Work In, Work Out

An interior view of an open-plan home gym space with double-height ceilings, tall windows and doors, skylights and exposed wood beams

An exterior view of a covered porch with skylights, painted blue ceiling, galvanized steel railings and columns, and board-and-batten white siding

A peaceful home-office space with generous windows, tray ceiling and large built-in bookshelves lining the back wall.

A small and efficient kitchenette with a square window over the sink framing a view of the exterior sits next to a bathroom with sliding glass shower door.

A view of the home gym looking towards the kitchenette. Skylights in the high ceiling bring ample light into the space.

A view of the home gym looking out towards the covered porch. Tall glass double-doors connect the two spaces.

A view from the loft looking down the new staircase showing the uniquely framed interior windows and openings.

A chaise lounge sits in the new loft, overlooking the elegant stair and home gym. The loft is surrounded by windows and unique interior cut-outs that open up the space.

A clean and sleek laundry room with built-in shelves, a large windows, a built in refrigerator and storage.

Large corner windows bring light into this simple and spacious "hang out" room with a large sectional couch and tv.

A view of the covered porch facing the main house. Warm wood decking, skylights, and rain chains bring a charming elegance to the space.

A happy dog relaxes on the covered porch surrounded with lush green trees.

Durham, NC

General Contractor: New Dimensions

Photos: Marilyn Peryer

After months of quarantine, this Durham family decided to update their home to accommodate their changing lifestyles. A one-story addition includes a covered porch, home gym, private office, kitchenette and bathroom. The new spaces were designed to potentially function as an independent in-law suite in the future.

Vaulted ceilings, skylights, and interior windows make the most of the natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Tucked behind the gym is a kitchenette and bathroom, outfitted with all the essentials should the space become an independent residence in the future. The home office, lovingly referred to by the owner as her “sanctuary,” features cove lighting and a large custom built-in bookshelf to display family photos, favorite books, and artwork. Wrapping around two sides of the addition is a covered porch, complete with a painted blue ceiling inspired by traditional southern porches of the region.

A two level connector incorporates a dramatic stair and cozy reading loft overlooking the gym. With aging in place in mind, the loft is framed to accommodate the installation of a residential lift which will allow for continued use of the addition in years to come. The loft connects to the main level of the house where a previously dark office was transformed into a media and gaming hangout. New windows and a generous laundry room were simple improvements made to the existing house that provide light and functionality.

Thankfully it seems the worst of the pandemic has passed, but the owners of this beautiful renovation and addition are delighted by how the new spaces are enhancing their lives and wellbeing.