Re-Imagined: Updating a Lanier Heights Co-op

• January 8, 2013

by Lori Steenhoek

In Re-imagined this week, Lori Steenhoek helps re-envision a garden-style co-op in Lanier Heights (soon to be owned by UrbanTurf's very own publisher). The ground-floor unit has ample space and a nice view into a central courtyard, but needs a few updates to feel more modern and livable. Here are a few before-and-after images that show some of the things Lori would change or update.

Currently: Narrow and Dated

Re-imagined: Modern, with More Open Space

The Kitchen

The kitchen feels small and cramped, but by knocking out the left-side wall (not load bearing so doable) to create a counter that opens into the living area, the room opens up. The addition of cabinetry with glass doors on the left will allow for additional storage space while still letting light into the room. Weʼd replace the current cabinetry, appliances, and flooring, and add a tiled backsplash for more texture.

Currently: Small and Enclosed

Re-imagined: Open to the Kitchen

The Living Room

By removing the shared kitchen wall, the living room feels much more spacious. Weʼve added a counter space with stools for extra seating and additional cabinetry with glass doors above the counter. New floors and lighting fixtures are added enhancements to the space.

Currently: Spacious but Disorganized Layout

Re-imagined: A Cozy Master Bed

The Bedroom

The bedroom is in pretty decent shape and could simply use some new wood floors and a coat of paint. Weʼd re-arrange the layout to place the bed in the bay window in order to maximize floor space. Finally, weʼd remove the old ceiling fan with overhead lighting in favor of some pendants placed by the bed.

Currently: Dated Looking

Re-imagined: A Simple Dining Area

The Entry/Foyer

The entry area is somewhat narrow, but still allows for a simple dining area just off the kitchen. By updating the floors to a richer wood and repainting the walls and doors, the space can be brightened up. Weʼd also add a new, modern overhead light above the seating area. Finally, removing the bulky buffet/cabinet and replacing it with a more moderately proportioned bench makes the space feel easier to walk into.

Lori Steenhoek is a Digital Artist with over seven years of experience creating architectural renderings. She is the founder of Capital Pixel, a DC-based rendering company, and is currently finishing her Masters thesis in Animation and Visual Effects. She can be reached at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Do you know of a home that needs some re-imagining? If so, drop us a line at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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This article originally published at http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/re-imagined_updating_a_lanier_heights_coop/6491