What Made This Project Hard

The house had no true primary suite, and the laundry took up valuable space on the main floor. Adding a second story meant structural work throughout, including new rafters, ceiling joists, beams and headers, plus extending the brick chimney to clear the new roofline. The homeowner wanted natural materials, more daylight and rooms with real personality, all in a home that remained comfortable for daily life.

How We Solved It

• We made the kitchen the centerpiece. A La Cornue range and hood in Provence Blue with polished brass anchor the room. White Shaker cabinetry, natural marble counters and a full-height marble backsplash, brass lantern pendants and an island with seating for four to five complete the look.
• We moved the laundry upstairs and put a dry bar in its place. The bar has deep navy cabinetry, glass-front uppers, the same marble as the kitchen, and panel-ready refrigerator drawers, wine storage and an ice maker.
• We added a primary suite. The second-story addition holds a new bedroom, walk-in closet and bath. The bath has a freestanding soaking tub, a soft blue double vanity with tall linen towers, Champagne Bronze fixtures and a new window for more light.
• We had fun in the small spaces. The powder room has blue tiger-print wallpaper, a navy vanity and raffia sconces. The laundry room has a large-scale blue botanical wallpaper, and the hall bath pairs blue subway tile with a patterned floor and beadboard walls.
• We took care of the house itself. New roofing throughout, including the mansard roof, along with new Pella windows and a sliding patio door, sets the home up for years to come.