Working with this large 3-story home's existing traditional center-hall style, we made significant changes to improve the quality of interior space, natural light and connections to a large and sunny back yard. The work was done in phases, beginning with the removal of a narrow, 4-story, servants' stair. Removing this stair opened views through the center hall to a south-facing back yard. It allowed us to connect the kitchen and dining room around a central axis with a large framed opening.