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Project Case Study { Spotlight on creative, problem-solving kitchens and baths } By Kim Berndtson Beauty & Function Combine With 'Convenient' Design A small basement project leads to a whole-home remodel that incorporates additional functionality and Universal Design elements. KEY KEEPERS Alzheimer's disease. "My client, a single mother of three boys, wanted her mother to move in, and she was concerned about her safety in the existing environment," she explains. The upstairs bedrooms were accessed via a steep, narrow staircase, and the overall home layout featured rooms that were closed in and sectioned of. The client turned to Wisniewski and her husband Jan, who served as the architect on the project, to do what was essentially a wholehome makeover. Changes to the home included a new master suite addition on the Ann Wisniewski's client wanted the designer to maintain two key elements from the previous space: an antique stove and antique doors. Both serve as a 'pop' of the unexpected, which she relates is important for her designs. "The stove was a centerpiece for the kitchen," she says, "and she didn't want to lose it." The second 'save' was antique doors that were original to the circa 1970-1980 bungalow home. Wisniewski commissioned an artist to repaint them, bringing in a texture and fnish that coordinate with the kitchen. "They're an unexpected item that we saved," she says. "They lead to an area outside that features a beautiful fountain and serves as a wonderful little getaway." FAUX STONE VENTILATION HOOD Provides an Old World feel without feeling too heavy MOSAIC SLATE BACKSPLASH Serves as a point of interest and provides the color range for the island Photos: Christina Wedge, Wedge Photography A basement water leak doesn't sound like it would lead to a major remodeling job. But for Ann Wisniewski, ASID member and president of AJW Designs, Inc. in metropolitan Atlanta, that particular basement project led to a whole-home remodel. When Wisniewski helped the homeowner of the 1970s1980s era bungalow in Sandy Springs, GA select colors for the basement, she asked her to keep her in mind if she needed any other work done. At the time of the project, the homeowner's mother was diagnosed with early-stage "I like a little pop of the unexpected, whether that's a contemporary piece of art or accessory, or a collection." CUSTOM GREEN ISLAND Conveniently equipped with drawers, waste/recycling cans and an undercounter refrigerator — Ann Wisniewski FUNCTIONAL HIGHLIGHTS Wisniewski positioned the sink – a Shaws freclay apron version from Rohl that is accented with a Perrin & Rowe faucet – in a location that overlooks the dining room so her client can easily interact with family and guests. "Function is another highlight of this kitchen," she says. "Guests can sit at the bar stools, which sit on the opposite side [of the peninsula], and visit. The kitchen is where everyone wants to be!" October 2013 ForResidentialPros.com | 35