Brookline Massachusetts Renovation

A Contemporary Twist on a Victorian Era Row House

The design strategy of this renovation project takes inspiration from the spatial arrangement of the Victorian era plan, reimagining it in contemporary terms. The result is a stunning juxtaposition of historical charm and modernity.

One of the standout features of this renovation is the replacement of the aging kitchen. This presented an opportunity to take advantage of the unique siting of the house, which sits at the top of a slope with an extensive and wooded rear yard. Overscaled custom windows and sliding doors were incorporated to connect the exterior and interior, allowing for a seamless flow between the two.

The sequence of spaces within the house is carefully designed to create a memorable experience for the occupants. From the street, the entrance leads to a central hall, which has been slightly modified to retain its rich historical character. As one moves through the house, the view of the treetops from the kitchen becomes a striking counterpoint to the original rooms, creating a sense of release and connection to the natural surroundings.

Throughout the renovation, the design team faced the challenge of incorporating modern technologies and social needs into a historical fabric. The integration of HVAC systems, efficient appliances, and contemporary living spaces required careful consideration to ensure a harmonious blend of old and new.

The Brookline Massachusetts Renovation is a testament to the beauty that can emerge from embracing the history of a building while infusing it with modern design elements. The result is a truly unique and captivating living space that seamlessly combines the best of both worlds.

This project, led by Pamela Butz and Jeffrey Klug, began in March 2003 and was completed in March 2009. The total renovated square footage is 3,970, with a total project cost of $734,000.

This design has been recognized for its excellence and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in 2013 in the category of Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate outstanding technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.