Our condo is not only ADA compliant, but also includes many small touches that make living here easier for us. [kYd] included so much beautiful display space for our artwork, that many of our friends remark that they can see our art so much better. The kitchen is so well designed that I find every chore easier and faster because it is not only compact, but intelligently designed.
– Barbara G., Homeowner
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When a retired couple downsized from a very large townhouse to a single-floor condo, they requested a streamlined and organized environment that would showcase their folk art collection, maximize storage, and allow them to age in place gracefully.
The Hopkinson House Condominium is located in a 33-story high rise on Washington Square. Designed by Oskar Stonorov in 1963, the award-winning modernist building features large ribbon windows for abundant natural light. Yet the original three-bedroom, compartmentalized condo had not been updated in years. Despite windows on two sides of the corner unit, the condo felt dated, dark, and cramped.
The kYd design concept opened the closed floor plan and incorporated smart technology, custom storage, and thoughtful details for comfortable living. Kitchen walls were removed to visually enlarge the space and create a generous, open-concept cooking, dining, and living room. A bedroom was opened to form a reading/sewing/tv corner. New floor-to-ceiling translucent sliding doors provide privacy between rooms without blocking natural light. Finishes provide a neutral background with primary colors used sparingly to accentuate the art. Conscious decisions were made to incorporate traditional elements – such as wood cabinetry in the dining area that recalls the couple’s favorite vintage sideboard from their prior home.
Custom millwork and cabinetry afford art display opportunities and extensive storage. Built-in technology offers both space savings and assistance for the aging couple. A concealed appliance bay raises and lowers at the touch of a button, preventing the need for lifting heavy items such as a stand mixer and ensuring the couple’s lifelong baking hobby remains accessible. The main bathroom now features universal design elements, such as a curbless shower with bench seating and a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
Photos © Jeffrey Totaro
Hopkinson House Condominium
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
When a retired couple downsized from a very large townhouse to a single-floor condo, they requested a streamlined and organized environment that would showcase their folk art collection, maximize storage, and allow them to age in place gracefully.
The Hopkinson House Condominium is located in a 33-story high rise on Washington Square. Designed by Oskar Stonorov in 1963, the award-winning modernist building features large ribbon windows for abundant natural light. Yet the original three-bedroom, compartmentalized condo had not been updated in years. Despite windows on two sides of the corner unit, the condo felt dated, dark, and cramped.
The kYd design concept opened the closed floor plan and incorporated smart technology, custom storage, and thoughtful details for comfortable living. Kitchen walls were removed to visually enlarge the space and create a generous, open-concept cooking, dining, and living room. A bedroom was opened to form a reading/sewing/tv corner. New floor-to-ceiling translucent sliding doors provide privacy between rooms without blocking natural light. Finishes provide a neutral background with primary colors used sparingly to accentuate the art. Conscious decisions were made to incorporate traditional elements – such as wood cabinetry in the dining area that recalls the couple’s favorite vintage sideboard from their prior home.
Custom millwork and cabinetry afford art display opportunities and extensive storage. Built-in technology offers both space savings and assistance for the aging couple. A concealed appliance bay raises and lowers at the touch of a button, preventing the need for lifting heavy items such as a stand mixer and ensuring the couple’s lifelong baking hobby remains accessible. The main bathroom now features universal design elements, such as a curbless shower with bench seating and a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
Photos © Jeffrey Totaro
My husband and I had lived in the same row house for 54 years. We had never worked with an architect. We knew we needed to move because of our age and because my husband was becoming progressively disabled. We were quite apprehensive about working with architects, but we needn’t have been. Working with Kevin and Omar was an absolute delight. They understood how we lived and what we wanted in a new home (perhaps better than we did). The process was a pleasure.
BARBARA G., HOMEOWNER