Architecture firm In Situ Studio needed to overcome rotting trim and crumbling brick mortar to renovate and slightly enlarge an American foursquare-style dwelling that had fallen into shambles.
The Nolintha Residence is located in Raleigh, the state capital of North Carolina. The clients ? a brother and sister who are successful restaurateurs ? hired local firm In Situ Studio to overhaul the 1920s red brick home designed in an American Foursquare style. Popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the simple, boxy homes were known for their efficient layouts, with each floor typically containing four rooms.

The architects were tasked with creating a modern home with a shared living area and three separate bedroom suites, one of which could accommodate guests. The clients also wanted the dwelling to be suitable for large events. "This house is our clients' first home, and the programme they presented was unusual ? the renovation of a decaying, historic four-square to accommodate food-related events and provide three separate living suites," said the architects.

Complicating the project was the home's poor condition. On the exterior, certain portions of the brick mortar had turned into powder, and the trim was deteriorating. The walls were also rotting, due to water leaking through open mortar joints.
The interior was equally dilapidated. Over the years, the building had been divided into three apartments, with tenants sharing the bathrooms and kitchen. Odd ...