Elevated Presence – Brookfield Second Story Addition + Remodel

This Brookfield, IL project is a true transformation, turning a modest one-and-a-half story Cape Cod into a more complete and intentional two-story home.

The original house was limited both in space and proportion. The low roofline constrained the second level, and the overall composition felt underscaled relative to the neighborhood. The goal was not just to add square footage, but to rethink the home’s presence and create a more balanced, livable structure.

The solution was a full second story addition paired with a complete reworking of the roofline. By lifting the structure and establishing clear, consistent proportions, the home now reads as a cohesive two-story design rather than an expanded version of what was there before. The new form brings a sense of stability and clarity that the original house lacked.

On the exterior, a thoughtful material palette ties the composition together. Existing brick is preserved and complemented with new siding and shingle elements, while darker trim and window groupings introduce contrast and rhythm across the facade. The front porch is redefined to feel more integrated with the architecture, reinforcing the home’s connection to the street.

Inside, the additional level allows for a complete reorganization of the living spaces. The second floor provides new bedrooms and improved functionality for the family, while the main level benefits from better flow and a more intentional relationship between rooms. The changes are not just about size, they are about how the home works day to day.

This project reflects a core LivCo approach. A second story addition is not just an expansion, it is an opportunity to reframe the entire home. By addressing form, proportion, and function together, the result is a home that feels both new and grounded in its surroundings.