When a storm causes property damage, some homeowners turn this unfortunate incident into a renovation opportunity. The newsworthy 2024 Portland ice storm took down over 600 trees. See how this family turned property damage from two enormous trees into a comprehensive renovation project.
Revamped Ranch
Returning to check on their home during the storm, this couple viewed the property damage happening in real-time. They witnessed two trees falling and crushing their family room, kitchen, dining area, garage, and entry. While devastating to watch, they soon recognized the bright side of the situation and the possibilities to improve their home.
First, an addition squares up the entire plan, allowing for improvements to the overall layout of the home. Next, we reoriented the entry sequence and flip-flopped the kitchen and dining areas. This reorganization supported a larger living room and the creation of a tatami room. Furthermore, the need for a new roof allowed for a vaulted, covered outdoor living area.
The existing garage was oversized to begin with, so we carved out space for an office and mud room with access to the kitchen. Finally, the property damage adjustments also allowed for a primary bath renovation.
Sectional View of the Property Damage Renovation
Reworking the roof afforded a few more home improvements. Most importantly, the new trussed roof incorporated scissor trusses in the kitchen, dining, and living areas, which created vaulted ceilings in the hub of the home. The addition of an extra vault with a 3’x6’ skylight enhanced the volume, light penetration, and overall look and feel of the space—a welcomed change from the typical 8’ ceilings of the original home.
A Japanese-style entry
While the front door previously opened into a confined hallway, the new entry sequence provides a more enticing sense of arrival. Relocating the door and grabbing 8 square feet from the original porch creates a more spacious front hall. This is a true example of a small move that creates a big change! Additionally, a white oak-slatted screen wall offers a glimpse of the dining area and kitchen beyond.
Of particular note, the design takes cues from traditional Japanese entry halls, which are typically 6″ lower than the rest of the house. Since we couldn’t lower the floor, we simulated the detail by tiling the floor with 24” x 48” porcelain tiles and adding a 6″ high tile base. A built-in white oak bench provides room for guests to sit and take off their shoes.
Property Damage Renovation – Kitchen & Dining
Swapping the original kitchen and dining locations supported greater plan efficiency by opening up the main living areas and improving the overall flow. The new layout creates an improved work zone in the kitchen layout with plenty of space for gathering and dining.
Custom white oak cabinetry balances beauty with functionality. It creates a clean aesthetic, unifying the kitchen and dining areas while accommodating ample storage.
Property Damage Renovation – Living & Tatami Room
The living room received numerous improvements as part of the property damage renovation. By squaring up the plan, adding the scissor-trussed roof, and creating a strong outdoor connection, the area offers the ultimate spaciousness and livability.
The tatami room provides a quiet setting within the living area for reading, yoga, or relaxing. It allows family members to enjoy a respite while remaining connected to the activities of the home.
Sized to accommodate three tatami mats, the room is raised 8” with the mats recessed into a hardwood floor.
Furthermore, the tatami room includes an intentionally low window to suit the quiet, contemplative activities.
Property Damage Renovation – Primary Bath
Even though the primary bath was not damaged during the storm, the property owners took the opportunity to improve it during the renovation. The reorganization of the floor plan gained square footage from a hall closet to create the space needed for a walk-in shower.
The new bathroom offers a clean, modern aesthetic with a hanging vanity with a lit mirror, a porcelain tile floor, and a ceramic tiled shower.
From Property Damage Sadness to Renovation Success
Thoughtful renovations can turn the sadness and stress of property damage into a new home for happy memory-making. Are you reeling after a property or storm damage situation? Call us to discuss your options so we can find a way to give this sad situation a happy ending.
To read about another storm-damaged house that Christie Architecture fully renovated, check out this related project.
This project is currently under construction with Hamish Murray Construction as the general contractor. Stay tuned for finished photographs in a few months!