When a friend told Todd and Julia Ward about a great house for sale, curiosity got the best of them. “It had a modern aesthetic, which we both wanted, and there was a lot of potential,” Julia says. “Plus, it was on three-and-a-half acres in the city. Even though we weren’t going to buy a house before the wedding, we went ahead with it.”
Knowing that they definitely wanted to remodel at some point, the couple lived in the home for three years, getting the feel of it before they committed to any large decision.
Working with Countertops and Cabinetry by Design, the homeowners were able to get the remodel of their dreams-and budget. Michael Vanselow, sales training manager/designer with Countertops and Cabinetry by Design, happened to be the person to meet with Todd. “They designed the whole space in an afternoon.” Julia says with amazement.
Todd and Julia wanted to restore the kitchen to its original, mid-century intent. They kept the same floor plan and incorporated the wood-beam ceiling into their redesign. They also took down a partial wall to open the kitchen to the living room, all common themes in modern design.
During their remodel, the Wards were able to accommodate all of their needs by allotting their budget properly. They spent most of their budget on big-ticket items like cabinetry and countertops, and they found great deals on the rest.
“Our furnishings are a great example of buying vintage, because you get a better deal than buying new,” Julia says.
Vanselow is also pleased with the result. “I like how all the different elements came together to form a unified look. How many people have silver cabinets and orange tile next to brown countertops? Not many. But, everyone who has seen their kitchen really likes it, whether they have modern taste or not.”
A divot repair tool, probably a utilitarian piece of equipment to most golfers, becomes a piece of art in Todd Ward’s home. “I started buying a divot repair tool at every course I played, but they were just sitting in a box collecting dust,” Todd explains. “I knew I wanted to display them in the bar, but I wasn’t sure about the execution.”
Todd and Vanselow considered several elements when designing the display. What would happen if someone spilled a drink? How could Todd add new tools to the collection?
The result is a functioning Corian bar and display case with a spill well and removeable glass top.
The Wards love their kitchen remodel. It is not only a kitchen, but it’s the hub of their home. Julia says it is the command center and gathering area.
“I love the combination of the very new and updated with the reuse of mid-century furnishings,” Todd adds.