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Writer's pictureJohn Mastera, Architect, AIA

Modern House Renovation: Balancing Tradition with Contemporary Design



Nestled in a quiet suburban setting, the Abramowitz family’s home stood as a tribute to the International Style, originally designed by renowned architects Alan Goldberg and Elliot Noyes, and later completed by Richard Henderson. However, as time passed, the family sought a fresh perspective for their home, yearning for modern updates that maintained the architectural charm of the original design. This renovation project was no small task—it required a sensitive approach that would integrate new design elements while preserving the home's classic roots.

The Abramowitz family wanted an architect who understood their vision and could balance the demands of the home’s unique location and historical design with the modern touches they desired. The challenge? The house was built on a natural ledge, making the construction process complex. Despite the difficulties, the renovation ultimately transformed a mid-century masterpiece into a home that perfectly merges history with contemporary flair.



Design Concept: A Fresh Take on a Classic Design

At the heart of this renovation was the goal to add a new master bedroom wing while retaining the home’s mid-century modern roots. The original design featured open spaces, clean lines, and large windows, all hallmarks of the International Style. Inspired by these elements, the redesign introduced modern features that honored the home’s history while providing a fresh, updated aesthetic.

One of the main goals was to blend the new addition seamlessly with the existing structure. Expansive windows and skylights were used to flood the interior with natural light. Special attention was given to the master bedroom, located on the street side of the house, where high windows were used to ensure privacy while still allowing ample sunlight to enter the space.

International Style Meets Modern Innovation

One of the most striking aspects of this renovation is how it maintains the simplicity of modern architecture while incorporating innovative new elements. The new master bedroom wing, along with the two-car garage below it, was designed with sleek horizontal lines that complemented the house's original structure.

The sloped site provided both opportunities and challenges. Taking advantage of the change in level, we cleverly placed the garage under the master bedroom, creating a cohesive, functional design that worked harmoniously with the natural landscape.

Driven by the principles of Modern Design—clean lines, open spaces, and minimalism—the home’s new design reflects a timeless, yet innovative, aesthetic. Large expanses of glass, sleek materials, and a focus on indirect lighting helped ensure that the new addition felt like a natural extension of the original home.



Building on a Ledge: Challenges and Opportunities

The unique site posed several challenges during construction, most notably the ledge on which the home was built. The ledge provided a solid foundation but also required careful excavation to make room for the new addition.

The construction team worked meticulously to ensure that the new structure maintained the clean lines and precise angles that defined the home’s original design. In modern homes like this, every detail matters—straight lines, level surfaces, and flawless finishes are essential to maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.

The builder and construction team also took great care in refurbishing the existing interior. Ceilings, walls, and built-in features were restored to their original condition, preserving the home’s historical integrity while ensuring that the new and old elements worked together seamlessly.



Interior Design: Bringing the Interior to Life

The interior design process focused on maintaining the simplicity and elegance of the home’s exterior. The family wanted the interior spaces to feel as open and airy as the exterior, emphasizing light, space, and clean lines.

White was chosen as the dominant color throughout the home, both for its timeless appeal and its ability to enhance the natural light flowing through the expansive windows and skylights. The simplicity of the white color theme allowed the home’s architectural elements to take center stage, showcasing the beauty of the materials and the craftsmanship of the design.

The Impact of the White Color Theme

The decision to use white throughout the interior had both aesthetic and practical benefits. The color helped to create a sense of openness, making even the smallest rooms feel spacious and inviting. White also provided a clean, neutral backdrop that allowed the natural materials and finishes—wood, stone, and metal—to shine.

The result was a home that feels bright, airy, and modern, with a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces.



Client Feedback

The Abramowitz family couldn’t be happier with the results of their home’s renovation. They’ve expressed their love for the light-filled interior, the sense of privacy created by the high windows, and the overall feel of the space. Our design vision of creating a bright, modern home with plenty of natural light has been realized, and the family loves how the house feels both open and cozy at the same time.

The feedback from the clients is a testament to the success of the project. The renovation not only met the family’s expectations but exceeded them, creating a home that they feel perfectly suits their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.



The Art of Balancing Old and New

This renovation was a masterclass in balancing tradition with contemporary design. By preserving the historical elements of the original International Style home while introducing modern features, John Mastera was able to create a space that feels both timeless and fresh.

Collaboration between the architect, builder, and the Abramowitz family was key to the success of the project. Every decision—from the placement of the master bedroom to the color of the walls—was made with careful consideration of how it would affect the overall feel of the home.

In the end, this renovation demonstrates the importance of thoughtful design, attention to detail, and the ability to balance old and new. The Abramowitz home is a perfect example of how modern design can breathe new life into a historic structure, creating a home that is both functional and beautiful.

 

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