A complete second story added to a single-story Foster City ranch home — three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a new primary suite with a covered balcony, all built to naturally match the original structure.
The owners of this Foster City home had outgrown their single-story ranch — but they weren't ready to leave the neighborhood. They came to Lussoro with a goal that was ambitious but clear: add a full second story that would give their family the space they needed without sacrificing the character of the home they'd built their life around. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a primary suite with a covered balcony — all designed to look like it was always part of the house.
Adding a second story to an existing single-story home is one of the harder things you can do in residential construction. The existing structure had to be evaluated and reinforced to carry the new load. Matching the roofline, exterior materials, and architectural character of the original home took careful detailing — an addition that looks like an addition is a missed opportunity. The goal was for it to disappear, inside and out.
On the main floor, we removed the kitchen wall to open sightlines to the family room, dining room, and hallway — turning the main level into a connected, functional space for a family that entertains. The fireplace was refinished in Zebrino Grigio Italian marble, which anchors the living room with warmth and texture. The old staircase was replaced with a wire cable railing system that brings a contemporary edge and channels light down from the skylight overhead. The half wall overlooking the family room came down and was replaced with a matching cable system, opening the second floor to the spaces below. The kitchen centers on a 33 square foot angled island with seating for four, finished in Greenfield cabinetry in Champion Cobalt by Benjamin Moore — a bold, saturated color that gives the room actual personality. Divine Aurea Stone countertops and backsplash bring a clean elegance: crisp white field, soft gray veining. Satin brass fixtures and cabinet hardware run throughout, tying the contemporary palette together with a finish that will age well.