surry house
A modern renovation of a classic New England family home
Type
Residential
Location
Arlington, MA
Builder
Porter Builders
Photography
Ben Gebo
CONTEXT
When the clients bought the house, a compact New England style bungalow, it was dated and closed in. Working with a tight budget and without making significant alteration to the existing structure, the central living spaces—the kitchen and living room–were modernized with an open concept floor plan and expansive windows that foster a bright and comfortable atmosphere.
VISION
Working from a simple premise—make a small space feel unified and open—we gutted the interior and devised a new floor plan where spaces connect to each other, flowing from one to the next. On every wall, large windows frame the view outside and draw light into the center of the home. A window seat becomes a peaceful nook to relax with an unbroken view of nature. In the kitchen, custom-sized cabinetry composes a streamlined, highly-functional workspace. Along the stairs, a minimalist cable railing system opens the staircase to natural light.
Throughout the home, finishes are understated yet effective, from simple interior trim to a fireplace painted white with a natural wood mantel. Every subtle detail composes an intentional, calm and cohesive effect. The renovated home feels completely transformed: open and minimal, yet inviting and restful.
SUSTAINABILITY
In line with the intentional, minimalist design aesthetic, every choice, both interior and exterior, was made with consideration for the financial and environmental cost of alteration. While preserving the existing structure, large windows, abundant natural light and an open floor plan enhance the existing space without need for total reconstruction.
