Ruttan
INTERIOR DESIGN + PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Design & Build by Bungalow Interior Design
PHOTOS BY ALY TAM PHOTOGRAPHY
Designed for a family of four with two school-aged kids, the Ruttan Project reimagines a mid-century-inspired main floor around the realities of everyday family life. The goal was simple: create a home that felt more functional, connected, and organized, with better storage and spaces that could adapt to everything from busy school mornings to weekend gatherings.
A key part of the transformation was rethinking how the existing rooms were being used. With a living room and family room sitting side by side, the family didn’t need both. The former family room became the new heart of the home, a dedicated space for movie nights and games, complete with an electric fireplace, TV area, and generous built-in storage. Double French doors allow the room to be closed off when needed, creating flexibility without sacrificing connection to the rest of the main floor.
The former living room was transformed into a dedicated dining space, giving the table and chairs a more intentional presence while creating room to expand for larger gatherings. The kitchen was then extended into the previous dining room, resulting in a generous, highly functional space with a large four-seat peninsula, abundant counter space and storage, and a walk-in pantry tucked behind a pocket door. The new layout allows the family to cook, gather, and spend time together without the kitchen feeling disconnected from the rest of the home.
One of the most functional additions is the new mudroom, carved from a portion of the former kitchen. Each family member has their own dedicated cabinet and cubby, complete with a drawer, bench seat, hooks, and shelf. Even the family dog has a designated spot for food, treats, toys, and a leash. Hooks at two different heights make the space work for both kids and adults, while pocket doors allow the mudroom to be opened up to the kitchen and hallway or closed off to contain the inevitable mess of school life, Winnipeg winters, and everything in between.
Throughout the space, a modern mid-century aesthetic brings warmth and character to the newly reimagined layout. Every decision was made with both beauty and everyday function in mind, creating a home that works harder for the family while still feeling distinctly their own.
