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This home is Castle’s first Save a Castle. It was purchased in early 2013 and completed by end of Spring. When Castle first purchased this home, it was in terrible shape. The copper pipes had been stolen, there were major structural issues, the porch ceiling had collapsed, and the house had been trashed but there was potential. On the main floor a wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to create a more open floor plan. The kitchen was completely transformed with new custom cabinetry and updated stainless steel appliances in place, as well as recycled glass countertops and butcher block countertops. On the second floor the bathroom was updated with new tile and glass block window and the bedrooms were made over to match the charm of the home. This home received new Kolbe windows and the hardwood floors were re-sanded and stained dark to compliment the white woodwork. The existing porch felt outdated and did not fit with the rest of the home so it was opened up to create a more inviting porch. Finally the yard also received a makeover with new sod, bushes, and mulch. While the house originally looked as though it hadn’t been taken care of in years this Castle is now ready for another 100 years.
Photographer: Hannah Lloyd

Our client wanted a nice, tranquil, and easy to maintain new backyard space to replace the cluttered and overgrown space that they inherited when they purchased their new home. They had some major drainage issues from a "hole" under the old deck and the previous owners had built the deck right over the egress window well from the basement, which is not to code. We demo'd the old yard, ensured proper drainage with a survey, and built an easy to maintain solid paver surface for lots of sitting options and a future spa. We ran 220v power for the spa as well as had an egress cover made for the window well so now it is safe for occupants as well as for kids or pets so they don't fall in. What a transformation!!

Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.
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Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.

Bathroom Remodel completed in Auburn Massachusetts.
Layout and design by Andrew.
J.V. Mechanical plumbing.
Faux Wood ceramic tile transitioned to stone tile.
Mosaic Niche. Claw foot tub with oil rubbed bronze finishes. Glass mosaic installed on the windowsill. No casing around the window.
Aldo Nolle electrical.
All work completed in house by Andrew and our talented crew.
Original floor had major structural issues. Leveled and sistered all the joists. Greenboard installed on the walls with first coat on seams. Kerdiboard installed on tile walls.

Bathroom Remodel completed in Auburn Massachusetts.
Layout and design by Andrew.
J.V. Mechanical plumbing.
Faux Wood ceramic tile transitioned to stone tile.
Mosaic Niche. Claw foot tub with oil rubbed bronze finishes. Glass mosaic installed on the windowsill. No casing around the window.
Aldo Nolle electrical.
All work completed in house by Andrew and our talented crew.
Original floor had major structural issues. Leveled and sistered all the joists. Greenboard installed on the walls with first coat on seams. Kerdiboard installed on tile walls.

Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.

Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.

Bathroom Remodel completed in Auburn Massachusetts.
Layout and design by Andrew.
J.V. Mechanical plumbing.
Faux Wood ceramic tile transitioned to stone tile.
Mosaic Niche. Claw foot tub with oil rubbed bronze finishes. Glass mosaic installed on the windowsill. No casing around the window.
Aldo Nolle electrical.
All work completed in house by Andrew and our talented crew.
Original floor had major structural issues. Leveled and sistered all the joists. Greenboard installed on the walls with first coat on seams. Kerdiboard installed on tile walls.

Lake views, daylight and a private master suite were the primary goals of this second floor remodel. Having started as a lake cottage, several previous remodels resulted in an awkward floor plan and major structural issues. New beams were added in the floor and ceiling and both were completely re-framed to level the nearly 4” of sag. The master bedroom was moved to the lakeside with large windows, a vaulted ceiling and private master bath. An addition made space for two more bedrooms filled with daylight.

This home is Castle’s first Save a Castle. It was purchased in early 2013 and completed by end of Spring. When Castle first purchased this home, it was in terrible shape. The copper pipes had been stolen, there were major structural issues, the porch ceiling had collapsed, and the house had been trashed but there was potential. On the main floor a wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to create a more open floor plan. The kitchen was completely transformed with new custom cabinetry and updated stainless steel appliances in place, as well as recycled glass countertops and butcher block countertops. On the second floor the bathroom was updated with new tile and glass block window and the bedrooms were made over to match the charm of the home. This home received new Kolbe windows and the hardwood floors were re-sanded and stained dark to compliment the white woodwork. The existing porch felt outdated and did not fit with the rest of the home so it was opened up to create a more inviting porch. Finally the yard also received a makeover with new sod, bushes, and mulch. While the house originally looked as though it hadn’t been taken care of in years this Castle is now ready for another 100 years.
Photographer: Hannah Lloyd

Bathroom Remodel completed in Auburn Massachusetts.
Layout and design by Andrew.
J.V. Mechanical plumbing.
Faux Wood ceramic tile transitioned to stone tile.
Mosaic Niche. Claw foot tub with oil rubbed bronze finishes. Glass mosaic installed on the windowsill. No casing around the window.
Aldo Nolle electrical.
All work completed in house by Andrew and our talented crew.
Original floor had major structural issues. Leveled and sistered all the joists. Greenboard installed on the walls with first coat on seams. Kerdiboard installed on tile walls.

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This home is Castle’s first Save a Castle. It was purchased in early 2013 and completed by end of Spring. When Castle first purchased this home, it was in terrible shape. The copper pipes had been stolen, there were major structural issues, the porch ceiling had collapsed, and the house had been trashed but there was potential. On the main floor a wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to create a more open floor plan. The kitchen was completely transformed with new custom cabinetry and updated stainless steel appliances in place, as well as recycled glass countertops and butcher block countertops. On the second floor the bathroom was updated with new tile and glass block window and the bedrooms were made over to match the charm of the home. This home received new Kolbe windows and the hardwood floors were re-sanded and stained dark to compliment the white woodwork. The existing porch felt outdated and did not fit with the rest of the home so it was opened up to create a more inviting porch. Finally the yard also received a makeover with new sod, bushes, and mulch. While the house originally looked as though it hadn’t been taken care of in years this Castle is now ready for another 100 years.
Photographer: Hannah Lloyd

What was once a messy, underutilized space with major drainage issues is now a beautiful, welcoming courtyard for the residents of Werthan Lofts in downtown Nashville. ??
In this transformation, we tackled drainage head-on, added stamped concrete for style and function, installed a cozy fire pit, and brought in fresh plantings to soften and brighten the space. The result? A peaceful outdoor retreat where neighbors can gather, relax, and connect—right in the heart of the city.

Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.

Bathroom Remodel completed in Auburn Massachusetts.
Layout and design by Andrew.
J.V. Mechanical plumbing.
Faux Wood ceramic tile transitioned to stone tile.
Mosaic Niche. Claw foot tub with oil rubbed bronze finishes. Glass mosaic installed on the windowsill. No casing around the window.
Aldo Nolle electrical.
All work completed in house by Andrew and our talented crew.
Original floor had major structural issues. Leveled and sistered all the joists. Greenboard installed on the walls with first coat on seams. Kerdiboard installed on tile walls.

Perched on Great Neck in Ipswich, MA, this coastal renovation was all about unlocking the home’s stunning ocean views.
The original layout left the ground level disconnected from its breathtaking surroundings, so we flipped the bedrooms to the front by converting an underused porch.
This allowed us to introduce an elegant new bath and laundry area, offering effortless access for post-boating cleanups.
A striking custom spiral staircase was added for seamless flow while preserving the integrity of the upper level, which will be tackled in Phase 2. Beyond aesthetics, we remediated a major mold issue, ensuring a safe and healthy retreat. Thoughtful material selections—teak, Moderne Brass, Calacatta Glitz, and rich red oak—bring warmth and modern refinement to this refreshed waterfront escape.

This home is Castle’s first Save a Castle. It was purchased in early 2013 and completed by end of Spring. When Castle first purchased this home, it was in terrible shape. The copper pipes had been stolen, there were major structural issues, the porch ceiling had collapsed, and the house had been trashed but there was potential. On the main floor a wall between the dining room and kitchen was removed to create a more open floor plan. The kitchen was completely transformed with new custom cabinetry and updated stainless steel appliances in place, as well as recycled glass countertops and butcher block countertops. On the second floor the bathroom was updated with new tile and glass block window and the bedrooms were made over to match the charm of the home. This home received new Kolbe windows and the hardwood floors were re-sanded and stained dark to compliment the white woodwork. The existing porch felt outdated and did not fit with the rest of the home so it was opened up to create a more inviting porch. Finally the yard also received a makeover with new sod, bushes, and mulch. While the house originally looked as though it hadn’t been taken care of in years this Castle is now ready for another 100 years.
Photographer: Hannah Lloyd

The Kiguchi family moved into their Austin, Texas home in 1994. Built in the 1980’s as part of a neighborhood development, they happily raised their family here but longed for something more contemporary. Once they became empty nesters, they decided it was time for a major remodel. After spending many years visiting Austin AIA Home Tours that highlight contemporary residential architecture, they had a lot of ideas and in 2013 were ready to interview architects and get their renovation underway.
The project turned into a major remodel due to an unstable foundation. Architects Ben Arbib and Ed Hughey, of Arbib Hughey Design were hired to solve the structural issue and look for inspiration in the bones of the house, which sat on top of a hillside and was surrounded by great views.
Unfortunately, with the old floor plan, the beautiful views were hidden by small windows that were poorly placed. In order to bring more natural light into the house the window sizes and configurations had to be addressed, all while keeping in mind the homeowners desire for a modern look and feel.
To achieve a more contemporary and sophisticated front of house, a new entry was designed that included removing a two-story bay window and porch. The entrance of the home also became more integrated with the landscape creating a template for new foliage to be planted. Older exterior materials were updated to incorporate a more muted palette of colors with a metal roof, dark grey siding in the back and white stucco in the front. Deep eaves were added over many of the new large windows for clean lines and sun protection.
“Inside it was about opening up the floor plan, expanding the views throughout the house, and updating the material palette to get a modern look that was also warm and inviting,” said Ben from Arbib Hughey Design. “Prior to the remodel, the house had the typical separation of rooms. We removed the walls between them and changed all of the windows to Milgard Thermally Improved Aluminum to connect the inside with the outside. No matter where you are you get nice views and natural light.”
The architects wanted to create some drama, which they accomplished with the window placement and opening up the interior floor plan to an open concept approach. Cabinetry was used to help delineate intimate spaces. To add warmth to an all-white living room, white-washed oak wood floors were installed and pine planks were used around the fireplace. The large windows served as artwork bringing the color of nature into the space.
An octagon shaped, elevated dining room, (named “the turret”), had a big impact on the design of the house. They architects rounded the corners and added larger window openings overlooking a new sunken garden. The great room was also softened by rounding out the corners and that circular theme continued throughout the house, being picked up in skylight wells and kitchen cabinetry. A staircase leading to a catwalk was added and the result was a two-story window wall that flooded the home with natural light.
When asked why Milgard® Thermally Improved Aluminum windows were selected, the architectural team listed many reasons:
1) Aesthetics: “We liked the slim profiles and narrow sightlines. The window frames never get in the way of the view and that was important to us. They also have a very contemporary look that went well with our design.”
2) Options: “We liked that we could get large sliding doors that matched the windows, giving us a very cohesive look and feel throughout the project.”
3) Cost Effective: “Milgard windows are affordable. You get a good product at a good price.”
4) Custom Sizes: “Milgard windows are customizable, which allowed us to get the right window for each location.”
Ready to take on your own traditional to modern home remodeling project? Arbib Hughey Design advises, “Work with a good architect. That means picking a team that is creative, communicative, listens well and is responsive. We think it’s important for an architect to listen to their clients and give them something they want, not something the architect thinks they should have. At the same time you want an architect who is willing and able to think outside the box and offer up design options that you may not have considered. Design is about a lot of back and forth, trying out ideas, getting feedback and trying again.”
The home was completely transformed into a unique, contemporary house perfectly integrated with its site. Internally the home has a natural flow for the occupants and externally it is integrated with the surroundings taking advantage of great natural light. As a side note, it was highly praised as part of the Austin AIA homes tour.
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