Outward Bound – Riverside, IL Kitchen + Garage Addition

From Inward to Outward: Riverside, IL Addition & Renovation

This project began with a common challenge in older homes. The layout was tight and inward-facing, with rooms that felt disconnected from each other and from the backyard. While the home had great character, it was not supporting the way the family wanted to live.

Our approach started with a full feasibility and master planning process. The goal was not just to add space, but to rethink how the home functioned as a whole.

The addition allowed us to reposition the heart of the home at the back of the house. A new kitchen and gathering space now open toward the yard, bringing in natural light and creating a much stronger indoor-outdoor connection. Large windows and a more open layout help the space feel brighter and more connected throughout the day.

Circulation was just as important as the main spaces. We focused on creating clear, intuitive pathways through the home. The new mudroom, pantry, and transitional hall spaces improve daily function while still feeling intentional and well designed.

One of the more unique opportunities came from connecting the house to a new attached garage. By stepping down to meet the garage elevation, we were able to create additional ceiling height in the connector space. Rather than treat this as just a pass-through, we turned it into a dedicated golf simulator room.

The increased height makes the space fully functional, allowing for a true simulator setup without compromise. It also creates a distinct moment within the home, something that feels both purposeful and a little unexpected. It is a great example of using constraints to unlock new possibilities.

Material selections were kept warm and timeless. Rich wood cabinetry, clean white surfaces, and subtle brass accents create contrast without feeling trendy. The palette ties the addition back to the original home while still giving it a fresh, updated feel.

The result is a home that feels completely different without losing its identity. What was once inward and segmented is now open, connected, and aligned with how the family lives today.