Situated near Lake Merritt in Oakland, the goal for our clients was to provide a timeless design that honored the home’s original architecture, while modernizing the spatial layout and functionality and  incorporating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.  A modern take on the hacienda, saltillo tile; rift-sawn white oak; modern shaker millwork, and classic transitions were brought in as materials to support a classically Californian lifestyle.  

Without adding floor area to the envelope, the design opens up the ground floor spaces by way of reorienting the kitchen and introducing a new set of folding corner doors that bring in diffuse natural light and create a more visually expansive space. The new white oak and glass doors create both an intentional, seamless blending of interior and exterior that brings in a cooling cross-breeze as well as direct access to a space for patio dining that becomes a natural outdoor extension of the kitchen.  The free flow of circulation invites family and guests to easily meander between spaces, and tile flooring in the newly configured spaces is thoughtful of the use by little ones and animals.  

Throughout the house, trim and moulding details and new finishes and fixtures create lasting warmth while paying homage to the original character of the home. Functional choices, like the creation of a new mudroom and powder room acknowledge and contain the daily realities of a bustling family while a new skylight and winding custom oak handrail leading up to the second floor create elegant, quiet moments. We look forward to seeing how this young family grows into their new space. 

PROJECT CREDITS 

Architecture , Interior Design, Site Design : Laura Hughes + Maria Sviridova, Perennial

Builder : Sanchez Home Improvement

Engineer : Mosswood Engineering

Photographs : Sen Creative