Continuity is the Name of the Game
The use of muted neutral tones accented with a singular bold dark tone strategically applied throughout the space helps to keep it from feeling broken up into smaller pieces. The homeowners also used the same classic 12-pane single-hung windows throughout that vary in number, keeping the space from feeling stale. The end result is stylish, cozy, and light-filled dwelling where any guest or family member will happily spend maybe a little too much time.
The Schanzlin’s goals for their carriage house are not unheard of: a garage below with space above that could accommodate guests but also be used as a space to exercise, work, and relax. Because the Schanzlins, the designer, and the custom builders at Hopedale were afforded the opportunity to create the carriage house from the ground up, every element was created with exactly what the homeowners had in mind, and then some.
What is a carriage house exactly? The detached building includes the standard bathroom, kitchenette, and flex space, but with the style and finishes of a full-sized home. With enough square footage, some carriage houses could also include a private bedroom. For the Schanzlins, having a larger flex space was important to accommodate the plethora of uses they plan for in their carriage house.
The newly-built carriage house flex area features an unexpected but subtle wall-to-wall carpet in a muted wood grain pattern. The lighter tones in this lush flooring accentuate the bright neutral wall color. The continuity works to make the space feel bigger and alleviates the need for rugs, which would otherwise make the space feel broken up into smaller spaces. The patterned carpet stretches into a cozy vaulted sitting nook that overlooks the lush backyard. The adjacent wall features a row of four windows that overlook the main home.
In the ¾ bath, you’ll find a modern pedestal sink with chrome fixtures, commode, durable luxury vinyl tile flooring, and a walk-in shower lined from floor to ceiling in gleaming white subway tile. The reflective nature of this glossy tile makes the most of the natural light that spills in from the single window. Carrying the tile to the ceiling is yet another way to make the space feel larger.
The compact kitchenette doesn’t feel compact at all. It’s open to the rest of the space, so the Schanzlins and their guests will never feel cramped. It features the necessities for a short stay: a minifridge, sink, microwave, and plenty of counter space. The white shaker style cabinets are finished off with modern black handles, further adding to the overall light palette with dark accents.
The exterior finishes and details echo the style, materials, and colors of the main home. The star feature of the exterior, however, are the classic twin carriage house style wooden garage doors. The red brick pathway, steps, and surround offer more continuity with the existing home’s exterior.
With this carriage house addition, the homeowners not only added to the usefulness of their property, but also its value. In the future, they could even use their carriage house investment as passive income. But for now, this space, which also includes a two-car garage, is all theirs.
If you’re thinking about investing in a home addition, whether it’s a carriage house, pool house, or lavish porch, contact the award-winning professionals at Hopedale Builders to schedule a consultation today.
