Transforming a Cape Cod: Stunning Second Floor Remodel from Attic to Family Retreat
- Carrie Lucke
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
This Cape Cod home, was full of potential but stuck in the past. The original layout had just two bedrooms and a single bathroom upstairs, with oodles of attic space that went mostly unused. The challenge was clear: transform this underwhelming area into a vibrant, functional family retreat while leaning into the charm of the Cape Cod style.
We engaged architect Meg Baniukiewicz of HB Designs. as soon as we purchased the home. As an interior designer, I had a strong vision for how the space should feel. The finishes, paneling profiles, furnishings, draperies and rugs were all dialed in at the outset. I knew generally how I wanted to use the space and the wish list of functional needs, but creating a buildable plan and having an understanding of what could and couldn’t work from a dimensional and structural standpoint were far beyond my skill set. We needed Meg's expertise to bring it to life on paper.
Shortly after Meg started drawing, we engaged our builder, Labonte Construction, in a pre-construction agreement, which brought them into the planning stages on an advising level. This helped us stay focused on decisions that would keep us within our budget range and make design decisions that were executable from a builder's perspective.
This home remodel, aside from gutting and remodeling the lower level ( BLOG POST ON FIRST FLOOR) included a full gut renovation of the second floor, turning cramped rooms and attic storage into a welcoming, multi-purpose living space. The outcome is a smartly designed second floor that holds all the functional and cozy features a family desires including a living room and coffee bar.
Before:
Reimagining the Layout: More Bedrooms and Functional Spaces
The original second floor had two bedrooms and one very dated bathroom, which left all sorts of underutilized space. The attic was mostly storage, dark, and inaccessible. We decided to gut the entire second floor and attic, creating three new bedrooms, a laundry room, a walk-in linen closet, and a family living room that doubles as a cuddle space.
Adding a walk-in laundry linen closet was a game changer. It keeps the laundry essentials organized and out of sight, making the space feel cleaner and more spacious. The laundry room itself was designed with efficiency in mind, featuring custom cabinetry and a layout that makes chores less of a hassle. I was very intentional about NOT wanting a stacked laundry machine in the hallway. Families spend a significant amount of time doing laundry and having space to move, hang, sort, stack, and fold is a true luxury.
The new bedrooms include a guest room that feels warm and inviting, perfect for visitors or older kids. Each room benefits from the natural light pouring in through the dormers. One of the new bedrooms even includes a walkout to a deck with a beautiful new railing.
Custom Details That Make a Difference
One of the highlights of this renovation was the attention to detail in the custom cabinetry. The bath vanities feature beautiful oak vanities that bring warmth and texture to the bathrooms. The tile shower in the main bathroom was carefully selected to complement the oak vanity, creating a cohesive and elegant look.
The coffee bar is another standout feature. Located in the family living area, it’s a perfect spot for morning routines or casual gatherings. Custom cabinets here provide ample storage for mugs, coffee supplies, and small appliances, keeping the space tidy and functional.
Wallpaper played a key role in adding personality to the rooms. We chose the Woodland wallpaper by Ferrick Mason for its subtle, nature-inspired pattern that fits perfectly with the Cape Cod aesthetic. It adds depth and interest without overwhelming the space.
Flooring and Finishes That Tie It All Together
The choice of white oak floors throughout the second floor was intentional. White oak brings a light, natural feel that brightens the space and complements the Cape Cod style’s classic look. The floors are durable and easy to maintain, perfect for a busy family home.
The dormers, with their built-in window seats, are finished with the same white oak, creating a seamless flow. These seats not only provide extra storage underneath but also invite family members to relax and enjoy the view.
Storage was a key focus during the renovation. In addition to the walk-in linen closet and laundry room cabinets, every bedroom features built-in closets optimized for space efficiency. This intentional design minimizes clutter and preserves the home's clean, open atmosphere.
Creating a Family Retreat with a Cuddle Space
The newly designed family living room upstairs offers more than just a place to sit. It’s a cuddle space crafted for comfort and connection. With plush seating, gentle lighting, and the warmth of oak floors, it’s an ideal spot for movie nights, reading, or simply relaxing together. Guests can enjoy watching the morning news and making their coffee exactly how they like it before interacting with their host.
This area is enhanced by the natural light from the dormers and the inviting window seats, creating a genuine retreat within the home. It’s a place that encourages family members to relax and enjoy spending time together.
Final Thoughts on the Renovation Journey
This renovation of the second floor transformed a traditional Cape Cod home into a modern family retreat while preserving its original charm. The change is remarkable: from cramped and underutilized to spacious, functional, and welcoming.
Key insights from this remodel include the benefits of reimagining attic space, the impact of custom cabinetry such as oak vanities and coffee bars, and the significance of thoughtful storage solutions like walk-in laundry linen closets. Adding wallpaper, like Ferrick Mason’s Woodland design, adds character, while white oak floors unify the space with warmth and durability.
Follow along for more renovations and design details
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