Making an Old Home Work Harder: A Spring Transformation

Spring is the season of the “reset,” but we believe a reset should be about more than just cleaning—it’s about evolution.

This year, Cheryl and Luis are taking their 100-year-old home and reimagining its footprint to better support the way their life actually happens. From converting an underutilized guest room into a hardworking mudroom to turning a small powder bath into “jewel box” experiences, here is how they are embracing function and drama this season.

The Power of the Pivot: Guest Room to Mudroom

Many older homes suffer from a common problem: a lack of functional storage. In this project, the first floor didn’t have a single closet. With a kitchen addition on the horizon and a family that loves to host, it became clear that a formal guest bedroom would serve the home better as a high-functioning mudroom.

To honor the home’s history while modernizing the aesthetic, they kept the original arabesque tile floors but will be giving them a dramatic transformation. By painting them in a high-gloss black finish, the pattern feels fresh and tailored. The shine adds a layer of sophistication, while the finish provides the durability needed for a high-traffic drop zone.

To anchor the space, they’re installing lockers in a deep cobalt and navy blue, accented with hits of crimson red. It’s a bold, architectural palette that makes a utilitarian space feel intentional and energetic.

The “Jewel Box” Moment: The Pool Bath

While the mudroom is about organization, the pool bathroom is about pure drama. Powder rooms are the ultimate “risk-taking” spaces—the footprint is small, so the impact can be massive without overwhelming the rest of the home.

They selected “Le Jardin du Palais Velours” by Pierre Frey for the walls. This lush, maximalist garden print creates a romantic, layered feel that transports guests the moment they walk in. By leaning into rich patterns and deep colors, they’ll turned a simple bathroom into a collected “jewel box” moment.

Pro-Tip: Recreate the Look on a Budget

You don’t need a full renovation to achieve this level of impact. If you’re looking to refresh your own space this spring, consider these designer-approved shortcuts:

• Refinish, Don’t Replace: Painting existing tile floors in a durable gloss finish is an incredible way to transform a room without the cost of demolition.
• Custom Color: Achieve the look of high-end cabinetry by painting stock units in a rich, moody navy or charcoal.
• The Botanical Effect: Look for high-quality botanical peel-and-stick wallpapers. They capture the spirit of a lush garden print at a much more accessible price point.

This spring, we’re proving that you can embrace the personality of an older home while forcing it to work harder for you. It’s practical, it’s personal, and it’s exactly what a home should be.

If you are needing a refresh but are wanting to hand the project off so you can enjoy the beauty without the hassle, check out our Signature Sprint and let us know if there’s anything we can do to help your space match your lifestyle.