Next-Era Evolution of a Historic Summit Avenue Home

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a century-old Sydney home, originally built in 1914, transforming it into a modern family residence. The property, located on a corner block near Centennial Park, underwent extensive refurbishment after being purchased in 2017 by a young professional couple. The house was in a state of disrepair, requiring new wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, and repairs to a collapsing ceiling. The owners enlisted architect Carla Middleton to oversee the project, aiming to create a 'forever home' suitable for a growing family. Middleton describes the original house as dilapidated but an amazing blank canvas. The renovation strategy involved reducing the number of bedrooms from six to three, which would be housed in a newly constructed second storey. Conversely, the number of bathrooms was increased to four, plus a powder room, emphasizing quality over quantity in terms of sleeping quarters. On the ground level, the design focused on creating expansive living areas. The original front rooms were preserved and repurposed as family rooms, a study, and a sitting room. Great care was taken to restore original features such as skirtings, cornices, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, maintaining the home's historic charm. A key design objective was to implement an open-plan living concept, moving away from the smaller, separated rooms of the previous home. The new extension at the rear features an 11x8-meter living space that seamlessly connects to a sun-drenched deck. Given the home's north-south orientation, a primary goal was to maximize natural light in this area. Carla Middleton achieved this through a striking void space that reaches 6.7 meters at its highest point and extensive glazing. This design ensures that the northern light floods the living/dining area and extends to the upstairs bedrooms overlooking the void. The exterior of the extension, clad in James Hardie Scyon cement-composite boards, contrasts with the original brick structure while subtly referencing its form through a new roofline composed of three gables. These gables correspond to the kitchen, dining, and living zones downstairs. The original hallway was also maintained as a central axis, creating a clear vista from the front door to the light-filled rear living space. For the interior design, Carla Middleton collaborated with the owners to establish a palette that blends her neutral, natural material preference with their crisp, contemporary style and appreciation for darker tones. This resulted in an interplay of black, white, and mid-grey hues, complemented by stone elements throughout the home. The kitchen, a focal point for entertaining, exemplifies this blend with black and white cabinetry by Holtz Joinery and Elba marble benchtops and splashback, featuring a substantial 4x1.3-meter island bench. The renovation was completed as the family grew, with the owners welcoming two children during the project, making the newly transformed space a comfortable and functional home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #ModernExtension #SydneyArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #NaturalLightDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CarlaMiddletonArchitect #AustralianHomes

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

Canadian studio Post Architecture has undertaken a significant renovation of a century-old brick house in Toronto, located across from a popular park in the Riverdale community. The project, named Riverdale Dormer House, involved a collaboration with engineers, designers, and builders to modernize the urban residence and enhance its connection to exterior views, while maintaining sensitivity to the surrounding streetscape. The architects aimed to integrate a modern aesthetic within the existing masonry structure, acknowledging the challenges of such an intervention. A key exterior modification was the replacement of the original roof and attic with a new third-floor addition. This addition is clad in standing-seam metal and features a sloped facade facing the street and a flat roof at the rear, designed to align with the heights of neighboring buildings. Traditional gabled dormers were removed and replaced with large, rectilinear window boxes. These new dormers are characterized by deep overhangs on all sides, strategically designed to modulate both internal and external views. Inside, the renovation focused on adapting the dwelling to accommodate a modern lifestyle. A new kitchen extension was added, which includes a custom wine cellar. Furthermore, a new garage was constructed, incorporating a hydraulic lift that can store up to three cars or be used to free up floor area, effectively extending the rear yard. The modernization efforts also extended to the integration of a radiant floor heating system throughout the house and the installation of commercial-style return air vents, enhancing comfort and efficiency. Lighting design was a crucial aspect of the interior update, with LED lights installed to be as discreet as possible. These lights were specifically positioned to complement and highlight the various art walls present throughout the house, contributing to the overall contemporary decor. The ground floor of the residence was reconfigured to feature an open-plan layout, encompassing a living zone, dining room, and kitchen, which seamlessly connects to a wooden deck in the backyard, promoting indoor-outdoor living. The basement level was designated for utilitarian and recreational spaces, housing an exercise area, a laundry room, and additional storage. A central staircase, crafted from a combination of wood, glass, and metal, serves as a prominent design feature and facilitates circulation within the home. This staircase leads to the second floor, which contains two bedrooms and a spacious den, providing flexible living arrangements. The master suite is privately situated on the third level, offering expansive views and a serene retreat. Throughout the interior, a diverse palette of materials was utilized to create a contemporary aesthetic, including elegant marble counters and warm wooden flooring. This project aligns with Post Architecture's portfolio of work, which also includes other notable residential renovations such as the Junction Shadow House in Toronto, known for its slender urban design and a distinctive monochrome staircase with white perforated metal guards. The photography for the Riverdale Dormer House project was provided by Arnaud Marthouret at Revelateur Studio. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #TorontoRealEstate #PostArchitecture #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving #ContemporaryUpdate #HistoricHome

Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM Design, undertook the redesign of an Upper East Side pied-à-terre for a family of four, including their new puppy. The project aimed to blend traditional Manhattan glamour with modern functionality, reflecting the clients' busy lifestyle and sophisticated tastes. The inspiration for the design was largely drawn from a shared appreciation for Ralph Lauren aesthetics, influencing the choice of classic black-and-white deco elements and Ralph Lauren-inspired details throughout the apartment. This included incorporating Ralph Lauren brand sofas alongside custom BHDM ottomans and complementing a refurbished vintage dining table with Ralph Lauren velvet pinstripe chairs. Mazzarini, who previously worked at Ralph Lauren for six years, found this common ground to be a strong starting point for the design. The renovation was a collaborative effort, primarily led by an all-women team. Aerial Design Build, an all-women-run construction business, worked in conjunction with BHDM's Sarah Major, Cameron Burger, and Deanna Ament, as well as architect Deborah Rojas. The client, deeply connected to New York City despite residing in Connecticut, sought a space that resonated with their family's history and their daughters' diverse interests. While the majority of the three-bedroom, 3 ½-bathroom apartment featured a sophisticated black-and-white palette, the daughters' shared bedroom was customized with their favorite color, blue, accented with white and silver, to cater to their refined tastes. A significant challenge encountered during the project was the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the project was initiated before the pandemic, construction could not commence until after the city's lockdown was lifted. This resulted in extended lead times for furniture and finishes. Furthermore, working within a dated building presented additional complexities, necessitating various in-unit repairs and updates. Mazzarini emphasized that the clients' trust in his team was crucial in navigating the difficulties of virtual meetings and masked interactions during this period. Despite these hurdles, the outcome was a stunning transformation. The BHDM team subtly reconfigured the floor plan to maximize space and functionality. Notably, a former staff kitchen was converted into an open-layout kitchen and dining lounge, fostering a more communal family space. The entryway's large closet was seamlessly integrated into a foyer, enhancing the apartment's flow. Clever storage solutions were incorporated discreetly under seats and beds to maintain an uncluttered aesthetic. The design focused on creating gracious, tall, and generous public areas, balanced with more intimate and cozy private bedrooms and bathrooms. The project successfully reimagined the space, embodying BHDM's expertise in delivering luxurious yet practical interiors that meet the unique needs of its residents. #InteriorDesign #PiedATerre #UpperEastSide #BHDMDesign #LuxuryInteriors #RalphLaurenInspired #ManhattanGlamour #HomeRenovation #ResidentialDesign

The "Gingerbread House" in Larchmont, a historic summer cottage built in 1872 near Manor Beach, underwent a comprehensive interior redesign to suit an active young family with three daughters. Designer Laurie Scovotti was tasked with lightening the home's interiors while preserving its unique character, which includes rich millwork and whimsical architectural details. The primary directive was to create a brighter, more youthful, and modern feel within the Victorian Gothic structure. Scovotti achieved this by juxtaposing the home's original architecture with relaxed, clean-lined furnishings and a vibrant palette of colors and patterns. Blue tones were established as a grounding hue, reflecting the family's passion for sailing and the home's coastal proximity, complemented by accents of pinks, greens, and floral motifs. The exterior also received a fresh update, with a classic white complemented by light blue trim, following a collaboration with color consultant Debra Kling. The large living room was cleverly divided into two distinct areas. One section was designed for intimate conversations around the fireplace, featuring deep-blue velvet chairs and an airier feel created by a lighter-colored stone mantel surround. The homeowners' existing art pieces, including watery prints and a colorful painting, were integrated into the decor. The other side of the living room, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, evokes a summery ambiance with light blues and pinks, anchored by a large blue coffee table and softened by subtly patterned drapes. Dark crown molding in several rooms was painted to reduce visual weight, though a prominent wood beam in the living room ceiling was retained. In the dining room, a dramatic "Inisfree" wallpaper by Carrier and Company for Lee Jofa served as the foundational design element. The low ceiling was visually elevated by painting it in Benjamin Moore Smoke, a shade also applied to the millwork around the mantel, which itself received a fresh coat of white paint. The space was kept calm and neutral with a wool-and-jute rug, a delicate glass chandelier, and refined dining chairs, with rounded doorways providing elegant transitions. The former passthrough area was transformed into a functional bar room, blending traditional elements, such as the homeowners' rug, with mid-century pieces like a rattan bar cabinet and leather chairs. The walls, painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Jamestown Blue,” contribute to a relaxed lounging atmosphere. The husband's office was designed to balance wood-paneled walls with a bright blue ceiling, and heavy curtains were replaced with unlined woven shades. A metal-and-glass desk adds a modern touch, and built-in shelves display personal items like sailing trophies and books. A hallway connecting bedrooms was updated into a vibrant lounge space, featuring durable vinyl grass cloth on the walls, a cleverly concealed electrical panel behind artwork, and an array of pillows in various prints and textures to add brightness and energy. Each of the daughters' rooms was personalized according to their preferred color themes, with Scovotti expanding on these palettes. For instance, the oldest daughter's room incorporated softened primary colors around a floral "Carly" wallpaper, providing a fun and adaptable space. Another girl's bedroom balanced dark window trim with modern furniture and bold patterns, utilizing blue-and-green fabrics and mint-green walls to create a peaceful yet youthful environment. The primary bedroom, a serene retreat for the couple, heavily features blues. The decor is light and bright, with dark blue accents on the bed frame and a Greek-key pattern on the drapes. A four-poster bed from Maiden Home is strategically placed to maximize the water view, and a comfortable armchair was reupholstered in a vintage Schumacher print. The wife's dressing room, located at the top of a spiral staircase, functions as an office with an impressive view. Drapes in a blue-and-white Schumacher fabric frame a circular window, and a burlwood desk lightens the room's darker wood elements. A nautical compass inlay on the floor adds a decorative touch. Scovotti also provides advice for incorporating color into a home, suggesting starting with impactful but not overwhelming additions like large artwork or upholstered chairs, rather than painting entire rooms, and encouraging individuals to trust their intuition regarding color choices. #HistoricHomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendlyDesign #LarchmontHome #LaurieScovotti #ColorPalette #ModernVictorian #CoastalDecor #HomeRedecoration

The integration of smart-home technology into older or historic houses, once considered a formidable challenge, has become significantly easier due to rapid advancements in the field. Previously, outfitting such homes with smart systems often necessitated extensive renovations, including cutting into walls, which could damage historic architectural elements. However, current technological developments are making these installations less intrusive and more accessible. Christian Roehl, owner of InCommand Systems, a smart-home technical integration company, illustrates this evolution with his own experience. After a power outage led to frozen pipes in his New Hampshire vacation home over a decade ago, Roehl prioritized smart-home capabilities for his next property. He acquired a condominium in a 1900 stucco Beaux Arts building in Beacon Hill, a property with significant historical and architectural features. During a 2016 renovation, Roehl installed various smart systems, including spray-foam insulation, HVAC, automated window blinds, a Nest thermostat, audio speakers, and numerous sensors. He replaced 35 light switches with smart-home versions and ran new cables for a home theater. While this renovation did involve opening walls for new cables and insulation, Roehl emphasizes that today, much of this can be achieved without such disruptive work. Key to this advancement is the improved capability of electronic signals to penetrate thick plaster walls and the increasing wireless nature of devices. Sensors and touchpads are becoming smaller and can be discreetly hidden. For instance, Roehl concealed a kitchen sensor under a marble counter, and existing light switches can be retrofitted with smart relays. The central command unit for his condo's smart system is hidden in the laundry room, reflecting the trend towards unobtrusive integration. Dan DiClerico, a smart-home strategist and home expert for Home Advisor, confirms these developments. He notes that the biggest challenge for smart-home retrofitting in historic homes, such as his own landmarked house in Bedford-Stuyvesant, used to be the thick plaster and lath walls interfering with internet connections. However, stronger internet signals and Wi-Fi boosters are now effectively overcoming these barriers. DiClerico advises starting with a high-speed, wide-bandwidth internet connection and ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the home. Steve Snider, owner of Green Phoenix Development, which specializes in high-performance renovations for older homes, affirms that smart-house technology is viable for any house. He recalls how his 1911 former home was rewired without breaking into walls by snaking wires through floor joists, a more labor-intensive and costly method at the time. Now, many functions are app-controlled, reducing the need for extensive wiring. He suggests that if wired systems are chosen, it is most efficient to install them alongside other major home renovations, such as energy retrofits, but highlights the growing prevalence of wireless smart-home solutions. Mark Komanecky, founder and president of InteGreat Group, who previously worked with Snider on a 1914 Craftsman house renovation, further supports the shift towards wireless technology. He points out that many smart products can now be installed by homeowners themselves, a significant change from just a few years ago. While audio-video equipment sometimes still requires wiring, other popular smart functions, like video doorbells, are often wireless. Roehl's antique front door, for example, retains its aesthetic integrity with an August Lock, a keyless entry system that replaces the interior deadbolt without altering the door's exterior. This demonstrates how modern smart-home solutions can seamlessly integrate with and respect historic aesthetics. #SmartHomeTechnology #HistoricHomes #HomeRenovation #WirelessTechnology #HomeImprovement #BeaconHill #RealEstate #ArchitecturalPreservation

The Summit Estate is a project located in Park City, Utah, combining modern architecture with a fun, eclectic aesthetic to create an elevated yet relaxed living experience. The design approach focuses on integrating the clients' bold preferences while maintaining the signature Studio McGee style. The entryway of the home establishes this unique aesthetic immediately. To counteract a potentially cold initial impression, large sections of drywall are covered with textural stone and raw timber, creating visual interest. A round table centrally located in the space promotes flow, complemented by additional seating along the room's edges. The art selections within the entryway serve as an initial introduction to the clients' distinctive and playful taste, highlighting the creative freedom given to the design team. The home features multiple bars, reflecting its design for hosting and entertaining. The first bar, situated near the entrance, showcases a color-blocked design using a velvety brown and a teal-tinged blue/black, seamlessly connecting to the main living area to facilitate social gatherings. The living room presented a design challenge, requiring a layout that maximizes views, provides comfortable seating around the fireplace, and encourages conversation, all while ensuring easy access to the kitchen and dining room. The design team curated a mood board featuring sophisticated pieces with an edgy appeal, such as a plaid-covered curved sofa, armchairs with sloped arms, and a coffee table with organic, chunky legs, to meet these requirements. In the kitchen and pantry area, a dark green Lacanche range serves as a central design element, blending with the cabinetry to create a statement. A plaster range hood directs attention upward, while a wood band connects exposed shelves. To balance an off-center range, the pantry door is designed to integrate discreetly into the cabinetry. The kitchen island features dramatic soapstone counters, providing ample seating with six barstools. The dining room is anchored by a custom-sized Orville Dining Table from McGee & Co., accommodating 12 guests. Upholstered benches are used on one side, offering a break in height and softening the space. A wooden hutch at the table's foot displays kitchen and dining accessories. The primary suite exemplifies the blend of modern design with classic elements. The walls are covered in dark charcoal grasscloth, complemented by wood beams on the ceiling and a sophisticated marble fireplace. A dark wood four-poster bed is the room's focal point, surrounded by an assortment of furniture chosen for its unique details. The en-suite bathroom features a green-stained vanity that highlights the wood grain, fitting the mountain home aesthetic, and unlacquered brass fixtures that are designed to develop a natural patina over time. Guest Bedroom One is noted for its ample natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and walls painted in Coriander Seed by Benjamin Moore, a sophisticated brown that acts as a neutral yet references the mountain landscape. The office is designed with a moody mountain aesthetic, featuring dark-stained wood wrapping the entire space, including herringbone flooring and vertical paneling on walls and ceiling. This wood paneling extends beyond the steel-frame windows to the exterior. The office also displays eclectic items like a plaid settee, vintage golf clubs, and a worn football. The mudroom and laundry room are designed with rich, wheat-toned walls (Rattan by Benjamin Moore) and rough-hewn wood tones consistent with the home’s overall design, emphasizing their utilitarian function within a luxury mountain home. Bar No. Two and the Wine Room are situated behind steel doors. The wine room is dedicated to bottle storage, while the second bar features blue-toned Zellige tiles, color-matched wood shelves, and a brass rail. The game room and lounge area, located in the basement, are designed to defy typical basement appearances. They include a shuffleboard table, a pool table, and a living space ideal for casual gatherings, reflecting a modern mountain home aesthetic. The powder bathroom features bold, small-scale patterned wallpaper that creates a significant visual impact against wood paneling. The bunk room utilizes a bold patterned wallpaper, with bunk beds painted in Dark Pewter by Benjamin Moore. The design maximizes space by positioning bottom bunks perpendicular to the top ones, allowing for nightstands and increased livability. The accompanying bunk bathroom features a long trough sink and subdued colors to highlight its luxurious materials. #SummitEstate #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainLiving #EclecticDesign #HomeDecor #UtahDesign #StudioMcGee

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

The article highlights the work of Jamie Singer and her company, Crown Control Homes, in preserving and updating historic residences, specifically focusing on a Highland Park Italian Revival mansion at 4209 Beverly Drive. Singer's philosophy revolves around maintaining the original charm and architectural integrity of old homes while incorporating modern functionality and aesthetics. She believes that classic, well-constructed houses possess enduring style and aims to save as many as possible from demolition. The featured Italian Revival home, built in 1927 by Fooshee & Cheek for prominent rancher and farmer John Furneaux, is a prime example of Singer's approach. The previous owner, Mattie, was keen on selling to someone who would restore rather than tear down the property, finding an ideal match in Singer. The 3,958-square-foot house, with three bedrooms and five bathrooms, underwent a rapid, three-month renovation thanks to Singer's meticulous planning and efficient team. Upon entering, the home reveals a foyer with a 9-foot ceiling and a modern Clizia Mama Non Mama Suspension Lamp by Slamp Lighting. The formal living room, wrapped in pickled pecky cypress paneled walls, retains its character with a carved cast stone fireplace, hardwood floors, and deep molding, offering scenic views of the landscaped grounds. Light fixtures were strategically updated throughout the home, such as the Generation Lighting Mellita satin brass pendant chandelier in the formal dining room and a custom Carlyn Ray hand-blown glass pendant chandelier over the stairs, to blend historical context with contemporary design. The kitchen received a significant overhaul, featuring Shaker-style cabinets, glass front upper cabinets, quartz countertops, and a glass-tiled backsplash. All bathrooms were renovated, with the principal bathroom experiencing a wall opening to better suit modern usage. This luxurious primary bathroom now boasts Bianco Puro white marble, brushed brass fixtures, a Restoration Hardware oak washstand, and Calacatta counters. Singer's unique renovation process often involves living in the home during the update. This practice allows her to understand the house's flow and identify practical needs, such as additional shelving, ensuring the renovations are highly functional for contemporary living. Beyond the main house, a 281-square-foot back house was transformed into elegant guest quarters, complete with a kitchenette and full bath. Practical additions include a dog run and a Tesla charging station in the garage. Exterior improvements involved replacing the grounds with new artificial turf and incorporating hydrangeas, Japanese maple, crepe myrtle, and magnolia trees, enhancing the property's curb appeal. The successful rejuvenation of this architecturally significant Highland Park Italian Revival residence is expected to ensure its longevity for another century. The property is currently listed by Teffy Jacobs of Allie Beth Allman & Associates for $4.495 million. #HighlandPark #ItalianRevival #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHeritage #DallasLuxury #CrownControlHomes

This article details the transformation of a 1925 Colonial home in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood, owned by Sally and Anders Zwartjes. The couple purchased the 3,000-square-foot house in 2016, drawn to its charm but recognizing the need for significant updates to accommodate a family of four, particularly the limited one and a half bathrooms and outdated features. Designer Casey Keasler of CASEWORK, a family friend, was enlisted to lead the extensive renovation. The project spanned a year and a half and involved both cosmetic changes, such as new flooring and fresh paint, and dramatic structural modifications. A 500-square-foot addition was integrated into the home, expanding its overall footprint. The primary goal was to modernize the living space for a contemporary family while respectfully preserving the colonial style and original architectural elements. Keasler emphasized the importance of functionality, collaborating with architect Paul Crowther to secure permits before focusing on the aesthetic details. A key aspect of the renovation involved altering the home's original layout to better suit the family's needs. This included the decision to convert one of the four original bedrooms into a full second bathroom, prioritizing utility over adherence to traditional room counts. This strategic choice highlights a flexible approach to renovation, where individual family requirements dictate design decisions rather than rigid conventions. The addition also included a larger kitchen, a significant item on Sally and Anders' wish list. This new kitchen features a classic white design, a breakfast nook, a pantry, and a mudroom, contributing to a brighter and more open feel throughout the home. The window-lined breakfast nook, in particular, was designed as a central gathering space for the family. Keasler aimed to balance the inherent seriousness and symmetry of colonial architecture with a more relaxed, Northwest aesthetic. This equilibrium was achieved through deliberate contrasts. Existing period details such as built-ins, cove ceilings, crown molding, and oak floors were maintained and refreshed. The millwork and built-ins, for example, replicated the intricate details of the original cabinetry, including the bead on the inside cabinet panels, ensuring consistency with the home's historical character. To introduce modern elements and create visual interest, Keasler incorporated contemporary furniture and light fixtures, often in mid-century, Scandinavian, or modern styles. Graphic-style rugs were also used to provide a modern accent against the traditional backdrop. The designer's tips for blending old and new include maintaining consistency with metal finishes, refreshing existing features like built-ins with new paint and hardware, and unifying the home's trim and molding with a consistent color and varying sheens to achieve a modern look. This project demonstrates that a careful integration of historical preservation and modern functionality can create a home that is both charming and highly livable. #ColonialHome #HomeRenovation #ModernFacelift #InteriorDesign #SeattleRealEstate #HistoricalPreservation #StructuralChanges #KitchenDesign #ContemporaryLiving

Story Hill Renovations recently undertook a project to modernize a 1922 English Revival brick Tudor home located in Milwaukee’s Kenwood Park–Prospect Hill Historic District. The residence, originally designed by Clas, Shepherd & Clas for Edward and Ida Dahinden, presented the challenge of integrating contemporary living with its historic architectural integrity. The renovation focused on updating the kitchen and bathrooms while preserving the home’s original details, such as the subtly vaulted Gothic plaster living room ceiling, intricate plaster sloped and curved crown molding in the dining room, and original woodwork and radiators throughout the house. Karly Mandell, Story Hill Interior Designer, emphasized the philosophy of modernizing for today’s lifestyle without erasing the past. This approach guided material and fixture selections, with permanent fixtures like millwork, cabinetry, and plumbing adhering to the home's original style. More temporary elements, such as wallpaper, allowed for creative expression. An example of this is the striking skull wallpaper in a first-floor half-bath, which reflects the owners’ desire for a “punk rock country club” aesthetic. Similarly, new millwork and tile in an upstairs guest bathroom were designed to appear original to the century-old home, showcasing a blend of old and new. The historical context of the Dahinden family and the house itself provides a backdrop to the renovation. Edward Joseph Dahinden, born in Milwaukee in 1875, was a prominent businessman who, with his wife Ida, commissioned this home after relocating from the Near West Side to the more desirable upper East Side. The architectural firm of Clas, Shepherd & Clas, led by the renowned Alfred Clas, completed the house and a detached garage in a remarkably short period in 1922 for $22,000. This rapid construction, using skilled craftsmanship, highlights the building practices of the era. The property's ownership history reveals its evolution through different periods, including its brief use as the Fourth Church of Christ Scientist and later as a rooming house, which led to a sale in 1958 due to neighborhood complaints. Subsequent owners maintained the home until the current residents, a young couple, engaged Story Hill Renovations to adapt it to their needs. Their aim was to integrate their modern, eclectic style while respecting the home’s integrity, resulting in updated takes on traditional elements, such as tile wainscotings with cleaner profiles and a modern color scheme for traditional herringbone tile patterns. Expanding the main bathroom presented a significant structural challenge, requiring cantilevering over an existing load-bearing wall. Project Manager Tom Van Heijningen detailed the need for precise execution to protect the ornate plaster wall in the dining room below and manage complex plumbing installations. The project involved nearly 20 trade professionals, coordinating their efforts over six months. A standout feature of the renovated home is the “Yellowstone Room,” an upstairs space with a central fireplace and windows on three sides. This room, reminiscent of a similar space in architect Alfred Clas’s own home, was enhanced by the discovery and restoration of a 1700s chandelier, adding historical depth to the modernized space. The renovation successfully balances the preservation of historical charm with the introduction of contemporary functionality and personal style, ensuring the house continues its story into the future. #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #TudorRevival #MilwaukeeArchitecture #StoryHillRenovations #Modernization #ArchitecturalHistory #ResidentialDesign

A Neo-Grec row house located at 137 St. Marks Avenue in the Prospect Heights Historic District is on the market for $5.5 million. Built in 1883 by owner and mason John Monas, with architect J.J. Gilligan, the house is a corner property featuring a garage and a triple-height bay window on the Carlton Avenue side, designed to maximize interior light. The facade largely retains its original Neo-Grec details, including a full-height angled bay with a box stoop, lintels, and a door hood with incised detailing. A bracketed wood cornice wraps around the property. While the interior currently presents some areas in need of extensive renovation, such as skim coating for walls and floor repairs, other rooms and existing kitchens and bathrooms are functional. The property is a legal three-family home, currently configured as two duplexes. A 3-D tour is available to provide a detailed view of the four floors of living space, highlighting surviving original features. These include fine plasterwork in the entry, a substantial pier mirror in the front parlor, and elaborate woodwork, albeit obscured by bright green paint in some areas. Throughout the house, five mantels are notable original features. The rear parlor contains a finely worked white-painted mantel with an original tile surround, alongside two arched niches and two original closets. The garden level features an updated kitchen with slab front cabinets, white counters, and an apron front sink, connected by a passthrough with built-ins to a bedroom. This bedroom, potentially the original dining room, includes a slate mantel with incised detailing. The lower duplex is completed by laundry facilities and a single full bathroom. The upper duplex offers two full bathrooms and three bedrooms, though a new owner might consider reconfiguring the layout. The living room on the penultimate floor, facing the street, boasts a mantel identical to the parlor level's, complete with original tiles and insert. The kitchen on this level, situated within the Carlton Avenue bay, is compact. A rear-facing bedroom showcases another mantel adorned with vibrant blue original hearth tiles. The top floor retains built-ins from the original passthrough between the front and rear bedrooms and features the fifth and final mantel. The property includes a small rear yard, accessible from the garden level, which contains a paved patio and planting beds, along with access to the garage. The house is being sold "as is," and the owners are looking for a spring closing. Listed by Miriam Driot of Barnes New York, the asking price is $5.5 million. This residence offers a blend of historical charm and potential for modernization in a desirable Brooklyn neighborhood, reflecting its enduring architectural character despite some current cosmetic needs. #ProspectHeights #NeoGrecArchitecture #Brownstone #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #OriginalDetails #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalHeritage #NewYorkHomes

This article details the renovation of a 1971 Eichler house located in the Palo Alto hills, a custom commission by architect John S. Lynd, a friend of Joseph Eichler. The project was undertaken by California-based Gustave Carlson Design and Atlanta-based Atelier Davis for a design-forward family with a substantial art collection. The renovation aimed to preserve the home's historical essence while integrating modern functionalities, energy efficiency, and sustainability. The core philosophy behind the original Eichler design, embodying optimism and the ability of modern design to enhance daily life, was maintained throughout the update. The exterior of the home features vertical Shou Sugi Ban Accoya barn wood, providing a matte black, textured finish. The central part of the house, distinguished by a gabled roof with contrasting white panels, is flanked by two flat-roofed wings. Triangular transom windows at the entryway allow ample natural light into the home, complemented by a custom sage green Dutch door. Inside, the signature post-and-beam construction of Eichler homes is prominent. Partitions were removed to create more open and expansive interior spaces, better accommodating the family's art collection. A significant transformation occurred in the atrium, which was enclosed with a glass roof to maximize natural light and create an airy feel. Cedar siding was used on the walls of this newly enclosed space, maintaining an outdoor aesthetic within the indoor environment. The material palette predominantly features natural elements such as wood, cork, and stone, contributing to a warm and organic atmosphere. The interior color scheme incorporates blues, corals, and yellows, adding vibrant touches to the mid-century modern aesthetic. The kitchen's cabinetry is finished in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue No. 30, which harmonizes with the rich black walnut top of the central island. The children’s bedrooms are designed with both sleeping areas and workspaces, each decorated with colorful wallpaper and furnishings selected by Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis. A guest bedroom includes a custom-designed ledge for displaying rotating art. In one of the children’s bathrooms, pale green cabinets are accented with black, creating a sophisticated look under a new light well. The primary bedroom also features a display ledge behind the bed for art, and a wall of retractable glass doors connects the bedroom’s seating area directly to the outdoors. The renovation also included practical additions such as a custom mudroom, where each family member has a dedicated storage cubby. The project successfully blends historical reverence with contemporary living, proving that mid-century modern architecture can be thoughtfully adapted for the 21st century without sacrificing its iconic charm or sustainable principles. #EichlerHome #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #Architecture #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #PaloAlto #ModernHome #GustaveCarlsonDesign

The stairway serves as a fundamental connector within a building, enabling movement between floors. Beyond this basic function, a well-designed stairway can significantly unify and enhance the entire aesthetic of a space, making a dramatic impression that few other interior architectural features can achieve. In contrast to the ornate, heavily carved newel posts characteristic of Victorian staircases, modern design philosophy, as exemplified by companies like Viewrail, centers on the treads themselves as the primary eye-catching element. Viewrail, founded in 2011 with a focus on modern stair design, developed its FLIGHT floating stairway in 2017. This design emphasizes wooden treads, complemented by railings made of glass, cables, or metal rods. The core principle behind this approach is to minimize the visibility of structural components, allowing the natural grain patterns and colors of the wood treads to become the focal point. This creates a sense of openness and allows light to filter through, making rooms appear larger and contributing to a more expansive visual environment. Floating stairways, particularly those with glass railings, are highly valued for their transparency, which allows them to seemingly disappear and integrate seamlessly into the surrounding architecture. This design choice transforms the stairway from a mere functional element into a striking focal point. Brian Ellison, a multidisciplinary designer, attests to the transformative power of Viewrail's stairs, noting their ability to unify spaces and impart a modern feel. He views the floating stairway as an unexpected and memorable feature that leaves a lasting impact on observers. Traditionally, staircases relied on lumber stringers built into the walls for support. Viewrail's modern floating stairways, however, often utilize a metal stringer located beneath the stairs, contributing to their sleek, minimalist appearance. Furthermore, Viewrail's pre-fabricated components, manufactured in Goshen, Indiana, offer a more affordable alternative to custom-built floating stairways. This accessibility allows designers to incorporate sophisticated, modern designs into projects that might otherwise be constrained by budget, making high-end aesthetics attainable for a wider range of projects. Viewrail prides itself on creating a streamlined process for designing, manufacturing, and delivering staircases, contributing to their affordability. The cost of a Viewrail staircase is comparable to that of a new kitchen countertop or half the expense of a mid-range bathroom remodel. Whether undertaking a renovation or new construction, careful consideration should be given to the stairway's design from the outset. Rather than being an afterthought, the stairway should be intentionally planned to accentuate the room and foster connectivity between different areas, thereby literally bringing spaces together. #ModernStairwayDesign #FloatingStairs #GlassRailing #InteriorArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ModernHome #Viewrail #AffordableDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures

This article highlights twelve Seattle homes that exemplify a successful blend of midcentury design preservation and modern renovation. These properties demonstrate a nuanced approach to updating historical architecture for contemporary living while honoring their original character. The first featured renovation is a 1957 midcentury home, originally designed by Hawley Adelbert Dudley, that maintained its good bones through a striking makeover. Another project by SHED Architecture & Design focuses on a 1950s midcentury gem, where the goal was to enhance its inherent charm with modern elements rather than a complete overhaul, salvaging original features and updating the layout, finishes, and furnishings. A 1959 Northwest contemporary ranch home in Seattle’s Madison Park underwent a significant transformation, with SHED Architecture & Design peeling back years of random remodels. The renovation skillfully juxtaposes light and dark materials, such as Douglas fir against dark bricks and concrete floor tiling, aligning with the home's original palette while introducing a modern aesthetic. The Lake Forest Park Midcentury Renovation involved a complete re-working of a 1950s Northwest Contemporary house, altering the floor plan to create enlarged spaces for the kitchen, master bedroom, master bath, and study. This renovation also integrated large glass light monitors for natural light and utilized a rich material palette including steel, cherry, natural grass, terrazzo, and Douglas Fir. For a kitchen in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, the renovation prioritized combining midcentury modern style with enhanced functionality. A wall was removed to connect the kitchen and dining area, improving flow and natural light, while ensuring the new design respected the home's 1950s architecture. Another project tackled a 1961 midcentury home by George Lucker in Seattle’s Seward Park, aiming to restore its midcentury character and adapt it for modern life by making minimal yet impactful changes. The article also features a 1958 midcentury property where the owners updated the landscaping, deck, and exterior, including painting the exterior in Tricon Black and installing oversized house numbers. A spectacular Pacific Northwest home, originally built in 1977 and remodeled by Tom Kundig in 2000, connects its spacious interiors with the outdoors through immense pivot doors and floor-to-ceiling windows, incorporating materials like mahogany from Benaroya Hall. An ADA accessible 1954 home in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood was modified by architect Karen Braitmayer and Carol Sundstrom of Röm Architecture Studio to better accommodate Braitmayer's and her daughter's wheelchair use, focusing on universal access space planning. A midcentury home nestled in a Pacific Northwest forest, designed in 1962 by Ralph D. Anderson, maintained its original character through updates. Elements like a double-height glass wall, sunken living room, circular staircase, and wood paneling were preserved, alongside a renovated kitchen that kept original salvaged teak. The Art Deco Meets Midcentury renovation combined nostalgic 1950s architecture with elegant interiors and Art Deco influences, reconfiguring living spaces and adding bedrooms. Finally, the 'Zema Redux' project on Bainbridge Island revitalized a 1974 house by Gene Zema, known for his blend of modernism and Japanese architecture, which included rebuilding the central living space, reorganizing the kitchen, and adding an outdoor deck after years of decay. #SeattleHomes #MidcenturyModern #HomeRenovation #ArchitectureDesign #InteriorDesign #PacificNorthwest #HistoricalPreservation #ModernUpdates #SustainableDesign