Old West Side Renovation

collaborators: Amy Etz Design

location: ann arbor, mi

services: design + build

photography: Kerry Black Photography

video: InMotion Studios

Located in Ann Arbor’s historic Old West Side district, this home’s biggest renovation challenge was to bring the amenities and luxuries of modern living into a tiny footprint. Our team accomplished this by removing an existing kitchen window that looked out onto neighbor’s trash bins and adding two windows above the new sink looking out into the backyard. The wall between the kitchen and dining room was also removed to allow for more counter space. The peninsula counter between the kitchen and dining room adds separation while maintaining a sense of visual connectedness throughout. A new glass slider leads out onto a custom porch fully equipped with a dog ramp for the owner’s furry friends.

Upstairs, the primary bathroom underwent a stunning transformation. The plumbing fixtures were rearranged to give the tiny bath additional breathing room. Two skylights were integrated into the sloped portion of the ceiling, adding extra height and natural light. The new luxury tub becomes the showpiece of this bathroom when you walk in. The custom built cabinets, terrazzo tile, oval shaped sink, and fixtures create a modern, airy feel. 

Rounding out the project were two sets of custom built-in bookcases, created to house the homeowner’s extensive library, located in the upstairs sitting room and office.