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Traditional Meets Contemporary |
This
back-of-house addition unites classic, Four Square style and 1912
craftsmanship with modern convenience and design. Replicating the
existing millwork and cabinetry of the original early century structure
throughout the new areas, while expanding the kitchen, creating
a mud room, and adding a home office onto the existing split levels
of the home, we created a sense of commerce between the two eras
that offers the best of both worlds to these new homeowners.
Stepped wall partitions and soffits offer privacy for every room,
yet present an open, communicative atmosphere and afford glimpses
of each space's unique color palette. Entering from the outdoors,
a visitor's attention immediately rises to the stunning 12'-high
ceilings of the stone-floored mud room. Back on the ground, open
wall cubbies at feet-level keep shoes and the occasional toy out
of sight. To the right, the window-enclosed blinds, high-set recessed
book shelf, and floating bamboo floors of the office peek through
an arched passageway, accessible by a short staircase of carved
wood.
Another engraved staircase leads to the kitchen in the opposite
direction, where natural light and ample workspace take the place
of standard upper cabinetry. Tall windows set low over a stainless
oval kitchen sink allow backyard observation, and kids get a boost
with the 8" sliding step that hides beneath the sink, providing
easy access to the faucet. The brushed finish of the granite countertops
adds a feel of warmth and softness to the durable material.
Custom birch cabinets and trim work cut to match the original 1912
molding unite the new kitchen with its charming Four Square predecessor.
The latter, newly renovated to house a pantry, breakfast area,
and 1/2 bath, boasts restored maple floors with cherry accents
and pew-style benches. Contemporary light fixtures and nickel drawer
pulls with an antique flair in both areas further marry the adjacent
spaces, preserving continuity while adding an updated feel to each
room. Throughout the entire addition, a hydronic heating system
keeps things nice and cozy. |
