Elm Residence

Interior remodeling and a new patio addition reinvigorated this ranch, creating open and light-filled spaces for these homeowners who love to cook and entertain. The project began modestly—with the owners wanting better ventilation over their kitchen cooktop. However, a look at ventilation options led to reviewing the overall kitchen layout, and then the layout of the adjacent eat-in kitchen and sitting rooms, and eventually the living and dining rooms. These spaces were cut off from one another and felt smaller than they were, so a focus of the project was improving flow between rooms, increasing ceiling height, and adding more natural light. An existing fireplace wall was turned into a dramatic statement, with new limestone cladding running up to the new vaulted ceiling. In addition, the original covered patio at the rear of the house had a low roof which restricted light and views and made it feel cramped . The homeowners wanted to use this outdoor space more, so the patio floor was raised up to match the house and the patio roof was redesigned to make it feel more like a spacious outdoor room. With new appliances, cabinets and finishes throughout the kitchen, and a direct connection out to the new patio, the house has a dramatic and modern new personality.