Project Two: Invigorating To Entertain
Client: Andy and Lia Wainwright, South Hamilton, MA
Listen
A desire to break out of the compartmentalized rooms of a 1960’s layout to allow for large family gatherings with space to mingle without stepping on each other’s toes. The 4 bedroom, one bath house had not been updated since original construction…it was well past due.
The requirements list was long: Bring in stream and horse pasture views, Counter space for food prep, homework, party spreads, Include large pantry, Home office space, Entertainment bar between rooms, New mudroom, A large family room for entertainment, 2nd floor master bedroom and bath, Outside space for grilling, and a new garage.
Visualize
Bruce presented several different potential designs. The resulting visulization cracked open the otherwise constricting spaces of the old structure. Flipping dining and kitchen allowed for views out and light in. The family room, while separate, would be connected visually with the kitchen and dining. The old living room now becomes a quiet contemplative place for reading, music, or fireside chats. And there is no longer a queue at the bathroom door. The sloping site allowed for a daylight basement below the living room.
Build
The construction process required careful phasing, as the kitchen was going to be completely relocated, thus out of action for the family of four. All relevant foundation work and exterior walls were in place before the demolition started so kitchen down time would be minimal. Bruce worked closely with the builder to ensure that the multiple levels of foundation heights were correctly located and poured. It’s really hard to cut cured concrete.
“Bruce knew exactly what our house needed! Our old floor plan was updated for modern family living and entertaining. One of my favorite features is the seamless integration with the older part of the home. He created a natural flow from the untouched part of the house, through the renovated portion, to the brand new addition. Bruce kept the street view consistent with the character of the original house and the neighborhood, which belied the expansion within and behind.”
The invigoration in action:
