This 1950’s ranch home has a living room that flows into the dining room. French doors lead to the outdoor patio but the traffic flow was challenging around the dining room table and chairs. My client wanted more storage and desired a more contemporary style. Moving the dining area away from the middle of the room allowed more space for moving around, as well as enabling us to plan for custom storage pieces. Placing a storage cabinet on either side of the new banquette created a cozy seating area, while the new oval dining table anchors the space. The dining chairs, chandelier, floating shelves and carefully chosen accessories add more modern elements. In the living room I replaced the traditional fireplace and mantle. A gas insert, custom mantle, new stone hearth and herringbone tiles on the fireplace surround combine to create a lighter, more contemporary feel.