In the heart of Ann Arbor, a remarkable transformation has taken place, turning a dated 1955 ranch-style residence into a modern gem that is now listed for an impressive $1,698,000. This extraordinary home, located at 1410 Kearney Road in the desirable Ann Arbor Hills neighborhood, was acquired by Investments One, a remodeling firm associated with Real Estate One, in 2022. The renovation reimagined the original three-bedroom layout, expanding it into a luxurious four-bedroom sanctuary that reflects mid-century modern design principles while embracing contemporary living.
The lead designer for this ambitious project, Liz Cook, collaborated with Mocha Studio, a local design firm based in Metro Detroit. As they delved deeper into the home's structure, they found that the initial plans needed to evolve significantly. "When we purchased the house, it was in really poor condition," Cook remarked. "While the 1950s mid-century ranch aesthetic inspired us, once we got into the core of the house, it became clear that a more extensive overhaul was necessary."
The home's exterior underwent a dramatic facelift—the roofline was raised and the footprint expanded, allowing for stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and sleek wood paneling reminiscent of the work of celebrated Ann Arbor architect Robert Metcalf. The bedrooms were generously enlarged, and the addition of a vaulted 15-foot ceiling created an awe-inspiring great room centered around the original stacked stone fireplace.
"Our goal was to craft a space that caters to everyone, eliminating barriers like stairs with an open layout," Cook stated. "We aimed to create that 'wow' factor right from the moment you step inside."
Upon entering through the elegantly side-lit front door, guests are greeted by the breathtaking great room, characterized by its soaring ceilings and expansive, sunlit open-concept design. The kitchen within this space boasts a striking combination of two-tone cherry and white European-style cabinetry, complemented by a pristine white quartz countertop and backsplash. An eight-foot waterfall island anchors the kitchen, which is equipped with high-end Bosch stainless steel appliances and adorned with custom light fixtures hanging from a ceiling featuring three skylights.
"This space is a perfect dream for entertaining," Williams noted, highlighting the seamless flow between the kitchen, open living area, and formal dining space, all warmed by the inviting glow of the home’s original wood-burning fireplace.
Throughout the residence, thoughtful design elements marry modern luxury with classic mid-century flair. A central supporting beam made of exposed wood runs through the great room, while cherry wood accents adorn the cabinetry and trim, enhancing the home's mid-century character. The interiors have been tastefully staged with contemporary furniture and artwork curated by Kara Koenig of Urban Bliss.
The primary suite, located at the rear of the home, has been thoughtfully expanded to include a lavish en-suite bathroom complete with walk-out access to the backyard. This spa-like retreat features dual sinks with granite countertops, a luxurious waterfall shower lined with Terrazzo tile, and a freestanding tub designed for relaxation.
Additional features of the home include a fully finished lower level that incorporates a recreation area, a wine cellar, and plumbing already in place for a potential additional bathroom. The renovated two-car garage is equipped with epoxy flooring and an attached mudroom for convenience.
One of the standout aspects of this property is its prime location. Just a few blocks away from Washtenaw Avenue and Tappan Elementary School, residents enjoy easy access to the University of Michigan campus, recreational opportunities, and shopping venues. "It's very close to County Farm Park and the Mary Lou Murray Recreation Center. People frequently walk to Trader Joe's, making daily errands quite convenient," Williams explained. "This area provides an effortless lifestyle that balances accessibility with comfort."
Cook added, "Living in this space and neighborhood means you don’t have to make compromises on quality or convenience."
The response during three open house days over the weekend showcased the widespread appeal of the home, attracting a diverse array of potential buyers. "The turnout and positive feedback confirmed our hopes and intentions for the property," Cook shared. "We saw young couples, downsizers, and families, with many being eager to witness the progress we've made."
For those interested in seeing more, a full gallery of images taken by Logan Astrup of WindowStill can be found here.
Would you consider living in such a beautifully remodeled home, or do you prefer the charm of older properties? What factors influence your decision when choosing a home? Let's discuss!
