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 Historic
Renovation
“Historic Renovation”
and “Historic Restoration” may be confusing as their meanings
are significantly different. Most owners of older homes want to
retain the character of the original period, but want the benefits
of modern conveniences. Renovation makes up the majority of our
work, but tightening regulations in many communities are requiring
projects to be more restoration focused. There can be several benefits
to restoring some of our local treasures and careful planning is
required to provide seismic upgrades, electrical and plumbing replacement
while preserving the original integrity of your home. We’ll
make your old home live with you so you can keep it in good shape
for the next century.
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Magnuson Loop
Los Gatos, CA
Second Story Addition and Remodel
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The original house was not significant historically but the neighborhood requires compliance with Town Historic Preservation Guidelines. The street has a Hansel and Gretel influence with several period Tudor cottages. We worked with Town Staff, Consultants and the owner to create an acceptable project. The owner gained a master suite and office with great views of the mountains.
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Los
Gatos Blvd.
Los Gatos, CA
Kitchen, Nook, Laundry and Bath Remodel |
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stately home was originally built, in the 1890’s, by a ship’s
captain. My clients had lived in this house for 27 years and decided
it was time for an update. The home had been designed with a five-room
servants’ kitchen including a walk-in icebox, insulated with
newspaper. The new configuration is far more suited to 21st century
living while retaining the charm of a bygone era. New windows were
fabricated to replicate the originals. Authentic light fixtures and
hardware were purchased from the Smithsonian Museum Store. |
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for more images |
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272 Pine Ave
Pacific Grove, CA
Restore House and Replace Garage
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likely a 1930’s Portugese fisherman’s cottage this house
had suffered from salt wind and neglect. Originally a one bedroom,
one bath house, existing rooms were re-defined to create a two bedroom
home and spacious two-car garage surrounded by white picket fence.
While this is a modest house, I provided most of the labor on this
picturesque cottage. |
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for more images |
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Wilder Ave
Los Gatos, CA
Second Story Addition
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the midst of the Almond Grove Historic District we created a two-story
expansion behind the existing single story façade. Originally
the house had no foundation and had to be lifted high enough to drive
a tractor beneath it. The historic commission would not permit any
changes to the front elevation. The old and new spaces mesh together
maintaining individual characteristics wrapped in a true to period
exterior. I visited this house in the morning following the Loma Prieta
Earthquake. A pair of French doors popped open but the house sustained
no damage. |
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for more images |
