Revealing the Red Brick Remodel

There are certain projects that will always hold a special place in our hearts, and the Red Brick Remodel is one of those. This remodel was for our owner Katie’s mom (and best friend) right in Grundy Center, Iowa. As an interior designer, it is a unique privilege to be trusted to design our family and friend’s homes.

Along with our client being meaningful, this home itself carries years of history. Built in the early 1900s, we transformed this home into a charming space, while maintaining the integrity of the original design. The process of remodeling is not always easy and often comes with a few surprises, but we loved getting to lean into this project to bring new life to this older home.

For this project, we partnered with Corey Scott as the general contractor, and we were so impressed with how he took our designs and made them a reality.

The Home

When designing this home, our vision was to highlight the original architecture and unique details of the home, even though we were completely gutting the space. Although we remodeled each room, we didn’t want the new elements to stand out against the existing features. Our goal was to bring a cohesive style that honored the history while bringing in the design style our client loves.

Because this was a 1900s home, the existing layout lacked a few elements our client desired. Without adding on any square footage, we were able to add in a full kitchen and master bathroom while maintaining a natural flow.

Another challenge we faced was not knowing what was behind all of the old walls. Every home we design comes with surprises, whether old homes or new builds, but we always plan for changes and know how important it is to be flexible. Oftentimes, the biggest challenges become the most beautiful designs!

The Kitchen

Although we are proud of every room in this home, the kitchen stands out as a favorite because it took a lot of creativity in the design process. Even though the original home lacked a full kitchen, we were able to bring in a kitchen that feels like it’s always been there.

For the cabinetry, we chose white cabinetry with wood accents from Showplace Cabinetry, who we’ve trusted with many of our homes. The cabinets bring a classic look while flowing seamlessly from the rest of the home. To compliment the cabinets, we chose hardware from Amerock Hardware, which further nods to the traditional design style of the home.

The quartz countertops in the kitchen were sourced from Elite Stone in Lisbon and Dyersville, who is another favorite partner of ours for our projects in central Iowa. 

For the sink, we found a beautiful sink and faucet from Delta that is perfect for prepping meals when hosting.

Over the peninsula, we brought in original lights from our client’s restaurant right down the road - The Landmark. We cleaned them with a brass cleaner to add some shine, but the history of these pendants carries through.

The Living Room

One standout feature in the living room is the fireplace that we stripped down to all of the original materials, including the green floor tile. The red brick of the fireplace ties beautifully to the exterior brick of this home, emphasizing the time period it was originally built in.

We added a gorgeous bookcase that gives the look of built-in shelving, which is perfect for displaying seasonal decor from 319 Decor and Design.

The Dining Room

In the dining room, we wanted to source a unique light to add to this space. We found this gorgeous vintage piece from West End Architectural Salvage in Des Moines and love the story it tells.

Throughout the Home

To further honor the integrity of this home, we matched the original quarter-sawn oak in each room that gives a nod to the 1900s design and also brings in so much character.

The Red Brick Remodel will remain a favorite of our team’s for years to come, due in large part to the special client we were honored to work with.

If you are interested in transforming an older home into a space you and your family will love for years to come, we’d love to connect with you. Visit our services to learn more and get started!