The Family Heirloom

Location: Plymouth Meeting, PA
Year: 2014
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

Meticulously preserved in time, this 1950s home was built and occupied by the great grandparents of the family that currently resides here. This addition and interior renovation project challenged us to respect its special history while addressing the needs of a modern family. 

The conversations about their ideal home for the present and future led to a 1,200 square foot expansion towards the back of the existing house. The final product incorporated a little bit of city living into the suburban setting through a family loft that overlooks a large new kitchen perfect for hosting family and social gatherings. The walk-out basement was outfitted to become a future bedroom with a full bath, and the Master Bedroom transformed into a ‘Master Suite’ with its own full bath and walk-in closet.

While the family had modern taste, we were mindful of preserving some of the aesthetics and functional qualities that would blend seamlessly with the new addition. The overall design was a marriage between the old and the new that adapted to the needs of this particular client and perhaps the future generations to come.

Read what this family has to say about us and their new home here.

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

The Navy Family

Location: Exton, PA
Year: 2018
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

This two-story Colonial was purchased by a couple with a small son that needed a home to accommodate their young family. The house had the traditional center hallway and stairs which created a division between the dining area, kitchen, and family room. On the inside, the aesthetics and functionality of spaces were outdated. Via Laulima was asked to complete a full interior renovation that addressed the family’s immediate and future needs.

During the design process, we developed a scheme that enlarged the kitchen towards the front of the house which allowed for an eat-in dining table, wet bar, and additional seating around a new kitchen peninsula. The formal dining room was relocated to take advantage of a large fireplace in the existing living room, and the ceiling was vaulted in the family room to create a brighter and more welcoming space as it overlooked the backyard and pool. All of the bathrooms were completely renovated and another was reconfigured to create a master bedroom ensuite.

The color palette and interior finishes of the kitchen drew inspiration from the couple, who both served in the Navy.

Read what this client has to say about us here.

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

Forever Home

Location: Plymouth Meeting, PA
Year: 2016
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design, Furniture Design

This newly purchased ranch style home came with unique architectural features and finishes from the 1980s. Via Laulima was asked to complete a full interior renovation and 750 square foot addition that stylistically complemented the traditional feel of the property. The updated home now includes modern amenities with classic details and finishes, along with two new bedrooms, an office, a guest bath, breakfast nook, and mudroom.

The process for this project allowed us to demonstrate several areas of our abilities from design to construction administration. By understanding the client's long-term needs, and the budgetary concerns behind financing and timeline, we arrived at a solution that maximized their return for investment while providing opportunities for a few custom designed and built pieces.

The homeowners were a pleasure to work with from beginning to end. Their trust and ability to fully embrace the process alongside us resulted in a home that they will enjoy well into their retirement.
 

Read what this client has to say about us here.
 

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

Kitchen Expansion + Renovation

Location: Berwyn, PA
Year: 2018
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

With an outdated and inefficient kitchen layout, this client was looking for ways to capture the space in an adjacent unused room for a kitchen expansion. The design solution involved several conversations about how the family utilized the kitchen and the overall flow of activity on a daily basis. It was also important to the client that we maintained some of the existing architectural details, and made sure the renovation would match the character of the home. 

The completed kitchen expansion resulted in a bright and airy gathering space with ample storage and plenty of room for simultaneous cooking and cleaning. In addition, the family can now entertain effortlessly with more circulation and features such as a wet bar / prep area, peninsula seating, large kitchen island, and a lovely sitting area for some morning coffee or afternoon tea.  

Read what this client has to say about us here.

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

The Colonial Home

Location: Bryn Mawr, PA
Year: 2017
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

The challenge with older homes is finding a way to integrate the functions of modern living into a dwelling that was built for a different time. The floor plan of this colonial style residence was characteristic of its period with small, compartmentalized rooms that hindered the family’s way of living.

After a series of discussions and design explorations, the solution was a two-story addition located at the rear of the home that included an expansion to the existing basement. The first floor of the addition provides a new expansive kitchen and family room that is now connected to a formal dining space where the living room was previously situated. This overall space presents the feel of a great room and supports the client’s ability to host and entertain large gatherings. On the second floor of the addition, a new master suite was created while the existing master bedroom was converted to a guest room. All of the bathrooms were fully renovated to maintain a cohesive aesthetic throughout the entire home.

The considerations for this project revolved around the family’s daily operations and desired functionalities. From the flow and sequencing of circulation to the details of custom cabinetry, this residence is equipped with spaces for the entire family to enjoy for many years to come.

Read what this client has to say about us here.

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

Master Bath Remodel

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: 2019
Scope: Interior Design

Before the remodel, this Master Bathroom lacked spatial and functional efficiency due to a large Jacuzzi tub that resulted in a small corner shower and an awkwardly placed toilet. The existing finishes and fixtures compounded the issues and did not accommodate the client's needs. 

While the proportions of the overall space proved to be challenging, the new layout took advantage of every square inch available to provide all of the functionality required for both the couple and their young family. Via Laulima used a balanced approach by combining modern and bold patterns with classic textures to help create a timeless and elegant feel. Each area of the bathroom now serves a specific purpose with a logical flow. 

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

Fireplace Feature Wall

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: 2019
Scope: Interior Design

This rare, double-lot rowhouse had a spacious living room with an empty niche that needed a purpose. The criteria was to incorporate a gas fireplace and provide storage capabilities for the family. 

Located at the center of the main level, the design proposal was a feature wall that considered functionality in addition to aesthetics. The open floor plan required careful thought on material selections that would complement the existing surrounding finishes and furnishings. With custom woodwork and upholstery, the niche has been transformed into a visual and spatial focal point for gathering.

Photography Credit: © Tessa Marie Images

Third Story Addition + Interior Renovation

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: Under Construction
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

Kitchen Expansion + Sunroom Addition

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: Under Construction
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

Third Story Expansion + Renovations

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: Under Construction Soon
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design

Third Story Addition + Interior Renovation

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Year: Construction Complete - Images coming soon
Scope: Architecture, Interior Design