Type: Residential

Size: 2,000 SF

Year: 2024

Status: Permit

Brief: A duplex with a large garage is transformed into a four-unit housing project by adding two 1,000 square foot, two-bedroom, two-bath units to a local developer’s growing portfolio. This thoughtful renovation increases property value and reduces maintenance needs, while offering tenants desirable, usable spaces that enhance rental demand and mitigate turnover.

The ground floor garages are converted into two mirrored rental units. Each unit, benefiting from natural light through newly added windows, features a kitchen, living room, and bedrooms. The existing structure and columns dictate the layout, while the second floor remains largely unchanged, upgraded with fire-rated assemblies. The entire facade is reclad to create a seamless design language using vertical and horizontal siding orientations. Small canopies over the doors offer protection from the elements, ensuring the building looks as though it was originally designed in this cohesive, contemporary style. Additionally, the design regains usable square footage and elevates low ceiling heights by removing ducting and installing mini-split systems. The site landscaping is updated with low-maintenance native flowers, shrubs, and wild grasses, along with an updated fence and concrete privacy wall. The privacy wall not only enhances curb appeal but doubles as a planting space, adding aesthetic and functional noise suppression value.

This project not only revitalizes the property but also creates a harmonious living environment, reflecting a balance of elegance, functionality, and strategic design.