The Homes

1611 Colonial Avenue

This 1946 bungalow in the heart of Kirkwood features classic design, a functional layout and a cheery yellow front door.  Current owners, Erik and Melissa, bought the home in 2014 and were drawn to the choppy, original kitchen and the opportunity to make it their own.  Five years later, they have made their mark on every space in the home, including new outdoor patio spaces and a backhouse, complete with screened porch and daybed swing.  The light-filled den is perfect for watching kids play in the yard or afternoon napping for this young family of five. “We use every room in our home every day and love the connection it fosters within our family,” Melissa shares.  Check out their newest update, the master bathroom remodel, or their favorite feature, the photo gallery wall in the dining area!

1602 Colonial Avenue

As newlyweds, Jeff and Megan moved into their 1946 Kirkwood home in 2008.  While the original 3-bed 1-bath layout had been expanded over the years, the space didn’t fully accommodate their now family of four and their love of hosting friends. Jeff and Meg so enjoyed the ease and warmth of the Kirkwood community–kids playing in the street and impromptu gatherings with neighbors–that moving to a different house was out of the question. The dream of reconfiguring their home to fit their way of life became a reality as they lived through a four-month renovation, completed this August.  The smartly transformed space includes an added laundry/mudroom, a gracious living area expanded to include the old porch and an open kitchen at the heart of it all. All perfect for brunch with neighbors and epic family dance parties. Come see the convenience of features like the new appliance nook alongside the character of original hardwoods and a charming old trap door.

2508 Lafayette Avenue

Nestled in the heart of Kirkwood, this 1940 traditional-style home is a classic charmer. Its corner lot provides a popular gathering spot for the annual Fourth of July neighborhood parade and celebration.  A work in progress for Ian and Tamara since 2011, the home features an updated kitchen and hall bath, but the original beauty of pine hardwoods and dentil crown molding remain. Come check out the large scale renovation that is currenlty underway to accodomate their growing family!  Changes include a master bedroom and bath, laundry closet, and breakfast nook downstairs and a bonus room and two bedrooms upstairs. When complete, the home will serve as an even better communal perch with the addition of a wrap-around porch. “Our home has been an absolute labor of love and we are so blessed to raise our family in this beautiful corner of Greensboro,” says Tamara.  Stop by for a sneak peek of this 2020 Kirkwood Tour of Homes house mid-renovation!

1601 Independence Road

At the corner of Lafayette and Independence, this classic 1947 bungalow welcomes you with its happy red front door and inviting covered back porches.  Taylor and Eileen purchased the home in 2016 from the original Kirkwood owner. No stranger to the neighborhood, Taylor was born just a block away on Independence and was excited to move back and create new memories with his growing family!  With equal emphasis on keeping the charm and history intact and increasing functional space throughout, the first floor layout has been transformed to an open concept. You’ll find archways and picture rail molding true to the original design featured in the living room and master bedroom as well as the original doors and hardwood floors in the entire home. Check out how they fit the pantry and waste cans in for a great space saving design! 

2405 Lafayette Avenue

Constructed in 1947, this 3-bed 2-bath home has undergone significant renovations while maintaining the original Kirkwood charm.  Owner Tracy has embraced the idea of downsizing without sacrificing features that make life enjoyable. In fact, he can often be found enjoying his three-season porch complete with fireplace, or chipping golf balls in his private backyard.  Note the renovated kitchen, laundry room addition, and spacious master closet, as well as updated custom trim. With plenty of curb appeal, the lush landscaping continues around the home, where a generous detached garage is tucked away. Come enjoy the fresh perspective given to this historically significant Post-War home.

1704 Liberty Drive

Built in 1950 by Oka T. Hester, this custom brick home is conveniently located a stone’s throw from the neighborhoood park.  The exterior of the home has been updated to include a modern color palette and charming Southern front porch, complete with haint blue ceiling.  Current owner Graham grew up in Kirkwood and bought this home from the original owner in 2017 as a project. The whole house renovation is now complete and ready for its new owners to enjoy for the next 60 years!  The entryway features smart additions like a functional coat closet and half bath, while the barn door to the laundry/mudroom and classic design choices throughout add style and charm. A bright, central kitchen and dining area boasts tons of storage and double french doors leading to the back patio.  Don’t miss the beautiful master bathroom with spacious shower and soaker tub!

1512 Liberty Drive

This 1950’s painted brick ranch perches on a generous half acre lot overlooking the common green space on Liberty.  Owners Matt and Evan created an open layout and tied together previous additions with a tasteful kitchen and living room remodel in 2015.  The reconfiguration also turned a tightly packed laundry space into a mudroom and converted a guestroom into a better utilized half bath and laundry.  Amidst a playful teal tile backsplash, the hardworking kitchen island serves double duty as the gathering area for both homework and dinner for this family of four.  More recently, a covered back patio addition provides some much needed shade and a true outdoor living and dining area, complete with TV and fireplace. The outdoor haven is a perfect place to enjoy their morning coffee, with sightlines to the kids’ whimsical playhouse.

Photos by Tyler Olson with Tyler Olson Photography http://www.tdophotography.com