The owners of this cozy home in a desirable neighborhood near a city lake had two objectives: update the kitchen and freshen the exterior. The kitchen plans called for new cabinetry in natural wood, new stone countertops and a small eating peninsula. The existing kitchen had a large corner window, which brought in a lot of light, but no longer worked with the layout. Instead, a wide, arch-topped bay window was added above the sink area, allowing not only natural light but a nice view into the yard.

For the exterior, the owners liked the idea of a standing seam metal roof and large arched entry porch, similar to the clubhouse at a local golf course where they play. A small sitting terrace with a select view to Lake Calhoun also was incorporated into the porch. It’s become the homeowners’ new favorite place to spend summer evenings.