Neo Craftsman Foursquare

Our clients loved their neighborhood but less so their 1950s Ranch House, which looked like a poorer cousin to the area’s more substantial, older homes. Because we specialize in period home remodels, we knew the exact detailing required to give this one a nobler appearance while also meeting the needs of an expanding family, all on a budget. On the main floor, we raised all ceilings by one foot for a more spacious feel and defined an emphatic entryway. Specific details and materials added to a craftsman-like effect, including the natural wood finish of the stairway and the choice of front door with sidelights. For the entertaining this family enjoys, we extended the dining room to the back and side of the house. French doors off the dining room allow gatherings to spill out onto the spacious deck. While updating the kitchen in period style, we laid out the appliances in a more traffic-friendly way and installed cabinets that went up to the ceiling to maximize storage. The entirely new second floor of the house includes a master bedroom and bathroom suite children’s bedroom and bath, a laundry room, family area and balcony. Just outside the children’s bedroom, the family area is open to the stairwell. It provides a more intimate, casual gathering space. A door opens to the balcony, where the family can enjoy the garden views. The house’s exterior gained a second level and charm as well, with lap siding, corner boards, an accent band of shingling at the roofline, eave brackets and period-inspired paint colors. Thus, a tired-looking, asbestos-shingled ranch was tastefully transformed into a home the owners, and the neighborhood, could be proud of.