Case Study: Pemberton Renovation

Demolition in Pemberton

We began the process by demolishing the structure down to the original framing studs. We also installed new highly efficient casement windows by Pella.

Wall Be Gone

In order to remove the wall separating the kitchen from the family room, we installed a new beam.  This beam was massive, coming in at over 800 lbs!

Form and Function

The new plan called for a professional gourmet kitchen that flows into an open family room.  The clients selected high quality cabinets with inset doors and drawers with a classic milk paint finish.

Milk Paint

Humans have been painting things for thousands of years; Sherwin Williams is doing their best to “Cover the World”.  Did you know that the very first paint was used 20,000 years ago and was composed of milk?  Milk paint was a simple composition of milk, lime and colored pigment mixed together to create a first of its kind wall covering, or more accurately cave covering.  Yes, those tomb and cave murals were made from this simple combination.

Because the mixture is so easy, the recipe has not been lost through all these many years.  In fact, it has had a resurgence because of its beautiful character, durability, and low impact on the environment.  RisherMartin has worked with milk paint on furniture projects in the past, but recently had the opportunity to use it on a beautiful kitchen renovation.   The paint, which literally comes in a bag, was mixed with water to the consistency of a modern paint.  It was then applied to the kitchen cabinets with a brush, being sure to sand between coats.  After three coats of paint were applied and allowed to dry, bee’s wax was applied over the paint to protect it from spills and cooking oils.

The finished product is a one of a kind look that is hard to describe.  Up close, it does not have the same texture or sheen of a modern oil based paint.  The paint takes on a very soft and elegant patina that complements the traditional cabinet design.

Because the ingredients are all biodegradable, there are no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) being released into the air for the workers, and ultimately, the family to inhale.  The paint impregnates itself into the wood and dries rock hard, guaranteeing years of dependable service.  Not sure this kitchen will last another 20,000 years, but the paint won’t be to blame.

Check out our favorite provider of milk paint at www.milkpaint.com

Small Spaces

We transformed a dead corner into a wonderful breakfast nook with built-in seating. The custom walnut top will provide the clients years of enjoyment.

No Stone Unturned

No detail is too small. Our clients want the best materials and demand the finest craftsmanship, which is what we demand of our trade partners. This dovetail drawer box is one of many small details we don’t overlook at RisherMartin Fine Homes.

Pemberton Heights Renovation

RisherMartin Fine Homes recently completed a wonderful transformation of a 1950’s cottage located in the historical Pemberton Heights neighborhood.  Working with the client, we were able to design a new floor plan in the kitchen and family room.  Removing a load bearing wall, separating the two spaces, we were able to create an open floor plan that matches today’s lifestyle.  We also removed a pesky ceiling fur down where the air conditioning ductwork was originally run.  This obtrusive fur down lowered the ceiling in the front entry and hallway to a claustrophobic seven feet.  While we were at it, we gutted a bathroom, installed new energy efficient Pella windows, replaced all the leaky air conditioning ductwork, as well as upgraded the insulation – including foam insulation in the crawl space.

As you can see, the transformation was dramatic and accomplished the client’s goals.  High quality traditional cabinetry and millwork were utilized to intermix the old with the new.  Although a kitchen would never look like this in the 50’s, the cabinetry blends with the historical character of the home.  Modern amenities and professional cooking appliances will make this kitchen a lot of fun for the whole family to enjoy.