Like many historic houses, this one on Philadelphia’s Main Line was ill-equipped for contemporary living. The kitchen, despite a series of improvements since its original construction in 1870, was cramped and in need of renovation. This space was the catalyst for a series of improvements that enhanced the house’s overall functionality.

The original entry hall was extended through the house to a new rear entrance, creating a service spine containing newly-created amenities: a mudroom, laundry room, powder room, storage, and wet bar. The kitchen, at the rear of the house, was expanded to accommodate a breakfast room addition with a large rounded bay window. The dining room was also expanded allowing wall facing the garden to be glazed. The exterior was carefully designed to harmonize with the form and scale of the original house and to afford the most wonderful views of the garden.

Interior Design completed in association with Executive Interiors.

Awards

AIA Philadelphia Chapter, Merit Award, 1990

PUBLICATIONS

• The Vintage House: A Guide to Successful Renovations and Additions. Mark Alan Hewitt & Gordon Bock. W.W. Norton & Company: New York, 2011.