A complete whole house renovation/addition of an existing 1890’s era antique residence renewing all systems, infrastructure, and finishes. Create new primary residence for with modern updates for year around living for the client while being a custodian of historic house that has been a contributor to the legacy of the area for generations. A poorly considered addition that linked to the original 1890’s antique with warren of stairs and corridors was torn down. The replacement addition enhanced the existing living spaces while adding new family room, sun room, prime bedroom suite, outdoor shower, side entry and stair. All the new and existing features are knit together by extending and modifying the existing exterior wrap around porch and house trim details.

This grand, neoclassical home, built circa 1875, was one of the first residences constructed in Wilmette and the oldest surviving home in the neighborhood. We were lucky enough to become custodians of its renovation and the construction of a much needed addition.

Once upon a time, actually back in 1974 two groups of dreamers bought 40 acres of land on Refugio Mountain. Over time, the property was divided into two 20-acre parcels and many friends and family members continued to create memories of times shared at the "Shire". Today, 40 years later both pieces of land are available for the next custodians of this magical place in the mountains above Santa Barbara to create stories of their own.