8131 Santa Clara Drive // A Gruppo Architects

This Forest Hills home had multiple additions over the years, but they were of poor quality and didn’t suit the needs of modern living. In the most recent renovation, previous additions were removed and a new strategy explored. The owner wished to save the original 1940’s two-story home and incorporate it into a new design that suits their lifestyle. The new design protected and featured well-crafted details specific to the time period. The new space makes clear what is modern while still sympathetic to the style of the original home. The use of natural light and the connection to the outdoors are important elements to the home. As more neighborhoods are losing their historical character to tear downs, this home maintains its original scale and fabric and acts as a link to the past.