Before & After: A Historic Home Remodel in Boulder

Co-written with Jamie Cannon

Located in Boulder’s Mapleton Hill Historic District, this landmarked home underwent an addition as well as a remodel to help modernize and elevate its interiors. Additions included a new lower-level rear entry and a main-level mud room, both located off a redesigned pathway and patio which now provide accessible access to the home. An elevator was installed within the addition, providing access to the lower, main, and second floors. A guest bedroom was converted into a laundry room providing ample storage and craft space for the homeowner. Multiple bathrooms, as well as the butler’s pantry and living room fireplace, received extensive redesign. The original garage, which has acted as a storage shed for years, was converted to a potting shed.

See the stunning before and after photos below.

REAR EXTERIOR BEFORE:

BUTLER'S PANTRY & POWDER BEFORE:

BUTLER'S PANTRY & POWDER AFTER:

​The powder and butler’s pantry which once opened to the dining room are now more appropriately accessed through the pantry via the kitchen. The butler pantry’s was reconfigured to increase space and optimize function with new cabinets and tile work.

FIREPLACE BEFORE:

FIREPLACE AFTER:

Blue macaubus quartzite replaced the tile surround and hearth of the existing gas fireplace. A new mantel and pillars enhance the look of the traditional living room. The fireplace was transformed into an elegant piece by simply replacing the mantel and pillars with a pronounced and contemporary design. 

GUEST BATHROOM BEFORE:

GUEST BATHROOM AFTER:

A new jetted tub, glass shower enclosure, shower fixtures, and beautiful blue and white Ann Sacks tile brighten and modernize the lower level guest bath.

MASTER BATH BEFORE:

MASTER BATH AFTER:

It’s the details in the master bath renovation that give this room a fresh, new look. From the exquisite custom tile work to the pops of blue macaubus on the countertops and shower wall, these small updates give the space a new feel.

SHED BEFORE:

SHED AFTER:

The homeowners love to garden, and they were looking for a space for their gardening needs and a space where they could winterize many of their potted plants. Skylights were added to the roof; new windows and a French door opening onto the beautiful landscaped backyard were added to the existing structure. New hardware and a fresh coat of paint helped refresh the exterior look of the shed.

LOWER-LEVEL ENTRY AND MUD ROOM AFTER:

The addition of the lower-level entry and mud room provides access to the home from the rear of the property. Each level has storage and an open layout that will be used as a home office, reading nook, and play area for the grandchildren. The elevator, which provides access to three of the four levels of the home, was incorporated into the design to provide better accessibility as the couple ages.

Stephen Sparn, AIA is the Principal of Sopher Sparn, a Boulder, Colorado-based firm that specializes in innovative planning and design solutions. Jamie Cannon, also of Sopher Sparn, was the project manager and designer for the project.

Content for this article provided by American Institute of Architects – Colorado Chapter. Reach AIA Colorado at 303-446-2266.