Inheriting a family home comes with deep-rooted emotions, history, and a sense of responsibility. For the current owner of this 1955 midcentury house, the connection ran even deeper—his father, aunt, and uncle grew up here, and he spent much of his childhood visiting his grandparents in the space. When he and his wife, now with two young children, took ownership, they hired M.O.Daby Design to refresh the home to suit their modern lifestyle while maintaining its original character
The home had been remodeled over the years, with added spaces that were inefficiently used and finishes that strayed from its midcentury origins. Wanting to bring back the essence of the house while making it functional for contemporary living, they sought a renovation that would “make the home their own” while updating “every room.”
Redefining the Flow
One of the biggest challenges was reworking the layout to create an open, connected space while preserving key elements. “How do we open up the plan for great room living and fix the flow while working around the fireplace in the middle of the floor plan?” the architects recall asking themselves. The fireplace, a beloved fixture from the homeowner’s childhood, was non-negotiable—it had to stay. Instead of altering it, the redesign positioned the kitchen, dining, and living areas around it, making it the heart of the home.
Honoring midcentury principles, the approach was to retain the home’s inherent character while enhancing it for a modern lifestyle. “We looked for untapped potential to make it personal to the clients and functional for contemporary living,” they explain.
A New Entry Experience
A key transformation came in the home’s entryway. Previously a narrow hallway cluttered with doors, the entry felt dark and confined. The renovation reoriented the entrance, using structural modifications to create a vaulted ceiling that opened up the space. Walls around the existing staircase and den were replaced with walnut slatted screens, allowing light to flow from a newly added wall of glass—the only major exterior change to the home.
A custom mahogany door, hand-carved with elements special to the family, was commissioned for the entrance. The result: an entry that now feels open, bright, and instantly welcoming.
Balancing Old and New
To maintain the home’s midcentury soul while introducing modern elements, careful study of the architecture guided every decision. “Although functionally of the 21st century, our architectural moves were informed by the mid-20th century,” the architects explain.
A standout feature is the introduction of wood-clad vaulted ceilings, a hallmark of many midcentury homes. Structural modifications allowed for an open, airy feel without sacrificing the home’s integrity. A walnut-clad light shelf was added to define the transition between the lower kitchen ceiling and the vaulted living space.
In the primary bathroom, an existing sunroom-like glazing had brought in natural light and views of the trees, but had fallen into disrepair. Instead of removing it, the renovation introduced a similar glazing concept to maintain the natural bathing experience and connection to the outdoors.
Material Choices: A Nod to Midcentury Modern
Material selection played a crucial role in respecting the home’s midcentury roots. The team opted for a palette of organic materials that align with Pacific Northwest midcentury modern design: oak flooring, walnut cabinetry, handmade tile, brass, and natural stone.
Wood, specifically walnut, cedar, and oak, was preserved and reintroduced to add warmth. Handmade tile was chosen for its organic quality in shape, color, and glaze. Natural slate floor tile, reminiscent of midcentury flagstone flooring, was used for its texture and timeless appeal. These materials not only complemented the home’s history but also ensured a cohesive aesthetic.
The Challenges of Renovation
Renovations come with hurdles, many of which homeowners don’t anticipate. “It’s easy to get overwhelmed with decisions or make choices that don’t work cohesively,” the architects note. A poorly integrated design can result in a space that feels disjointed rather than harmonious.
Beyond updating the home, the team encouraged the clients to explore untapped opportunities. “Reimagining spaces, introducing unique materials, or incorporating architectural features can transform a home in ways that exceed expectations,” they explain.
One of the biggest transformations was in functionality. The original home had small, compartmentalized rooms that no longer fit modern living. By strategically removing walls, reconfiguring spaces, and introducing thoughtful design elements, the house now flows seamlessly from one area to another.
A Home That Honors the Past
This renovation was about more than aesthetics—it was about preserving a family legacy while creating a space suited for the present and future. The thoughtful updates bring joy, comfort, and function to everyday living, all while staying true to the home’s midcentury roots.
For the homeowners, it’s the best of both worlds: a modern retreat that still carries the warmth and history of generations past.
