Hillsborough Contemporary Expansion
Indoor-Outdoor Living
Designed to Open  
Embracing Light and Views
In scenic Hillsborough, this contemporary renovation with addition centers around seamless indoor–outdoor living. Large bifold doors and expansive windows frame the landscape, filling the interiors with natural light and fresh air. Multi-level decks, a covered patio, and landscaped gardens extend daily life outdoors, offering places for gathering, grilling, and enjoying the fire pit. The result is a tranquil retreat that stays closely connected to its surroundings.
Modern two-story house in Hillsborough with large windows, and stepping metal roof levels
Bright modern living room with bifold glass doors opening to a balcony with views of green trees.
Great Room
Extending Out
The great room forms the heart of the home, combining living, dining, and kitchen areas into one continuous space. Bifold doors span its full length, opening the interior entirely to the deck and visually expanding the room. A glass partition defines the stair without interrupting openness, while decorative wood paneling provides warmth and texture against the clean, modern stair design.
Modern open living and dining area with large pivot doors opening the great room to a long balcony overlooking the landscape in Hillsborough
Modern open-concept kitchen and dining area with marble island, white cabinets, wooden ceiling panels, and glass doors opening to an outdoor deck.
Clean Finishes
Understated Elegance
Throughout the home, understated contemporary finishes create a calm, uncluttered environment. High ceilings and an open plan enhance spaciousness, while hardwood floors, stone accents, and a neutral palette add depth and warmth. The minimalist kitchen—finished with white lacquer cabinetry, marble surfaces, and illuminated by new skylights—sits beneath a raised wood ceiling that brings daylight from above and establishes its own sense of place within the great room. A generous island, ample storage, and premium appliances balance beauty and function.
Bright family room with bi-fold doors leading to an outdoor seating area with greenery.
Modern three-story house with large balconies, outdoor seating areas surrounded by trees and landscaping in Hillsborough.
New Upper Story
Elevated Design & Sustainable Strategies
Situated on a long triangular lot, the expanded design maximizes livable space without altering the original footprint. A new third story elevates the home’s street presence and opens to sweeping hillside and garden views. At the rear, three levels of glass façades connect to decks and patios, creating layered outdoor experiences.

Durable materials—stone, stucco, and metal—ensure longevity and low maintenance. Energy-efficient features such as enhanced insulation, high-performance windows, cross-ventilation, metal roofing, native landscaping, and pervious paving reduce environmental impact while improving comfort throughout.
Modern bathroom with freestanding bathtub, double shower with glass panels, large mirror, and gray floating vanity.
Bright bedroom with high ceilings, fireplace, and bifold glass doors opening to a balcony overlooking the landscape.
Expanded Living
Spaces for Gathering and Retreat
On the upper levels, the master suite serves as a private retreat with an outdoor deck, a spa-like en-suite bath, and a large walk-in closet. Four additional bedrooms each offer garden views and private bathrooms, creating comfortable spaces for family and guests.

A former garage was transformed into a light-filled family room with bifold doors at both front and back, creating a breezy indoor–outdoor passage to the garden. A modern gas fireplace anchors the space, adding warmth and a contemporary focal point.
Aerial view of a modern three-story house open to terraces through expansive bifold glass doors, and surrounded by trees.
Modern family room with fireplace and bi-fold glass doors on two sides to create inside-outside flow in Hillsborough
Facts
5256 SF
5 Bedrooms
5.5 Baths
Contractor: D&A Builders
Landscape: Design Intent
Photography: Ed Caldwell
Before Photos
The existing house sat below street level with limited visibility from the road. Built in 1957, it was a modest ranch-style home with 8-foot ceilings on a sloping, triangular lot.
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