We are preparing to rebuild our home in Altadena and are looking for a licensed, detail-oriented builder with experience restoring or recreating an Altadena gem. Our original home was one of Altadena’s historic Janes Cottages, and our goal is to honor that character while upgrading the structure, systems, and overall resilience for the long term.

Project Overview:

1472 sf SFR / 576 sf ADU

Our architectural plans are complete and include a beautifully proportioned single-story Janes Cottage with front gables, clipped eaves, traditional stucco, and balanced window groupings. The design reflects the hallmarks of this historic style: modest massing, gentle roof pitches, small attic vents, and simple but intentional trim details. The project also includes a new detached ADU, designed with compatibility in form and simplicity.

Architectural & Exterior Highlights

* Classic Janes Cottage rooflines with paired front gables and shallow dormer forms

* Traditional stucco finish, clean corner detailing, and minimal ornamentation

* Original-style double-hung windows arranged in symmetrical groupings

* A modest, welcoming entry porch integrated into the primary façade

* Updated roof structure and stucco envelope while preserving the proportions of the original cottage

Interior Layout

Inside, the plan maintains the efficient, compact charm of a Janes Cottage while improving flow and function. The design includes:

* Open living, kitchen, and dining connection

* Bedrooms arranged to maximize natural light

* Updated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing layouts

* A clean, historically respectful interior trim package

* ADU layout optimized for privacy, storage, and livability

What We’re Looking for in a Builder

We are seeking a contractor who has experience with:

* Historic-style cottage construction or careful architectural reproduction

* Stucco systems, attic venting, and gable framing consistent with early Altadena cottages

* Accurate installation of double-hung windows, trim casings, and simple eave details

* Coordination across both the main residence and the ADU

* Clear communication, transparent pricing, and consistency from engineering through finishes

We value craftsmanship, clarity, and respect for the style of the home. If your team has experience with traditional cottage architecture—or if you enjoy the precision required to execute historically grounded design—we would welcome the opportunity to review your proposal.

2025C63