Decorating

One Big Room

Kitty Bartholomew: You're Home : Episode KIT-1107 -- More Projects »

Several years ago, architect Rick Clemenson and his designer wife, Barbara Balaban, bought a small, two-story cottage that needed a fair amount of work. It had been on the market for a long time because it had lots of little rooms that were dark. But they knew they could completely transform the home simply by ripping out walls and ceilings to add volume, not costly square footage, and adding some skylights. They share with Kitty Bartholomew how they were able to use 700 square feet to create an entry area, living room, dining area and kitchen--part of which is open to the roof!

Before, the space was dark and dated.

After, the downstairs is now essentially one big loft-like space that contains the kitchen, dining room, living area and front entry.

The kitchen counters are covered with inexpensive floor tile and edged with a pricey border. Green glass mosaic tile infuses the space with color.

The large glass-topped table provides plenty of seating space without taking up too much visual space. Red chairs add a pop of color around the perimeter.

Balaban prefers to place throw rugs in open spaces to show off their colors and design.

Balaban describes the living area as "sort of Moroccan, ethnic, colorful but with lots of simple spaces around it." The two red club chairs on the right are fitted with rollers so they can swivel to face the kitchen and dining area.

Guests
Rick Clemenson
Homeowner / Architect, Richard Clemenson Associates
3300 Airport Avenue, A
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 310-391-8873

Barbara Balaban
Homeowner / Designer, Balaban & Shapiro Interiors
8380 Melrose Avenue, Suite #200
Los Angeles, CA 90069
Phone: 323-655-6067
Also in this Episode

Kitty Bartholomew: You're Home : Episode KIT-1107
•	One Big Room
•	Stenciled Floor
•	Dream Kitchen on a Budget
•	Outdoor Room

Decorating

One Big Room

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Decorating

One Big Room

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