Classic Bungalow Master Suite Renovation in Madison, Wisconsin

This article describes a renovation of a classic 1926 bungalow in Madison, Wisconsin, for homeowners Peter and Betsy. Their goal was to maximize their views of Lake Monona by transforming the second floor into a master suite and a separate guest area, while maintaining the home's historic character. The master suite was created by combining two bedrooms while maintaining its features, including a stained-glass window and a bathroom with natural, lake-inspired elements. The guest retreat on the opposite side includes larger windows, a reading nook, custom shelving, and a Murphy bed that doubles as a desk. Throughout the renovation, the design reflects the couple’s natural, whimsical style and incorporates both vintage and modern features. The result is a space that meets the homeowners’ needs and showcases their personal style, with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

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Our Clients and Their Historic Bungalow

Our clients, Peter and Betsy, are a late baby boomer couple who live in a classic 1926 bungalow in Madison’s Schenk-Atwood neighborhood. Their home has a beautiful view of Lake Monona. Peter and Betsy approached us seeking a way to maximize the view. The bungalow had small bedrooms on the second floor, and a prior renovation created a third-floor attic bedroom suite. The couple’s goals for the remodel were to create a primary suite and a designated space for guests on the second level, retaining the historical character of the home while bringing the feel of the outside in, particularly enhancing the views of the lake from the new second-floor primary suite and guest space.

A Stylish Primary Bathroom and Unique Dressing Area

Pete and Betsy’s style is very natural, with a whimsical bohemian vibe. They wanted their bungalow master suite to reflect their unique style. As you enter the room, you walk into the dressing area. A wardrobe and custom Amish-made dresser, stained in a warm fruitwood, offers plenty of stylish storage. One unique element of the dressing area is the built-in furniture that also functions as the bed headboard. We removed the original plaster covering the chimney and whitewashed the brick, creating a warm visual element. The master bath features double French doors. Original to the home, we found them in the basement, and they’re a perfect entry to this stylish bathroom. Bringing additional natural elements into our design, the bathroom floor tile mimics the ripples left by water in sand. The beautiful blue shower tile and the whimsical fish-shaped tile in the niche all contribute to the calming vibe, offer maximum functionality, and tie the design to the stunning lake views.

The New Guest Retreat

On the opposite side of the second floor, across from the new master suite, we created a beautiful guest area. The homeowners wanted a multipurpose room that they and their guests could enjoy. We installed larger windows to flood the space with natural light and created a perfect reading nook. The space features custom wood shelving that completes the space and makes it feel warm and relaxing. On the opposite side of the room, we removed a closet, making the room larger. We installed a Murphy bed that functions as a desk when guests aren’t present. This is the perfect place to hang out and enjoy the lake view for homeowners and their guests alike!

The Result of This Historic Renovation

Peter and Betsy wanted their classic bungalow master suite to reflect their personal style while remaining perfectly imperfect, since their home has many unique attributes. With the beautiful lake views, natural materials, vintage elements, and unique features, it’s mission accomplished! Pete and Betsy’s goals were achieved, and they now have a home that perfectly meets their needs and complements their lifestyle.