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1928 Historic Interior & Kitchen Remodeling Waukesha
Project Details

Project Year: 2022

Location: Waukesha

Updates Included: Remodel

Rooms: Kitchen and Interior remodel

Features:

  • Enlarged arched openings replicate and honor the home’s original 1928 architecture.
  • Rift and quarter-sawn oak flooring with walnut pegs blends seamlessly with existing millwork.
  • Custom Plato inset cabinetry features mitered corners and integrated end panels for timeless appeal.
  • New French doors replace the former window, enhancing backyard access and outdoor connection.

Honoring the Past, Built for the Present

This 1928 Waukesha home held incredible character, from its original hardwood floors to its detailed archways and historic charm. However, the layout no longer served the daily lives of its long-time owners. With a cramped kitchen, disconnected rooms, and limited flow to the backyard patio, entertaining had become a challenge.

The homeowners dreamed of a transformation that honored their home’s roots while supporting the way they live today, blending modern comforts with the craftsmanship that made the home special.

A Vision of Historic Harmony and Function

The clients dreamed of a kitchen that felt connected both to the people they loved and the character of their home. They envisioned a space where they could cook together, entertain with ease, and move naturally between rooms without losing the charm that made their 1928 house feel so special. They wanted the warmth of history with the ease of modern living. 

Widened arched openings now echo the home’s original architecture, while newly added French doors create a seamless link to the backyard patio. Every decision prioritized flow, preservation, and a sense of place, where the past and present coexist with purpose and beauty.

A cozy, elegant home interior features a chandelier, vintage dining set, archways, and modern kitchen with wooden cabinetry, blending traditional and contemporary styles.

Detailed Craftsmanship and Timeless Materials

Plato custom cabinetry with inset doors and mitered corners brings both elegance and function to the new kitchen. A walnut-pegged oak floor blends seamlessly with the original woodwork, while the decorative tile backsplash pulls in warm tones from surrounding finishes. 

Radiators were removed, restored, and returned with custom oak covers and antique-style metal venting. Even the wall textures and trim profiles were carefully matched and reinstalled, preserving visual continuity. A toe-kick radiator and newly added French door enhance comfort and access,  delivering modern convenience without disrupting the home’s historic character.

Modern Living with Historic Soul

Walls that once divided the kitchen and dining room have been opened to create a warm, welcoming space where conversation flows easily. A new peninsula adds casual seating and an extra prep space, while custom cabinetry and a thoughtful layout enhance storage and traffic flow. 

The living room, long treasured by the homeowners, now connects more naturally to both the patio and adjacent spaces. With improved circulation, historically sensitive finishes, and seamless visual transitions, this remodel honors the home’s heritage while embracing the ease of contemporary living.

From Start to Finish

A wooden door with metal hinges and handle, features a small glass window. A person is reflected in the glass, outdoor scene visible.
Before
A wooden front door with decorative metal hinges, brick wall, glass window, mail slot, and ornate outdoor light fixture beside it.
After

Before

  • The original 3’4” x 7’0” front entry door showed significant wear.
  • Multiple layers of paint, visible cracks, and a latch that no longer held properly.
  • Homeowners wanted to preserve the unique historic charm of the entry.

After

  • New Simpson custom red oak door built to a substantial 2¼” thickness.
  • Original hardware refinished, plated, and thoughtfully reused.
  • Lead tape was applied to both sides of the new glass to mimic the original design.

Before

  • Rear access to the patio was limited and inconvenient for gatherings.
  • Existing masonry and roofline restricted standard door replacement options.
  • The old basement windows and vents were no longer functional following HVAC system updates.
  • A new solution was needed that respected the exterior architecture and improved flow to the outdoors.
A brick house exterior features a window, grill, and hose reel. A person is faintly reflected in the window.
Before
Brick building facade featuring a glass double door, a single wooden door, and windows. Outdoor light fixtures adorn the walls.
After

After

  • A Marvin custom-sized white oak French door now connects the interior to the patio with ease.
  • Spacer bars with lead tape on both sides of the glazing replicate the home’s original gridwork.
  • The new rear entry door in red oak mimics the original design, maintaining the historic character.
  • These updates preserve the home’s charm while vastly improving backyard access.

Before

  • The original archway between the foyer and the living room was small and lacked visual appeal.
  • A laundry chute and second-floor plumbing were hidden within the wall near the thermostat.
  • Widening the opening required structural planning to support second-floor loads while preserving the original arch’s character.
  • Existing wood flooring showed significant wear and needed refinishing for consistency and durability.
A cozy living room features a flat-screen TV, sofa, piano, and decorative rug; arched doorway leads to dining area and staircase.
Before
Cozy living room with wooden beams, patterned rugs, leather and fabric seating, artwork, lamps, and arched entryway leading to dining area.
After

After

  • The widened arched opening invites you into the living room and unifies the entryway, living, and dining spaces.
  • Custom woodwork, matched trim, and new radiator covers enhance the historic aesthetic.
  • The original flooring was refinished to restore its warmth and continuity.
  • The updated front entry door is now a visible focal point that complements the restored interior.

Before

  • The living room layout restricted access to the back patio, limiting how the space could be used.
  • The clients hoped for a more functional floor plan that offered a stronger connection to the outdoors.
  • After years of limited mobility during the pandemic, creating an easier indoor-outdoor flow became a key goal.

After

  • The living room now opens gracefully to the patio, creating a seamless extension for entertaining and everyday enjoyment.
  • The new French doors provide easy, elegant access to the outdoors.
  • The reconfigured layout enhances both flow and functionality, making the space more welcoming and usable.
Cozy living room with wooden ceiling beams, a gray sofa, colorful cushions, wooden cabinets, and framed artwork on cream-colored walls. Plush carpet adds warmth.
Before
Cozy living room with fireplace, wooden beams, and elegant furniture. Art adorns walls. Large windows overlook garden. Warm, inviting atmosphere.
After

Before

  • The existing window configuration limited access to the backyard patio.
  • While the leaded glass was charming, the layout didn’t support indoor-outdoor flow.

After

  • The original window wall was replaced with Marvin French doors for seamless patio access and increased natural light.
  • The floor vent updated with a 9”x 20” oil-rubbed cast aluminum scroll grille for a refined, timeless upgrade.
A wooden-framed window shows a green garden outside. Inside, a map hangs on the wall above polished hardwood floors.
Before
A cozy room with wooden French doors opens to a garden patio with two lounge chairs. A colorful lamp illuminates the space.
After

Before

  • The narrow kitchen doorway limited the connection between the kitchen and dining room.
  • A dividing wall blocked views of the fireplace from the dining area.
  • Transition from hardwood to vinyl flooring created a jarring material break.
  • Multiple walls blocked natural light from reaching the heart of the home.
Elegant dining room with wooden furniture, chandelier, and candlesticks. A person is seen in the mirror, capturing the cozy, vintage decor.
Before

After

  • The enlarged arched opening creates a seamless flow between the kitchen and dining areas.
  • The fireplace is now visible from the dining room, enhancing the ambiance.
  • Archway and wall textures were carefully replicated to preserve the 1928 home’s character.
A cozy, elegant home interior features a chandelier, vintage dining set, archways, and modern kitchen with wooden cabinetry, blending traditional and contemporary styles.
After
Cozy kitchen with green cabinets, fridge covered in photos, dining table with laptop, ceiling fan, and light fixtures. View of the dining area.
After

Before

  • The previous remodel lacked historic character and clashed with the home’s integrity.
  • The cramped island made movement and prep difficult.
  • Poor appliance placement and minimal food prep space.
  • Lacked a discreet space for casual laptop use or morning routines..
  • Mixed wallpaper and vinyl dated the space.

After

  • An enlarged arched opening improves the connection to the dining room.
  • Stained cherry cabinetry, millwork, and flooring introduce a warm, organic palette.
  • Custom cabinetry mirrors original single-panel doors, including beveled detailing.
  • The new island adds prep space and concealed storage for daily use.
  • Appliances now integrate cleanly with improved functionality and visual flow.
A modern kitchen with wood cabinets, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances opens into a dining room with large windows and a chandelier.
After
A cozy kitchen with wooden cabinets, a dining table set with laptops and mugs, and a ceiling fan above. Windows overlook trees.
Before

Before

  • The dark, utilitarian kitchen needed a refresh.
  • The wood table and small island disrupted the aesthetic and flow.
  • Outdated materials no longer suited the homeowners' style.
  • The kitchen lacked granite countertops and functional hard surfaces.
A modern kitchen features wooden cabinets, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, with elegant seating around a central island and large windows.
After

After

  • Recessed lighting brightens previously shadowed areas.
  • Dual glass pendants with stainless accents echo the backsplash detail.
  • The hidden peninsula drawer conceals laptops when guests arrive.
  • Mitered end panels deliver seamless, custom-crafted beauty.
Cozy kitchen with green cabinets, wooden island, and appliances. A fridge with photos, ceiling fan, and dining table with chairs visible.
Before

Before

  • The dark, dated cabinetry and malfunctioning drawers needed replacement.
  • The white ceiling fan and chandelier created an awkward lighting layout.
  • The wall on the right was scheduled for removal to improve flow.
  • The laundry chute was relocated near the front entry closet for improved usability.
Modern kitchen featuring a large granite island, wooden cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and seating for four, creating a cozy, functional space.
After

After

  • The new peninsula provides functional space for dining, work, and meal prep.
  • A simple decorative hood serves as a focal point without overpowering the space.
  • Integrated drawer storage keeps laptops tucked away when not in use.
  • The updated backsplash blends Alabaster tiles with red and grey glass mosaics to reflect the home’s palette.
  • 3” stainless cabinet pulls offer a modern touch while maintaining timeless appeal.

Before

  • The original radiator cover was functional but lacked architectural refinement.
  • The surrounding wood trim showed signs of wear and darkened unevenly over time.

After

  • Custom oak radiator covers in a Grecian style feature 5/8” square on ¾” straight centers, echoing the pattern of venting used throughout the home.
  • The new oak wood will naturally darken over time to blend with the original millwork.
A cozy room with a striped table runner, wooden furniture, and a decorative rug. Sunlight filters through large windows.
Before
A wooden window seat faces large windows, overlooking a garden. Nearby, a decorated carpet adds warmth to this cozy, sunny room.
After

Before

  • The existing sink placement along the side wall created an awkward layout due to the window location.
  • Peeling wallpaper detracted from the overall aesthetic, and the lighting was insufficient and poorly distributed.
  • Vinyl flooring did not complement the home's historic character.

After

  • Relocating the toilet beneath the window allowed for the sink to be positioned directly across, improving spatial flow.
  • Cantina Bianco 4”x12” tile was installed in a classic herringbone pattern to elevate the flooring.
  • Updated lighting enhances both function and ambiance in the refreshed space.
A small bathroom features a sink, toilet, and decorative wall pieces. A person is visible in a mirror, holding a phone.
Before
A small, minimalist bathroom with a white toilet, beige walls, tiled floor, and red towels. Natural light filters through a shaded window.
After
Ready to rewrite the story of your home? Let us help you transform character-filled spaces into something truly extraordinary.
Outcome & Client Impact

An inspired renovation brought cohesion, light, and modern functionality to a cherished historic home. 

This Waukesha remodel preserved the original charm of a 1928 residence while elevating daily comfort through strategic layout changes, thoughtful material selections, and beautifully integrated craftsmanship. The homeowners now enjoy spaces that feel connected, intentional, and designed to enrich both quiet mornings and holiday gatherings.

A rustic wooden door with metal hinges in a brick wall, featuring a small window and a lantern. Window with diamond pattern glass.
Wooden door with metal hinges, small window, and handle. Red patterned rug on floor, leading into hallway. No recognizable landmarks or historical buildings.
Modern kitchen with wooden cabinetry, granite countertops, and large windows. Features an island with stools, stainless appliances, and decorative lighting.
Modern kitchen with granite island, wooden cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Place settings and a plant decorate the countertop. Cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Bright kitchen with granite countertops, wooden cabinets, and modern appliances. Large windows offer natural light; cozy dining area with artwork nearby.
Elegant kitchen and dining area with wood cabinets, marble countertops, chandelier, and a large window. Plates and glasses are on the island.
Cozy living room with wooden beams, fireplace, and comfortable seating. Art decorates walls. French doors open to a garden view.
A cozy living room with wooden beams, elegant rugs, comfortable chairs, and a view of a tree-lined backyard through large windows.
A wooden glass door opens to a sunny garden with patio chairs. Interior features framed art and a decorative lamp.
A wooden bench sits by large windows, overlooking a green garden. A patterned rug and glass cabinet are visible inside the room.
A brick wall features double glass doors and a single door, each framed in brown, with an exterior light above.
A small bathroom featuring a white toilet, beige walls, and red towels on a rack, with a patterned tiled floor.

Dream Big. We’ll Handle the Rest.