A split entry has separate stairs going to the upper and lower levels.
A split-entry-level home typically has three levels. The main level is halfway between the basement, where the family room is located, and the upper level, where the bedrooms are located. The living room, kitchen and dining room are usually on the main floor. Although these homes were sought-after when they were built in the '60s, '70s, '80s and even '90s, they aren't really compatible with the way many families live today. Because they tend to be in desirable neighborhoods, though, remodeling to make them more livable is often a good idea. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Improve living space in the lower-level family room. If it's paneled, as many split-level family rooms were when they were built, paint the paneling a light, airy color. Light-colored walls are especially important in family rooms with insufficient daylight. Build a large wall unit for a media. Modernize the wet bar by replacing the cabinets or pulling them out and replacing them with illuminated glass shelving. Pull up old, worn carpeting, and install laminated wood flooring.
Also consider using part of the space as a home office or craft area. Place a desk with a computer in one corner. This will allow you to keep an eye on your children while they're working at the computer. Alternatively, put a table and storage in the corner for crafts. Make sure your lighting's adequate.
2. Upgrade the kitchen. Paint the walls. Replace the cabinets in a style of your choice, and add under-cabinet lighting. Install stainless steel appliances, along with granite countertops in a color that complements the the cabinets and the walls. Replace sliding-glass doors with French doors that open to the deck.
3. Remodel bathrooms and bedrooms. In the bathrooms, install new showers and bathtubs, and surround them with colored subway or glass tiles. Pull out the vanity and replace it with a style of your choice. Replace the lighting with sconces. Consider two bowl-style sinks for the bathroom. Replace old faucets and handles with brushed-chrome faucets and handles.
Paint the bedrooms, and add crown molding around the ceiling. Customize the closets. Pull up the carpets and add hardwood flooring. Buy new furniture and bedding.
Convert a nursery to a bedroom that's more appropriate to the child's age. Replace furniture with items that he can use into his teenage years. If you want to avoid having to redecorate this room in the near future, stay away from any theme.
4. Redo the entrance foyer. Make the foyer a true introduction to your home by adding the design elements you've used elsewhere. If your home is traditional and comfortable, add a table with a table lamp, a plant and some small pictures. Have a chair or a bench so that visitors can take off their boots. If your home is elegant and formal, hang a large chandelier and keep other elements minimal.
5. Change the color of your living room walls. If your home has no natural focal point, such as a fireplace or a large window with a view outside, create a focal point. Paint a feature wall, or put up a large wall hanging. If you do most of your relaxing in the lower-level family room, consider repurposing the living room. Install a large bookcase along a wall for your books and collectibles. Use the room to read or talk quietly with friends and family members. Make sure you have adequate lighting in the room, and the furniture's comfortable.
Tags: your home, family room, living room, family rooms, faucets handles, focal point, large wall
