Our mission here was to transform a dilapidated 1960s quasi-ranch-style home while integrating as much of the existing structure – including a wood-burning fireplace – as possible. Challenge accepted! Taking cues from the existing materials and geometries, we expanded the structure to create a comfortable home for a family of four. To top it all off, the house is perched on a wooded plateau and surrounded by a plethora of mature trees, which provides a secluded and tranquil backdrop – and a beautiful place to call home.

The vertical and horizontal additions give rise to a 5-bedroom, 4½-bath home with expansive living spaces and a sunken dining room that emphasizes the volume of the additions. By layering on numerous windows and plenty of natural light, we were able to transform a generic brick box into a modern, contemporary home.

Much of the existing brick remains and is clad in stone tile to anchor the structure, as it plays well off the ruggedness of the surroundings. We added a wood-clad second and third floor with a natural finish, as well as vertical swaths of glass, to smooth the transition from new to old environments.

Each side of the house offers a different collection of angles with playful and changing façades. Front and rear decks provide an introduction to the home and an easy way to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.