Transforming a beloved space is never just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a home that feels like a sanctuary, a place that resonates with who you are today while allowing you to cherish memories without comparison. When our clients came to us, The Modern Hive Interior Design, they wanted their main level to embody this transformation—a complete overhaul that would not only brighten their home, but also make it more functional and uniquely theirs.
The home had solid bones, the kind of structure that promises potential. The challenge was to craft a design that aligned with the clients' personal style, distinct enough from their previous home in another state, a place they had cherished. They didn’t want to constantly measure their new home against the old one; instead, they sought a fresh start with a familiar sense of comfort.
Our vision for this remodel was to create a soft, serene atmosphere, where every corner invited conversation. We aimed for a bright, neutral palette that would evoke a sense of calm and offer the comfort of home and luxury. The clients expressed a desire for ample seating to host family and friends and an improved layout throughout that would enhance the functionality of key spaces like the pantry and mudroom.
This project presented us with a series of unique challenges, each requiring a blend of creativity and practicality. The most significant hurdle was reimagining the space around the large, centrally located fireplace. It dominated the main level, creating a hallway behind it that was more of a waste of space than a useful area.
To solve this, we opted to close off the hallway, transforming the space into a functional entry area complete with a storage bench, a stylish focal fireplace, and a much-needed storage closet behind the fireplace. This redesign not only maintained the integrity of the fireplace location but also introduced new functionality and an updated aesthetic featuring reeded marble tile, a unique metal surface, and a limestone surround that enhanced the fireplace’s overall appeal.
Another challenge was the floor plan itself. The client wanted a larger butler’s pantry, which meant reconfiguring the existing layout that housed a small powder bath, a cramped mudroom, small pantry, and an outdated beverage service pantry—an all-in-one ill-proportioned space. The original design failed to meet the clients’ needs, both in terms of size and utility.
By eliminating the old beverage service pantry and relocating the powder bath, we were able to double the size of the new butler’s pantry, turning it into a standout feature of the home. The new layout now offers a functional butler’s pantry complete with several amenities, including a full-size fridge, ice maker, under-counter wine fridge, a 32” sink complete with a dishwasher and pull-out trash, two under-counter fridge drawers, and so much space for pantry food storage!
The kitchen, while spacious, also needed a makeover. Its previous layout was aesthetically lacking and didn’t serve the clients’ needs. The redesign brought in a modern, functional flow that now perfectly complements the clients’ lifestyle. Features include a gorgeous checkered pattern marble floor surrounding the island, a unique island design that complements the mitered angles of the fireplace surround, a service ladder that is removable and relocatable throughout the kitchen, and a feature cooktop and hood design centered in the kitchen.
In every part of this home, from the unique selections in materials, the reclaimed wood and iron beam installed for space definition between the living room and kitchen, to the thoughtful amenities placed within the kitchen, we infused thoughtful details that not only draw the eye but also invite people to linger and appreciate the beauty of each carefully considered element. This remodel was not just about changing a space; it was about creating new inspiration for the clients within their home, one that blends the best of the past with the promise of the future.
This article originally appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Omaha Home Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.














