Converting a Porch into Living Space
Built in 1913, this classic Craftsman home in St. Paul’s Merriam Park neighborhood offered all the charm of the era—detailed millwork, balanced proportions, and a front porch full of character. But for a young family with three children, character alone wasn’t enough. They needed their main floor to work harder for everyday life. By converting the porch to living space, they gained a bright, practical room—one that feels true to the home.
Before & After
Move the slider to see the transformation.
Connected by Design
Opening up the floor plan improves sightlines and allows natural light to flow into both the dining and living rooms. Carefully proportioned cased openings, custom millwork, and consistent flooring tones create a sense of visual continuity that ties the new space back to the home’s original Craftsman charm.
Framed Just Right
The windows also played a central role in the transformation. Sourced from Sierra Pacific Windows, the style and placement were carefully considered to preserve one of the porch’s best features: natural light. You’ll also notice a slim ledge that conceals the remaining brick from the original porch, doubling as a subtle design detail that adds charm and character to the new space.
Before & After
Move the slider to see the transformation.
Preserving the Porch Feel
You can see here how window placement played a key role in maintaining the look of the original porch. The sizing and spacing help preserve its classic charm while supporting the functionality of the new interior space.
Light, Warmth, and Room to Move
The main floor is reenergized—there’s space to drop backpacks, run circles around the furniture, and move through the day with a little more ease. It feels brighter, more open, and more connected to the outdoors—ready to embrace the changing seasons.
Team Credits
Design: Mary Ellen Rantanen
Project Manager: Paul Gorton
Photos: Troy Thies
