Split-level houses are always the most challenging to remodel and add on to. The different levels create problems that standard ranch and two-story houses don’t have. The trick is working with the levels and then getting the space where you need it. Added space has to work with all levels.

PROBLEM

This couple has lived in many locations and developed their own, semi-contemporary style. They purchased this ‘50s ranch in Ames, Iowa, partly because of the “mod” cathedral ceilings. This feature was almost lost on the cut-up spaces on the main floor. The chief complaint [besides the typical un-workable kitchen (A)] was the lack of family entry from the garage (B). The path was just a hallway (C), with no dumpling spot until the stairs (D) were traversed, encountering a second narrow hall, and either negotiating the front hall closet (E) or dumping everything on the kitchen counter. The one car garage (B) was tight and had to store tools and equipment for outdoors, making it really congested. The exterior door (F) in this hall was never used. Any outdoor entertaining was in the screened porch (G), beyond the dining room (H). The living room (I) was long and narrow and formal in character. Seating around the fireplace (J) was awkward. The office (K) on the garage level was a great size and worked well for the university professor homeowners. A full bath (L) is there to make the office work as a bedroom and also function as the powder room for the main floor and guests. The size was less than minimal and frustrated the homeowners. The upstairs bedrooms (not shown) worked well and needed no modifications. SOLUTION

It was obvious that we needed to add on to the back of the house. We wanted room for a real family entry and more room for the kitchen. A modest eight foot bump-out (M) on the garage level does double duty - new storage space (N) is gained in the garage (B); and an entire room is available for a family entry (O). This family entry accommodates two dog crates, a shower base for cleaning the dogs, a window seat and a real closet!!!!! Most of all, now there is elbowroom at the door. A one-foot bump out (P) into the garage makes a huge difference in the bathroom (L) space. Up the half flight of stairs, we also added eight feet to create a new main floor laundry room (Q). This just worked out as a happy bonus. More main floor space was added in the kitchen (R) with a six foot addition (S). What this did was allow us to have a door directly out of the kitchen onto a new terrace (T) for grilling out and connect to entertaining in the screened porch (G) by adding another door. The kitchen (R) is completely re-oriented has a wonderful island. The bearing wall (U) lines the main hallway and remains untouched. The living room walls (V) could be removed and a large and open contemporary space (W) for living and dining was created. MARCIA LYON is a professional remodeling designer and freelance writer, producing projects locally and several other areas across the United States and Canada. Her two E-books on remodeling design are available on her web site www.creatingspaces.net. Reach her at marcia@creatingspaces.net or at 515-991-8880.