Alex & Derek’s Main Floor Remodel: A Fresh Start for Their Blaine Home
When Alex and Derek decided it was time to update their Blaine home, they weren’t just thinking about new finishes—they were dreaming of a space that truly reflected their family’s style. With a layout that already functioned well, this remodel was all about elevating the design and creating a home that felt light, sleek, and modern while still being warm and livable.
Before: A Great Layout, But Time for a Refresh
Before the remodel, Alex and Derek’s main floor had a solid foundation. The layout flowed well and had the potential for an open-concept feel, but the finishes and fixtures no longer matched their vision. They wanted something more cohesive and updated and yet maintaining a more traditional style that is appealing to them. It was the perfect time to take the plunge and invest in changes that would make their house feel more like home.
During: Full Main Floor Construction Zone
The entire main floor became a construction zone as we removed all the existing flooring and replaced it with luxury vinyl plank throughout, creating a consistent and spacious feel. Every corner of the main floor was touched in some way, with careful attention paid to flow and function.
From the entryway to the kitchen, we coordinated the remodel to feel seamless, keeping construction efficient while trying to minimize the disruption to everyday life. As with any remodel, living through construction had its challenges, but the transformation was well worth it.
Alex and Derek wanted something timeless—something that wouldn’t feel trendy today and dated tomorrow. We explored several warm and cool tones before landing on the ideal soft neutral that complements both the new walnut cabinetry and the updated fireplace tile.
After: A Home That Finally Feels Like Theirs
Entryway
A fresh first impression starts right at the door. The front entry got a revamp with an updated stair railing featuring deco iron spindles that add both charm and modern appeal. The front door itself got a refresh for a welcoming feel that sets the tone for the rest of the home.
Dining Room
The dining space was transformed with a rich, updated paint color and a bold statement light fixture that instantly elevates the room. We also removed a column to open up the flow and improve sightlines throughout the main floor. Now, it’s a beautifully refreshed space that feels just right for both casual family dinners and special get-togethers.
Living Room
We added custom built-ins with floating shelves, creating the perfect blend of display and storage. A modern fireplace with showstopping feature tile now anchors the room with a clean, sleek look. The walnut finish of the built-ins brings warmth and is echoed throughout the home for a cohesive design.
living room with custom built in media cabinets
Kitchen
This space is the heart of the transformation. We replaced all cabinetry with custom walnut cabinets that match the living room built-ins, tying the whole main floor together. We removed the original corner pantry to open the space and instead added floating shelves and a beverage center bar for both form and function. A sleek, integrated refrigerator blends into the cabinet wall for a streamlined look.
Other kitchen upgrades include:
Soft-close cabinetry
Pull-out pantry shelves
Quartzite countertop slabs used for both the counters and full-height backsplash
Taj Mahal Quartzite countertops
This kitchen now offers high-end functionality with a clean, contemporary design that feels like it belongs in a magazine spread—but more importantly, it feels like home.
New Taj Mahal quartzite countertops
Alex and Derek’s remodel is a beautiful example of how thoughtful design can make a great layout feel brand new. By choosing finishes and features that reflect their style and needs, their main floor now feels open, bright, and completely customized for their family life. Remodeling can be a journey, but for these homeowners, it ended in a home that truly feels like theirs.
Family space for everyone including the dogs
Thank You Partners
We want to take a moment to thank our trade partners for making this remodel possible.
Tile: Tile X Design and Mark Lacey
Countertops: Granite-Tops (Cold Spring)
Cabinets: Scandia Custom Cabinets
Drywall/Paint/Stain: Brush Masters
Millwork (Trim/doors/windows): ABC Millwork & Cabinetry
Flooring: Renovation Systems
Electric: Jeske Electric
Plumbing: MCB Plumbing
HVAC: 4 Front Energy
Lighting, plumbing fixtures and appliances : Ferguson
Project management & demo: TA Brunn Construction
Are you ready to remodel?
For information and a consultation, contact Meg Jaeger, owner and chief creative of Mega Remodel, to see how we can make a plan for your next home remodeling project.