Tucker Design Awards celebrate the innovation and vision that designers bring to their projects through the specification and use of natural stone materials. For members of the Natural Stone Institute, acknowledgment as a contributor to a Tucker Design Awards winning project is a genuine tribute to their traditional values, physicality of work, and dedication to precise specifications required in the realization of such accomplished architectural design. Landscape Architect Design Workshop, Aspen, CO Landscape Contractor/ Installer Landscape Workshop, Carbondale, CO Stone Installer JD Masonry, Arvada, CO Stone Suppliers Coldspring, Cold Spring, MN Gallegos Corporation, Vail, CO Through a collective dialogue between landscape, architecture and interior design, a new vision reimagines the disturbed site into a livable landscape, emblematic of our American West. The residence – an ensemble of structures designed in a modern ranch vernacular – is effortlessly unified through layered, interconnected outdoor gathering spaces and regional materials that elaborates upon the experience of moving between structures, heightening and renewing one’s sense of place. Upon entering the courtyard, one is immediately aware of seamless and unfolding relationships between architecture and landscape through a sophisticated, regional palette of natural stone, water, and plants. Set upon architectural focal points, two perpendicular sandstone paths descend into the space and converge upon a monolithic, hand-carved granite fountain. The design of the fountain is purposefully quiet, both in its detailing and operation. The feature includes a recessed interior, allowing water to become still before it reaches the surface, with lightly cleft sides, allowing the water to delicately bounce as it descends into the geometric lower granite basin. The landscape architect’s selection of various stone material extends the tones of the home’s granite walls and contextual surroundings into the garden, but also be detailed in a manner that balances rural and modern qualities. The majority of the paving is constructed of rectilinear gray sandstone with a natural finish and snapped edges, laid in a staggered running bond organization. Throughout the garden, thoughtful attention was also given to the configuration and layout of terraces, pathways, and steps. In doing so, this ensured that the edges of the terrace and its interface to other elements were designed so that no “leftover” stone paver pieces would be found. Within the central courtyard, split-faced stone stairs descend into a rectilinear plinth of lawn, punctuated by a carved granite fire pit. Leveraging the property’s existing topographic relief, a shallow infinity-edge dipping pool abstracts the transparent and cavity-like pools found throughout the Rocky Mountains. The design purposefully achieves the illusion of a larger water feature with the distant pond and offers a refreshing recreational element. Containing the infinity edge, a designed granite escarpment emerges from the meadow, juxtaposing the geometric water feature and providing informal seating ledges. The site’s prior use required the landscape architect to incorporate a highly technical and complex sub-surface structural system. The initial geotechnical report identified the building envelopes rested on 12 feet of man-placed fill. Assuming a 1 percent settlement, the team faced concerns that the terraces would settle up to 12 inches. In response, a grid of structural micro-piles provides the necessary foundation for the construction of terraces immediately outside of the architecture, under the water features and site walls. The solution enabled the crisp detailing and design resolution of the architectural structures to seamlessly connect with the horizontal stone terraces.

As a combined group of interior designers and home decorators, no one loves a home makeover as much as the HER Home Design team. When we got the call about this new home interior design and home decor project, we were THRILLED to jump right in! The Client Our primary client for this home makeover was a mom of a busy family of four with one adult son in college and a young adult daughter in her last years of high school. She and her husband both worked many hours in the medical field. The family had recently moved up into a larger home almost double the size of their last home. The 5 bedroom, 4 bath residence was super spacious boasting more than 6,000 sq. ft. and a beautiful in-ground swimming pool. It had great bones and a space for everyone, but it needed a ton of updates to make it comfortable for them to enjoy with their family and friends. The HER team was called in to give the home's main level a complete makeover with a fresh, up-to-date vibe. The Challenge The rooms in our project included the entry, home office, spiral staircase, two main floor powder rooms, formal living room, formal dining room, family room, sunroom and rear staircase. We were charged with creating an interior design plan with consistent contemporary, elegant theme that connected all the rooms on the main level, but still allowed each room to have its own personality. Our clients wanted new paint and lighting, updated furniture, wrought iron balusters to replace the existing wooden ones, a powder room that WOW'd them and one that was more casual. We had our work cut out for us, indeed. The Solution We were so excited to present our interior design plan for the home makeover to the family. Our new plan included: - Adding a textured grasscloth wallpaper to a wall in the home office and replacing the furniture with updated pieces and a beautiful light fixture - Updating all the lighting on the main floor to LED fixtures - there were more than 40 recessed lights! - Replacing the wooden spindles with wrought iron balusters and adding a fresh coat of high gloss to the banisters - Painting the home office, formal living room, dining room, family room, both baths and the sunroom - Highlighting the family's prized African art piece, a bust, as the focal point in their living room - Adding GORGEOUS, custom crown molding and hand-crafted chair rail in the sunroom and formal living room - Installing an ENTIRE wall of glass ceramic tile in the north powder which made it completely GLAM! - Making the guest bathroom feel bigger and brighter by laying white Carrera marble tile and painting the bathroom a soft Sea Salt green. Adding a strip of subway tile made the old peachy-colored bathroom feel updated and spa-like - Creating a new fireplace fascia on the family room side by adding stacked stone and soft, comfy seating around the fireplace - And lastly, making the family room an inviting place to relax and entertain by purchasing new, plush furniture and rearranging it to make it cozy

Morningside Architect, LLP Structural Engineer: Tan Associates Inc. Contractor: John Hu Photographer: Rick Gardner Photography
Large tuscan beige two-story brick exterior home photo in Houston

These Northern Virginia residents have owned this vacation home for about ten years. With retirement imminent, they decided to give the entire home an over-haul. With it’s great bones and amazing location, this seemed like a very sound investment for their future. Paola McDonald from Olamar Interiors had been working with the clients for the past three years, helping them to renovate their Sterling, VA condominium and their Moorefield, WV weekend home. It seemed fitting that they would also hire her to help them renovate this home as well. For this project we took the home down to the studs and practically rebuilt it. The renovation includes an addition to the basement level and main floor to create a new fitness room, additional guest bedroom and larger kitchen and dining area. It also included a renovation of the facade of the home. The exterior of the home was completely re-sided and painted, and we added the tall windows at the stairs. The lower entry deck was expanded and an upper deck was added just off the kitchen in order for the homeowner to keep his grill away from the strong ocean winds. A new deck was also added off of the master bedroom. New stainless steel railings were added to all the decks. We opened the homes stairwells, adding custom glass railings and new lighting to create a much more open feel and allow for natural light to flood the entire main living area. The original, tiny kitchen was expanded substantially, adding a large custom eat in bar, wine storage area and plenty of storage. We utilized Decora’s Marquis Cabinetry in an espresso finish to give the kitchen a very clean, contemporary feel. Carrara marble countertops paired with a grey quartz, single slap marble backsplash, and stainless appliances create a clean look. In the new dining area, a simple Modloft dining table was paired with a Regina Andrew bubbles chandelier and Jessica Charles dining chairs for a sophisticated feel accentuated perfectly by beachy colors and textures that tie in the beautiful views of the Ocean. A custom chandelier from John Pomp is the highlight of the family room, particularly at night when it is reminiscent to fireflies in the sky. A new custom designed, custom made sectional, cozy newly added Spark Modern Fires gas fireplace, custom rug by Julie Dasher and Lee Industries chairs create a cozy place to lounge and watch television after a long day at the beach. Guests feel like they are in a luxurious boutique hotel complete with spectacular views, comfortable Ann Gish linens and beautiful and unique lighting fixtures. All three full baths and the powder room received complete facelifts with new glass, marble and ceramic tiles, Decora cabinetry, new lighting fixtures, quartz countertops and unique features that make unique statements in each one. Phillip Jeffries mica wallpaper are used in the entryway and family room fireplace walls to add a sandy texture to each space. Phillip Jeffries grasscloth was added to the master bedroom accent wall to create a delicate feature. New flooring throughout includes gorgeous dark stained hardwood floors, ceramic tile and Karastan carpeting in the bedrooms. The crisp white and grey walls are accentuated throughout the home by beach inspired turquoises, navies and lime greens. Perfectly appointed furnishings, artwork, accessories and custom made window treatments complete the look and feel of this gorgeous vacation home. Photography by Tinius Photography

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.

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.