DESIGNING MINDS
COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
A new table style bar/island creates a relaxing space for social gatherings. Kitchen components are designed to fade away into the greater space, yet the space has all the bells and whistles of today's gourmet kitchen.
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The comfort zone
A 1960s-era apartment is transformed into an island oasis
By Marion Philpotts-Miller
Special to the Star-Bulletin
The challenge
Designing Minds
The project: Work with the client to transform a 1,493-square-foot, 1960s apartment into a multifunctional space for island living, where tropical and Asian influences blend.
The design team: Marion Philpotts-Miller of Philpotts & Associates, interior designer; Laura Ayers/Stacey Sheppard of Philip K. White & Associates Architects and Planners, who handled architectural drawings, project management and design; Lisa Waldock, the owner's architect and agent, who kept a watchful eye on the design execution and the client's budget.
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The project was a complete remodel. The scope involved updating mechanical, plumbing, lighting and audio/visual systems, and acting as point person between the client, architect and contractor. The major challenges included keeping to a fixed budget despite skyrocketing construction costs, maximizing use of limited space, and keeping all systems in their original location, all the while coordinating with a long-distance client.
The process
Opening up small spaces by taking down an existing kitchen wall and creating custom millwork for storage were well worth the cost. Unobtrusive and sophisticated built-in cabinetry now enhances the overall design and increases functionality.
Rich wood tones create depth while woven panels add texture and contrast. We used deep, sumptuous reds, flashing golds and lilting greens to accent textured neutrals and tapa-cloth prints. Rich, dark and medium-toned woods, such as Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba) cabinets and a wenge distressed wood island, add to the contrast of the finishes. Lazy leaf-shaped ceiling fans circulate ocean breezes. The effect is a blend of tropical and Asian -- an exotic haven from the mundane.
In order to create an ideal area for entertaining, the kitchen was blended into the living room by removing a separating wall. Pocket doors disappear to incorporate the lanai. Seamless transitions from kitchen to living room, and from lanai to dining areas, maximize space. The key component was to convert rooms into open spaces for entertaining.
COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
Alabaster glass pendant lights drop low to be moody and sensual, with an unobtrusive glow. Multi-louvered wooden doors blink open and shut to let sunlight peek in while still giving privacy.
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COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
A Diamond Head view is visible beyond the louvered doors, while the south side looks over dancing palms and a spectacular oceanscape. Leaky glass windows were replaced along the lanai exterior to frame this picture-perfect view. On the multifunctional lanai, a mirror reflects the ocean view in a sleeping niche. A large Balinese dining table increases seating for parties.
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The outcome
Success of the project is measured by the client's appreciation of a simple and comfortable retreat. It is a space for entertaining without requiring tiresome upkeep. Every time the client turns his key in the lock, drops his bags and settles in, he tells us he has entered his comfort zone.
COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
The room before renovation.
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COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
Japanese screens are repurposed and used as headboard in the guest bedroom.
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It's all in the details
Bar/workspace: A bar for entertaining is also a convenient workspace, with a hidden file cabinet and pullout drawer for a keyboard. A grommeted stone counter accommodates a laptop or a martini glass. Storage above houses wine glasses, while drawers, below left, accommodate computer supplies and a wine cooler to the right.
Multifunctional lanai: A contemporary Hawaiian daybed/ pune'e is for lounging or additional sleeping space, with bedding storage below and reading lights above. A game table sits in an idyllic spot for late-night games with overhead spot lighting. A plush bamboo chaise is the perfect spot to recline and watch the wall-mounted flat-screen television.
Living room: Maximized seating allows the owners and multiple guests to lounge. A cushioned bench hides electronic equipment behind woven panels. Custom tapa-inspired alabaster fixtures provide light and a handcrafted Himalayan rug anchors the space.
Master bath: Decorative Asian grass glass provides both light and privacy with minimal maintenance. New "his" and "hers" vanities sit outside a custom closet space. Cabinets are designed to be furniture-like, with shutter doors, bureau-style drawers and furniture-style feet.
Guest bath: The glass partition to the shower stall enlarges a small space. The custom vanity in rich wenge woods adds contrast and a touch of luxury.
Guest bedroom: Recycled Japanese screens are reinterpreted to become interesting headboards. This room is a compact space where, surely, less is more. Louvered blackout shutters transition to the lanai and, when open, add architectural interest. A flat-screen wall-mounted TV provides the "tech" element of a luxury "hotel-like" amenity.
COURTESY OF DAVID FRANZEN
The room before renovation.
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Marion Philpotts-Miller can be reached at 523-6771