Bryn Mawr kitchen and family room
When our clients purchased a new home in the midst of the pandemic, they knew that they needed help updating the gorgeous center hall Colonial for their busy family with three young children. In particular, reconfiguring the Bryn Mawr kitchen and family room sat at the top of the priority list. Cooking, baking, and sharing meals are favorite activities for the clients, so our goal was to combine the sophistication of a chef’s kitchen with a family-friendly feeling.
Creating a happy, bright kitchen and family room in Bryn Mawr
The home itself is a stunner, with almost fairytale-like gardens visible through the generous windows in the family room that adjoins the kitchen. However, the existing kitchen was closed-off and dated, with an awkward center island. The flow was off, and the layout wasn’t conducive to the needs of a serious cook and baker.
In addition, the casual dining area was cut off from the kitchen by cabinetry and felt disconnected. We wanted to create a breakfast room that was part of the space and led seamlessly into the family room for a bright, airy, and open living zone (and one that allows mom and dad to cook and keep an eye on the kids while they watch TV or play).
A custom quartzite-topped island is large enough to seat 4 comfortably on leather barstools – perfect for easy cleanup – and features specialty storage like a pull-out cabinet for the prized stand mixer and a custom knife block drawer that little hands can’t reach. Overhead, nickel and glass pendants add a touch of modern style while still keeping the open, airy vibe.
The new breakfast area is open and bright, with a cozy round table for family meals. We added a walnut countertop here that continues the line from the quartzite counter in the kitchen in order to create definition for the space. More custom cabinetry here provides ample storage without taking away from the footprint of the space, unlike the previous design. The new layout gets so much beautiful natural light!
We selected new hardwood flooring and installed it throughout the kitchen, breakfast room, and family room for cohesion. Previously, the family room had a tiled floor.
In the family room proper, we designed a new marble-tiled fireplace surround and larger mantle. The television above doubles as artwork – the perfect solution to keep the little ones occupied nearby without surrendering valuable wall space to a black screen when not in use. The navy sofa features a chaise for extra comfort.
One existing feature that the clients loved was a pair of built-in bookshelves with a cozy bench between. We added an upholstered seat that is a lovely spot for looking out the picture window at the gardens.
With a largely neutral palette anchored by the navy sofa, we added hints of rose in the throw pillows and bench seat to lend softness.
A pair of upholstered stools offers versatility for seating and anchors the far end of the family room, while the round coffee table ties into the breakfast table and allows for that heightened sense of flow.
Overall, the result is a fresh, bright, and classic space that this family will be able to enjoy for years to come!
Project photography by Rebecca McAlpin
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Glenna Stone Interior Design is an award-winning Philadelphia interior design firm serving Philadelphia, the Main Line, and surrounding cities. Utilizing her background and training in interior design, architecture, and engineering, Glenna specializes in creating interiors for residential and commercial design settings. We invite you to visit our website, view our portfolio, and catch up on the latest interior design concepts on our blog!