Skip to content
Side view of exterior
Project Story

Historic West End

Reviving history, redefining home.

Project Details

Architect + Builder

Knickerbocker Group

Interior Design

Sarah Ettelman

Photography

Erin Little

1938 John Calvin Stevens

Unearthing an older home requires the flexibility to adapt as years of wear are peeled back and unexpected discoveries emerge. This was certainly the case with a West End renovation, where a 1938 John Calvin Stevens-designed home was reimagined for a busy young family. The vision of interior designer Sarah Ettelman, in collaboration with the architectural and construction expertise of Knickerbocker Group, guided the transformation.

The process was a true partnership, as both the design and construction teams worked closely together to bring the home’s intrinsic beauty back to life while seamlessly incorporating the modern features the homeowners desired. Through thoughtful planning and meticulous craftsmanship, the result was a perfect balance of historic charm and contemporary functionality, making the home both timeless and tailored to the family’s needs.

A family who love to cook

Initially, a driving force for the renovation included transforming the kitschy 90s kitchen into something functional for the family, who love to cook and dine together. To enhance the flow of the space, new points of entry to the kitchen were created from adjoining rooms and an oversized island now anchors the floorplan. Providing ample space to prep and gather, the island features a deep farm sink and leathered granite. The kitchen’s custom cabinetry, painted deep blue, provides abundant storage to hide away gadgets and serving ware. Added elements such as a coffee bar and two dishwashers, lend to indulgences the original design lacked.

Designed for lifestyle

From the kitchen, the thoughtful renovation carried throughout the home. A stairway leading to the basement was reworked to allow for a space the family eagerly sought—a mudroom. With two teens and a menagerie of pets, the family required a boundary between their active outdoor lifestyle and the peace of their home’s interiors—now, shelving, cubbies, and hooks add function and smart storage.

A striking color palette

Throughout the first floor, the rich tones of the kitchen are woven throughout, from the elegant formal living room and cozy family room to a powder room featuring striking navy and gold wallpaper from Thatcher.

Tranquil transformation

Upstairs, creating a serene and spacious primary suite was a top priority. The dated primary bathroom was gutted and transformed into a tranquil retreat. A deep soaking tub paired with mossy green tile, rich wood tones and brass accents complete the calm, textured design. The addition of two windows welcomes natural light to flood the space.

True collaboration

The homeowners collaborated closely with the team, resulting in a design aesthetic that holistically weaves their travels, supports their passions, while honoring the home’s rich history to create a space perfectly suited for their family.