Garage Conversion
to Studio
Client requests budget conversion of second garage to Studio living space.
The constraints of this project steered creativity. To keep the budget low the majority of materials were repurposed, purchased second hand or items already in the Client’s possession. The aesthetic theme evolved organically around the products available. Items like the recycled glass aggregate in the concrete poured counter, the thrifted Tiffany Lamp and the repurposed walnut crown molding give The Garage Conversion to Studio its unique fusion of antique and contemporary. Strikingly modern but with a touch of nouveau.
THE BATHROOM
Designed for Accessibility
Art by SexyFation
Prioritizing Accessibility in Small Spaces
The vanity, Mirror, and non-slip floor tile were all procured on a trip to Big Bear. This small mountain town is a treasure trove for the “second hand” remodeler as long as they are willing to travel to higher elevation.
Sporting a thresholdless shower, and an interior space large enough to accommodate a wheelchair. There is reinforced backing for future installation of grab bars in the shower, the same reinforcement was installed behind the towel bars to give them a sturdy feel. The shower wand was installed to be accessible at seated height. The only thing missing is a trendy walnut shower stool. Sadly no such stool could be found second hand and this designer had already spent the sweat equity budget for custom features from the project’s carpenter.
The recessed lighting in the repurposed walnut crown molding is dimmable for mood control. The backlit mirror is a delight to use especially for make-up application.
The bathroom is someone’s favourite aspect of this remodel.
Kitchenette + Dining Bar
Character in Concrete
Small, but Curiously Strong… Like Altoids
The features in this corner of the Studio beg the question, “is this truly a Kitchenette?” Afterall, the space accommodates a full fridge, dishwasher and commercial size trash can with countertop chute. The Large sink, though counter intuitive, is a must in a small space (where else would you hide any kind of mess). The induction stove with a high velocity ventilation fan allows for real cooking.
The custom concrete countertop features a waterfall and are wet polished to expose the recycled glass aggregate.
The reclaimed marble tile accent wall and backsplash cost less than $50 in materials.
A walnut bar top has a view to the yard and a classy light fixture. The high table the a perfect place to enjoy a meal or a cup of tea while getting caught up on work.
Living Room
Built-in Wardrobe and Antique Dresser
Contemporary with an Antique Twist
Fusion is the tastiest food. You take the unique flavor of two cultures and combine them into something all its own. Antique deals kept coming to us during this project and combining them with the contemporary finishes made for a sophisticated yet non-pretentious look.
Best to save the story behind acquiring and refinishing the $40 antique dresser for another time. Suffice to say birdseye maple and walnut. Two other thrifted antique options were suggested for the sofa. But the Client opted to use a sofa they already had in storage. The durability of the free MCM cream leather sofa could not be beat.
The glass block veilance window is another product of necessity. The door is framed into a space that had been a window in the previous garage but the window was wider than the door and something had to be done to extend the frame, lest we try to patch and match stucco on the exterior.
A Built-in wardrobe as well as two large sliding drawers under the bed provide more storage than meets the eye.
Oh, climbing wall? Yes. However the auto belay system is only rated for up to a 50lb child.
