Maxwell Street Residence

A Thoughtful Transformation: Revitalizing a 1925 Oakhurst Village Home

Nestled in the heart of Oakhurst Village, this charming 1925-built home has seen its fair share of history. Over the years, it has been occupied by renters, passed through the hands of house flippers, and endured the ravages of time, including extensive roof damage and a fire. When the opportunity arose to breathe new life into this historic property, the project was seen as a chance to reimagine its potential while honoring its roots.

The transformation began at the front of the house, where the original porch was opened up to create a more welcoming and functional space. This new front porch not only serves as a family gathering area but also doubles as a stage for the neighborhood’s beloved Porchfest, bringing the community together in celebration. Moving inside, the former living room has been reimagined as a grand entryway. Here, new stairs ascend to a freshly added second story, setting the stage for the home’s modern reconfiguration.

To better connect the house to its expansive backyard, the east side was opened up, expanding the public zones and creating inviting areas for entertaining. These spaces feature exposed structural floor framing, adding a loft-like atmosphere without the need for costly decorative beams. Salvaged white oak from a beloved front yard tree, tragically struck by lightning, was repurposed to bring warmth and a sense of history to these newly reimagined areas.

While much of the home underwent significant changes, the original primary bedroom and bathroom were left untouched. These spaces now serve as a multifunctional guest room, complete with a custom-built Murphy bed by Buildhouse. To create a sense of intimacy, these rooms have been color-washed, distinguishing them from the more public areas of the home.

The kitchen received a much-needed update, with large corner windows added to provide expansive views of the backyard. A new vaulted screen porch and mudroom entryway were constructed to ease the transition between indoor and outdoor living, enhancing the home’s functionality and flow.

In 2024, the transformation extended to the backyard, where a new pool and a tiny-house Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) were added, maximizing the space for both relaxation and practicality. The pool area offers something for everyone: a place to toss a ball, a spot to cook, and a cool escape on hot summer days. The design also includes outdoor storage and a guesthouse, all while maintaining privacy. The gentle sound of bubbling water from the pool creates a serene atmosphere, providing a tranquil buffer against the city’s hustle and bustle.

The guesthouse itself is a modern take on a garden shed, with dark metal cladding that helps it blend seamlessly into the landscape. As the surrounding plants mature, the structure will further integrate into its environment, making the yard feel more expansive. Inside, the shed is a bright, verdant space filled with natural light. A terrazzo countertop in the kitchen anchors a vibrant mix of finishes, from terracotta tiles to hand-troweled cement in the bathroom. The interior design plays with contrasts in ceiling heights, transitioning from a cozy 7-foot kitchen ceiling to a soaring 16-foot living room, creating a dynamic, airy space. A ships-ladder stair leads to a lofted bedroom, offering a cozy retreat with views of the lush surroundings.

The revitalization of this 1925 Oakhurst Village home is a testament to thoughtful design and respect for history. By blending modern amenities with the charm and character of the original structure, the project has created a home that is both timeless and contemporary. With its enhanced connection to the outdoors, reimagined spaces, and thoughtful use of materials, this home stands as a vibrant example of how historic properties can be beautifully transformed to meet the needs of modern living.