Can I add a second story to a historic home in Denver?

Yes, but it requires careful planning and approval through the Denver Landmark Historic Design Review process. NAGY Design specializes in creating additions that respect historic architecture while meeting modern needs.

Do I need special permits for remodeling in a historic district?

Absolutely. Homes located in landmark districts must follow specific design guidelines and obtain approvals. We handle this process to ensure your remodel is fully compliant and stress-free.

Can an attached garage be converted into a guest suite or living space?

Yes, converting an existing garage is a smart way to add livable square footage without altering the home’s footprint—especially valuable in space-constrained historic properties.

How do you match new additions with historic architecture?

We use period-appropriate materials, proportions, and design details to seamlessly integrate new structures, like second stories or garages, with the existing home.

How long does a full historic renovation project take?

Timelines vary, but a project involving a full main-level gut, second-story addition, and garage conversion typically takes 1–1.5 years from design through construction, depending on permitting and weather.

Refined Spaces

RenovationComing Soon

Jun 30

Written By Rachel Nagy

A70 | Project Summary

This modern home renovation in Colorado involved a comprehensive transformation of the main living areas and overall layout to better meet the evolving needs of a family of four. The previously segmented space was reimagined into a bright and spacious open-concept design, fostering greater connection and flow throughout the main level.

To accommodate the family’s lifestyle, two main-floor bedrooms were thoughtfully combined to create a luxurious retreat-style primary suite with increased comfort and privacy. A new bedroom was also added to the basement, offering additional flexibility—perfect for guests, a home office, or a growing child.

The result is a home that beautifully balances functionality with modern aesthetics. From the custom kitchen renovation and expansive island to the upgraded layout and finishes, this design-build project by NAGY Design delivers a cohesive, practical, and stylish space that supports everyday living and long-term needs.

1400 SF

Denver, Colorado

Blue Horse Construction

1 Year

Modern kitchen renovation by NAGY Design in Denver, Colorado, featuring a long quartz island with seating, custom gray cabinets, and sliding doors that open to a backyard.

Renovated open-concept living room by NAGY Design in Colorado featuring a large gray sectional, wood flooring, white plantation shutters, and layered lighting in a bright, modern main-level space.

Primary bathroom renovation by NAGY Design featuring a glass-enclosed shower with vertical tile, built-in bench, dual-sink vanity, and frosted windows for natural light and privacy.

Renovated primary bedroom by NAGY Design in Denver featuring hardwood floors, a neutral palette, barn-style sliding door, modern ceiling fan, and natural light through shuttered windows.

RENOVATION

Signature Design Process

- Site analysis
- Existing conditions
- Budgeting
- Code review
- Contractor interviews negotiation
- Basic design concept generation
- 1-2 Iterations on a theme design evolution
- Plan approval to move forward to construction documents
- Detailed drawings
- 1 Major edit allowed
- Finish selection
- Permit comments
- Minimum of 3-5 site visits during construction
- Ensure the follow-through of the original design intent

Conceptual line drawing of an open-concept kitchen and living area by NAGY Design, showing planned layout with island seating, cabinetry, and modern railing in a Denver renovation project.

Architectural Services

Open-concept renovation of main living space

Creation of a luxurious main suite by combining two bedrooms

Addition of a basement bedroom for additional family accommodation

Modernized layout to improve flow and functionality

Enhanced storage solutions throughout the home

Updated finishes and fixtures for a refreshed aesthetic

Open-concept kitchen and living renovation by NAGY Design in Denver, featuring gray shaker cabinets, quartz island with bar seating, hardwood flooring, and open sightlines to the living area and stairwell.

Before photo of a dated kitchen in Denver, Colorado, with cherry wood cabinets, granite countertops, and traditional tile flooring—prior to the open-concept renovation by NAGY Design. — Before

Progress photo of an open-concept renovation by NAGY Design showing unfinished hardwood flooring installation, exposed drywall, and electrical prep in a Denver-area home. — Progress

Wide-angle view of an open-concept kitchen renovation by NAGY Design in Denver, Colorado, featuring new hardwood floors, large island, pendant lighting, and modern railing overlooking a basement stairwell. — After

RENOVATION

Common Questions

Yes, but it requires careful planning and approval through the Denver Landmark Historic Design Review process. NAGY Design specializes in creating additions that respect historic architecture while meeting modern needs.
Absolutely. Homes located in landmark districts must follow specific design guidelines and obtain approvals. We handle this process to ensure your remodel is fully compliant and stress-free.
Yes, converting an existing garage is a smart way to add livable square footage without altering the home’s footprint—especially valuable in space-constrained historic properties.
We use period-appropriate materials, proportions, and design details to seamlessly integrate new structures, like second stories or garages, with the existing home.
Timelines vary, but a project involving a full main-level gut, second-story addition, and garage conversion typically takes 1–1.5 years from design through construction, depending on permitting and weather.