When the current owners purchased this 900 sq. ft. one bedroom/one bath house, originally built in 1919, it was in horrible condition. A century of runoff from the street and uphill parcels, poor drainage and no waterproofing left the northern wall completely rotten. The building’s condition was not just due to age. The previous owner had started then abandoned a poorly executed remodel, leaving the house open to the elements for two years.

The new owners loved the character of their “Bungalow District” neighborhood, its walking distance to downtown and proximity to good schools. Their goals were to bring back Craftsman features lost over time; convert the former basement into additional living space for their growing family; and, improve the home’s comfort, health and efficiency. Every inch of the house was touched to achieve these goals.

An excellent example of the “Not So Big House” lifestyle, the final 1,400 sq. ft., three bedroom/two bath home lies in the footprint of the original house. Designed by Blackbird Architects. General Contractor: Allen Construction. Interior Designer: Jessica Risko Smith.