residential renovation
linden
- Contractor: Brown Brothers Renovation
- Cabinetry: 210 Design House
- Photographer: Corey Hogrefe
- Completed: 2025
The new stewards of a 1910 Colonial Revival home with Neoclassical accents wanted to transform the enclosed, dark kitchen into a bright, modern space that would align with their contemporary aesthetic while respecting the home’s original character.
Achieving a visually clean and open space—a deceptively complex task—required a new post and pier, installation of wood and steel beams, a complete reconstruction of the staircase between the first and second floors, and rerouting of plumbing and HVAC.
The kitchen’s defining feature is a 7’-6" by 8’-0” window that floods the space with natural light, serving as both focal point and organizing element. A fully concealed shade provides seamless light control. Rather than mimic the home’s historic details, the design intentionally distinguishes new from old. Each new window and door opening is outlined by a thin black reveal, marking the intervention. On the exterior these openings are expressed by 6-inch deep black metal frames that pierce through the original façade.
A continuous, slender black metal shelf extends from the west wall, forms the window sill, rises vertically, and connects to the underside of the range hood as a unifying gesture. Opposite, the rebuilt and newly opened staircase with glass guard visually connects spaces that were once separate. Light, clean, full-height cabinetry conceals appliances and provides generous storage. A refurbished wood and translucent glass pocket door separates the kitchen from the rear pantry, screening the preparation space. Additional details include a concealed, flush basement door designed to minimize visibility and a large light natural marble island with waterfall edges.
Every aspect of this project was carefully considered—from the orientation of the cabinet grain and vertical alignment of the fluted full tiled wall to custom wood registers and integrated electrical outlets—ensuring a precise, cohesive, functional modern kitchen.
A second, smaller intervention sits around the corner from the main kitchen, where an underutilized closet was transformed into a wet bar with a beverage cooler. As you enter the rear of the home, you’re greeted by the bar’s contrasting deep colors and warm light.
The third project reimagined the primary bathroom as a clean, modern, tranquil retreat. The original bathroom felt confined, dominated by a large built-in tub enclosed by full-height walls. By removing the heavy structure and simplifying the layout, the space now feels open and serene.
A large modern freestanding soaking tub now serves as the main focal point. A classic running bond layout of light natural marble subway tile offers a subtle nod to the home’s traditional architecture.
Radiant heat flooring, integrated speakers, and dimmable lighting were installed to enhance comfort and create a serene, spa-like atmosphere. Light, sleek wood cabinetry adds warmth and texture, while contemporary fixtures reflect the homeowners’ modern aesthetic.
The result is a refined, clean and modern sanctuary that feels both timeless and true to the home’s original character.
