The family eventually concluded that their current site was the perfect location for them, but the existing home needed to be updated and reorganized to create fresh, open, unified spaces to comfortably welcome family, friends, and guests.

Primary goals of this project included accessibility of space, more natural light, better connectivity between spaces, and a focus on sustainable performance. The updated main floor plan included the selective removal of walls to reallocate dedicated hall space to a usable, open living area. The step-down living room was leveled for full accessibility, safety, furniture flexibility, and overall space use. The removal of a half-height wall between the living area and the kitchen created continuity between the spaces. Reorganizing the primary entry and stair and eliminating walls between the entry and dining room created new visual connections between the kitchen and the entry. The new central concrete hearth and fireplace provides a strong, modern focal point for the living area.. Large sliding glass doors on each side of the fireplace allow the TV area beyond to be separated from the living area as needed.

MMA partnered with the owner’s interior designer and kitchen designer to achieve a softer, contemporary palette of finishes that complement this newly configured, light-filled home.

Before the renovation, the floor plan included small rooms, dedicated hallways, a step-down living room, a heavy and dark corner fireplace, and limited opportunities for natural light and visual connections from space to space. Exterior deck areas were narrow, long, and used infrequently.

In several strategic locations, the footprint of the house was expanded to enhance function and flow at the kitchen, dining room, and mudroom. The new outdoor deck area is now large and singular and includes a grill area, dining space, and open seating overlooking the newly landscaped pool below.