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Shorewood Hills Storybook Addition

This challenging front-of-home addition pushed us to employ creative design features that bridge the old and the new.

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A charming kitchen with a fireplace and an island, blending warmth and functionality for a perfect cooking space.

The Challenge

Our client approached us looking to improve the curb appeal of their home. Enhancing curb appeal is always an art, but this project presented an extra challenge: the home wasn’t built with a typical wood frame, but instead with solid terracotta clay blocks. That meant every cut and adjustment had to be executed with precision. Demolition wasn’t just about tearing things down; it was about carefully sculpting a foundation for something beautiful. And that’s where the real magic began.

Our Solution

After some creative back-and-forth with the client, we found the perfect solution for blending the old with the new — while also changing the profile of the house both inside and out. A chimney stack concealed the seam between the existing home and the addition but also added character and warmth. To make an even bolder statement, we extended the front gable 12 feet into the yard to give the home a grander profile and a more welcoming presence.

Inside, we used this additional space to convert the original galley-style kitchen into a chef’s dream — spacious, stylish and designed for entertaining. A cozy new fireplace, anchored by the chimney stack, became the heart of the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Upstairs, we took a once-cramped bedroom above the kitchen and expanded it into a comfortable, airy retreat perfect for guests.

Every detail of this remodel was crafted with intention, seamlessly blending function, beauty, and a touch of old-world charm. The result? A home that feels effortlessly cohesive — like it was always meant to be this way.

A modern fireplace adorned with beautiful tiling, positioned next to a bookshelf, adding warmth to the living space.
A cozy kitchen featuring a coffee maker on the counter and a vibrant vase of flowers adding color to the space.

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