MODERN LIVING SPACE DESIGN WITH FIREPLACE : ONE ROOM CHALLENGE – WEEK 2

Wooohoo! It’s been a week. That’s what we love about the One Room Challenge because every week so many things happen. But this past week was a big one that included DEMO DAY, Michael’s favorite day. We are happy to say with demo we didn’t run into any surprises, which anyone that has opened a wall before knows as much as you plan you still never know what you’re going to find. 

If you found us through the ORC, heeey! We’re Danielle and Michael Gutelli. A husband and wife design to build team based in Plymouth, Michigan. You can learn more about us as a brand here and see some of our client projects here, here and here. Just in case you missed last weeks post don’t worry you can get all caught up with week 1 here.

We did get a chance to drill a hole through straight through the exterior of the house, and frame in what will now be our new fireplace. Talk about exciting. Of course, as with any major change to an existing space there will likely be some issues…and we had one. A major one. One that will cost us some time and money, but rest assured we got this. And we’ll get into exactly what that was later…like in our reveal post! 

While last week we did get a chance to introduce our project concept and mood board, we felt like we could dive in a bit deeper and talk about all the befores of this room and what it is going to take us to get to our final goal! See, the space is not in bad shape at all whatsoever. When we purchased our home 4 years ago we spent the first 8 weeks of home ownership in renovation mode – we ripped out all of the moldings, doors and jambs, carpet and even a few walls. This continued throughout our entire space, and we quickly updated it with everything new, including paint. It was our own blank canvas. Well now it is time to throw our vibes into the space, and we’re doing so with the following additions. 

Direct Vent Gas Fireplace

After living 12 years in Chicago where each of our condos had a fireplace and moving into a family home in Michigan with no fireplace, we’re are in complete limbo. We need a fireplace and we are finally getting one. This means a custom build out from ceiling to floor, with a massive mantle that I can decorate for all the seasons. Michael has added extra electrical to ensure I have the capability to really do anything. 

Custom Built-Ins

We build custom spaces for all of our clients, but lacks when it comes to our home. On each side of the fireplace there will be built-in to house our components, books, and faux wood. These will also serve as additional seating spaces when we have guests. 

Shelving, Shelving, Shelving 

As if it isn’t enough that I am getting my mantle (FINALLY), and some built-ins, Michael is building some custom shelving for the space. We just need more of it, especially as a couple of pieces that offered surface area are leaving the space. They are going to be dreaming, and yes, will even have some electrical. 

Serene Bay Window  

While our couch will most likely always be placed in front of our massive bay window, we want to add some style to it. We will be trimming the inside of the window out completely in white oak (which will also be featured in other spaces) for added depth, texture and character. It is going to be insane. 

More Fresh Decor 

Aside from paint, we will be adding some new pieces to the space that include a bench, end table and lighting. Of course we will have some surprises when it comes to pillows and throws, but you’ll have to wait until the end for that. 

Ok, that is it for now! We can not wait to update you next week. In the meantime, be sure to check out all of the amazing spaces being created for the One Room Challenge! 

-much love