Will we have to move out during construction?

For a full main level renovation and second-story addition, it’s highly likely you’ll need to relocate temporarily for safety and efficiency — but your builder can help you plan the best timing.

What’s involved in expanding indoor-outdoor living?

This can include large sliding or folding doors, upgraded windows, expanded decks or patios, and careful landscaping — all designed to flow naturally from the main living spaces to the outdoors.

Do we need special permits for a pop-top addition in Denver?

Yes — adding a second story typically requires structural engineering, zoning review, and city permits. Every neighborhood in Denver has its own guidelines (like height limits and setbacks), so working with an experienced local architect or designer helps you navigate these smoothly.

Will a pop-top addition increase our home’s value?

Generally, yes! Adding livable square footage — especially bedrooms, bathrooms, and upgraded indoor-outdoor spaces — can significantly boost your home’s value in Denver’s competitive market. Buyers love modern layouts that maintain the neighborhood’s charm while adding functionality.

Mod Canopy

Pop-TopRenovationOutdoor Living

Sep 15

Written By Rachel Nagy

A96 | Project Summary

Nestled near a lake in Denver, Colorado, this modern asymmetrical pop-top renovation by NAGY Design transforms a modest single-story home into a light-filled architectural retreat. The reimagined main level introduces an expansive indoor-outdoor living experience that connects seamlessly to the surrounding landscape — perfect for family gatherings and everyday living.

The new second-story addition features a serene main suite with treetop views, a cozy ensuite secondary bedroom, a whimsical hideaway room for creative play, and a thoughtfully placed laundry room. Every space was designed to enhance comfort, flexibility, and connection.

This custom home renovation now serves as a bright and layered sanctuary where modern design meets family-friendly functionality — all with breathtaking lake views.

1661 SF

Denver, Colorado

Blue Horse Construction

1 Year

Completed front exterior of Denver pop-top renovation by NAGY Design featuring vertical wood siding, black metal accents, and original red brick base.

Open-concept living room with custom wood staircase, black metal railing, and sliding glass doors in Denver home renovated by NAGY Design.

Modern kitchen in Denver pop-top renovation with black marble countertops, wood ceiling with skylights, and matte cabinetry by NAGY Design.

New second-floor main suite with vaulted ceiling, black accent ceiling, sliding glass barn door, and modern pendant lighting in Denver home.

POP-TOP | RENOVATION | OUTDOOR LIVING

Signature Design Process

A thoughtful beginning.
Our work starts with a conversation—an opportunity to understand your goals, your lifestyle, and the vision you hold for your home. We outline the path forward with clarity, ensuring alignment from the very start.
Listening beyond the surface.
We take a deeper dive into how you live—your routines, preferences, and the details that shape your day-to-day experience. Through curated prompts and dialogue, we uncover what will make your home feel both effortless and personal.
Where ideas begin to take form.
We translate insight into initial concepts—exploring layout, architectural direction, and overall feeling. Each option is presented with intention, allowing you to engage in the process with clarity and confidence.
Shaping the direction.
Through a collaborative and guided process, we refine the selected concept—adjusting, aligning, and evolving the design until it feels resolved. Every decision is made with care, ensuring the design reflects both function and beauty.
Depth, detail, and cohesion.
We begin to layer in materials, proportions, and architectural details. This is where the home gains richness and clarity—where the vision becomes increasingly tangible and aligned across all elements.
Clarity for execution.
We develop a comprehensive drawing set to communicate the design to the build team. This phase ensures precision—bridging the creative vision with the realities of construction and permitting.
The finishing layers.
We curate finishes, fixtures, and materials that bring the home to life. Through a guided selection process, we present cohesive options that reduce overwhelm while maintaining a sense of discovery and personalization.
A seamless transition to reality.
We remain engaged throughout construction—collaborating with your builder to maintain the integrity of the design. As the final layers come together, the home reveals itself fully—considered, cohesive, and entirely your own.

3D rendering of covered patio and rear view of pop-top renovation in Denver by NAGY Design.

Architectural Services

Main Level Renovation

Kitchen Expansion

Second Level Addition

Indoor-Outdoor Living Expansion

Interior Design Consulting

Additional Upgrades

Backyard view of Denver home pop-top renovation by NAGY Design featuring vertical metal siding, original brick, and covered patio addition.

Before photo of Denver brick home in winter prior to pop-top renovation by NAGY Design. — Before

In-progress pop-top renovation in Denver, Colorado by NAGY Design showing framing, Tyvek wrap, and construction materials onsite. — Pop-Top Renovation Progress

Two-story pop-top home renovation in Denver, Colorado by NAGY Design, featuring a blend of vertical wood siding and original red brick exterior. — Final Construction Phases

POP-TOP | RENOVATION | OUTDOOR LIVING

Common Questions

For a full main level renovation and second-story addition, it’s highly likely you’ll need to relocate temporarily for safety and efficiency — but your builder can help you plan the best timing.
This can include large sliding or folding doors, upgraded windows, expanded decks or patios, and careful landscaping — all designed to flow naturally from the main living spaces to the outdoors.
Yes — adding a second story typically requires structural engineering, zoning review, and city permits. Every neighborhood in Denver has its own guidelines (like height limits and setbacks), so working with an experienced local architect or designer helps you navigate these smoothly.
Generally, yes! Adding livable square footage — especially bedrooms, bathrooms, and upgraded indoor-outdoor spaces — can significantly boost your home’s value in Denver’s competitive market. Buyers love modern layouts that maintain the neighborhood’s charm while adding functionality.