Gibbes Street Neocolonial Redux

When a young family purchased this property in the South of Broad neighborhood, SvMA was hired to collaborate on a comprehensive refresh of the vernacular neocolonial house. While the scope of work included much-needed cosmetic updates for the entire structure, the primary suite required a comprehensive renovation.  A major alteration from the late 20th century had enclosed an existing historic porch.  While unenclosing this area was not an option, the inefficient layout provided an opportunity for the new owners to adapt the old spaces to suit their needs.  

Clever space planning created a large closet and compact bathroom, including a water closet concealed behind a jib door.  Since both new spaces occupied the original south-facing porch, the rooms were designed to maximize the light entering the primary bedroom beyond, including the use of transom windows. During demolition, the team discovered that much of the historic building fabric had been encapsulated behind the new walls and ceilings.  The clients and team decided to retain and expose these materials, following best practices in preservation and reinforcing the narrative of the structure's evolution.