405 W 86th Terrace

Some houses get updated. This one got loved. The character that makes this Waldo 1950 home special was carefully preserved, while thoughtful improvements were made where they matter. Newly refinished hardwood floors bring back the warmth of the original home, complemented by fresh interior and exterior paint and new lighting. The remodeled bathroom has a fresh look of its own, with deep green tile and updated fixtures. But the kitchen is the part you’ll remember. The original American Kitchens steel cabinetry remains in place, from the celebrated mid-century line associated with legendary industrial designer Raymond Loewy. Rather than replace it, the cabinetry was professionally refreshed in soft sage green, preserving the streamlined steel doors and drawers, chrome hardware and some seriously clever original storage. Open things up and you’ll find built-in metal drawer dividers, adjustable shelving, door-mounted storage and those fabulous pull-out steel bins. Even the large porcelain-enamel sink remains, complete with double drainboards and its original faucet bearing the American Kitchens name. A new vintage-look refrigerator and new kitchen flooring complement what was already here rather than trying to turn it into something it isn’t. And the work wasn’t limited to what you can see. A new roof, new water heater, updated electrical and preventative basement bracing are among the important improvements already completed. The full unfinished basement provides plenty of storage and additional usable space. Outside, the restained deck overlooks a generous backyard with mature trees and plenty of room to garden, play, entertain or simply enjoy the space. Fresh without feeling flipped. Updated without erasing the things that made it special in the first place. And that kitchen? It isn’t designed to look vintage. It is vintage.