Search results for "Continuing future" in Home Design Ideas

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey.
The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical.
Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored.
The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.
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When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Sponsored
Delaware, OH
Buckeye Basements, Inc.
Central Ohio's Basement Finishing ExpertsBest Of Houzz '13-'21

Some of our goals and solutions were obvious in this Timeless Style Renovation, other challenges required loads of plotting and planning.
Our client inherited his Marlton, New Jersey childhood home and for years chose to keep it ‘as is’ out of respect for his family and because (truth) it was going to be a significant investment — the entire house needed to be refreshed! Flooring, fireplace, removal of walls, windows enlarged, many pocket doors added, all bathrooms redesigned, electric/ gas not to code (from 1965), a massive 300lb safe to incorporate/ tuck away somewhere, planning for a future potential main level in-law suite — the list was very long!
Inspiration was easy: they had won awards for their stunning koi pond and landscaping, and they love to entertain. Getting these high powered professionals who were used to running divisions of huge corporations to hand over the reins … NOT so easy. Thankfully, they now can’t stop singing our praises! See their other amazing rooms here.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

This bathroom needed help as it was tired, dated and cramped! The vanity area was open to the master bedroom and sandwiched between a closet and existing bathroom wall. Behind the bathroom wall, was a second sink, a small walk-in shower and the commode. A poorly placed linen closet ate into the area and there was a soffit over the shower adding to the cramped feeling. The ceiling was cluttered with old-school heating lamps, flush-mount fixtures and ventilation grills. The “movie star” lighting meant to add some glamour only made the bathroom feel dated and sad. Our clients wanted to bring this bathroom to life.
We built a wall and added a door between the bedroom and bathroom to ensure more privacy and define the space. In addition, we removed the wall separating the actual bathroom and vanity area to make the master bathroom larger. The linen closet was also taken out so the shower could be expanded significantly. Our homeowner had recently suffered a knee injury so they were looking for future solutions that would work for them as they continued to age. We made the shower large enough to include a bench and installed a handheld sprayer located near the seat. Shower walls were reinforced so that when the day came that a grab bar was needed, they would be ready.
We added a tall cabinet that featured two, deep rollouts and interior shelving to keep linens and bathroom supplies organized. Beneath the sinks, we included rollout drawers so items would not get lost in those dark areas under the plumbing. Everything that had been cluttering the ceiling was removed including the shower soffit and heat lamp. With those gone, we added evenly-spaced, recessed ceiling lights to help brighten the space making it safer and more practical.
We chose a custom blue-green paint for the cabinets which was understated enough to provide a sense of serenity while still offering a splash of color to help liven up the room. Walnut-framed mirrors added a touch of warmth and the patterned floor tile made the whole room fun! An old bathroom came alive!

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey.
The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical.
Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored.
The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

I was hired by my previous employer, Corvallis Custom Kitchens and Baths to assist these homeowners with all of the materials, fixtures and finish choices to complete this master bathroom remodel.
Brian Egan, owner and designer at CCKB in Sept 2017, since retired), designed this aging-in-place, accessible shower (previously a shower and separate soaker tub) for the clients who reside in an over 55 community here in Corvallis.
Large format 12x24 unpolished Crossville Kosmos Moonstruck tile was chosen for the bathroom floor and the shower walls to minimize grout lines. For the shower floor/pan small 1x1 DalTile Keystones Marble color tile was used to aid in making the floor feel extra slip resistant as the Keystones tiles do not have grittier feeling surface than porcelain tile.
For safety and a non-industrial look, Moen Align chrome designer grab bars were installed in the shower and toilet room. The handshower and rainshower head system by Grohe beautifully combines the 2 systems in one unit called Retrofit 160. To allow the homeowners to turn the shower on and warm up without them having to step in the direct spray of the shower head, the controls were placed under the window near the shower entry. This would also allow a helper to assist anyone using the shower in the future should the need arise.
A linear drain was installed to pull water away from the zero threshold shower entry. Installing a linear shower drain allows for a no threshold shower which can allow for the shower to be accessible with a walker or roll-in with a wheelchair as the shower was designed almost 40" wide.
The homeowners were thrilled with the transformation of their bathroom. The design and material choices fit their tastes and needs perfectly. Now they can continue to age in place and not worry about how they would be able to bathe if something were to decrease their mobility.
Photos by: H. Needham

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.

When the owner of this petite c. 1910 cottage in Riverside, RI first considered purchasing it, he fell for its charming front façade and the stunning rear water views. But it needed work. The weather-worn, water-facing back of the house was in dire need of attention. The first-floor kitchen/living/dining areas were cramped. There was no first-floor bathroom, and the second-floor bathroom was a fright. Most surprisingly, there was no rear-facing deck off the kitchen or living areas to allow for outdoor living along the Providence River.
In collaboration with the homeowner, KHS proposed a number of renovations and additions. The first priority was a new cantilevered rear deck off an expanded kitchen/dining area and reconstructed sunroom, which was brought up to the main floor level. The cantilever of the deck prevents the need for awkwardly tall supporting posts that could potentially be undermined by a future storm event or rising sea level.
To gain more first-floor living space, KHS also proposed capturing the corner of the wrapping front porch as interior kitchen space in order to create a more generous open kitchen/dining/living area, while having minimal impact on how the cottage appears from the curb. Underutilized space in the existing mudroom was also reconfigured to contain a modest full bath and laundry closet. Upstairs, a new full bath was created in an addition between existing bedrooms. It can be accessed from both the master bedroom and the stair hall. Additional closets were added, too.
New windows and doors, new heart pine flooring stained to resemble the patina of old pine flooring that remained upstairs, new tile and countertops, new cabinetry, new plumbing and lighting fixtures, as well as a new color palette complete the updated look. Upgraded insulation in areas exposed during the construction and augmented HVAC systems also greatly improved indoor comfort. Today, the cottage continues to charm while also accommodating modern amenities and features.
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