Making creative changes to a home can result in uplifting the demeanor of its occupants by surrounding them with beauty and comfort.
Interior design succeeds when it takes a home from unsuitable to uplifted. Living in a beautiful environment inspires the soul. It brings me great joy to see a client’s pleasure upon experiencing the changes in their home. One such home currently in transformation is a twenty-year-old Mediterranean home in Winter Park. While the exterior is classic and elegant, the interior got a bit off track. Not only was the house in need of some updating, but some odd layouts needed an overhaul, namely the kitchen. As you can see below (or can’t see) the kitchen is separated from the family room and consequently missing out on the view to the lovely pool area, one of the house’s best assets. The first task was to remove the beams and dark ebony and zebra wood cabinetry. My client is a sensual person enjoying beautiful objects, good food, and well-designed (preferably symmetrical) rooms. This space daily assaulted her senses.
Removing interior details that did not suit a Mediterranean-styled house was step number one.
A very busy travertine floor, zebra wood, dark black, and orange-toned beams, more suited to an A-frame cabin, topped the list of undesirables.

A majestic palm is seen from the sliding glass door reminding one that this house is indeed Mediterranean in style, despite the interior.

The overly ornate fireplace breathed dark smoke into the room.

Bye bye beams.
Driscoll Homes made the day when they demolished the beams.
Improving the kitchen layout enhances conversation while the high-end finishes makes one want to linger in the arresting space.

The zebra wood wall of cabinetry was removed revealing the kitchen.
Demolition revealed that the ceiling could be raised another six feet or so.
A graceful hood defines the kitchen.
Previously, no one wanted to spend time in the gathering room as it was separate from the kitchen. Now my client can cook while her children watch television or do their homework in their study, seen through the doorway on the right.

An detailed bracket adds interest to the shelves and relates to the arch in the butler’s pantry.
A low-ceilinged dark hallway led the way to the kitchen. Now a raised ceiling and a graceful plastered arch, exchanged for a red-bricked, iron gated wine closet, transform this dreary space into an alluring one. Long shelves will sit inside the arch to hold serving pieces. A white linen curtain will provide the option to conceal the dishes for a softer look.

The new ceiling soars high overhead matching the inspired mood of the occupants.
Casa V can reinvent your house to be inspiring and uplifting.