- WESTCHESTER MEDITERRANEAN HOME -
Description
This Westchester Mediterranean home renovation represents a complete architectural renewal, an ambitious transformation that honors the spirit of a 1910 waterfront residence while elevating it for a young, global-minded family. Set along the Long Island Sound in Larchmont, the home offered breathtaking views and an enviable location, yet decades of piecemeal alterations had dimmed its original charm. Our clients, a couple of Indian and Spanish heritage relocating from Manhattan with their two sons, asked us to re-envision the property as a warm, culturally expressive, and highly functional sanctuary.
Drawing inspiration from classical Spanish Mediterranean architecture, regional waterfront precedents, and the family’s diverse aesthetic values, we crafted a comprehensive architectural plan that celebrates old-world craftsmanship while delivering state-of-the-art performance and comfort.
Restoring Architectural Integrity with Mediterranean Craftsmanship - Rebuilding the Exterior from Foundation to Finial The existing façade lacked the detailing and proportion that define true Mediterranean architecture. A failing terracotta roof, mismatched windows, aging stucco, and deteriorating trim required full replacement. We designed a new exterior envelope that paired elevated craftsmanship with modern durability:- New Ludowici terracotta barrel-vault roof, selected for its historic authenticity and exceptional longevity
- Re-engineered flashing, copper gutters, and leaders for long-term weather performance
- New high-performance windows and doors tailored to Mediterranean proportions
- Fully redesigned exterior trim—including window surrounds, balcony balustrades, bay window framing, and robust cornices—crafted from solid cellular PVC for minimal maintenance
- Refined stucco cladding in a warm, sun-washed tone evocative of Spanish villas
Landscape & Site Enhancements that Strengthen Indoor–Outdoor Living
Although the home sits on a compact waterfront lot, the site’s potential had never been fully realized. Our work subtly reshaped the land to reinforce flow, function, and beauty:
- Reconfigured driveway, curbing, and parking surfaces that blend gracefully into the setting
- Repaired terraces and walkways that connect entertaining spaces with gardens and water views
- Enhanced landscape lighting for ambiance and security
- Refreshed planting that frames the home while preserving important sightlines to the Sound
Reinventing the Interior: Light, Comfort & Cultural Expression - A Renewed Floor Plan for a Modern Family
Inside, the home’s century-old layout felt segmented and inefficient. A four-story masonry chimney blocked connection between multiple rooms, and the kitchen and bathrooms were worn and outdated. We reimagined the plan around contemporary family life and views to the water:
- Removal of a major chimney allowed for cohesive room connections
- Rebuilt kitchen and breakfast nook, crafted in collaboration with Deane provided improved flow, storage, and entertaining capabilities
- Reconfigured family room and living room to enhance natural light and create distinct gathering zones
- Added mudroom off the garage for daily functionality
- New sunroom designed to maximize morning light and garden view
- Fully redesigned bathrooms with modern fixtures, marble surfaces, and elegant detailing
Much of the home’s original millwork had been obscured under layers of paint. We restored, refinished, and enhanced this detailing with sensitivity, ensuring the interiors carry a thread of classical craftsmanship through every room.
High-Performance Systems Hidden Behind Timeless Design
True to our commitment to longevity and environmental responsibility, the home now performs at the highest level thanks to extensive upgrades:
- High-efficiency geothermal HVAC system
- Spray foam insulation throughout
- High-performance glazing in all new windows and doors
- All-new electrical, plumbing, lighting, AV, and smart-home technology
Vibrant Interiors Inspired by Cultural Heritage
Interior designer Jenny Wolfe infused the newly restored architecture with a bold, textural palette. Deep blues, warm golds, expressive patterns, and handcrafted finishes create a home that reflects the family’s Indian and Spanish heritage. The result is both globally inspired and intimately personal, a refined yet inviting environment where every room radiates warmth and character.
A Mediterranean Revival Rooted in Story, Craft, and Place
This luxury home renovation in Westchester is a testament to the power of thoughtful restoration. By respecting the home’s history while tailoring it to the clients’ lives and cultural identity, we created a residence that feels both timeless and unmistakably theirs.
More Information
For more examples of our historically grounded, detail-rich residential work, explore our Mediterranean Revival Architecture or visit our custom home Renovations at https://www.hiltonarchitects.com/renovations.
- PROJECT TEAM -
Jenny Wolf Interior Design | Significant Homes
“I have been building high end custom homes in Fairfield and Westchester County for 45+ years and have worked with many of the area’s finest architects. While successfully completing multiple projects with Charles Hilton I have had the honor of watching him work. I can say, without a shadow of a doubt that Chuck is as detailed as they come and his drive for perfection is bar none. Chuck stands by his clients and their vision every single step of the way. The precision of a Charles Hilton project begins with thoroughly detailed plans and specifications allowing the team in the field to execute explicitly. From ornate classic to austere contemporary Chuck and his team can implement a wide range of design. One by one each structure this firm creates will remain enduring and peerless.”
–SIGNIFICANT HOMES LLC