September 25, 2024

Winner RibbonReturning to the quaint cottage of your childhood is nostalgic, especially on a private street with many of the neighbors you grew up with still living there. The nostalgia wears thin when the interior finishes are the same as 30 years ago. Modifying a generational home to provide comfort for your partner, two energetic children, and even yourself, requires change. To achieve the owners’ desires the entire main level of the home was renovated and added a primary suite with a finished daylight basement and two-level deck. The original construction of the home was configured with only two bedrooms. An in-law suite was added a few years later to accommodate an aging generation. Spaces were small, and dark colors were added to the confinement. The renovations opened the living space into the in-law suite, which expanded the shared living spaces. The addition of the primary suite provides an essential retreat and an additional bathroom. Stepping from the suite to the upper deck creates a space to enjoy the late afternoon sun, listen to the wind in the surrounding trees, or watch the wildlife play on the lawn and creek (kids included). The original wood floors and bookshelves were refinished to preserve memories of years gone by. Light colors were used to enhance the natural light that floods the home and expand the spaces – each window and door open views to trees surrounding the property. The basement family room provides easy access to the lower deck and yard. Reconfiguring the main stairwell offers better flow between living spaces and reduces headaches. Updates to the mechanical systems and insulation improve the comfort level in the home. Other enhancements include matching fiber cement siding, new roofing, solar panel preparations, window and door replacements, painted cabinetry, and granite countertops. While simple finishes were utilized to reduce the overall cost, they provide coziness to this cottage home for coming generations.