Situated in a rural Boulder neighborhood, Parkside Villa is a comprehensive transformation of an existing 9,100-square-foot residence, reimagined for the evolving lifestyle of an active family. Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, Studio B Architecture + Interiors approached the project as an opportunity to redefine the relationship between architecture, interiors and landscape while preserving the home's existing foundation and much of its structural framing.
The original residence was substantially reconfigured, replacing its wood and stucco exterior with a refined palette of linear brick and Thermory wood cladding. Drawing from modernist and mid-century influences, the architectural language emphasizes horizontal proportions, material continuity and carefully composed transitions between interior and exterior spaces. The result is a residence that feels entirely new while building upon the framework of what previously existed.
Central to the design was the clients' desire for a home capable of accommodating both everyday family life and large-scale entertaining. Rather than concentrating these activities within a single expansive space, the design establishes a series of interconnected environments, each offering a distinct experience.
Achieving this openness required significant structural intervention. A concealed 60-foot-long steel tube truss, integrated into the roof deck guardrail, spans above a 36-foot-wide assembly of sliding doors, eliminating visually disruptive supports. The perforated brick courtyard walls presented another engineering challenge, requiring concealed vertical reinforcement to preserve their delicate appearance while ensuring structural stability.
At the main level, an open living area is anchored by an 18-foot kitchen island, with expansive glazing connecting the interior to outdoor gathering spaces. To the east, an intimate dining courtyard is enclosed by perforated brick walls and planted with Japanese maples. A flush fire pit creates a quiet focal point, while filtered light and carefully framed views establish a sense of enclosure without sacrificing openness.
To the west, the architecture opens toward a pool terrace with an outdoor kitchen, dining area and covered lounge. Expansive lift-and-slide doors dissolve the boundary between inside and outside, allowing the living spaces to extend naturally into the landscape. An exterior spiral stair connects the terrace to an elevated roof deck offering additional seating, a fire table and panoramic views.
Beyond the primary gathering spaces, a lower-level recreation lounge accommodates billiards, arcade games, and multiple gaming screens, while an art studio and contemplative garden provide quieter settings for individual pursuits.
Sustainability was integral to the transformation, beginning with the preservation of existing structural elements to reduce demolition waste and demand for new materials. A 26.8-kilowatt rooftop photovoltaic array, whole-house battery storage, and geothermal heating and cooling systems support the home's energy performance. Durable exterior materials were selected for longevity, while expansive glazing introduces abundant natural light and strengthens connections to the surrounding landscape.
Throughout Parkside Villa, brick, steel, walnut, and wood establish a cohesive material language that balances warmth with architectural precision. The completed residence demonstrates the potential of thoughtful renovation: preserving what is valuable, reconsidering what is possible, and creating a highly personal home shaped by the way its inhabitants live.
