Scope: Interior Remodel
Awards:
2024 Honorable Mention, Architectural Interior: CRAN Awards // Beware of the Alligator
Description:
The homeowners, octogenarians, desired a new ‘thriving-in-place’ remodel to their existing mid-century home. The homeowners desired to live the rest of their lives in the home, but the existing spaces were proving to be increasingly difficult to use with the onset of some ambulatory challenges. Having lived in the home for over 40 years, the house was in need of more than a refresh. Moreover, it was paramount that the house did not look like it had been retrofitted for old people.
Built in 1950 and designed by Cincinnati’s preeminent mid-century modern architect, Carl Strauss, the homeowners wanted to respect the architecture of the original home while adapting modern ways of living. While the design sought modest improvements in nearly every space, the emphasis of the work was in the kitchen and the bathrooms.
The previous kitchen was cordoned from the living spaces of the house and organized as a galley. Removing a series of walls and inserting a multi-tiered island creates an open, social hub suitable for hosting parties and entertaining, while satisfying the need for seated food preparation. Windows were added ‘on’ the countertop, opening up views to the private sculpture garden, river, and city beyond. The owner wanted a space where they could gather with their old friends, play bridge and piano, and ‘drink like we did in the old days.’ [Hence the adjacent bar]
The primary bathroom, previously compartmentalized, was opened up and greatly simplified. The large deck tub was removed and the laundry [previously located in an adjacent cramped closet] was added. An easy to access shower and generous circulation space make this a functional, easy-to-use and maintain bathroom.
This remodeled home pays homage to its mid-century modern origins while offering the home and its owners a new lease on life.
