When Austin–based firm Matt Fajkus Architecture was tasked with renovating this classic midcentury home, they sought to open up the interior—not only by unifying the common areas into an open-plan layout, but also by literally raising the home's roof.

This strategy increased the ceiling height on three sides of the home, allowing for the insertion of clerestory windows to create a bright and airy open living space. "The raised ceiling maintains the original pitched roof geometry to stay harmonious with the existing gabled roof in the private zone," explain the architects in a statement.

Additional updates include extending the back of the home to increase its square footage and add patio space. The residence was originally a one-bedroom home, so the architects also added an additional bedroom with an ensuite bath, and they opened the master bedroom to the backyard via sliding doors.

Before: The Facade

After: The Facade

Before: The Kitchen

After: The Kitchen

Before: The Living Room

After: The Living Room

Shop the Look

Before: The Master Bedroom

After: The Master Bedroom

Before: The Backyard

After: The Backyard

Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Matt Fajkus Architecture / @mf.architecture

Project Manager /Design Architect: Sarah Johnson

Builder/General Contractor: Texas Construction Company, Royce H. Flournoy

Structural Engineer: JM Structural

Landscape Design: B Jane Gardens, Frontier Landscape, Jeff Luce

Interior Design: Joel Mozersky Design

Cabinetry Design: Perales Cabinetry

Before & After: An Austin Midcentury Home Gets a Roof-Raising Renovation