The Bookish Bungalow

Rooted in the timeless charm of Craftsman architecture, this Ann Arbor home celebrates its heritage while thoughtfully stepping into the present. The design vision was clear: honor the bones, elevate the flow, and let character bloom in every corner.

Craftsman homes are inherently versatile—ripe for layers of personal expression. Their clean lines and soulful woodwork open the door for modern, bohemian, or traditional notes to harmonize seamlessly. But like many homes that have gracefully aged, this one carried the quirks of past renovations. A full bathroom had crept too far into the kitchen, disrupting the natural rhythm of the main floor. The redesign restored balance: the bathroom was right-sized, returning precious square footage to the kitchen and allowing the space to breathe again.

With integrity at the heart of every decision, the new design leans into authenticity. A custom bookcase, designed by Leia, marries past and present with a wood stain matched meticulously to the original trim—an edge-to-edge connection that tells a story of seamless integration.

Cabinetry in a rich, anchoring navy brings depth and contrast, while matte white appliances lighten the space and invite a casual elegance. Brushed gold accents shimmer like heirloom jewelry—subtle yet striking—echoed in lighting selections that cast a warm glow in both kitchen and dining areas.

The powder room offers a moody surprise: fully enveloped in a deep maroon, with walls, ceiling, and trim bathed in the same hue, it’s a rich cocoon of color. The floor, a historically inspired mosaic penny tile, gently nods to the home’s early 20th-century roots. Scaling down this space invited creativity—compact fixtures like a charming petite sink and an oversized mirror stretch the room visually, proving that scale and beauty can co-exist comfortably.

These rooms now invite you to slow down. To curl up with a well-loved book and a steaming cup of tea. To feel both the nostalgia of the past and the freshness of something wholly new. This renovation doesn’t just fix—it finesses. It feels like what every renovation should strive to be: a personal love letter to home.