Shaker Heights Garden House

Situated in the charming enclave of Shaker Heights, this comprehensive renovation reimagines a traditional residence into a personalized sanctuary designed around passions for entertaining, horticulture, and curated living.

The homeowners lead an active, community-focused lifestyle with interests that span sports, coaching, gardening, and the arts. Their goal was to create a home that not only reflected these pursuits, but also provided purposeful spaces to enjoy them. With plans to convert the adjacent vacant lot into expansive gardens, the property was envisioned as a long-term haven where indoor comfort and outdoor beauty work in harmony.

A large addition off the rear of the home became the catalyst for transformation. The new footprint accommodates a spacious kitchen and dining area, along with a second-floor primary suite that provides privacy, comfort, and modern luxury. The remainder of the home was meticulously renovated to elevate functionality, storage, and everyday livability while maintaining architectural continuity throughout.

Outside, the design introduces distinct entertainment and relaxation zones including a stone patio, pool, and thoughtfully arranged landscape features. These elements extend the home’s social capacity and provide year-round enjoyment, from casual gatherings to hosted celebrations.

Bringing the $1.65 million vision to life required strategic planning and problem-solving. Excavation uncovered unexpected bedrock and groundwater, leading to engineering revisions; evolving design changes added layers of complexity; and sporadic cabinet deliveries challenged sequencing. Through collaboration, steady communication, and careful coordination with partners—including Dawn Cook Design on interiors, Woodworks Design Custom Cabinetry, Bradley Stone Industries, and Highland Construction with 9th Avenue Designs on landscape and pool—the team delivered a result that blends craftsmanship, comfort, and personality.