This high-rise loft remodel, along the Grand River in beautiful Grand Rapids, MI, is an excellent example of how thoughtful design can honor the past while preparing a home for the future. Located in the former Forslund Furniture showroom, a building converted into condominiums in the 1980s, this loft space carries both architectural history and deep personal meaning to my clients.
The homeowners’ mother was one of the original residents, and my clients decided to update the unit as they begun preparation to return to Grand Rapids from Chicago, transitioning into retirement. Their goal was clear: modernize the space to reflect their taste, while also preserving the character and history of the building that made this unit so special to their family.
The kitchen is the heart of this remodel, designed to feel open, functional, and perfectly suited for loft living. The kitchen’s simple yet efficient layout reinforces the modern aesthetic of the space, featuring clean lines and thoughtful storage in an effort to prioritize both functionality and feel. The perimeter cabinetry features Mouser Cabinetry in quartered grey oak which was carefully selected for its subtle, modern feel. This simple, refined, and understated backdrop allows the architecture to shine through.
At the center of the space, the island makes a bold yet elegant statement. The quartered white oak adds warmth again, while the white quartz countertop creates contrast and extends into a dramatic waterfall edge. This crisp, modern surface is also utilized in the full-height quartz backsplash, creating a clean focal point behind the cooktop and vent hood for a cohesive design throughout.
The generous island seating invites casual gatherings, while its sleek profile keeps the open floor plan feeling uncluttered and intentional. Throughout the kitchen, the combination of natural wood tones, soft grey finishes, and bright quartz surfaces strikes a balance between modern sophistication and livable comfort.
Keeping the original exposed brick was an important design choice for my clients. Not only does it speaks to the building’s industrial past, but the brick anchors the space – bringing both texture and warmth to the space while reinforcing the loft’s authenticity. Each selection was made in an effort to seamlessly integrate the modern cabinetry and countertops.
Underfoot, maple wood flooring runs throughout the condo, grounding the open layout and tying together the kitchen, living, and dining areas. Its light, natural tone enhances the flow of the space and complements both the brick and cabinetry finishes.
As we began designing the bathrooms, we wanted to focus on giving each room its own personality – while remaining focused on a cohesive design that fit the aesthetic of the home. Each selection was carefully chosen for a specific purpose and pairing.
The main bath features contemporary Mouser cabinetry in dark grey acrylic, offering a sleek, contemporary look with subtle reflectivity. The floating vanity design enhances the room’s modern feel, while bright quartz countertops keep the palette light and refined. The backlit mirrors add both functionality and a soft, ambient glow—perfect for a spa-like experience.
In the half bath, shale-painted cabinets pair with a porcelain top in matte finishfor a bold yet controlled contrast, making this smaller space feel intentional and elevated.
The guest bath also features light gray cabinetry topped with bright quartz, offering a welcoming, clean-lined design that feels both comfortable and polished.
This remodel was such a rewarding process for both myself and my clients. The design was about more than updating finishes, it was about honoring family history, preserving architectural character, and creating a home ready for the next phase of life. Blending modern materials with original elements resulted in a downtown loft space that feels timeless, personal, and effortlessly livable.
As the homeowners prepare to move back to Grand Rapids, this thoughtfully remodeled condo is ready to welcome them home. Rooted in history, designed for today, and built for what’s next.
