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GROOVY IN GUERNEVILLE

This modest summer cottage nestled into the trees at the Russian River's edge had been renovated and added on to for many generations. There was much that had never been maintained properly, and it showed. It did, however, have the undeniable charm of a loved summer place.

 

We carefully preserved some of these lovely qualities while re-working the floor plan to our modern sensibilities. Meticulously detailed inside and out and boasting bright, sun-lit spaces, this little treasure is now ready to be enjoyed by many generations!

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​Jessica, Efraim, and Kayla at Zeitgeist were a joy to work with and we could not be happier with the final result. We needed a reasonably-priced architecture and design firm to convert a dated cottage on the Russian River into a more contemporary and comfortable space that was true to its history and setting. Zeitgeist helped us evaluate the range of options, with an eye towards the practical and financial implications of each. Once we settled on a complete renovation within the existing footprint of the home, they proposed an ingenious floor plan that took full advantage of the site and existing infrastructure but was new and fresh and clever. No detail was overlooked; they excelled at maximizing the small footprint with sleek built-ins, sleeping nooks, and blind doors that hide bountiful storage and laundry.

 

Zeitgeist guided us through the selection of engineers and a contractor; development and refinement of a budget; permitting; and a long list of design choices. They kept a close eye on construction and helped us troubleshoot issues as they arose. Meanwhile, Jessica worked with us to select colors, finishes, fixtures, and design details. She deftly guided us while adapting to our aesthetic and budget, and drew on her deep rolodex of local sources and craftspeople. Throughout the process, Zeitgeist was proactive, communicative and attuned to our needs and desires; they designed the home as we wanted it, subject to our budgetary constraints. Our river home is now better than we ever could have imagined it. They captured the soul of the old cottage we fell in love with despite all its flaws, but transformed it into something entirely new and original.

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- Jennifer H., Guerneville, California

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To see before + after photos of this project, click here.

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Architecture + Interior Design by Zeitgeist Sonoma

Construction by Shook and Waller Construction

Photography by Tammy Horton

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