Secluded Property gets a Substantial Addition
Nestled in the countryside west of Woodstock, this 50-acre property offers a secluded retreat near the Nature Conservancy and Kishwaukee Valley Watershed. The original 1980s home underwent a significant addition to accommodate the owners’ retirement and future needs.
Constructing a sturdy foundation for the 3-story addition presented an initial challenge as the property is situated in a wetland area. To address this, the construction team excavated the area to a depth of 9 feet and added layers of stone and gravel to create a solid base for the foundation, ensuring the stability of the new structure. The addition added 6000 square feet of living area to the original 1800 square foot structure.
The addition utilizes Universal Design principles, with extra-wide hallways and doors, an elevator and accessible bathrooms featuring grab bars and zero-depth showers. The lower level provides a front entrance, a three-car garage and an oversized mudroom to accommodate the bounty from the home’s garden. All rooms on this level, as well as the garage, have radiant heat.
The second floor features an open layout with a kitchen, eating area, family room, and dining room, all offering panoramic views of the beautiful countryside through large windows. A bedroom is also located on this level with a private bath. The stairs and railings throughout the house are natural hickory.
The third floor houses the master suite with a generously sized master closet, a large laundry room, and an additional bedroom with a private bathroom. Each bedroom has a balcony to enjoy the surrounding natural scenery.
The owners of this home are keenly aware of the natural beauty that surrounds their property. They choose to install solar panels on the barn which fuel the electricity for both the barn and their home, creating a smaller carbon footprint.
Thoughtful details, such as tasteful wallpaper in the pantry, laundry room, and master closet, add to the property’s charm and functionality.
The original home will be converted into a self-contained apartment with a separate entrance to the second-floor addition.
Before and After
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