2012 Chrysalis Awards honor 82 cutting-edge remodeling projects

Bath Remodel Under $40,000
National Winner: Beautiful Remodel LLC, Gilbert, Ariz.
The clients requested a “wow” contemporary bathroom but one that felt inviting and warm. They wanted a larger, walk-in shower with dual heads as well as improved storage, lighting, and functionality at the vanity areas. They rarely use a tub, so they didn’t want something large, but also didn’t want too large a shower that would feel disproportionate in the room. The goal was to create a stunning focal-point wall and a welcoming, comfortable “mood” for the room, which was done with the use of the S-shaped curved mosaic wall, interesting finishes & textures, and creative lighting.

Residential Interior Under $100,000
National Winner: Ispiri Design Build Remodel, Woodbury, Minn.
The client had many concerns, which included an uninviting kitchen and adjoining space, as well as the need for a contemporary feel. Improving traffic flow by adjusting the work triangle reduced the sunk-in family room footprint by adding floor framing and increasing the dinette floor area and accommodating the addition of an office/computer area. Natural balance sought between the new kitchen and adjoining family room was accomplished through shared materials and details.

Residential Interior Over $100,000
National Winner: The Wills Company, Nashville, Tenn.
The homeowners had a clear goal of making their outdated, 1950s house work for their young family. They wanted gracious spaces for living and entertaining and were willing to sacrifice bedroom space in order to achieve it within their financial means. The redesign opens up the space, creating easy circulation throughout. The vaulted family and dining room ceilings give a punch to the otherwise low-slung ranch style house. Simple, clean lines and the use of a warm gray palette throughout make the house feel larger and certainly more contemporary…and all within their budget.

Detached Outbuilding
National Winner: Michael K. Walker & Associates, Sarasota, Fla.
This great structure was constructed as one of several detached guest outbuildings on this coastal island estate. The multi-use building has multiple personalities as studio apartment/guest house with hideaway bedding and compact storage while functioning as a sitting/changing room for the beach/pool and spa areas during the day. Due to the extreme exposure to the harsh coastal environment, the use of solid copper wall cladding, stone veneer and teak wood provide for minimal maintenance while allowing the building to age gracefully.

Whole House Remodel $250,000-$500,000
National Winner: Sullivan Building & Design, Quakertown, Pa.
This cottage had an old tired 1970s feeling that needed to be updated to take advantage of its charming location. A haphazard collection of rooms and spaces needed to be redefined and organized to flow from one space to the next. Here is a totally redone riverfront home that, while only a modest amount of structural renovations and additions took place, the overall environment that was created is clearly testament to the fact that it is all in the details.