Over the years, this millhouse in Hillsborough had undergone several additions. However, these additions had been executed in a piecemeal rather than holistic fashion. The primary goal was to replace the kitchen, bathroom and screen porch with more functional and harmonious spaces and to create a more unified design to fully integrate the entire structure. The clients also wanted to keep their lovely stone patio so the design had to be contained within essentially the same footprint as the existing house.

The existing kitchen had little usable counter and storage space. The new design was in keeping with the original feel of the home, yet featured modern appliances and efficient storage that made using the space a delight. The face frame cabinets were made locally and incorporated elements like the original valance from above the original sink. The contemporary twist on the traditional can be seen with the use of such things as the stainless steel farm sink. Green features include locally made recycled glass and concrete countertops, Marmoleum floors and Energy Star appliances.

By “stealing” one foot of space from the interior hall 12”deep pantry units blend seamlessly with the original refrigerator, microwave and appliance area. On the other side of the wall is the pet closet, with its own pet door, which creates a dedicated area for storing supplies for their cats and dogs. To be consistent and retain the authentic look and feel of the original house, existing trim was carefully removed and reused in the hallway.

A new screen porch is more like an outside sitting room. With a wood ceiling, painted blue like the sky, trimmed-out columns and a colored concrete floor, this is a welcoming place to enjoy the surrounding view.

The new master bathroom and closets continue the ‘traditional style with modern convenience theme’. It now contains a signature claw foot tub resting on period appropriate patterned octagonal tile while featuring the modern luxury of a naturally lighted walk-in shower. New furniture-style cabinets add plenty of storage space.