Evanston, Illinois

A couple felt limited by lot lines, and yet desired a larger gathering space for all and a private sanctuary for two.

A small, two-story addition in the right place does the trick by expanding the existing family room on the first floor. Removing the wall between this room and the kitchen further enhances the open quality of the space, as does providing glass doors to a new screened porch and deck. Extending the granite from the kitchen counters into a tabletop in the family room connects the two spaces and provides informal seating for homework, art projects, and, of course, dining.

Upstairs the addition provides a light-drenched master bedroom. An existing reading nook in the hallway is preserved, and enhanced with a skylight.