Residential Design+Build Blog

Design tips and information for renovations, additions and custom home building in West Chester and the Greater Philadelphia area.

Project Spotlight: Reconstructing a 1990’s Chester County Colonial

This Kennett Square family wanted to transform the exterior look and interior flow of their 1990’s era colonial. They asked for a timeless update that was authentic to the Chester County aesthetic but designed for 21st-century living.

In planning the renovations, the design team set out to revamp key architectural features to modernize the home. The Hazley Builders Design & Build team mapped out complimentary finishes, structural additions, and unique characteristics including colors, textures, and contrasts to bring the homeowners sweeping vision to life.

We started by replacing the original cottage-style windows with traditional, equal-sash, double-hung windows. For increased dimension, we styled the windows with authentic, black shutters & wrought iron hardware. Additionally, the quintessential 90’s arch-style windows were replaced with rectangular frames for an ageless look. 

For further architectural distinction, standing seam metal roofs were added on the front & rear elevations for color and textural contrast.  We changed the shape of the original unbalanced hip roofs to add a large gable roof which elevates the presence of the home from the street. The home’s original stone was restored, and natural-colored fiber cement siding replaced the damaged stucco for contrast and wood-like accents. Classic carriage house-style garage doors, with black hardware, were selected to complement the shutters. The final touch included a more extensive flagstone walkway connecting to the front porch, enhancing the classic colonial design.  

The interior renovations were inspired by the beauty of the home’s outdoor space. To generate more natural light and create unobstructed views of the expansive backyard and newly renovated deck, 9-foot sliding glass doors were added to the kitchen. To connect the kitchen and family room, the interior wall was opened to create a more modern and functional floor plan. Reclaimed wood beams and stone accents were incorporated into the newly constructed layout, further connecting the home’s indoor and outdoor design.

Learn more about our Design + Build process and Hazley Builders.