THE PROBLEM Owners wanted to turn cramped quarters into entertaining-worthy digs.
THE SOLUTION Knock out walls to turn living and dining rooms into open-concept space.
HOW IT HAPPENED • Opened up outside wall to reclaim porch as interior space, added windows. • Used older-looking finishes -- coffered ceilings, crown moldings and a walnut floor with a hand-chiseled finish -- to retain character. • Installed a leaded-glass window, which was a gift from neighbors to entice the owners to stay.
• Updated unused fireplace with an insert, mantel and marble-tiled surround.
• Flanked fireplace with display cabinets; installed armoire across from it for hanging (and hiding) coats.
• Separated living and dining spaces with channel-back sofa in gray velvet.
• Added daybed in gray starburst pattern (repeated on dining chairs) and soft sectional to create conversation grouping.
• Installed mahogany table with three leaves to seat as many as 10.