Norhill Residence

Adding a second story and remodeling the interior of this historic bungalow created a deceptively generous 1,900 sf 3-bedroom 2-bath family home with a play loft and two offices for mom and dad.

The addition works within the conservatively enforced historic preservation guidelines in the neighborhood. Borrowing the curve from the existing front stoop for the roof at the new second story created surprises inside, such as lifted ceilings and a sky-lit stairwell at the intersection of old and new. Ceilings upstairs follow the curved rafters and are punctuated with carefully located skylights. The addition isn’t visible from the street, creating a moment of surprise when the front door opens and light spills down from above.

The interior was remodeled to create a sense of graciousness through borrowed space and light, expanding throughout with unexpected openings between spaces, long views, and walls that stop short of the ceiling allowing light to slip across.

Pulling the existing front gable forward and mirroring the facade allowed for the addition of a front porch that appears to have always been there.

The finishes and details in the home match our clients’ bright energy and nod to the period of the home in fun ways.

This home was featured on the AIA Houston 2023 Home Tour.