Project Spotlight: Rubin Residence Home Addition / Pop-Top in Boulder, CO
The Rubins
Meet the Rubins—Ben and Loie. They’ve got a story, and it’s a good one. After spending some time in Nashville, they decided to return to their former home in Boulder’s Lower Chautauqua neighborhood. But this time around, it wasn’t just about rekindling old memories; it was about creating a space that worked for their growing family.
They were ready to make the house their own—more space, more storage, and, of course, a killer new second story with a view to die for. That’s where we came in. Together, we dreamed big, and we rolled up our sleeves to make it happen—carefully, and with just the right amount of construction dust.
Location
- Boulder, CO
- Lower Chautauqua neighborhood
Project Goals
- Add more living space
- Add more storage space
- Capturing the view from the new second-story addition
Project Type
- Home Addition/Pop-Top
The Plan
The Rubins had a vision: breathe new life into their home with a 1,250 sq ft pop-top house addition. It had to feel like it belonged, seamlessly tying in with the existing home but with all the modern touches they were craving. Think tall slat walls, an upstairs great room that says, “Come on in and hang out,” and that epic view from their new second story.
The Transformation
Exterior
The house got a serious glow-up with a covered entry, refreshed patio and driveway, and some expertly blended brickwork that tied the old bones of the house to its shiny new digs.
Kitchen
We brought the heat with bold finishes like Fireclay’s 2x6 haystack vertical tile—because why play it safe when you can have some personality? This isn’t just a kitchen; it’s a place where life happens—late-night snacks, early-morning coffee spills, and everything in between.
Great Room
Now, this is the showstopper. Tongue-and-groove ceilings, a Venetian plaster fireplace for a little drama (the good kind), and that slat wall? It climbs all the way to the second floor like it owns the place.
Wet Bar & Bath
Upstairs, the wet bar whispers, “Treat yourself,” and the Fireclay Starburst Peacock tile on the bathroom floor adds just the right pop of charisma that’ll make you want to kick off your shoes.
Garage-Turned-Music-Studio
Because why not? We refinished the garage into a space where the Rubins can crank out tunes, host jam sessions, or just escape for a little creative R&R.
Why This Project Stands Out
This wasn’t just an addition; it was a collaboration. We didn’t just build a space; we helped create a home. The balance between old and new, the bold use of color and pattern, and the seamless integration of functional spaces with knockout aesthetics made this project unforgettable. From the slat walls stretching sky-high to the pops of tile that make every corner sing, the Rubin Residence is a masterpiece of form and function.
Ben and Loie, we hope you’re loving your new digs as much as we loved bringing them to life. Boulder just got a whole lot cooler!
Let's Tackle the Big Questions
As with any home remodeling project, the Rubins had some questions going into the renovation. Here’s how we handled a few of the most common concerns when it comes to Boulder home additions:
How do we ensure the addition blends with the home’s existing architecture?
When you’re adding a second story to a house, it’s essential to tie in the old and new in a way that feels natural. For the Rubins, we carefully matched materials—like the brickwork—and extended design features, like the slat wall, to ensure that the new pop-top house addition felt like a seamless extension of the original structure. Our goal isn’t just to build on; it’s to build with the existing architecture.
How much does it cost to add a second story?
Adding a second story is a major investment, but it’s one that often brings a high return. As always, the cost can vary based on the size of the addition, the design elements, and the finishes. Our job as a Boulder Pop Top Contractor is to work closely with you to create a realistic budget and a plan that fits your vision without breaking the bank. We’ll help you prioritize what matters most while being mindful of costs along the way.
How can we minimize disruption to our daily life during construction?
We get it—living through a construction project is no walk in the park. Our team prioritizes communication and works to minimize the mess and noise so you can live your life with as little hassle as possible. We’re all about making your experience a positive one. We’ll make sure you’re kept in the loop, so you can plan around any disruptions, while still making steady progress on your home additions!
Let's Build Together
Got big ideas for a Boulder home addition or a pop-top house that transforms your space? We’re here to make it happen! Let’s chat about your plans today.