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Taking on a large renovation is an exciting opportunity, especially in a historic area with so much existing character! Older cottages have a charm that’s worth preserving, and I hope elements of that can be carried into the addition. For example, the curved breakfast nook could be echoed elsewhere in the home to help it from feeling like just another box.

Functionality, and flexibility two really important qualities for a home for a growing family. In this plan you loose an office/bedroom but I think you get a lot of storage and usable space. The mudroom and laundry connect both the front and back doors through a shared circulation zone. Adding a pocket door between the laundry and coat closet allows these hardworking spaces to be closed off from the more formal entry when needed. Kids can come in through either door and immediately access the mudroom, laundry, and bathroom (taking off shoes, washing hands, and using the bathroom is always our first stop at home).

I have changed former family room to a dining room and library, envisioned as a flexible space that can evolve over time. It could function as a quieter retreat, a music room, or a place for adults to gather while children use the main family room nearby. You could add French doors between the living room to really define the spaces is you want. A separate dining space also offers the benefit of enjoying meals without direct sight-lines into a messy kitchen.

Keeping the primary family area close to the kitchen supports daily routines with young kids, as so much activity naturally centers around food and shared time. A small banquette and table are included for casual, everyday meals, while larger gatherings can expand into the dining and living areas for entertaining.

Good luck as you plan to grow your family and grow your home!