UPLIFTING UPGRADE
California Dreamin’
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West Coast transplants lighten up a 1940s Birmingham Colonial TEXT BY KHRISTI ZIMMETH PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETH SINGER
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lighter, more relaxed style” is what Dave and Jennifer Jennings had in mind when they contacted interior designer Margaret Skinner, of Margeaux Interiors, about renovating their four-bedroom, five-bath Birmingham Colonial, built in 1940. Originally from California, the couple dreamed of a brighter and more easygoing style in the 3,400-square-foot home they share with their three children. There was definitely room for improvement. Previous owners had remodeled and expanded in 2004, adding square footage on the home’s upper levels as well as in its basement. Upgrades included a more open kitchen connected to the family room, a large mud room and bathroom off the garage, and a master bedroom with vaulted ceilings, a bath, and a walk-in closet above the kitchen. Unfortunately, the addition’s style just wasn’t what the couple wanted when they purchased the property in 2014. The family spends a lot of time in the kitchen, and they wanted it to be
HEART & SOUL
This page: Because the family spends a lot of time in the kitchen, designer Margaret Skinner made it the heart of the home. Navy blue accents were used in the scullery and island, while walnut touches add warmth to the food pantry cabinet, range shelves, and banding on the hood. Opposite page: The living room is the perfect spot for a bar cart.
DETROIT DESIGN | SPRING 2022
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2/18/22 9:30 AM
