A Renovation Journey: From Foyer to Ensuite, with a Dash of French Villa Vibes

Some renovations are about more than just sprucing up a home—they’re about bringing a family’s personality to life in every corner. In this renovation, we tackled everything from the foyer to the ensuite, adding charm, style, and practicality at every turn. And yes, we even took a little inspiration from a 15th-century villa in the south of France—because why not?

Foyer: A Grand Entrance

The foyer sets the tone for the rest of the house, so we gave it a refresh with herringbone tile floors that are as stylish as they are durable. The existing panelling along the staircase got a fresh coat of paint, breathing new life into its classic look. And while we kept the original newel posts (because we love a good vintage detail), we swapped the railing for sleek iron pickets to add a modern twist. To save space and add a bit of flair, we installed sliding doors—no more awkwardly swinging doors getting in the way when you're trying to make a grand entrance!

Great Room: A Cozy Update

The great room already had built-ins, which we decided to keep—because let’s face it, they don’t make storage like that anymore. But a fresh coat of paint gave them a whole new vibe, seamlessly blending old-world charm with a fresh, modern look.

Back Hall & Mud Room: Making Space Work

The back hall saw a functional transformation. We moved the 1/2 bath (powder room) to create a larger mudroom—because with a growing family, you can never have too much space for muddy shoes, backpacks, and sports gear! Speaking of the powder room, we went all out with a custom sink featuring champagne bronze details and a wall-mounted faucet. The floor-to-ceiling tile behind the sink isn’t just a design statement—it’s practical. With kids splashing water everywhere, it’s a breeze to clean and ensures no damage to the walls.

Kitchen: A Taste of the French Countryside

In the kitchen, we created a little slice of Provence. The over-grouted stone backsplash and beam details make you feel like you’ve stepped into a 15th-century French villa. We added a farm sink and custom plaster texture to the hood fan, which perfectly complements the rustic yet refined feel of the space. A wooden table for the island adds warmth and functionality, making it the perfect place for everything from family meals to homework sessions.

The mix of oak and painted cabinets adds texture and color variation, and open shelving brings in a touch of casual elegance. The solid surface countertops are extended behind the range, with an added shelf that creates a natural break between the painted walls around the hood fan. Plus, the full-height pantry cabinets with extra drawers give plenty of space for all the snacks (and we know a growing family needs snacks!).

We also added a banquette at the nook—a cozy spot for seating and extra storage. And for the entertainers, a special entertainment pantry was added between the dining room and great room. Now, guests can help themselves to drinks and snacks without crowding the kitchen.

Ensuite: Spa Vibes

In the ensuite, we went for total luxury. The curbless shower (zero threshold) allows the tile to flow seamlessly from the bathroom floor right into the shower. Champagne bronze details like the shower handle, hinges, and floor-mounted tub filler add an elegant touch. The free-standing tub invites you to relax, while the matching freestanding vanities make the space feel airy and open.

From the warm, welcoming foyer to the luxurious ensuite, this renovation blends old-world charm with modern practicality—making it the perfect home for family life and stylish entertaining.