Today’s featured home remodel differs slightly from the projects we usually feature here. The original construction included a large, dramatic (16’x 14’ 6 1/2”) sunken 2-story atrium that was typically used for indoor gardening purposes. Fast-forward a few years, and the current homeowners need to convert that “wasted space” into stylish and usable living areas, including a new playroom for the kids, a spa-like first-floor bathroom, and a new second-floor living room.
The full project gallery can be viewed here – Premier Atrium Remodeling at Amelia Drive, Waltham
Properly supporting these new spaces required updating the existing structure with several new footings, columns, beams, and floor joists. The drawing below shows the 2”x10” floor joists installed to eliminate the “sunken” atrium feature and create a consistent floor height. You can also see the new LVL (Laminated Veneer lumber) beams needed to transfer the live load to the new Lally columns and down to the new 2’x2’x1’ footings. To maximize storage, we also added three in-floor storage spaces for games and toys.
For the new upstairs living room, we added 2 5 1/2” columns within the existing walls for the new LVL beams. We also “sistered” (mechanically fastened) a third LVL beam to the existing double LVL beam assembly for added strength and rigidity.
Waltham Project Before and After Photos
With the structural requirements complete, it’s time to see the stunning before and after photos.
Installing the needed columns involved opening several existing walls, so the downstairs hallway got some much-needed attention and updating.
Remodeled downstairs hallway.
Now, let’s look at the specific materials and products used to create that mid-century style requested by the homeowners.
Additional Amelia Drive Remodel Project Details
Mid-Century refers to the design cues commonly found in homes built during the 1950s and 1960s. The space race was on, and homes of the time featured clean lines, geometric shapes, and bold colors. Other key elements include a minimalist aesthetic, functionality over ornamentation, and mixing natural and man-made materials, including wood, metal, and glass.
The New Playroom Features
- 3 ¼” red oak hardwood flooring with three hidden storage areas
- Pine closet doors
- Sleeper loveseat
- Modular bin storage system
- 2 separate desks for individual play/study
- Pendant and task lighting
- A soft color palette perfectly complements the natural daylight while creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere.
The Spa-Like Bathroom Features
- Melamine vanity with textured wood finish
- California plumbing fixtures with a satin brass finish
- Toto Nexus Toilet
- Pure White quartz ¾” thick countertop with an under-mount sink
- Large format (24”x24”) LA Faenza Oro Agata porcelain wall tile for minimal grout lines
- Storage niches in the shower and tub areas
- Built-in shower bench
- Satin brass hardware and trim
- Recessed can lighting
Upstairs Living Room Features
- 3 ¼” Brazilian Cherry hardwood flooring installed on a 45-degree angle for added texture
- Stained wood trim for existing windows
- Recessed can lighting
- Open-concept design for improved traffic flow
- Light color palette to compliment vaulted ceilings
- Mid-century furniture and accessories
Converting this unused atrium required the engineer and architect to work closely together. However, as the video below shows, the final result was worth the extra effort and hard work of our designers, tradespeople, and subcontractors.
If you’ve been considering a bath, kitchen, or whole-house remodel, check out our completed projects gallery for ideas or to see how we’ve met the needs of hundreds of other local homeowners.
Frequently Asked Remodeling Questions
To help make your next project a complete success, here are the most common homeowner questions about working with architects, engineers, designers, and contractors.
Do I have to hire an architect, engineer, designer, and contractor for my remodeling project?
It depends on the size and scope of your proposed project. You probably don’t need an architect or engineer if you’re updating room design elements such as flooring, cabinets, or paint. However, once you start adding floor space or moving electrical or plumbing locations, you’ll need the services of an architect. This project also required engineering services because the existing structural elements couldn’t safely carry the extra loads created by adding a new living room.
To help reduce these costs, consider working with a design-build general contractor like Bay State Remodeling. Our in-house staff of designers can create your plans and make any necessary changes quickly and efficiently. This streamlines communication between everyone involved and helps ensure your project stays on time and within budget.
Don’t all general contractors provide the same service level and attention to detail?
Just like no two homes are the same, the services provided by different general contractors (GCs) can be as different as night and day. Here’s what you need to know when selecting the best GC for your remodeling project.
All general contractors must hold a current and active Massachusetts contractor’s license issued by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
All contractors must maintain worker’s compensation for their workers and general liability insurance to protect the project and property from damage.
Be sure to check out their completed projects and customer testimonials. You’ll want to find a knowledgeable contractor with the experience needed to turn your vision into a stunning and jaw-dropping reality. For example, Bay State Remodeling has over 15 years of local design-build expertise and a team of dedicated tradespeople and vendors to deliver the quality and craftsmanship your family home deserves. Don’t hesitate to contact Bay State Remodeling, call us at 617-340-6418 or email us for a free, in-home discussion about your next room addition, kitchen, bath, or whole-house remodeling project.
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