Meadows House Renovation in Gwynedd Valley

Set within the tranquil, leafy landscape of Gwynedd Valley, the renovated Meadows House is a refined blend of traditional charm and contemporary living. The project, completed by Krieger Architects, introduces a substantial rear addition that redefines the home’s circulation and social spaces while preserving the character of the original structure. The new extension serves as the focal point of the remodel, bringing light, volume and modern amenities to a historic setting.

Meadows House exterior overlooking meadow and stream — Renovated and revamped Meadows House in Gwynedd Valley combined modernity with old-world charm

The rear addition houses a sweeping open plan that merges a modern kitchen, a family area and a dining space on the lower level, with a private bedroom above. Vaulted wooden ceilings rise over the main living spaces, pairing warm timber textures with crisp white finishes to create a calm, contemporary palette. Large wrap-around windows and generous glazing allow abundant natural light to flood the interior and frame sweeping views of the meadow, stream and surrounding woods.

Double-height vaulted ceiling in family room — Double-height vaulted ceiling gives the modern family room an even more spacious, light-filled atmosphere

Functionality guided many design decisions. A new rear entry was introduced to organize everyday routines: a traditional mudroom with cubbies and integrated storage keeps outerwear and gear tidy, while the adjacent laundry and service spaces were reconfigured to improve circulation and usability throughout the home. By reworking existing rooms and relocating utilities, the team maximized usable space and created a more intuitive, family-friendly floor plan.

New modern kitchen and adjacent family area — Gorgeous and spacious new modern kitchen with a cozy family area adjacent

Originally a small garage beside the house has been thoughtfully converted into a self-contained bedroom suite. That transformation provided an accessible guest or in-law space with its own bath and comfortable living area, expanding the home’s flexibility without changing its original footprint. The new suite demonstrates how modest existing structures can be repurposed to add value and functionality.

Rear addition and converted garage bedroom suite — New rear addition and extension of the home, alongside a garage converted into an additional bedroom

The two-story section of the addition anchors the kitchen below and a bedroom above, while the main living area is defined by a soaring ceiling and expansive windows that bring the outside in. From seating zones to the dining area, various vantage points overlook the meadow and surrounding trees, reinforcing a strong connection to the landscape. A fireplace with a Mercer tile surround creates a warm focal point within the family room, combining functionality with tactile detail.

Rear entry and laundry space — Renovated rear entry of the house leading to the laundry space

Thoughtful detailing and a restrained material palette give Meadows House a timeless yet contemporary feel. The interplay of wood and white finishes, coupled with generous natural light and reconfigured circulation, supports comfortable daily life for a modern family while honoring the home’s original spirit. Photography of the project was captured by Jeffrey Totaro, documenting how the renovation balances openness, warmth and practicality.