In a power move only Chiappone , who ’ s known for her tailor-made kitchens , could pull off , the finished look layers the two extremes — dark walnut atop bright white cabinets and quartz , tied together with polished nickel — for a wholly modern design that ’ s functional and striking .
“ We also added a bar section , which wasn ’ t even on the wish list for the client ,” says Chiappone . “ We did the panel-ready wine fridge with the walnut ; that was a first for us , which was fun .”
Grounding and warm , the walnut lends a nautical appeal to the space without veering into cliche .
“ We paired it with a lot
INSIDE THE RENO
BEFORE
YEAR BUILT : 1991 PROJECT TIMELINE :
About a year
TEAM : Digs Design Company ; Frank Karpowicz Architects
BIGGEST TIP : “ Hire a professional . It ’ s just too easy and costly to make mistakes , so it ’ s well worth working with someone who has been doing it for years and years .” of navy blue , including the chairs in the dining area , which are stainresistant ,” she says . The palette continues through to a cozy living space in the enclosed porch , which , like a yacht on the Atlantic , cuts a sharp angle straight over the ocean .
“ The views are magnificent ,” says Chiappone , whether the homeowner is lounging or chopping vegetables . “ The most important element about this project was having it be a really wonderful use of the space .” digsdesignco . com
BIG-TICKET ITEMS ( AND HOW TO SAVE )
Pandemic-related sticker shock got you down ? Here are price points for major home projects in the area , plus easy ways to trim the budget . By Kerri Tallman
Kitchen
THE COST : According to Remodeling Magazine , kitchen renovations in the Providence area can range from $ 27,000 all the way up to — brace yourself — $ 153,000 . HOW TO SAVE : A fresh coat of paint on the cabinets always does the trick . It ’ s a cheap , easy DIY and an immediate refresh to the eye . High gloss or semi-gloss paints are recommended for kitchens , bathrooms and other high-traffic areas while flat or matte paints are best for ceilings and low-traffic areas . Head over to the Paint Shoppes around the state to determine the best sheen for your space . With a can of paint costing between $ 15 to $ 30 per gallon , it can save thousands of dollars on new cabs .
Bathroom
THE COST : Renovations can range from $ 26,000 to $ 41,000 locally , per Remodeling . HOW TO SAVE : Simple changes such as replacing the cabinet handles and laying stick-on backsplash or floor tiles will elevate your space without breaking the bank . Even changing out faucets or the shower head can bring the room into the twenty-first century . Home Depot and Lowe ’ s offer peel-andstick wall tile in a variety of colors and patterns . Check out Adler ’ s at 173 Wickenden St . in Providence for new fixtures .
Master Suite
THE COST : According to Remodeling ’ s latest figures , a master suite addition can set you back between $ 167,000 and $ 350,000 . HOW TO SAVE : Some of the smallest changes make the biggest impact in the bedroom ( read : fresh paint and fixtures ). Swapping out lightbulbs for a brighter or softer glow can also affect the overall mood . For an instant refresh , consider updating your bedding . Work with the natural lighting and find colors that brighten and expand the space .
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