Originally designed in 1972 by Eleanor Pettersen, one of New Jersey’s first licensed female architects and a trailblazer in modern residential design, this midcentury home carries both architectural pedigree and deep personal value for its current stewards.
Before launching her own practice, Pettersen studied under Frank Lloyd Wright, beginning her career as a draftsman and later an apprentice at Taliesin in Arizona and Wisconsin. That early influence shaped her approach to modern residential design, leaving a lasting mark on this home.
Now a multigenerational residence, the house remains a cherished gathering place. But like many homes of its era, its energy performance and layout no longer fully support how the family lives today or how they plan to live in the years ahead.
Rather than opt for piecemeal upgrades or a full gut renovation, the homeowners approached this project with uncommon care. They brought clear goals: preserve what makes the house special, address persistent comfort and durability issues, and shape a future-ready home that supports a multigenerational household.
Their vision includes reimagining key spaces like the kitchen, guest suites, and primary bedroom, upgrading thermal performance with new insulation and windows, and resolving deferred maintenance issues with thoughtfulness, not shortcuts. A centerpiece of the work involves returning the main kitchen to its former midcentury glory, honoring the home's original spirit while making it more functional for contemporary life.
The family’s collaborative mindset and long-term commitment have set the tone for every phase of the work. This project honors the spirit of Eleanor Pettersen’s design while investing in the continued life of a home shaped not by trends, but by stewardship.
Historical Photograph
Architecture: TIGHT HOUSE
Interior Design: TIGHT HOUSE
Status: Pre-Design