Our dramatic remodel of a 117-year-old home includes an exposed beam in the new kitchen ceiling, clad with beautiful wood planks reclaimed from the original floor. This blending of old and new creates a unique focal point honoring this home’s history.
When second-generation owners took possession of their turn-of-the-century home in Evanston, it was time for a significant renovation, including an extensive remodel of the kitchen, butler’s pantry, and powder room. Our clients requested a vaulted ceiling to open up the kitchen without pushing out any external walls. We added a structural beam wrapped in reclaimed wood to the ridge of the new cathedral ceiling. Electrical wiring inside allowed for hanging pendant lighting.
The demolition process uncovered the original wide-plank subfloor. We removed a few old floorboards, and our master carpenter, Nate Rosalie, beautifully restored the lumber to wrap around the exposed beam.
The beam is in place, complete with electrical for the hanging lights. Soffit framing and insulation are in, awaiting the drywall.
Touch-up work prior to installing the wood cladding on the beam. Here you can see the new floorboards (under the ladder) filling in where the old-growth wood was reclaimed.
The restored wood has been wrapped around the beam and it’s time to install the pendant lights.
The finished product makes a beautiful statement in the heart of the kitchen.
