how to modernize a split level home interior
When attempting to modernize a split level house, it’s important to first understand the style of house you’re dealing with. Split level homes were popular in the 1960s and 70s as an affordable housing option, and are often characterized by divided levels of living space. This can present a few unique challenges when it comes to modernizing the interior design.
Let’s take a closer look at the most common mistakes to avoid when modernizing a split level house:
Advantages of split level homes
Split level homes provide a great opportunity for those looking for a modern home design with the flexibility to customize the home’s layout and amenities. Split level homes date back to the middle of the 20th century, when they first began appearing in suburbs across the United States. Generally, these homes have three levels, rather than two traditional stories. Lower levels often feature family rooms or an entryway into the home separated from living and dining areas above.
These unique designs can provide a range of advantages over traditional two-story homes when it comes to modernizing their interior. Split level homes allow for more natural light throughout both upper and lower stories due to their multi-level design. This allows occupants to take advantage of north- or west facing windows that let in natural sunlight throughout the day and reduce energy costs associated with lighting up a single-story house with artificial lighting at night.
In addition, split level designs often provide additional floor space due to their distinct internal staircases which use less room than a full staircase from one story to another. Furthermore, each floor can be better suited for different activities – such as having bedrooms on one level separate from kitchens and living spaces on another – making it more efficient during renovation projects and allowing homeowners more flexibility when it comes time to customize their interior layout while still taking advantage of all available space in the home.
Disadvantages of split level homes
Split level homes have several distinct disadvantages when it comes to modernizing their interior. These design styles can create awkward room divisions and limit the natural use of light and airflow in the home. Additionally, these homes often require alterations to structures like hallways, staircases and walls which can make customization challenging or costly.
Split-level exteriors may also be difficult to update with modern designs. These homes typically feature access points that are at different heights, making it hard to give the home a unified front façade. Due to this lack of continuity, homeowners may have difficulty finding a set of materials for upgrades that will match the existing building’s construction seamlessly.
The best way for homeowners to modernize a split level home is by assessing its present condition, identifying any potential aesthetic drawbacks like dated finishes or outdated floor plans, and then deciding on a cohesive plan for increasing its value and pleasing its overall appearance based on these assessments. Working with an experienced designer is recommended in order to ensure the best end results for your project.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Modernizing a split level home interior can be both a rewarding and challenging task. With careful planning and consideration, however, you can successfully create a beautiful, modern interior. Before you begin, it’s important to be aware of the common mistakes to avoid when modernizing a split level home interior, so that you can create the look you desire without making costly errors. Let’s explore some of the common pitfalls to be aware of:
Not considering the structure of the house
When attempting to modernize a split level home interior, it is important to keep the existing structure of the house in mind. For example, if you plan to remodel, consider if the remodeling can be done without disturbing existing walls or supports. If you plan to put in a staircase or other feature, you will also have to consider whether it complies with local building codes and regulations. The last thing you want is for any renovations that created potentially hazardous conditions.
It’s also important not to neglect other elements such as electrical wiring and plumbing when modernizing a split level home interior. Electrical wiring should be checked and updated periodically, especially if you plan to add or remove wall outlets or fixtures. Similarly, plumbing should be inspected with any renovations or additions in mind. Exposed pipes that were once tucked away within walls may need extra attention during the modernizing process too; they could require insulation or wiring depending on their location and your particular needs.
Finally, before beginning your modernization project, take into consideration how any structural changes such as reconfiguring doorways or adding windows may affect your comfort and ease of usage of your home. If there are large structural changes such as removing some walls entirely that are necessary for creating open floor plans then discuss this with a contractor before undertaking too much work yourself!
Ignoring the scale of the home
In modernizing a split level home interior, it’s important to take into consideration the scale of the home and its existing architecture. Ignoring the scale of the home can make it difficult to incorporate furniture and accessories of an appropriate size. Small rooms should have proportionally smaller pieces that won’t overwhelm or dominate the space. Similarly, larger rooms require larger furniture pieces in order to feel balanced and grounded.
When selecting furniture for a split level home, think about what size and style would fit best with your existing architecture and measurements. Measure twice before purchasing new furniture to make sure it will fit throughout your space, as well as any defined levels or clusters of stairs that may require special considerations. Additionally, consider investing in custom items where available due to their ability to be designed specifically for your space which can dramatically reduce overcrowding or place objects in awkward positions where they will potentially become unused or replaced quickly with something more appropriate for your needs.
Not taking advantage of the natural light
Good lighting can make all the difference in a photo, so it is important to take advantage of the natural light outdoors. Depending on the time of day and the season, you will have access to different types of light. During the morning and early afternoon hours, when the sun is highest in the sky, shadows are harshest and will create angles on your subject that cast unflattering lines across their face or body. Afternoon & evening light tends to be softer and more even – perfect for portraits.
However, timing isn’t just important for shooting outdoors. Natural light coming into an indoor space changes as well through a day’s cycle as do artificial lights that you flip on indoors – they can all provide unique opportunities to create beautiful photos. Take some time and experiment with different lighting sources available:
- Use several lamps instead of flattening your image by using just one source;
- Try some backlighting by placing your subject near a window; or
- Look for interesting shadows next to a door or hallway that could really add depth to the background of your scene.
Overall, don’t underestimate how much natural or ambient light influences how people see your photos – use it wisely!
Strategies for Modernizing
Modernizing a split level home interior can be a difficult undertaking. It’s easy to make mistakes that can cause your renovations to be less successful than you had hoped. By following a few key strategies, you can ensure that your home modernization project is cost effective and attractive.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the common mistakes people make when modernizing a split level home interior and provide tips on how to avoid them:
Update the walls
When updating the interior of a split level home, start with the walls. Create the look and feel you desire by selecting a neutral paint color that will serve as a backdrop for your design scheme. If you are inclined to experiment or want to add an accent wall that is more subtle than wallpaper but still packs a punch, consider grass cloth wallcoverings. Of course, many homeowners also embrace wallpaper patterns or textured materials that blend elements of nature with bold colors or earth tones. Invest in quality paint or wall covering material to ensure your design will last a lifetime!
To complement any painted walls, white trim can be used to update asymmetrical casings around doors and windows. If you want to stand out from the crowd with ornate trim pieces, consider investing in some traditional profiles like fluted trims, broken pediments and full crown moldings which can help bolden plain walls and really modernize the look of your split level home interior.
In addition to paint colors and trim details, do not forget lighting fixtures when modernizing a split level home interior – they can add layers of practical functionality while elevating any room’s style. Consider replacing dated ceiling lights with modern yet classic pendants that can work across other rooms too – track lighting systems are a great option when brightness needs vary throughout different sections of the house as well since they are adjustable for more diffused light levels as needed.
Incorporate natural elements
The addition of natural elements can be an effective way to modernize an interior. Natural elements, such as wood and stone, bring a sense of timelessness, warmth, and longevity that modern materials may lack. Whether using wood trim or stone accents to delineate the entrance to a room or grandly slabs for kitchen countertops or flooring, incorporating natural materials is a great way to showcase true craftsmanship and introduce a unique texture into any space.
When choosing natural materials for your home’s interior, it’s important to select pieces that will complement each other in both style and color. For example, bold patterns or vivid colors are best used sparingly and in accent pieces or walls so as not to overwhelm the space. If looking to make a larger statement with natural elements, consider combining multiple woods in the same room—such as light-toned oak paired with darker mahogany along an entryway. This technique can even be used outdoors where connecting the indoors with outside spaces can result in a unified design that allows nature to give shape and character to the design of one’s home.
Use the staircase as an accent
The staircase of a split-level home is an often overlooked architectural feature that has the potential to be an eye-catching detail. Effective use of the stairs will contribute to the overall look and feel of both modernizing your home and making it look larger. Instead of treating the staircase as undesirable, incorporate it into your design.
Depending on how much structural modification you’re willing to commit, consider:
- painting or wallpapering it for contrast
- placing furniture at its entrance for interest
- plant life in woven baskets laced atop steps can add warmth as well as provide visual depth in multiple directions.
If you find stairs too narrow, consider replacing banisters with ones with thinner pickets for a modern look and more room for furniture near them.
Finishing Touches
When it comes to modernizing a split level home interior, the finishing touches are just as important as the major renovations. It may seem like the little things won’t make a big difference, but in reality, these finishing touches can give the room a completely different atmosphere and make your home look like it’s been completely redesigned.
In this heading, we’ll discuss some of the most common mistakes people make when modernizing their split level home interior:
Add modern lighting fixtures
Many split level homes tend to be older, dating as far back as the 1950s. Often, these homes lack natural light due to their unique construction. To modernize and give added depth, you’ll need proper lighting fixtures. Contrary to popular belief, no single type of fixture is ideal for all areas of your home – proper lights should be intentionally added in specific areas so that each room is properly illuminated and looks more cohesive.
Modern lighting fixtures can go a long way in updating any home interior. You can choose from pendant lights made from tubular metal or glass, chandeliers with multiple lights for a larger space, wall sconces that provide enhanced accent lighting or even track lights used for a more industrial aesthetic – no matter what type of light fixture you choose it should match the rest of your interior décor choice! Consider the décor style and colors in the room when choosing a light fixture; modern metallic fixtures pair great with mid-century modern interiors while antique brass options are ideal for traditional spaces. When placing lamps or wall sconces, be sure to place them at eye level where you will get full benefit of the illumination they provide when entering a room.
Finally, don’t forget to consider dimmers on overhead lights such as chandeliers and track lighting; dimmers are great options depending on how often you’d like to change lighting levels day-to-day! They also help create atmosphere in different areas around your house so that each space feels like its own special area within your home. You can find many dimming switches that are both stylish and practical for any split level home looking for an upgrade!
Utilize space-saving furniture
Split level homes can be challenging to modernize because of limited space. To make the most of your new home décor, consider utilizing multi-purpose furniture pieces throughout each level. Coffee tables with stowaways or storage compartments, folding chairs that tuck away when not in use, as well as benches and chests that can hide extra items are all great options for creating a more open and modern space.
In addition to space-saving furniture pieces, be sure to take into account the tight areas within split level homes. Sweeping staircases, changes in ceiling height and narrow landings can make it difficult to create functional rooms with stylish furniture placements. Look for smaller pieces like media consoles or nightstands, which will fit snugly while adding sophistication to each level without hogging up too much space.
Be sure not to neglect visual appeal when modernizing a split level home interior. Taking advantage of both form and function is key when making the right selections for each room:
- Designer lamps and printed rugs can bring life whilst still providing added purposes such as illuminating a dim corner or softening hard wood floors.
- Adding appropriate wall art, area rugs and curtains in creative ways to make each room look nice but still feel functional enough for daily use (especially if children are around).
- Utilize suggestions from experienced interior designers for ideas on how to best utilize accessories in enhancing the layout setup inside your home.
Incorporate bold colors and patterns
When it comes to modernizing a split-level home interior, adding bold colors and patterns is one of the best ways to really make a statement! From vibrant hues to eye-catching prints, incorporating pieces with bright colors and designs will instantly transform the look of your space.
If you’re looking for an even more dramatic effect, consider painting your wall in a bold color such as navy blue or forest green. Wallpaper is another great way to introduce pops of color into your room and works especially well on accent walls. Try incorporating large geometric patterns or abstract wallpapers for an ultra-modern vibe that will instantly elevate the style of your living space.
Furnishings are another great way to add bold colors and patterns into any interior design. Woven textiles are especially popular right now, featuring unique prints that can make an ordinary piece of furniture stand out in any room. Bold prints on rugs, curtains, and cushion covers can also give any room an instant modern upgrade without having to invest too many resources into its overall design.
Adding touches of bold colors and patterns is the perfect finishing touch when it comes to modernizing a split level home interior. Whether you decide on vivid wallpapers or vibrant furniture pieces, experimenting with different colors and designs is sure to give your space new life!
