Renovation work demands a different kind of creativity. The existing building sets constraints — structure, character, neighborhood context — and the best renovations work within those constraints to create something that feels both new and inevitable. We bring the same design rigor to renovation projects that we apply to new construction.
Types of Renovation Work
Our renovation practice includes:
- Whole-house renovations — Comprehensive updates that reimagine layout, systems, finishes, and spatial flow while preserving the qualities that make the house worth keeping.
- Additions — Carefully designed expansions that integrate with the existing structure in form, material, and proportion. An addition should look like it was always part of the plan.
- Historic preservation — Sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historically significant structures. We understand the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and work within local landmark review processes.
- Accessory dwelling units — Garage conversions, basement apartments, and detached ADUs that provide additional housing while respecting the scale of the primary residence.
The Renovation Challenge
Renovations involve unknowns that new construction does not. Concealed conditions, out-of-level floors, non-standard framing, and aging systems all create design puzzles that require experience and adaptability. We approach every renovation with thorough existing-conditions documentation, including 3D scanning when appropriate, to minimize surprises during construction.
Budgeting for Renovation
Renovation costs per square foot are often higher than new construction because of demolition, remediation, and the need to work within an existing structure. We help clients set realistic budgets early and identify where to invest for maximum impact. Phased renovation strategies can spread costs over time while maintaining a coherent design vision.
