When it came time to renovate her own mid-century home in Cheltenham Township, interior designer Rasheeda Gray chose a path that runs counter to one of today’s biggest design trends, writes Kristin Detterline for Philadelphia Magazine.
Rather than opening up the first floor, the owner of Gray Space Interiors leaned into separation. Her goal was to give the dining room a distinct identity, creating what she describes as a boutique-like experience within the home. The solution came in the form of two-foot-wide walls that subtly divide the living and dining spaces while preserving flow and light.
The most dramatic transformation, however, took place in the kitchen, which underwent a full gut renovation. Gray collaborated with her husband, Jacob Gray of Gray Contracting and Construction, to bring the design to life. Storage and functionality were top priorities, with cabinetry designed to accommodate everyday needs like a coffee station and wine fridge.
Material choices balanced warmth and contrast, including light wood Shaker cabinets, textured backsplash tile, and quartz countertops with soft gold and gray veining. New lighting fixtures created a focal point above the island, while mid-century-inspired seating nodded to the home’s architectural roots.
Living through the renovation also gave Gray a fresh perspective as a designer. She says the experience deepened her empathy for clients navigating disruptive projects — especially kitchens, where daily routines are most affected.
To learn more about the renovation and Cheltenham’s Gray Space Interiors, visit Philadelphia Magazine.
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