The Vision: The existing primary en-suite and closet in this lovely Ann Arbor Hills home were simply too cramped for our clients' needs. To solve this, we are embarking on a major second-story addition. This project will create a spacious new en-suite, featuring a primary bathroom with high-end cabinetry, artisan finishes, and a design that maximizes natural light. The addition will also include a large, organized walk-in closet and a separate, private toilet room. As part of this transformation, we are also remodeling the children’s bathroom to elevate the entire second floor.

We invite you to follow along with our Current Work Updates as we cross each major construction milestone on the way to a gorgeous finish.

Pre-Demolition Phase– The Vision at a Glance

A quick glance at the renderings already show the spaciousness that the homeowners will have in their new en-suite.

Coming up next is demolition.

Demolition Phase - The Clean Slate

Before we could build up, we had to prepare the existing structure by carefully removing the old roof and interior elements over the dining room and kitchen. This phase is about more than just removal; it’s about reinforcing the "bones" of the home to support the new footprint above. 

We started by supporting the current structure for the coming addition.
The solar panels also needed to be removed and will be going back up when we’re done.

What’s next: We will begin framing the vertical walls for the new primary suite.

Framing Phase - Skeleton & Scale

With the structural "bones" reinforced, we move on to the skeleton and scale of the project.

The addition framing has started 😊. And you can see that a new steel beam has been installed to support the new floor above.
Rochman Design Build’s team members Nick (left) and Jared (right) take a minute to smile at the camera .

Project Manager Nick is walking us through the project both on the 1st and 2nd floors.

Rough-ins Phase - The Infrastructure

Rough-ins are all about the "hidden structures", think plumbing, HVAC, Electrical – that ensure modern performance behind the luxury finishes. 

Our team of subcontractors has been meticulously installing the mechanical systems required for a high-functioning modern suite. Our plumbers and electricians have carefully navigated the new framing to ensure all modern comforts are seamlessly integrated, from the complex HVAC ductwork to the precise placement of electrical junction boxes.

With the rough-ins nearing completion, we are ready for drywall.

Drywall Phase: The Definition of Space

Drywall marks the exciting transition from exposed infrastructure to the physical definition of the new en-suite. With the drywall now hung, the architectural volume and scale of the addition are finally visible, setting the stage for the upcoming bespoke cabinetry and tile work. 

Watching the rooms take shape during this phase is always a highlight for our clients as they can now visualize their new space better. Our team has carefully installed moisture-resistant backing in the new shower (purple drywall) and vanity areas (green drywall). By closing the walls, we’ve moved from a complex network of "bones" to a clean, primed canvas where the natural light from the new window placements can truly begin to illuminate the space.

… And drywall phase continues