An Amazing Farmhouse Makeover with Eco-Friendly Updates
Kritsada
Built in the late 1980s, this Vermont house was burdened by drafts and energy-guzzling appliances. The only "green" was growing on the surrounding 180 acres of countryside. To reach the green expectations of its homeowners, the farmhouse underwent a three-phase renovation while keeping its original footprint. This created a subtle exterior transformation. New galvanized metal roofing in two colors and a cool color palette freshen the look.
Airtight insulation, efficient geothermal heating and cooling, and the new metal roofing altered the structure. Additions of efficient metal-clad windows and insulated doors had equal influence on the home's style.
Mudroom Makeover
Kritsada
Just inside the front door, the mudroom's mix of open shelving and pullouts manages the gear and mess that accompany country living. Family and guests have a bench to sit on while lacing up their shoes. Throw pillows keep the sunny seat a welcoming scene. Hooks opposite of the bench hold coats, hats, and bags for grab-and-go storage. Along with the patterned tile on the floor, a fresh blue on the walls complements pine accents and white woodwork.
Before: Burning Energy
Kritsada
The home's cozy fireplace was operational but inefficient. With a busy brick surround, the large dark fireplace looked out of place among traditional built-ins and a sea of white. The original white pine floors also posed a problem to the homeowners, who wished for concrete flooring in their modern home.
After: Statement Piece
Kritsada
The living room's wood-burning firebox is now surrounded by concrete and raw steel, making it a visually stunning and energy-efficient unit. Open shelving on both sides provides functional firewood storage and sleek decor display.
In lieu of the homeowners' initial desire for concrete floors, a decorative painter gave the original floors a faux-concrete finish that appears distressed with age. The silvery floors flow throughout the main level, establishing continuity in the open plan.
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Before: Off Limits
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A cumbersome peninsula once cut off the kitchen from the rest of the living space. Wood cabinets blended with flooring of a similar shade, making the room fall flat. Traditional molding and trimwork didn't align with the homeowners' vision of a modern home design.
After: Clean Eating
Kritsada
The peninsula was knocked out, leaving room for an industrial island/table with wheels for mobility. Open shelving replaced glass-front upper cabinets for a sleek, modern look, and new white base cabinetry reflects natural light throughout the room.
In addition, new steel beams were added to widened doorways for industrial presence. A silver paint finish gives the beams dimension.
Energy Conservation in Your Home
Dressed to Dine
Kritsada
New efficient metal-clad windows in the dining room show off some of the home's best views. To define the space in the open floor plan, the ceiling's drywall was left intact. When lit, the geometric light fixture casts artistic patterns on the walls and ceiling. Mixed seating in the same hue comes together for a coordinating look.
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Open Storage
Kritsada
The pantry houses both the oven and the refrigerator, as well as a deep sink, so easy access is a must. Once separated from the kitchen by a door, the room felt like just that—another room—rather than a part of the kitchen. Now the spaces flow together. Sliding wire-front doors on open shelving are no-fuss.
Before: Tight Quarters
Kritsada
An ill-placed door left only one possible spot for the bed. Cramped and looking for a solution, the homeowners had to get creative.
After: Open Plan
Kritsada
Opening the room to the bathroom created welcome flow. An architectural wall, reminiscent of the layering of the living room fireplace wall, provides a dramatic backdrop for the bed and hides essential plumbing. White walls and neutral hues allow the spaces to merge.
Behind the wall sits a contemporary floating vanity with raw-edge cherry countertops that pay homage to the home's country roots.
Fetching Finishes
Kritsada
Behind the primary bedroom wall sits a contemporary floating vanity. An egg-shape sink and pendant lights in a similar shape leave no doubt of the room's modern aesthetic, while the raw-edge cherry countertops pay homage to the home's country roots
Lush Life
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A grand walk-in shower makes a distant memory of the former claw-foot tub and cramped shower stall. The tiled walk-in has clean lines uncluttered by a traditional drain or a door. Instead, a linear drain draws water to the base of the shower wall. A heated bench adds ultimate luxury.
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Before: Dated Guest Bath
Kritsada
A former attic storage room offered the promise of new life as a guest bath. The surrounding space at the top of the stairs, previously unused, would become a loft play area.
After: Spa Day
Kritsada
Vertical wood panels add interest and definition to otherwise bland walls. New lighting flanking the upgraded vanity looks like it was pulled straight from an old farmhouse. Adjustable cords for pendant lights handle the angled ceiling with grace. A wood beam shelf handles accent pieces with style.
Red-Hot Tub
Kritsada
New dormers in the upstairs bathroom expanded headroom so the space could accommodate a shower and a tub. A coat of red paint and custom wood feet repurposed the former primary bathroom claw-foot tub. The window ledge doubles as storage for shampoo and soap bottles. Salvaged pine unifies the design, adds warmth, and suggests farmhouse style.
