Incredible House Makeover in the Philadelphia Inquirer

A house makeover is a relatively common undertaking. Homeowners do it every day. But not all homeowners have the ability to articulate their vision as clearly as Karen and Bob Cole—or the wisdom to choose Ernst Brothers + Builders to bring their big picture to life. Over about a year, the Coles’ partnership with Ernst yielded an extraordinary home that thoroughly conveys the owners’ personal interests and provides space where their creative efforts can find expression.

Faced with outdated décor—cue the pink marble floors!—and a run-down structure, Karen and Bob went with a near-total gutting of the interior. A reimagined layout added an art studio for Karen and a workshop for Bob so both could pursue their creative interests. The extensive house makeover included new windows and wooden floors and a gorgeous new kitchen designed by Bluebell Fine Cabinetry & Design.

Karen and Bob are the owners of World Wide Stereo, so it’s no surprise that their new home is outfitted with the latest “smart home” technology. Every system that can be is programmed, from the common—sound and heating—to the more imaginative, such as lighting set to circadian rhythms and automated window shades.

The modern, private retreat along the Wissahickon Creek has everything the Coles dreamed of when Karen and Bob bought the quiet parcel and original home. Its many large windows take advantage of the peaceful natural setting to bring the outside in. Fresh landscaping replaces the overgrown plantings that only hinted at the property’s potential. The new plants include many that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators to the Coles’ acres, which now play host to a colony of honeybees in the new beehive.

Read about the Coles’ house makeover and transformation into a gorgeous, modern 4800sf “haven” in the Philadelphia Inquirer.