This project started as a simple kitchen, master bedroom and master bathroom renovation for David and Adele but as we were working on a schematic design the house was struck by lightening during a heavy thunderstorm. The lightening started a fire that burnt through the attic and second floor. Putting out the fire damaged the remainder of the first floor.

This was understandably a tragedy but we tried to see the silver lining; this fire left us with essentially an open box in which to work. Given this “opportunity”, we transformed a transitional home, limited by cramped spaces and dim lighting into a green contemporary home, with open, clean spaces that are flooded with natural light, all within the original footprint.

The main living spaces were opened up to the outside with new custom aluminum (thermally broken) windows. These windows are an essential element in this modern home and create the “wow” factor in this wonderful space. The living room is defined within the open space by a 6” soffit and simple valence lighting while the kitchen has many personal touches for the owners, who are cooking enthusiasts, such as a custom spice drawer and a walk-in pantry with specialized food bins and bookshelves, that house David’s cookbook collection, that surround the bamboo pantry doors. The custom red and black metallic round island table has a sweeping stainless steel support leg and is inset into the “Absolute Black” granite countertop. The table comfortably seats three people in the heart of the kitchen. The finish on the table complements the recycled glass tiles on the peninsula backsplash.

A sliding bamboo and frosted glass door at the end of the kitchen disappears into the wall allowing views of the cozy family room and the high efficiency Morso wood fireplace insert that can heat the entire first floor.

Environmentally friendly materials are found throughout the home including an American clay finish and recyclable stainless steel surround on the fireplace, bamboo floors and bamboo cabinetry that was made locally using Purebond formaldehyde free bamboo plywood.

The energy efficiency of the house was optimized with spray foam insulation. low-e, double-glazed, insulated windows and new high efficiency mechanical equipment.

The new master bathroom was carved out of the attic over the garage. This delightful bath features beautiful details like the wooden drain tiles, a towel warmer, and seating area outside the steam shower. The new custom walk-in closets are comfortable and organized and get natural daylight from Velux Suntunnels. The master bath and bedroom are separated by sliding bamboo doors with 3form panels, a translucent material made out of recycled soda bottles which allow light from the south into flood into the master bedroom.