The house in focus is a split-level home, a design that presents unique remodeling challenges. Its distinctive layout can make renovations and modernizations more complex, often limiting homeowners' ability to adapt the space to contemporary needs.
Located in Montreal’s West Island, the house was listed for sale last year for three months but failed to attract any buyers. At that time, only the exterior had been renovated, while the interior remained untouched. Over the past six months, extensive upgrades were made, covering design, planning, material selection, and execution—all within a constrained budget of 100K CAD. This required careful prioritization, balancing cost-effective improvements with the goal of maximizing resale value.
The effort paid off—once the house was re-listed, it sold almost immediately with minimal conditions. Many buyers fell in love with it at first sight, demonstrating the transformative power of a well-planned interior renovation.
Here are some of the improvements we made to the house.
Kitchen Upgrade
In the case of the kitchen, the existing cabinet size and configuration were already optimal. To appeal to a broader range of buyers, we chose a timeless white kitchen by painting the existing cabinet doors, transforming the space from a Mediterranean style to a sleek, modern
design. The island was updated to reflect contemporary trends, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. For a refined touch, we replaced the cabinet handles with a more modern style and upgraded the flooring with large square Mono Serra Calacatta porcelain tiles.
To complement the new look, we added a stylish black-and-white hexagonal porcelain tile backsplash, creating a clean and sophisticated finish. The result is a fresh, modern kitchen that aligns perfectly with the tastes of most mid-30s couples, making it a key selling point of the home.
New Upstairs Bathroom
The main challenge with the previous bathroom was the oversized custom-made cabinets in a compact 9' x 5' space, a layout that couldn’t be modified. To create a more functional and visually spacious design, we selected sleek, space-efficient furniture that offers ample storage without feeling bulky. This strategic choice enhances the room's practicality, making it more accommodating for a family of four.
Once again, we opted for a neutral and timeless style that appeals to a wide range of buyers, evoking a sense of purity and simplicity. The new design features clean, modern lines that replace the outdated aesthetic, contributing to a more contemporary look. To complement the modern upgrade, we installed an LED-lit medicine cabinet, aligning with today’s design trends while adding both elegance and functionality. The result is a stylish, well-optimized bathroom that feels brighter, more open, and perfectly suited for modern family living.
Addition of a mezzanine in the kid's room
To maximize the livable space, we added a mezzanine above the kitchen in the smallest kid’s room. A mezzanine in a child’s bedroom is a game-changer for both parents and kids,
offering a creative and functional way to optimize space. This design efficiently separates the sleeping area from the play or study zone, making small rooms feel more spacious and organized. With a low height ensuring safety for younger children, it still provides the excitement of an elevated space—perfect for a cozy reading nook, toy storage, or a mini playhouse. This setup fosters creativity and independence, giving kids a special area to call their own while keeping the rest of the room clutter-free. Designed specifically for younger children, it remains a practical and charming solution that enhances both functionality and fun in their everyday living space.
Basement Renovation: Maximizing Functionality and Comfort
The basement offers a variety of possibilities beyond just winter storage—it can serve as a functional and comfortable living space, particularly in a split-level home. To enhance its usability, we removed the outdated brick stand for an old wood stove, which was no longer permitted by law. The flooring was upgraded to a stylish, water-resistant vinyl, a practical choice that adds durability while providing a modern aesthetic. Given the increasing importance of flood protection in Quebec homes, we took measures to safeguard the basement from potential water damage.
To optimize the space, we created a home theater area on the right side, perfect for entertainment and relaxation. On the left, we designed a retreat space for a young adult, recognizing the growing trend of children staying home longer than in previous generations. While parents value their children's presence, it can be challenging to balance shared living space, making this dedicated area a valuable addition.
Additionally, the basement layout allows for future adaptability—a laundry room can be incorporated, which in turn would free up space at the garage level for a potential second full bathroom, further increasing the home's functionality and resale value.
Sanding and Varnishing the Original Floor: A Lesson in Restoration
After careful consideration, we decided to preserve and restore the original ash hardwood floor rather than replace it. Initially, we experimented with a new oil-based treatment, which
involved rubbing the floor with steel wool to allow the oil to penetrate the wood. However, the results were disappointing—the floor became rough and uneven, with black spots appearing due to the oxidation of nails during the process.
Faced with this unexpected outcome, we had no choice but to resand and varnish the floor to restore its original beauty. This experience taught us a valuable lesson: while oil treatments may work well on newly sanded floors, they are not suitable for older floors where oxidation can be an issue. In the end, the traditional varnishing process proved to be the best solution, providing a smooth, durable, and elegant finish that enhanced the home's overall aesthetic and resale value.
Transform Your Space with The Interiorful
This home’s incredible transformation is proof that strategic renovations can make all the difference—even in a challenging market. By carefully selecting cost-effective yet impactful upgrades, we turned a once-overlooked property into a buyer’s dream, selling it in record time. Whether you’re looking to maximize your home’s resale value, modernize your living space, or overcome unique remodeling challenges, The Interiorful is here to bring your vision to life.
If you’re ready to turn your home into a highly desirable property or simply want to create a space that truly reflects your style and needs, let’s make it happen! Contact The Interiorful today—because every home has the potential for a stunning transformation, and we know exactly how to unlock it.
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