminated the wall that once separated the living room from the sunroom and relocated the kitchen to the old sunroom space. This way, the kitchen was the focal point of the home with beautiful expansive windows that looked into the backyard. I love it when light is able to flow through a home. It creates a peaceful ambiance that is priceless.
- Relocated Kitchen: Moving the kitchen into the former sunroom allowed us to design a massive chef’s kitchen with:
- A large central island for prep work and family gatherings.
- Custom cabinetry with soft-close features and abundant storage.
- High-end stainless-steel appliances and a stunning backsplash for a contemporary touch.
- A breakfast nook with views of the lush backyard.
- What did we do with the old kitchen space? You may be wondering what we did with that now unused space? Well, we turned it into a formal dining room. We added French doors, cabinet storage with wine cooler perfect for entertaining. We really love how re-arranging the layout, gave us a beautiful flow that allowed us to showcase every room for what they were.
- Where is the old dining room now? Glad you asked! We turned the old small formal dining room into a home office. We added an accent wall and painted Iron Ore. We also incorporated a beautiful bohemian yet elegant flight fixture to complete the Iron Ore color. Because the home office was so close to the front door, we believe having a show stopper room creates an amazing first impression, inviting your guests to imagine what the rest of the home looks like. I am sure they wont be disappointed!
3. Second-Level Magic
The second floor of the home was an odd maze of unnecessary doors and poorly used spaces. We transformed it into a functional and memorable area.
- Custom Bedrooms: We redesigned each bedroom to maximize space, light, and storage, ensuring they felt fresh and inviting.
- A Stunning Family Library: By removing walls and repurposing unused space, we ended up with a closet that was too large to be a linen closet, yet too small to be a bedroom. We decided to use it as a home library. We added book shelves, a light, and cozy blankets and pillows, perfect for kiddos to rest and read.
- Modern Bathrooms: The upstairs bathrooms was also fully renovated with updated fixtures, sleek tile, and thoughtful layout.
4. Bonus Spaces: The Detached Garage
The detached garage offered an exciting opportunity for creating something unique. We finished the garage by adding drywall to the previously bear walls and ceiling. Above the garage, we refreshed the large, finished bonus room, turning it into a multi-purpose retreat.
- Yoga or Wellness Studio: With calming paint tones, new carpet, and plenty of light, it’s perfect for yoga or meditation.
- Teen Hangout: Equipped with a window AC unit, comfy seating, and smart tech, it’s a dream space for teenagers to relax with friends.
- Flex Room: It can easily adapt to fit a home office, gym, or guest space. Perhaps in the future it could be in-law suite.
5. Outdoor Living for Large Families
Sitting on an acre of land, this property had so much outdoor potential. We gave the exterior the attention it deserved:
- Deck and Patio: A large deck with pretty deck lighting overlooks the yard, making it ideal for family barbecues or entertaining.
- Landscaping: Fresh landscaping, including lush grass and low-maintenance plants, enhanced the home’s curb appeal and usability.
- Play and Relaxation Areas: Plenty of space for kids to play while adults unwind in the serene backyard retreat.
6. Fixing What Was Broken
No renovation is complete without addressing the essentials. Under the supervision of a structural engineer, we fixed foundational issues. As licensed and insured General Contractor, we updated the plumbing and electrical systems, and added energy-efficient insulation where before there was none. These behind-the-scenes upgrades ensured the home was as functional as it was beautiful.
7. The Final Reveal
The result was a stunning, modernized home curated for large families or multigenerational living. Every inch of this house now works seamlessly together, from the bright and open main floor to the cozy upstairs and the flexible bonus space above the garage.
Why Hykal Homes?
This Garner renovation is a testament to what’s possible when you combine creative vision with thoughtful craftsmanship. At Hykal Homes, we specialize in seeing potential where others see problems, creating unforgettable spaces tailored to your needs.
If you’re ready to turn your dated home into a dream home, contact us today for a FREE consultation for Home Remodeling. Let’s create something special together!