08/30/2026
60 Years Later, This space got it's moment!
Two years ago, a Realtor and a Contractor/Artist moved into the family homestead on the Ranch. Over the past two months, our late nights were spent on this exciting project! Take a peek!
Built in 1956, a Mid-Century Modern style throughout. Over the decades the home grew and changed, including the addition of a glass porch that was later enclosed but remained separate from the main house by a heavy glass door.
The space was bright. The space was beautiful. And for two seasons of the year, it was barely used.
Yet, this was the primary entrance to the home for all family and guests. We decided it was time for this space to do more than connect the outside to the inside. We wanted it to welcome people - and set the tone for the rest of the home.
So, the transformation began. The oversized 6 foot glass slider was removed, completely opening the space to the original Mid-Centruy paneled and stone fireplace dining area, which used to be the informal living.
The exterior patio door traded out for a modern black door
Every electrical outlet was upgraded, with GFCI and 3-prong replacements (cream to black), electronic charging stations and two solar night lights, cream-colored electrical covers gave way to gold accents.
White vaulted ceilings were accented with new acoustic textured paneling creating lines reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright architectural style.
The upper sun window was trimmed and finished, leading the eye upward.
Original green 60's style lighting replaced with modern geometric LED fixtures.
Where the large 6 foot glass slider once stood, now trimmed with oak and stained with a perfect custom match to the inside home paneling, color matching thanks to Sherwin Williams.
And then came the BIG decision! Navy blue or Green?
After multiple nights of debating - and one repaint - we went bold.
A deep, cigar-lounge, speakeasy-inspired Navy Blue, accented with gold trim surrounding and custom piece created between each window.
The original concrete floor transformed with wood-look Laminate, over a moisture barrier after a couple days worth of leveling.
The original beam remained - tying into the cedar beam accents found throughout the rest of the home.
And then came the furnishings...The gold shelving and furnishing accents complete details.
The seasonal pieces.
The family treasures.
The art.
The stories.
And the table...The 'DNA' table was constructed by Gunnar utilizing a chain around a large post hole digger. It was all hand-welded with accents reflecting his geometric known and branded style in his furnishings and home trim finishes. This table was topped and trimmed with select pine and is lit underneath for additional evening ambiance.
Interchangeable canvas vacation photos adorn the wall as well as a Flint Hills piece gifted from Lori Huyett and showcased at the ranch's Flint Hills Museum, 'Stonebridge', for special events. (It's unable to stay at 'Stonebridge' full time).
And then there are the things that can never be purchased:
My dad's telescope - an Engineer, Architect and Home Builder
Grandpa Corman's glass piece, he was also an Architect
A handmade marble game created by Grandpa Hogue, owner of our homestead, also a Builder
And the historic family trunk from our Taylor family.
Every piece has a story, every wall a detail.
The faux leather sofa will allow us to accent change of color and seasons in the years ahead.
What was once simply a bright, enclosed porch has become an intentional extension of the home - a space that finally feels like it belongs. A space designed for family. For entertaining. For memories. And for welcoming people into a home that has been part of our family's story for generations.
60 years later, the entrance finally tells the story of the home.
And we're just getting started!
Should have started with this, but it would not have been possible with out Gunnar's Phoenix Renovation's talents!
Gunnar McKenna Sara Fox
