Description

This whole‑house renovation transformed a neglected historic property into a cohesive, contemporary home that honors its architectural heritage while supporting the daily rhythms of a modern family of four. Located on a charming, character‑rich street, the home had suffered from years of piecemeal updates, structural deterioration, and a layout that restricted connection, natural light, and functional flow. The remodel reimagined every level of the home, inside and out, resulting in a residence that feels complete, personal, and built to last. The first floor underwent the most dramatic transformation. The original kitchen was cramped and isolated, disconnected from the living spaces and lacking access to the backyard. A poorly built dining addition further disrupted the home’s flow. By blending the old addition with a new, thoughtfully scaled expansion, the design team created a spacious kitchen and dining hub that now anchors daily life. Twelve‑foot Anderson patio doors flood the interior with natural light and provide seamless access to a new covered porch and deck, turning a once‑underused patio into a true extension of the home. The former kitchen was repurposed into a bright, efficient home office, taking advantage of existing windows to create a calm, focused workspace. A new mudroom strategically positioned near the garage and driveway, adds everyday convenience, while the improved first‑floor circulation unites the kitchen, dining, living, and study areas. What was once tight, dim, and compartmentalized is now open, warm, and connected. The exterior received a full architectural revival. All siding and trim were removed and replaced with new LP SmartSide, restoring cohesion and elevating curb appeal. The front porch was rebuilt to replace a rotting slab, with preserved trim details and added columns reinforcing the home’s timeless character. A new covered back porch features a true cedar tongue‑and‑groove ceiling and integrated Bromic heaters, extending outdoor enjoyment well into Wisconsin’s cooler seasons. Custom Douglas fir rafter tails and handcrafted brackets echo the home’s original craftsmanship, blending new construction seamlessly with historic detail. The second‑floor expansion added a third bedroom, full bathroom, and hallway closet. Essential improvements for a growing family. The new bedroom features sloped ceilings, playful angles, and artistic detailing that complement the home’s architectural language. The new upstairs bath, compact yet highly functional, incorporates Kohler fixtures, a durable tile tub surround, and charming ceiling lines that tie into the home’s character. Subtle upgrades to existing bedrooms and hallways including improved lighting and widened circulation, enhance livability without compromising the home’s historic charm. Throughout the home, thoughtful details elevate both beauty and function. Custom walnut countertops, handcrafted shelving, panel‑ready appliances, beadboard accents, and a wet bar with a glass rinser reflect a commitment to quality and personalization. Even the family’s Little Free Library was refinished to match the home, a small but meaningful gesture that underscores the project’s spirit. This renovation delivered on every promise, restoring charm, improving functionality, and creating a home that supports connection and everyday ease. The result is a beautifully renewed residence that blends heritage with modern living.