This 2400 SF Cambridge home began as a candy factory, built in the early 20th century. When we started the project, it had already been converted to a live/work space, but there were no clear divisions between the uses. One…

Far from a straightforward renovation, we integrated overtly modern elements with the classic Tudor characteristics of this 1920’s home, while updating the interior in a way that redirects the flow of traffic and brings in natural light.


This 3000 SF home has the hallmarks of a Tudor Revival, such as arched doorways and a steep slate roof. Previously it was dark inside, and the entry and stairway were convoluted and inefficient. Local zoning prevented us from relocating the stairs, so our solution was to add a streamlined addition that broke up the roof pitch with horizontal and vertical lines and provided just enough space to flip the stairway orientation, for a more intuitive flow. The fiber cement exterior also ensured that the contemporary interior restyling made aesthetic sense.
Open risers on the new stairway allow sunlight to spill through the center of the house and free-floating white oak slabs add a sculptural element. We redesigned the kitchen to make better use of its original footprint, adding storage, a waterfall island with an embedded wine fridge, and a sitting area with a recessed fireplace. The addition of a living room fireplace adds a layer of coziness, and we worked with the owners to choose furniture that suggests a modern take on traditional styles.


The result is a truly distinctive home with the stateliness of a Tudor, the interest and asymmetry of modern design, and the comfort and convenience of well-organized space.


All Images
Location
Newton, MA
Services
Completion
2019
Architectural Team
William T. Ruhl, FAIA, Principal-in-charge
Sandra A. Jahnes, AIA, LEED AP Senior Architect
Nerijus Petrokas, LEED GA, Senior Designer
Kristin Bender Daaboul, AIA assoc., LEED GA, NCIDQ
Structural Engineer
Richmond So Engineers
General Contractor
Gilman, Guidelli & Bellow
Photography
© Nat Rea
Landscape
Lemon Brooke