Ravi Raj Revamps 100-Year-Old Croton-on-Hudson Home: See the Stunning Transformation!

The early 20th-century stone dwellings of Westchester are not merely structures but embodiments of the geological essence of their environment. Ravi Raj’s renovation of a house in Croton-on-Hudson’s Mount Airy neighborhood is a testament to this, as it meticulously interweaves the original stonework into the modern redesign, blending history with modernity to create a seamless unity.

Matching local flagstone has been used to augment the foundational stonework of the house, not only preserving its historical aesthetic but also subtly enlarging its structure. In a contrasting move, the upper sections of the house are encased in white lap siding, introducing a modern, lighter visual element that distinguishes yet harmonizes with the traditional masonry below. A 1980s extension, which previously disrupted the continuity of the roofline, has been completely redesigned with a new upper story and steeply pitched roof, complete with dormers that both connect back to local architectural traditions and restore visual symmetry.

The redesign begins from the moment one enters at the subterranean level; the foyer and adjoining mudroom are laid with textured limestone and accented with wood-paneled walls that mirror the natural surroundings. Ascending from this point, a sculptural staircase—Raj’s modern reinterpretation of an old spiral staircase—serves as both a functional passage and a focal point, guiding movement and sightlines towards the stone formations behind the home, thereby maintaining a dialogue between the house and its natural setting.

Curved doorways continue this architectural narrative throughout the home, easing transitions between spaces and introducing a fluid rhythm to the movement from one room to the next. The main floor is an open arrangement of living spaces, including a galley kitchen, a spacious great room, and the primary suite, each space flowing into the next through curved architectural forms. In the great room, a subtly sloping fireplace and an arched nook with built-in seating amplify this theme, providing a sense of openness that extends to the wooded landscape outside.

In the primary suite, the home’s historical layers are palpable, with two rooms showcasing different eras. The bedroom features exposed, original rafters painted in dark green, alongside a restored fireplace in dark soapstone, anchoring the room in its historical context. In contrast, the adjoining bathroom uses bright marble hex tiles and white lacquered wood wainscoting to evoke a clean, modern feel, juxtaposing the suite’s more historical elements.

Outside, the architectural dialogue extends into the landscape with strategic outdoor features. A raised deck from the great room features a sophisticated metal firepit, while a bluestone patio outside the kitchen includes a built-in barbecue, both designed to enhance engagement with the environment through various seasons.

The renovation consistently employs a palette of natural finishes—such as lacquered wood, honed marble, soft textiles, and bespoke built-ins—that contribute to an ambiance that is both timeless and meticulously planned. What was once a disjointed structure has been transformed into a cohesive entity through careful material choice, thoughtful design interventions, and a clear vision that adeptly marries the legacy of the past with contemporary living.

Photography courtesy of Sarah Elliott.