This Montecito residence by Hofmann Architecture had the original intention of replacing just the doors and windows. “The home had a solid plan and an excellent structure,” says Matthew Hofmann, “however, it felt disjointed and awkward.”
The clients were open to ideas for upgrading the outdated ’70s ranch house appearance. An abundance of natural site assets offered an ideal setting for bringing the two environments — natural and human — into harmony.
Numerous 3-D renderings were developed so that the architect could translate the couple’s visions into closer reality. Throughout the schematic design phase, a marriage of spaces was sought. Many of the various rooms were closed off from each other, with only long, lonely passageways connecting them.
The existing structure was maintained while select interventions and additions created a new sense of place. Soon, it was clear to the clients their home could affordably be transformed into a classic Santa Barbara Tuscan estate. A suitable local builder was recommended, a quote for construction costs was determined, and contracts were signed.
In a remodel of this magnitude it’s best if the homeowners don’t have to weather the stresses and inconveniences of builder’s noise and dust. Fortunately, the owners were able to stay in their Midwest home for several months while the major portion of demo and construction were underway.
Materiality was a major focus creating the necessary transformations. Site-compatible stone and wood accents were added, along with copper flashing, gutters, and downspouts.
The home’s out-of-sight, out-of-mind backyard was truly a diamond-in-the-rough. The neglected asset was polished to full-value with the addition of a six-panel folding door system that opened to the pool patio. A raised pizza oven barbecue hearth warmly invites a magnificent backyard through a versatile veranda and into the dining area.
Economical upgrades, implemented with efficient design, are ushering in a new era of renovations that preserve the charm and character of the past while blending the benefits of new technology and taste.
