Westwood

Modern Cottage Renovation With a New Second Floor

Originally a single-story red brick ranch set within a quiet Charlottesville neighborhood, Westwood began with a limited footprint and low, compressed roof structure that constrained both space and light. The house lacked the volume and organization needed to support contemporary living. The defining move of the project was the complete removal of the existing roof and the addition of a new second floor. This intervention exists to dramatically increase livable space without expanding the footprint, allowing the house to grow upward rather than outward. In daily use, this fundamentally changes how the home functions. Bedrooms and support spaces are lifted above, freeing the main level to operate more clearly and comfortably as the center of daily activity.

A Recalibrated Form That Respects the Street

The new upper level is shaped through simplified roof forms and controlled proportions. This approach exists to integrate the expanded house into the existing neighborhood fabric without overwhelming it. Rather than introducing excessive mass, the second floor is carefully scaled to read as a natural evolution of the original structure. From the street, the house feels familiar in height and rhythm, even as its capacity has nearly doubled.

Interior Reorganization for Flow and Light

With the additional volume above, the main level is reworked to improve flow, sightlines, and light. Select walls are removed and key axes are realigned. These moves exist to create stronger connections between living spaces and allow daylight to penetrate deeper into the home. In daily use, circulation becomes more intuitive. Spaces relate to one another more clearly, and light is shared across the interior rather than confined to perimeter rooms.

A Scandinavian-Inspired Palette for Calm and Contrast

The material palette is guided by a restrained, Scandinavian approach. Crisp white walls, pale hardwood floors, veritcal grain Ash, and raw steel establish a bright, consistent base, while matte black fixtures and minimal hardware introduce controlled contrast. This palette exists to reduce visual noise and emphasize proportion, light, and material transitions. In use, it creates a calm environment that supports daily routines without distraction while still feeling grounded and warm.

Detailing That Supports Clarity

Transitions, alignments, and junctions are executed with precision. This level of detailing exists to ensure that the simplicity of the design reads as intentional rather than incomplete. Consistent reveals, clean edges, and coordinated materials allow the house to feel composed. The detailing does not call attention to itself, but it directly affects how the space is experienced.

A Measured Transformation

Westwood is defined by a single decisive move supported by disciplined execution. The removal of the original roof and addition of a second floor reshapes the house without altering its footprint or its relationship to the neighborhood. The result is a home that maintains its modest presence while operating with far greater capacity, clarity, and ease.