Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

Hits all the marks in coziness and design. This living room combines wood, metal, leather, wool and other durable and comfortable fabric choices, in light and dark hues, creating a perfect mixture of textures that compliment each other beautifully. The selections from various manufacturers include a Hancock and Moore leather sofa, wood chairs by Lexington, Tommy Bahama Collection, 2 High-back swivel chairs in a neutral fabric by Century, and Palecek petrified wood waterfall tables on hand-hammered wrought iron bases in a bronze finish and branch floor lamp. A Global View two-drawer chest with inn pulls separates the century swivels. Everything works in unison to create a whimsical yet rustic feel. Many of the clients personal items were included in the design process to make this space unique and interesting. The antique bench makes a perfect coffee table. The hide rug adds interest and sets wood-encased swivel chairs apart and the wheel end table brings in a "Motor City" influence. It can be placed in front of or behind the chairs in this design. The exceptional, custom-built Rough Sawn wood bookcase by Harborview Building of Petoskey, houses a 60" TV behind sliding barn doors on Aspen black-iron hardware. The added beams and frames to display an antique postcard collection, add warmth to this large space surrounded by windows. Two pillows in hide on the sofa and with sewn-on embellishments on the Century swivel, high-back chairs complete the look. Neutrals have been contrasted with a patterned Loloi (Hermitage Tobacco) rug to add a splash of color and highlight different finishes throughout the room. As a bonus, this patterned rug will hide just about anything. The hide rug under the wood-framed chairs adds interest and sets apart a separate sitting area while complimenting the overall look of the room. ©2018 All Rights Reserved, Photography by Mike Gullon

This kitchen renovation began with the challenge of reimagining an addition that had been DIYed onto the house 40 years ago. The previous homeowner’s efforts, while well-intentioned, fell short of today’s standards, both in terms of building codes and design choices. Materials like modern bamboo cabinetry and a choppy, poorly thought-out layout clashed with the timeless character of the home. The interior design didn’t reflect the 250-year-old Federal-style brick home’s essence, located in the heart of Historic Ellicott City. The current homeowners purchased this house because of its rich history and unique charm, and they wanted a kitchen that honored that legacy—not necessarily a period-perfect replica, but one infused with vintage character and a touch of the home’s original quirkiness. Homes from that era were rarely perfect—they were designed for function, not flawless aesthetics. With that in mind, the renovation focused on balancing modern convenience with historical charm. For example, a small, awkwardly placed window by the refrigerator offered a view of an outdoor wall. Instead of keeping it, we opted to close it up, creating a more cohesive design. The result is a space that feels like it belongs to the home’s history while incorporating the comfort and efficiency of a modern kitchen. Every detail was carefully considered to create harmony between the old and the new. Even down to the Tiffany lampshade that effortlessly binds all of the kitchen hues in one place. To accommodate the homeowners, who are on the shorter side, we designed countertops with their needs in mind. While we couldn’t lower the main counters without creating appliance-fitting issues—and custom appliances were cost-prohibitive—we prioritized usability wherever possible. For the countertops, they selected soapstone, a material that perfectly marries beauty and function. Its natural, timeworn appearance fits seamlessly with the home’s vintage aesthetic, and as a bonus, its antimicrobial properties make it a practical choice for a busy kitchen. The result is a space that feels like it has always been part of this historic home—authentic, functional, and full of character.

Master Bedroom with Red Bed Frame and custom drapery and bedding.
Bedroom - traditional master light wood floor bedroom idea in Charlotte

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.

Sometimes the best solution isn't finding a bigger home, it's reimagining the one you already love. This Portland second-story addition demonstrates how strategic design-build planning can help a growing family gain the space they need while remaining in the neighborhood they never wanted to leave. Originally, this home was a modest single-level residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. As the family's needs evolved, the layout no longer offered the functionality they required. Visiting relatives from California frequently stayed with them, yet the existing floor plan lacked a dedicated guest bathroom. The primary suite was undersized, storage was limited, and the main living room felt cramped for everyday family life. Complicating matters further, the narrow lot provided virtually no opportunity for expansion to the front, sides, or rear of the property. To create meaningful additional square footage, the only option was to build upward. The transformation began with a complete rethinking of the home's interior organization. An existing bedroom, which had already transitioned into a home office, was removed to make way for a new staircase connecting the first and second floors. Rather than treating the staircase as simply a circulation element, the redesign used it to create a new living area while adding valuable storage beneath. The formerly enclosed dining room was opened to the kitchen and living spaces, resulting in a bright, cohesive great room that dramatically improved both sightlines and daily functionality. The newly added second floor became the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the addition, a spacious bonus room with vaulted ceilings provides a flexible space for family gatherings, movie nights, homework sessions, and creative projects. Dedicated workstation areas ensure the room can evolve alongside the family's needs while taking advantage of abundant natural light from multiple windows. On the opposite side, the homeowners finally gained the private retreat they had been missing. The new primary suite features soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a walk-in closet approximately six times larger than the home's original primary closet. The adjoining bathroom was designed to balance comfort, practicality, and timeless style, with a double vanity, dedicated linen storage, a separate tiled shower, and a soaking tub that creates a true spa-like experience within the home. Throughout the renovation, a contemporary transitional aesthetic guided the design selections. New luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed across both the existing first floor and the newly constructed second level, creating visual continuity throughout the home. Matching custom stair treads provide a seamless transition between floors, while updated baseboards and door casings help unify the original structure with the addition so the entire home feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together over time. The staircase became an architectural focal point, featuring warm wood handrails stained to complement the flooring and black metal balusters that introduce a subtle modern influence. This combination successfully bridges the homeowners' appreciation for contemporary design while respecting the overall character of the home. Material selections in the primary bathroom create depth through texture rather than bold color contrasts. Softly varied white wall tile ranges from crisp bright whites to subtle cloudy tones, while a gentle watercolor-like surface texture captures and reflects natural light throughout the day. Extending the same tile across both the shower walls and tub surround establishes clean architectural lines and emphasizes the room's spaciousness. Black marble pebble flooring in the shower, paired with matte black plumbing fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and trim details, adds contrast and sophistication without overwhelming the palette. What makes this project especially meaningful is its ability to solve multiple challenges through a single integrated design-build solution. Through close collaboration with the homeowners and our architectural partner, Candid Design, every square foot was carefully considered to maximize functionality, comfort, and long-term livability. By building upward rather than outward, the homeowners gained a spacious primary suite, an additional living area, improved storage, a dedicated guest bath, and flexible family spaces while preserving the location, character, and community they already loved. The result is a home that feels larger, brighter, and better suited for the next chapter of family life without sacrificing the qualities that made it special in the first place.