This renovation converted a late fifties triplex into a modern four bedroom single family dwelling. Floor-to-ceiling windows open up the front and back facades filling the open-concept space with light, providing an airy contrast to the small, dark, enclosed spaces of the original triplex.

To create the open living area, the central structural wall was removed and steel I-beams and columns were installed. The structural steel members were left exposed to add architectural interest. A dish cabinet conceals the kitchen from the living room but is low enough to converse over. Doors were installed on both sides of the dish cabinet for easy access from the dining room. In lieu of standard upper cabinets and a wall to support them, the 4ft high dish cabinet in the background is accessed from both the living area (adjacent to the dining room) and the kitchen. The low height facilitates access to all the shelves so that the kids can help set the table.

This home is featured in the Winter 2003/2004 issue of Style at Home magazine.

Thank you to Ted Yarwood for the photography.

Storage cabinets accessed from the family room side conceal the kitchen counter when seated in the family room.

The granite counter wraps down the side of the custom cabinets.

Custom cabinets were fabricated to provide shoe and coat storage in the foyer and shallow storage on the other side for the living room above. The shoe closet unit continues down to the basement providing additional storage.

The double-sided closets also function as a guard from the living space.