It’s amazing what adding just a little space can do when it comes to redesigning a room. There are times, however, when creating that additional space uncovers unanticipated structural challenges. Of course, turning a challenge into an opportunity is the hallmark of a good remodeler!
Vision
The goal of this kitchen remodel was to increase its size and give it a u-shaped layout that would include a large combination food prep area and counter as its centerpiece. We also wanted to update the look of the kitchen with new cabinetry and hardwood flooring, as well as tie in an existing brick accent by repeating it in a new space for the range and oven.
Challenges
The existing kitchen included a nook that we bumped out to add the small amount of additional space required to realize our client’s vision. As we got into the construction phase, however, we discovered a structural error in the original construction. A beam that had been canted out to bear the weight of the wall had been mistakenly cut off by the framers, who then toe nailed an extra length to the beam when the mistake became apparent. Unfortunately, this resulted in the floor system hanging down by an inch and a half. We lifted the house up to correct the error, then brought it back down on a load bearing post that was incorporated into the center island (the other post used to make the design symmetrical was strictly decorative).
Accomplishment
The roughly 8×12 area we created with the bump out gave us little bit of square footage we needed to create the u-shaped design for a more spacious kitchen. We added skylights in the roof of the addition to bring in natural light. Our design approach had an additional benefit by smoothing out the angularity of the home’s exterior.
Highlights
One of the signs of great remodel plan is not only its functional longevity, but its esthetic appeal over time. This remodel was done in the late 1990s, but it still has a fresh and contemporary look. As for the construction error we encountered in the process? Rest assured we let the builder know about it.