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Kittery Junction was originally constructed by the York Harbor & Beach Railroad Co. between 1886 and 1887. In the days when the locomotive was the preferred method of transportation for much of America’s population, this project site provided both passenger and freight service between Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and York Beach, Maine. It was usually the case that a train station constructed during this period would have its own unique architecture, and this site was no exception.
Now privately owned, this structure proudly stands overlooking Barrell’s Pond. To capture this view, the new owner approached our design team with a vision of a master bedroom Victorian conservatory facing the serene body of water. Respectful of the existing architectural details, Sunspace Design worked to bring this vision to reality using our solid conventional walls, custom Marvin windows, and a custom shop-built octagonal conservatory glass roof system. This combination enabled us to meet strong energy efficiency requirements while creating a classic Victorian conservatory that met the client’s hopes.
The glass roof system was constructed in the shop, transported to site, and raised in place to reduce on site construction time. With windows and doors provided by a top window manufacturer, the 2’ x 6’ wall construction with gave us complete design control. With solid wood framing, fiberglass R-21 insulation in the walls, and sputter coated low-E sun control properties in the custom glass roof system, the construction is both structurally and thermally sound. The end result is a comfortable Victorian conservatory addition that can easily withstand the harsh elements of a Maine winter.
We’ve been designing and building conservatories in New England since 1981. This project stands as a model of our commitment to quality. We utilize this construction process for all of our sunrooms, skylights, conservatories, and orangeries to ensure a final product that is unsurpassed in quality and performance.

This 3 BR, 3 1/2 bath home allows the owners to live on one level most of the time. The Master Suite is on the main level along with the Living Room, Kitchen, Dining, pantries, Sun Room and service areas. The upper level houses two ample bedrooms while the lower level supports a rec center, media room, wine cellar, shop and full wet bar. Conceived as a Great Room house, the main level is designed as one seamless space that flows onto an ample deck overlooking the rear yard.
We also incorporated a variety of green building techniques - photo-voltaic shingles on the roof of the garage to generate a portion of the home's energy, a super insulated building envelope, rain water harvesting, high performance windows and doors, a high efficiency heat pump, low flow bath & kitchen fixtures, Energy Star appliances and LED lighting - that greatly reduced this structure's carbon footprint. All of the strategies amounted to a 30% reduction in the energy consumption in this home relative to comparable structures.

www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144
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www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144

www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144

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

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

Several years ago, Jill and Brian remodeled their kitchen with TKS Design Group and recently decided it was time to look at a primary bath remodel.
Jill and Brian wanted a completely fresh start. We tweaked the layout slightly by reducing the size of the enormous tub deck and expanding the vanities and storage into the old tub deck zone as well as pushing a bit into the awkward carpeted dressing area. By doing so, we were able to substantially expand the existing footprint of the shower. We also relocated the French doors so that the bath would take advantage of the light brought in by the skylight in that area. A large arched window was replaced with a similar but cleaner lined version, and we removed the large bulkhead and columns to open the space. A simple freestanding tub now punctuates the area under the window and makes for a pleasing focal point. Subtle but significant changes.
We chose a neutral gray tile for the floor to ground the space, and then white oak cabinetry and gold finishes bring warmth to the pallet. The large shower features a mix of white and gray tile where an electronic valve system offers a bit of modern technology and customization to bring some luxury to the everyday. The bathroom remodel also features plenty of storage that keeps the everyday necessities tucked away. The result feels modern, airy and restful!

Our clients’ recently purchase home is set in a picturesque location in Golden, Colorado. With idyllic square footage for raising a family, it was almost just what they wanted. However, the 90’s interior furnishings and dated layout didn’t feel like home. So, they reached out to TVL Creative to help them get the place move-in ready and feeling more 'them.' The scope of work included an overhaul of the master bathroom, full-home paint scheme, lighting updates, and new staircase railings. The most profound transformation within our scope was the master bathroom renovation. This luxurious space, built by TVL’s own Team Angel, is a calming retreat with gorgeous detailing throughout. Every part of this bathroom was gutted and we worked to establish a new concept and functional layout that would better serve our clients. As part of the transformative design, a calming symmetry was created by marrying the new vanity design with the existing architecture of the room. A feature tile accentuates the symmetrical composition of vanity and vaulted ceiling: large beveled mirrors and linear sconces bring the eye upward. Custom built-ins flanking the master bathroom sinks were designed to provide ample organized storage for linens and toiletries. A make-up vanity accented by a full height mirror and coordinating pendant rounds out the custom built-ins. Opposite the vanity wall is the commode room, bathtub, and a large shower. In the bathtub nook, the sculptural form of the Elise tub by MTI Baths compliments the arc of the picture window above. The Kohler Archer tub filler adds transitional and classy styling to the area. A quartz-topped bench running the length of the back wall provides a perfect spot for a glass of wine near the bath, while doubling as a gorgeous and functional seat in the shower. The bench was also utilized to move the bathtub off of the exterior wall and reduce the amount of awkward-to-clean floor space. In the shower, the upgrades feel limitless. We relocated the valve controls to the entry half wall for easy on/off access. We also created functionals shower niches that are tucked out of view for handy storage without aesthetic compromise. The shower features a lovely three-dimensional diamond accent tile and is wrapped in frameless glass for added light entry. In general, the space is outfitted with other stunning features including Kohler Archer fixtures throughout, Feiss decorative lighting, Amerock hardware on all built-ins, and cabinetry from Waypoint Living Spaces. From bachelor pad to first family home, it's been a pleasure to work with our client over the years! We will especially cherish our time working with them this time around to make their new house feel more like home.

www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144

photos by Pedro Marti
For this project the client hired us to renovate the top unit of this two family brownstone located in the historic district of Bedstuy in Brooklyn, NY. The upper apartment of the house is a three story home of which the lower two floors were fully renovated. The Clients wanted to keep the historic charm and original detail of the home as well as the general historic layout. The main layout change was to move the kitchen from the top floor to what was previously a living room at the rear of the first floor, creating an open dining/kitchen area. The kitchen consists of a large island with a farmhouse sink and a wall of paneled white and gray cabinetry. The rear window in the kitchen was enlarged and two large French doors were installed which lead out to a new elevated ipe deck with a stair that leads down to the garden. A powder room on the parlor floor from a previous renovation was reduced in size to give extra square footage to the dining room, its main feature is a colorful butterfly wallpaper. On the second floor The existing bedrooms were maintained but the center of the floor was gutted to create an additional bathroom in a previous walk-in closet. This new bathroom is a large ensuite masterbath featuring a multicolored glass mosaic tile detail adjacent to a more classic subway tile. To make up for the lost closet space where the masterbath was installed we chose to install new French swinging doors with historic bubble glass beneath an arched entry to an alcove in the master bedroom thus creating a large walk-in closet while maintaining the light in the room.

Several years ago, Jill and Brian remodeled their kitchen with TKS Design Group and recently decided it was time to look at a primary bath remodel.
Jill and Brian wanted a completely fresh start. We tweaked the layout slightly by reducing the size of the enormous tub deck and expanding the vanities and storage into the old tub deck zone as well as pushing a bit into the awkward carpeted dressing area. By doing so, we were able to substantially expand the existing footprint of the shower. We also relocated the French doors so that the bath would take advantage of the light brought in by the skylight in that area. A large arched window was replaced with a similar but cleaner lined version, and we removed the large bulkhead and columns to open the space. A simple freestanding tub now punctuates the area under the window and makes for a pleasing focal point. Subtle but significant changes.
We chose a neutral gray tile for the floor to ground the space, and then white oak cabinetry and gold finishes bring warmth to the pallet. The large shower features a mix of white and gray tile where an electronic valve system offers a bit of modern technology and customization to bring some luxury to the everyday. The bathroom remodel also features plenty of storage that keeps the everyday necessities tucked away. The result feels modern, airy and restful!

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

High atop a wooded dune, a quarter-mile-long steel boardwalk connects a lavish garage/loft to a 6,500-square-foot modern home with three distinct living spaces. The stunning copper-and-stone exterior complements the multiple balconies, Ipe decking and outdoor entertaining areas, which feature an elaborate grill and large swim spa. In the main structure, which uses radiant floor heat, the enchanting wine grotto has a large, climate-controlled wine cellar. There is also a sauna, elevator, and private master balcony with an outdoor fireplace.

www.theleadersrealty.com/1909sharon, 1909 Sharon Lane A, Austin, TX 78703, 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, 2,207 Sqft, $799,900, Live the downtown Austin lifestyle! Sleek Modern Design! Luxury Tarrytown condo nestled among the trees with deck and fenced yard. Light and bright condo with lots of windows, open floor plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,207 sqft, 2 car carport, Bosch appliances (gas range, microwave, dishwasher), Rinnai tankless water heater, 5" white oak wood floors, large walk-in master closet, double sink vanities, recessed lighting, deco tile backsplash, Tpo roofing, 2x6 exterior walls, 3 cm Silestone quartz counters, dual zoned hvac (16 SEER), Milgard commercial windows and slider door, European style Grohe fixtures, stone wall with cedar privacy fence, professional landscaping, custom metal railing, custom painted cabinets, custom metal framing on front large windows, custom metal downspouts, spray foam insulation, siding and cmu wall, stained concrete floors, and center island with sink. Party wall constructed with 2 x 4” lumber filled with spray foam insulation with 1” airspace (vibration reducing element) on both sides of each unit. 2 layers of 5/8” fire wall + 3 layers of 5/8” sheetrock. Great location close to downtown Austin, Town Lake, Lake Austin, Westenfield park, Eilers park, Hula Hut, Deep Eddy, & more! Schools: Acclaimed Casis Elementary, O Henry Middle & Austin High School. For Showings Contact: Kristee Leonard, Broker, The Leaders Realty, 512-695-5144

Several years ago, Jill and Brian remodeled their kitchen with TKS Design Group and recently decided it was time to look at a primary bath remodel.
Jill and Brian wanted a completely fresh start. We tweaked the layout slightly by reducing the size of the enormous tub deck and expanding the vanities and storage into the old tub deck zone as well as pushing a bit into the awkward carpeted dressing area. By doing so, we were able to substantially expand the existing footprint of the shower. We also relocated the French doors so that the bath would take advantage of the light brought in by the skylight in that area. A large arched window was replaced with a similar but cleaner lined version, and we removed the large bulkhead and columns to open the space. A simple freestanding tub now punctuates the area under the window and makes for a pleasing focal point. Subtle but significant changes.
We chose a neutral gray tile for the floor to ground the space, and then white oak cabinetry and gold finishes bring warmth to the pallet. The large shower features a mix of white and gray tile where an electronic valve system offers a bit of modern technology and customization to bring some luxury to the everyday. The bathroom remodel also features plenty of storage that keeps the everyday necessities tucked away. The result feels modern, airy and restful!

Wendy Wilson & Associates transformed this traditional Altadena home into a contemporary jewel for its new owners. A stately and dramatic door, in a rich ink blue hue, opens to an elegant basalt stone entry. The family room, master bedroom and all the bathrooms were completely renovated with many custom details including incorporating an antique carved wood mantel as a character piece for the new quartzite fireplace surround and beautiful walnut display cabinetry.
Erika Bierman Photography

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Hope Restoration & General Contracting
Columbus Design-Build, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Historic Renovations

Several years ago, Jill and Brian remodeled their kitchen with TKS Design Group and recently decided it was time to look at a primary bath remodel.
Jill and Brian wanted a completely fresh start. We tweaked the layout slightly by reducing the size of the enormous tub deck and expanding the vanities and storage into the old tub deck zone as well as pushing a bit into the awkward carpeted dressing area. By doing so, we were able to substantially expand the existing footprint of the shower. We also relocated the French doors so that the bath would take advantage of the light brought in by the skylight in that area. A large arched window was replaced with a similar but cleaner lined version, and we removed the large bulkhead and columns to open the space. A simple freestanding tub now punctuates the area under the window and makes for a pleasing focal point. Subtle but significant changes.
We chose a neutral gray tile for the floor to ground the space, and then white oak cabinetry and gold finishes bring warmth to the pallet. The large shower features a mix of white and gray tile where an electronic valve system offers a bit of modern technology and customization to bring some luxury to the everyday. The bathroom remodel also features plenty of storage that keeps the everyday necessities tucked away. The result feels modern, airy and restful!

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison

The new owners of this house in Harvard, Massachusetts loved its location and authentic Shaker characteristics, but weren’t fans of its curious layout. A dated first-floor full bathroom could only be accessed by going up a few steps to a landing, opening the bathroom door and then going down the same number of steps to enter the room. The dark kitchen faced the driveway to the north, rather than the bucolic backyard fields to the south. The dining space felt more like an enlarged hall and could only comfortably seat four. Upstairs, a den/office had a woefully low ceiling; the master bedroom had limited storage, and a sad full bathroom featured a cramped shower.
KHS proposed a number of changes to create an updated home where the owners could enjoy cooking, entertaining, and being connected to the outdoors from the first-floor living spaces, while also experiencing more inviting and more functional private spaces upstairs.
On the first floor, the primary change was to capture space that had been part of an upper-level screen porch and convert it to interior space. To make the interior expansion seamless, we raised the floor of the area that had been the upper-level porch, so it aligns with the main living level, and made sure there would be no soffits in the planes of the walls we removed. We also raised the floor of the remaining lower-level porch to reduce the number of steps required to circulate from it to the newly expanded interior. New patio door systems now fill the arched openings that used to be infilled with screen. The exterior interventions (which also included some new casement windows in the dining area) were designed to be subtle, while affording significant improvements on the interior. Additionally, the first-floor bathroom was reconfigured, shifting one of its walls to widen the dining space, and moving the entrance to the bathroom from the stair landing to the kitchen instead.
These changes (which involved significant structural interventions) resulted in a much more open space to accommodate a new kitchen with a view of the lush backyard and a new dining space defined by a new built-in banquette that comfortably seats six, and -- with the addition of a table extension -- up to eight people.
Upstairs in the den/office, replacing the low, board ceiling with a raised, plaster, tray ceiling that springs from above the original board-finish walls – newly painted a light color -- created a much more inviting, bright, and expansive space. Re-configuring the master bath to accommodate a larger shower and adding built-in storage cabinets in the master bedroom improved comfort and function. A new whole-house color palette rounds out the improvements.
Photos by Katie Hutchison
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