North Cambridge Storefront Townhouse

Year 2022 Location Cambridge, MA Size 2300 sq ft

General Contractor Fresh Start Contracting Photographer Ben Gebo

Incredibly unique because of its storefront façade and entryway, multi-level layout with vaulted ceilings, and architectural details, this loft-style townhouse near Harvard Square was already dripping with character, and the owners pushed that eclectic vibe even further in their renovation. Originally built in 1874, the remodel of this three-story space included adding a primary closet and bathroom on the main level and a gut renovation of the kitchen. In the entryway, which was once a storefront, fresh vibrant paint frames two lofted workstations with industrial pipe railings. Through the main door, the elevated kitchen space was redesigned with custom blue cabinetry and is set off with a mirrored backsplash, which is repeated in the shower and behind the clawfoot bathtub in the primary bathroom. A woodstove that originally flanked the kitchen was replaced with a gas fireplace, and the stairs leading to the kitchen were widened. Stools anchored to the kitchen peninsula swing aside for storage and sit atop custom pull-out drawers that are devoted to the owners’ two beloved cats. A complete redesign of the primary bedroom area allowed for the creation of a master closet with a custom mural and a primary bathroom with transom windows, dual showerheads, double vanities, and a clawfoot tub. A generous bedroom includes the repurposed wood stove from the kitchen, now only for decoration, which is set off by custom arched bookshelves. The lower level includes a gym space and secondary bedroom warmed by original wood ceilings and oversized windows, a full bath, and a laundry room. In addition, the courtyard and roof deck offer multiple outdoor entertaining areas. There is hardly a square angle to be found in this eclectic property, and this renovation embraced all of its quirks.