A thoughtful remodel of this 1923 Berkeley one-story residence resulted in a spacious and light-filled multi-generational home. A technically challenging solution included moving the home twelve inches before adding a second story, which was set back from the original first floor to meet local requirements. By stepping back the second story, the house blends in with adjacent homes at an attractive, residential scale. The clients chose to create a second-floor balcony from the new space, which is a fun “hangout” for children to play and do homework.

Placement of windows in unlikely areas such as the stairway landing and in the kitchen backsplash adds light throughout the home. And, the kitchen and living room have full sight lines to the backyard via floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Attractive touches such as the kitchen tile and new Redwood cladding on the exterior add color and vibrancy.

High ceilings and doors allow rooms to be expansive; one would not guess that this is a home to seven people—children to grandparents. The first floor includes a completely “barrier free” accessible bedroom and bathroom, while master and children's bedrooms are on the second floor. Clever dual use of spaces, such as the upstairs hallway that doubles as a play area, allow for a laudable “Bay Area footprint.”

This project was featured on the AIA East Bay 2016 Home Tour.

Photos by Shawn-Paul Luchin