Not much had been done to this England homeowner’s 1950s bungalow. Its compartmentalized rooms and dated style needed major updating. The homeowner, a single retiree who frequently travels but likes to entertain when she’s home, gave designer Sara Slade several wish list items to get started: an open layout, more natural light, an improved visual and physical connection to outdoor areas, and midcentury Miami Beach style.

Slade, whom the homeowner found on Houzz and who uses Houzz Pro business software, took down several walls to create a party-friendly open layout. A glassed-in addition with retractable doors off the front of the home fully opens the kitchen and a sitting area to the outdoors. Curved white kitchen cabinetry with gold details channels a classic Miami Beach vibe. Pastel blues, greens and pinks in the decor and artwork add splashes of soft color.