The 1952 dwelling that Greg Hoffman and his wife, Kirsten Brady, bought in Portland, Oregon, had many virtues. It had history (the first owner was an inventor who made stereoscopic devices), it had a strong architectural pedigree (it was designed by respected local architect Roscoe Hemenway), and above all, it had views. The house, which is sited atop a hill in one of the highest areas of the city, offers a sweeping vista of downtown Portland, Mount Hood, the Columbia River, and other landmarks.

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But it also had flaws, many of which would be familiar to anyone who has ever lived in a postwar ranch-style home. The ceilings were low, the interior was chopped into a warren of rooms, and the windows weren’t exactly abundant. “We wanted open plans, more transparency, less tiny rooms,” says Greg, the VP of global brand innovation at Nike.

With the aid of Bohlin Cywinski Jackson—the 50-year-old architecture firm that is best known for the Fifth Avenue Apple store in New York City—the couple embarked on a project to enrich the landscaping, simplify the layout, and add a new top floor, all while amplifying the view with more glass. “They specialize in glazing,” Greg notes.

Before: Front Façade

After: Front Façade

Before: Portico / Side Yard

After: Portico / Side Yard

Before: Entryway / Front Door

After: Entryway / Front Door

Before: Living Room

After: Living Room

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Before: Dining Area / Staircase

After: Dining Area / Staircase

Before: Breakfast Nook

After: Breakfast Nook

Before: Living Room Corner / Fireplace

After: Living Room Corner / Fireplace

Read the full home tour: The Firm Behind the Legendary Apple Store Reimagines a Nike VP’s 1950s Home  

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Before & After: It’s Hard to Believe This Sleek Modernist Sanctuary Started as a 1950s Ranch House