PROJECT: University Heights Remodel

Overview: Like many mid-city smaller homes built in the 20’s and 30’s, this one had a range of structural and design issues, as well as simply looking derelict. The whole-home approach required knocking out walls, pulling out floors and fixtures, and upgrading wiring and plumbing. The mismatched colors and cramped spacing were replaced with a clean, contemporary design that opened up the small spaces and created an urbane liveability.

Challenge: The goal was to keep the character and indisputable charm of a house built in a whole different era but infuse it with a touch of urbane sophistication.

Solution: The front porch with columns is a vital part of the individuality of the older homes in this neighborhood. While the exterior revives the heritage, the interior reshapes the limited footage with a versatile island that bridges the living room with the small, L-shaped kitchen. The landscaping is scaled to the house, with classic jade plants and flowering annuals framing the porch. The tiny back patio is accented with a simple brick-colored deck and steps

Results: Can a house be both quaint and chic? This small one-bedroom, one-bath home in a quiet older neighborhood was a textbook case of renovation. From the natural slate porch to the dark umber/pale mint interior color scheme, the subtle, clean look is punctuated only by the brilliantly yellow front door, a nod to the often eccentric color choices this vintage neighborhood is known for.

PROJECT: Mission Beach Remodel

Overview: This small Mission Beach home had the advantage of a highly-prized location but had fallen into poor condition, inside and out. From landscaping to roofing, wiring to walls, the job required thorough, ground-up renovation.

Challenge: The key was to create liveable, attractive spaces by reconfiguring the kitchen/living areas and selecting a coherent, harmonious palette of colors and materials.

Solution: Once a cozy cottage, this Mission Beach home had fallen into serious disrepair. It required a complete remodel, inside and out – repairs to walls, new flooring, rebuilding the bathroom and kitchen …plus the exterior walls, windows, and roof. Wiring and plumbing required upgrading. The yard was re-landscaped, and the whole project was framed with a bright white picket fence.

Results: A major part of the project was significantly expanding the entrance from the living room to the kitchen, where a narrow doorway was removed and an elegant, curved-corner framing wall was built that provided just the right balance. The home’s exterior, kitchen, and living/kitchen views show the integrated color scheme and attention to detailing – from the red porch and trim to the granite kitchen counters and stainless steel appointments.