Refurbished Attic Suite

When Columbus-based Catherine and Bryan Williamson, the husband and wife design duo behind Beginning in the Middle, decided to upgrade the attic suite in their parents’ 1950s Cape Cod cottage, they sought to create a more functional layout without comprising charm. By building dormers in the bathroom and bedroom, Catherine and Bryan added an extra 200 square feet of functional space and were able to fit a tub, shower, toilet, and double vanity in the bathroom.

The wood vanity in the bathroom brings a rich warmth that balances with the marble hexagon tile. An arched mirror and two Extra Narrow Pillar Lights from Original BTC bring metallic allure and modern sensibility, while the clean white tub and glass shower lend an air of luxury for a bathroom that doubles as a relaxing oasis.

Catherine and Bryan added an arched doorway leading from the hallway to the bedroom, complemented by another Original BTC Extra Narrow Pillar Light. In the bedroom, a curved headboard lines up perfectly with the bottoms of the new windows, allowing for ample natural light, and the dresser nests comfortably into the nook to the left of the bed. The vertical post beside the dresser is structural, so Catherine and Bryan decided to add more non-structural beams to the ceilings and walls in both rooms to integrate it with the design. They also installed a storage bench for extra blankets and bedding.

A reading nook opposite the bed features a modern gray accent chair, patterned rug, and brass reading lamp, along with a rust velvet sofa that used to belong to Catherine and Bryan’s grandparents. Alternatively, a black desk and brass desk lamp allow the nook to serve as a small office space.