On The Boards - Richmond, Virginia

In the heart of Richmond, Virginia, a pair of 1865 townhouses has been thoughtfully transformed into a stunning modern residence that blends heritage with innovation. Originally tenement-style buildings, the structures were completely gutted and reimagined from the ground up, turning their narrow footprints into light-filled, contemporary living spaces.

One of the most striking interventions was the removal of the back façade, which was replaced with floor-to-ceiling stained glass that floods the interiors with color and light, while opening onto a private courtyard oasis. What was once an alley dividing the two units has now become a central shared atrium—enclosed with a glass roof and fully climate-controlled—creating a dramatic, open-air heart of the home that unifies both structures under one vision.

Above, a rooftop greenhouse and outdoor deck elevate the lifestyle offerings, providing verdant, serene spaces for relaxation or entertaining, all while offering city views and fresh air.

Inside, the narrow width of the original townhouses is celebrated and smartly utilized—particularly in the kitchen, where an elegant island and casual dining area stretch along one of the long, slender interiors, marrying function with charm.

This project is a testament to the potential of adaptive reuse. By honoring the bones of these historic townhouses while injecting them with bold design and modern amenities, the result is a residence that is both timeless and utterly unique—a jewel box in the city, full of light, life, and legacy.