Filed under: News, Home Improvement
This week on American Dream Builders, the teams faced yet another set of smaller spaces to redesign. Team Red and Team Blue headed to Glendora, CA, where two Craftsman-style homes sat awaiting their improvements.
Craftsman homes are a particular style found in older neighborhoods of many American cities. Constructed at the turn of the 20th century and through the 1930s, Craftsman homes are classified by low-pitched roof lines, front porches and decorative exteriors, similar to what what would be found in a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Inside, the homes tend to be smaller, with built-ins and architectural details.
The designers' tactics to expand storage space and creative useful work spaces can be replicated in any home - Craftsman or modern.
Look No. 1
Team Red tackled a home measuring just 910 square feet with one bathroom. Dann took the responsibility for rehabbing the small bath to make it more modern and functional."This was a small bath in an older home, so I wanted to stay true to the architectural spirit of the home," he explained. "Knowing that, I didn't want products that were too rich; we weren't building Versailles."
Bathroom: Before
The bathroom before seemed cluttered and dark.
Bathroom: After
Dann's touches brightened the space considerably. What he did, says Dann, was simple but impressive. "Anybody can do it."
How you can get the look:
1. Stick with white. When considering which colors to use in a small space, white can help make a tight space feel bigger. Dann used basic ceramic tile in the shower and a "sparkly, white wallpaper" to add interest to the walls.
All white and simple tile create a soothing master bath.
A custom vanity can significantly cut down on the space used.
Dark hardwood contrasts well with white walls and fixtures.
Look No. 2
Team Blue was feeling the blues with their living room design. Designer Elaine injected some big style into the small space.Living room
A palette of blues makes this living room pop.
1. Decorate the ceiling. Ceilings don't always have to stay white! Add architectural detail with molding and color with wallpaper or paint.
2. Paint the walls a deep bold hue. Blues, greens or even plums, make for great living room wall colors.
Blue pops against the white molding on the walls.
Wainscotting and crown molding make this room feel luxe.
Related:
- Craftsman Homes for American Dream Builders Fans
- Get Amy's Take on American Dream Builders Episode 6
- American Dream Builders Episode 6: Exit Interview