Retro Pad Turned Kid-Friendly Modern Home
From admin on June 8th, 2010 in Austin
An overabundance of toys are every parent’s storage nightmare. But when Dave and Bonnie Markel-Mead went in search of ways to remedy this age-old problem for their newly purchased Barton Hills home in Austin, Texas, architect Carey Dodson of Dunnam + Dodson had just the stylish solution.
The couple chose their 1966 retro pad knowing that a redesign was a must, but they still hoped to stay in line with the home’s original style. So the first step was reconciling the past with today’s need for a home fully equipped to deal with family time and work time all in one cohesive space. Part of the solution was adding practical cabinetry by Honea Woodworks to each room.
Space was separated in the living room by arranging the furniture into three particular zones: a lounging area, a seating area for guests, and a casual dining area complete with salvaged chandelier and lime-green paint. A rug helped further define each area.
Upstairs, the master suite received an extensive facelift with full-length wood windows and a glass door that opens to the balcony. The bathroom, on the other hand, was fully gutted to create an open floor plan with a floating sink and glass shower addition. Two gold ornate mirrors were kept intact from the original design.
Dave, a photographer, and Bonnie, a photo stylist, were both in need of a practical workspace where they could make a living and keep a close eye on their two daughters. In order to accomplish this, the garage was made into a functional studio space with glass-paneled doors. Also added to the space was a washer and dryer concealed behind sliding chalkboard doors to keep the little ones entertained.
In the end, the retro feel that came with the original design was comfortably updated to fit this family’s 21st century needs. And they have plenty of storage to boot.
