Calistoga District Victorian
A foundation replacement and seismic strengthening of a lovely Victorian in Napa’s Calistoga Historic District proved to be the inspiration for converting the concrete basement into a new bedroom level. A new master suite, second bedroom and bath, and laundry/storage areas doubled the home’s square footage. Paul Kelley Architecture addressed the tricky circulation between the two levels by designing a stairwell addition at the rear of the building that was compatible with the historic theme. The lower floor needed to relate to the exterior and not feel like a basement. Kelley added a terrace with French doors to the new master to join interior and exterior spaces. While inspired by the old, the interior is contemporary, with stained concrete floors, plaster walls and modern details. An added highlight is the “cereal bowl” tub in the master bath, centered between new windows below the dining room’s dramatic bay window.