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From Traditional to Wow

From Ranch to Retreat A Story of Style and Transformation on Zeeb Road

Article by Liora Rosen

Photography by Liora Rosen

In the heart of Ann Arbor, every house holds a story waiting to be told. For one local family, that story began with a traditional ranch house on Zeeb Road and a dream to transform it into a vibrant, multi-generational home. This isn't a typical renovation case study; it's a narrative of reimagining space, solving problems with intention, and achieving a new lifestyle.

The vision was clear: to create a home that could comfortably accommodate different members of the family for years to come. This wasn't just about adding square footage; it was about infusing the space with life, joy, and a style that reflected their personalities. The aesthetic goals were deeply personal—a home filled with bold, happy colors and clean, contemporary lines.

Rochman Design Build took this vision and began the meticulous process of bringing it to life. The transformation was dramatic. Extensive demolition paved the way for a stunning second-story addition, a bold design choice that completely changed the home's silhouette. The once-simple ranch was now a modern two-story residence, crowned with clean roof lines and a striking stair tower.

The journey was not without its challenges. The construction phase was a dance of problem-solving and precision. From planning and managing interior and exterior work spanning 4 seasons, to finding surprises such as rotted framing, each stage was a close collaboration with the clients and an interior designer, ensuring the final result is as structurally sound as it is beautiful.

Inside, every detail was a key design decision. New oak floors laid the foundation for the home's new aesthetic. The first floor was completely reimagined with a new family room, formal entry, and a mudroom designed for modern life. The second floor became a private sanctuary, with three new bedrooms and an en-suite bathroom strategically positioned to take full advantage of the beautiful backyard views. Even the old rear deck was reconstructed, bringing it up to modern code and expanding the family’s outdoor living space.

The result is a home that functions beautifully and feels inspired. It is a testament to what's possible when you combine a clear vision with expert execution. The clients' emotional and aesthetic goals were met with a space that now radiates happiness and warmth.

A year long home remodel can be a stressful and arduous journey that can often go awry. As such, planning and executing such a project requires exceptional communication and clarity of expectations, and Rochman Design Build delivered.
For the homeowners, the process was as rewarding as the outcome, praising the clear communication and exceptional project management:

"The project management on this project was exceptional because of the project manager. We had weekly communication meetings regarding the construction agenda. We knew what to expect at every part of the process. The project was completed to the day on a 42-week schedule."

The story of this Zeeb Road home is a powerful reminder that a home renovation is more than just a project; it’s a journey of transformation—for the space and for the people who live in it.


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