Northwest, DC - Side Addition

NARI CotY "Merit" Award Winner 2010

Brief Explanation of the Scope of Work

The owners of this classic Northwest DC center-hall colonial moved from the South where they were used to wide verandas and deep porches. Their existing narrow galley kitchen lacked both charm and ample storage space. In addition, most of the appliances did not function properly. The goal, for the kitchen addition was to provide space for the family to gather both inside and out and increase the kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Unusual Constraints/Challenges & Creative Solutions

The challenge involved in constructing an addition to fit all the homeowners’ needs was constrained by the need to build an addition that balanced the house and related to the side yard. An existing addition over the garage was removed to make room for a slightly larger addition that would house the kitchen and a sitting area / tv space for the family to gather. The addition was constructed using advanced framing techniques (2x6 stud walls
at 24” on center) allowing for a maximum amount of insulation. Open-cell spray foam Icynene insulation was added to each stud bay, with OSB sheathing and James Hardie siding wrapping the exterior to provide a completely sealed and energy efficient envelope.

Within the house, the original kitchen location was converted into a mudroom and pantry area, a necessary space for a family with two small children and the need to organize and store coats and hats, school supplies and schedules. To give the family a generous space to gather and entertain outdoors, a deep porch was constructed across the entire side of the addition with a built-in bench providing permanent and ample seating. With deep overhangs, a beadboard ceiling painted light blue, and two ceiling fans, the porch evokes the grand verandahs of elegant Southern homes. The beadboard ceiling is carried through into the kitchen space where the light blue walls and the cathedral ceiling continue to bring the outdoors in.

Painted white CWP cabinetry helps keep the space light and open, while the granite countertops in Tropical Brown provide a rich and elegant contrast. A tiled niche recessed behind the range provides visual interest as well as a place to store essential cooking supplies. Crown molding throughout relates back to the traditional spaces of the existing house, while the final touches of stainless steel knobs and cup pulls and mid-century modern pendant lights give the space an element of retro cool.

Overall Results

This Southern-inspired kitchen and porch addition has become the heart of this Northwest Washington home. With living spaces both inside and out, the addition provides light, airy and comfortable rooms for this family to grow and gather together.