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2nd Floor Home Addition & Detached Garage Office Remodel

Project Details

Project Year:  2023

Location:  Hartland, WI

Updates Included:  Addition

Rooms:  Bathroom, Garage

Features:

  • Custom cabinetry and dedicated storage solutions
  • Luxury soaking tub and multi-showerhead walk-in shower
  • Heated luxury vinyl plank floors
  • Bifold barn doors and architectural detailing
  • Advanced insulation and efficient HVAC systems
  • Unique tile designs and high-end finishes
  • Seamless architectural integration and custom exterior enhancements

A Family’s Dream Home Transformation: From Chaos to Comfort

The Challenge: A House That No Longer Worked

Every morning was the same story: three kids, one bathroom, and a chaotic rush to get everyone ready for the day. The family’s beloved home, built just 12 years ago, was no longer meeting their needs. With growing children, a busy work-from-home schedule, and a lifestyle that demanded more functionality, they found themselves at a crossroads. Move away from a location they loved? Or reimagine the space they already called home?

They chose the latter. And what followed was a journey of transformation that not only solved their daily struggles but also elevated their lifestyle with thoughtful design and luxurious comfort.

A Solution-Driven Design: Listening to Real Needs

From the very beginning, the focus was clear: solve real problems while creating a beautiful, cohesive space that felt like home.

A Morning Routine Revolution

The bottleneck of one bathroom for three growing kids was the first issue to tackle. Mornings were a constant battle, with everyone fighting for mirror time and storage space. The solution? Two spacious hall bathrooms, each with dedicated sinks and storage areas tailored for each child. It wasn’t just about adding bathrooms; it was about giving each child their own space to breathe, prepare for the day, and find independence.

A Sanctuary for the Parents

The primary suite was functional but far from the luxurious retreat the parents dreamed of. The dark, cramped bathroom and awkward closet layout felt anything but relaxing. By reconfiguring the space and adding square footage, they now enjoy:

  • A bright, spa-like bathroom with natural light pouring in, a soaking tub for ultimate relaxation, and a walk-in shower with multiple showerheads that can all be used simultaneously.
  • A spacious walk-in closet that doubled in size, offering customized storage solutions that keep everything organized and within reach.

Their sanctuary was no longer just a place to get ready; it became a personal retreat where they could unwind and recharge.

A modern bathroom with a freestanding tub, glass shower, vanity, towel, stool, potted plant, chandelier, and sliding frosted glass door.

Creating Spaces That Work for Real Life

Goodbye, Morning Traffic Jam!

The mudroom had become a daily obstacle course. With a stacked washer and dryer crammed into the space, it was impossible to navigate when everyone was rushing out the door. By relocating the laundry room to the second floor, near all bedrooms, mornings became significantly more efficient. Now, the mudroom is a streamlined drop zone, complete with custom lockers for backpacks and sports bags, keeping the family organized and clutter-free.

An Office with a View

The work-from-home lifestyle demands a productive space. The original office, situated near the bustling great room and kitchen, lacked privacy and inspiration. By transforming a portion of the detached garage into a conditioned office space overlooking the serene lake, the parents gained:

  • A peaceful, dedicated workspace away from distractions.
  • A multi-functional bonus area for meetings, brainstorming, or even a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.

The old office didn’t go to waste; it was cleverly repurposed into a kid’s homework and hangout area, giving everyone their own space to focus.

Seamless Aesthetics and Superior Craftsmanship

Blending Old with New

One of the family’s biggest concerns was maintaining the home’s architectural harmony. They didn’t want an addition that looked like an afterthought. By sourcing matching exterior materials and incorporating a false window to balance the façade, the new addition seamlessly blends with the existing structure. From the outside, you’d never guess that new space was added—it looks like it was always meant to be there.

Bathrooms Designed to Impress

Out went the builder-grade vanities and fiberglass shower modules. In their place:

  • Custom tile layouts that are as practical as they are beautiful.
  • Thoughtfully designed niches for storage, blending function with style.
  • Luxurious finishes like polished marble, brushed gold hardware, and sleek matte black accents.

Each bathroom now tells its own design story, tailored perfectly for the family’s needs and tastes.

An Eye for Detail: Craftsmanship That Shines

This wasn’t just another renovation. It was a showcase of superior craftsmanship:

  • Unique tile patterns and multi-niches were crafted to reflect the homeowners’ style, adding character and personality to each space.
  • A custom barn door designed to look like a bifold was created because the homeowners disliked standard swinging doors.
  • Seamless flooring transitions were meticulously planned, ensuring no awkward thresholds despite using various flooring materials, including hardwood, carpet, and tile.

These thoughtful details didn’t just enhance the aesthetics—they elevated the entire living experience.

Innovative Solutions for Modern Living

Smart Materials and Functional Choices

The design wasn’t just about looks; it was about intelligent, functional solutions:

  • Heated luxury vinyl plank floors in the new detached office ensure cozy winters, paired with an energy-efficient mini-split system for year-round comfort.
  • Black window film provides privacy without compromising natural light or the stunning lake view.
  • Bifold barn doors in the primary closet save space and maintain an elegant, streamlined look.

These thoughtful innovations made everyday living not only easier but also more enjoyable.

Overcoming Challenges with Creative Thinking

No renovation is without challenges, and this project faced its fair share:

  • Protecting utilities from freezing over the garage required strategic planning, with water supplies and HVAC systems carefully routed to prevent any risk of freezing.
  • Creating a conditioned space above the garage demanded advanced insulation methods, in-floor heating, and meticulous vapor barrier installations.

These solutions ensured comfort and efficiency, even in the most challenging spaces.

The Final Reveal: A Home Reimagined

From the chaos of morning routines to the need for a productive work-from-home environment, every aspect of this renovation was guided by the family’s real-life needs. They didn’t just get more space—they got a thoughtfully designed home that celebrates functionality, comfort, and style.

Today, the house feels cohesive, luxurious, and perfectly suited to the family’s lifestyle. It’s a home that grows with them, adapts to their needs, and provides a sanctuary for every member.

From Start to Finish

A modern bathroom featuring a sink, mirror, shower, toilet, and towel rack. The space has tiled flooring and subtle lighting.
Before
A modern bathroom with a freestanding tub, glass shower, vanity, towel, stool, potted plant, chandelier, and sliding frosted glass door.
After

Before

After

Before

After

Modern bathroom with a tiled shower area, vanity with various toiletries, and soft lighting creating a cozy, well-organized atmosphere. No landmarks visible.
Before
Modern bathroom featuring a glass-enclosed shower, marble tiles, wooden door, freestanding tub, and a wall sconce. Minimalistic and elegant design.
After

Before

After

A tidy bathroom features a wooden cabinet, large mirror, lighting, step stool, tiled floor, and visible towels, toiletries, and a closed door.
Before
A modern bathroom with a gray vanity, round mirror, and elegant lighting. Tiled floor and wall accents create a sophisticated ambiance.
After

Before

After

A cluttered garage with tools, sports equipment, American flags, and storage bins. A red ladder and window with daylight are visible.
Before
Cozy room with green paneling, large white cabinets, and a cream chair. Light wooden floor and window provide natural ambiance.
After
Outcome & Client Impact

This remodel transformed the house into a dream home, fulfilling the clients’ needs and exceeding their expectations. The second-floor addition and garage office reflect a perfect balance of style and practicality, enhancing both daily living and long-term value.

“Working with this team was a joy. They listened to every detail and created spaces that truly feel like home. The transformation has been remarkable, and we couldn’t be happier!”

Dream Big. We’ll Handle the Rest.

S.J. Janis Company stands ready to bring your vision to life with unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence. Contact us today to discover how we can turn your dream home into your real home.
A two-story suburban house with a gray exterior, white trim, and a double garage. American flag displayed. Surrounded by trees.

Dream Big. We’ll Handle the Rest.