Space, Style, Stay - Kansas City Homes & Style

Empty nesters chose to renovate rather than relocate, creating their perfect forever home in Overland Park.

Story by Ann Butenas | Photography by Matt Kocourek

When faced with the decision to move or improve, one Overland Park couple chose to reimagine their 1980s home into a space that perfectly suits their evolving lifestyle. Backing up to protected green space that ensures lasting privacy, their southern Overland Park residence offered too much potential to leave behind. What emerged from their decision to stay put is a thoughtfully executed renovation that masterfully blends traditional elements with modern convenience, creating an ideal setting for this new chapter of their lives.

The transformation, orchestrated through a seamless collaboration between Kathleen Ramsey of Ramsey Interiors and Renovations by Starr Homes, demonstrates how strategic updates can breathe new life into a well-loved home.

“Kathleen did an excellent job balancing design, functionality and budget constraints,” noted Lisa Tagtmeyer, Project Coordinator at Renovations by Starr Homes. “Sticking to a strict budget while still delivering a beautifully designed project speaks volumes about her ability to prioritize, make smart selections, and guide the clients effectively.”

At the heart of the renovation is a completely reimagined kitchen that serves as both a functional workspace and gathering hub. The formerly awkward butterfly island was straightened and redesigned to house a sink, dishwasher, and abundant storage. Calcutta Idillio quartz countertops set the tone for the entire space, inspiring a warm color palette of soft grays and rich golds. The same striking material extends to the backsplash behind the range, creating a seamless visual flow. A sophisticated beverage center, complete with wine fridge and illuminated glass shelving, creates a distinct zone for entertaining, while a walk-in pantry offers convenient storage for small appliances. Modern conveniences abound, including new convection and electric ovens that make cooking for family gatherings a joy.

The renovation’s most dramatic transformation came from bumping out the back of the house, creating an expanded family room with soaring vaulted ceilings. Custom wood beams echo the material used in the kitchen’s range hood, establishing a cohesive design language throughout the open floor plan. Adjacent to this new space, a former outdoor patio has been enclosed to create a four-season screened porch, complete with a gas fireplace and complemented by a separate grilling deck. The porch’s composite decking material and ceiling ensure durability and low maintenance, while veneer stack stone on the fireplace adds natural texture and visual interest.

Throughout the home, thoughtful updates have brought spaces into the present while respecting the home’s inherent character. The former dining room has been reimagined as a sophisticated home office, enclosed by double glass doors and painted in a delightful green color that makes a striking first impression. A local craftsman created custom shelving for the space, working from Ramsey’s design vision to create a truly personalized workspace. A sliding barn door near the kitchen adds both functionality and architectural interest to the layout.

The living room’s fireplace received an elegant update with a white marble frame and new sconces, replacing dated floor-to-ceiling pillars with a more refined aesthetic. The family room’s fireplace features clean lines that complement the room’s warm gray walls. Original golden oak trim throughout the house was painted to create a brighter, more contemporary feel, and the staircase received an update with modern spindles that set a fresh tone.

Attention to detail extends to every corner of the renovation, from the newly refinished and expanded hardwood floors to an updated powder room featuring contemporary wallpaper and elegant wall sconces. The project even included adding a basement beneath the new addition, providing space for a private in-law suite – a thoughtful inclusion that anticipates present and future family needs.

“Renovations by Starr Homes is great to work with for remodels,” Ramsey reflected, noting the company’s consistent on-site presence and ability to maintain the project’s momentum with minimal delays. This professional synergy between Renovations by Starr Homes’ architectural expertise and Ramsey’s design vision resulted in a home that perfectly serves its owners’ current lifestyle while maintaining the flexibility to evolve with their needs.

The success of this renovation lies not just in its beautiful finishes and thoughtful updates, but in how it transforms a beloved family home into a space that works perfectly for its empty-nester owners while welcoming extended family with open arms. From casual gatherings in the screened porch to family celebrations in the expanded family room, every space has been carefully considered to enhance both daily living and special occasions.

What makes this project special is how it demonstrates the potential that exists within our existing homes. While many homeowners might have opted for new construction, this couple saw the possibility in their familiar space. Through careful planning and execution, they’ve created a home that offers everything they were looking for in a new property while maintaining their connection to a neighborhood and setting they’ve grown to love. Their reimagined home proves that sometimes the perfect home isn’t the one you buy – it’s the one you’ve transformed to meet your changing needs.