Villanova Cottage

Location: Villanova, PA

Architect: Marty Rosenblum

Project Type: Renovation and Addition

Photographer: Jason Sandy of Angle Eye Photography

Project Description

Originally built as a modest two-bedroom cottage, this Villanova home was thoughtfully expanded to meet the needs of a growing family while preserving the scale and character that made the original home so appealing. Rather than replacing its identity, Janiczek Homes built upon it, creating a whole-home renovation and addition that feels complete, cohesive, and true to the architecture.

The project introduced a new primary suite, mudroom, breezeway, expanded kitchen, and reconfigured living spaces, allowing the home to function for modern family life without compromising its cottage-inspired character. Every addition was carefully designed to respect the proportions of the original home, ensuring the new construction feels inseparable from what was already there.

On the exterior, indigo-gray clapboard siding, vintage oak doors, and thoughtfully detailed trim reinforce the home's welcoming presence. Inside, exposed oak beams, pine ceilings, custom millwork, and herringbone marble flooring create a natural continuity between old and new, allowing each space to feel connected rather than newly added.

The kitchen was designed as the center of daily life, combining custom cabinetry, maple butcher block, natural stone countertops, brass fixtures, and generous workspace into a room built for cooking, gathering, and entertaining. Throughout the home, materials were selected for their character and longevity, creating interiors that feel warm, authentic, and comfortable rather than driven by changing trends.

The new primary suite provides a quiet retreat while remaining consistent with the home's overall architectural language. Cathedral ceilings, reclaimed wood accents, a freestanding clawfoot tub, soapstone countertops, and carefully crafted details create spaces that feel inviting without losing the simplicity that defines the original cottage.

A reclaimed wood vanity top is further customized with a stone vessel sink. With its gray walls and glass door knob, every detail in this renovation was considered in its design.
The walk in shower at the Villanova renovation features a black marble threshold, timeless subway tile, and glamourous brass hardware to create a luxurious experience at home.