Lake Forest park MId-Century Remodel
Character Re-Discovered
A Mid-Century gem waiting to be polished, the homeowners originally came to us with a problem that was destroying the usefulness of an entire floor— their basement suffered from persistent water intrusion. Iron ochre (a bacterial byproduct of iron-rich soil that forms a rust-red slime) continually clogged up their drainage system, defeating every contractor they hired to fix it. The project, therefore, was to liberate them from this issue once and for all, and while we were at it, rework a majority of their home, which had previously suffered from a misguided “remuddle” house flip that had stripped it of its character.
For our basement solution, we worked with the conditions rather than against them. A discreet access panel and water spigot in the laundry room now let the homeowners flush the bacteria growth from the drainage system at regular intervals. We monitored it through multiple seasons. It's working brilliantly.
The real prize, however, was in re-envisioning the main living spaces. The remuddle had the kitchen stuffed next to the front door with no defined entry way, and a staircase right in front of the entry. Views of the stunning environment were cut up, and material choices inappropriate for the home’s era. (See floorplans and before photos below.)
Working with designer Emily Wignall, we improved the flow by relocating the staircase, shifting the kitchen, and carving out a proper entry/mudroom, unlocking sweeping PNW views the old floor plan had been quietly stealing. The new stair is a craftsman's moment, custom millwork with joinery and detailing that announces itself. At the living room, we refurbished a vintage midcentury fireplace the client had found with custom fitted steel at the top and hearth. Throughout the home, we incorporated vintage light fixtures the clients had hunted down, adding all the right authentic touches.
In the primary suite, we fashioned a true respite. The bathroom is spa-caliber, a sunlit wet room and soaker tub that feels like a world away. In the bedroom, salvaged leaded glass doors transformed into fully functioning exterior bi-folds through a feat of ingenuity and craftsmanship.
Below grade, we carved the basement into a proper set of rooms. Guest room, storage room, laundry, bathroom, and a family room that finally earns the name. New windows and a new roof complete a whole-home remodel that gave this house back its character and the perfect backdrop for the homeowners' lifelong collection of mid-century pieces.
Design: Emily Wignall
Pro Photos: Alessandra Brescia
Work Includes:
Drainage System Remediation
Basement Remodel
Whole House Remodel
Kitchen Remodel
Primary Suite Remodel
Wet Room and Freestanding Tub
New Staircase
New Entryway/ Mud Room
New Windows & Skylights
Salvaged Doors Re-Crafted
Vintage Light Fixtures Incorporated
New Roof
Historic Character Restored
