From Storage Space to Dream Suite: The Lubsey Family's Dormer Addition
- 5 days ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Project Overview
Client: Jonah and Rebecca Lubsey Project Type: Second Floor Dormer Addition & Master Suite Conversion Location: Wisconsin Project Focus: Transform underutilized attic storage into a functional master suite Design Goal: Maximize natural light and ceiling height while navigating tight lot constraints
The Vision
Growing families need growing spaces, but that doesn't always mean moving. When Jonah and Rebecca Lubsey looked around their beloved home, they saw something many homeowners face – they had the footprint they needed, but not the functionality.
Their second floor had potential, but it was trapped. What existed as an oversized storage area could become so much more – a dream master suite that would give their growing family the space they needed without leaving the neighborhood they loved.
The Challenge:Â Transform a cramped, underutilized attic space into a light-filled master suite by cutting into the existing roof structure, all while working within the constraints of a tight lot that would test even the most experienced construction team.
What Made This Special: This project required more than just construction expertise – it needed creative space planning, structural problem-solving, precise coordination, and genuine teamwork to overcome physical challenges that could have derailed lesser crews.
Understanding the Lubsey Family's Needs
At BAB Design Build, we understand that staying in the home you love while accommodating a growing family is one of the most meaningful projects we can undertake. The Lubseys didn't need convincing to love their house – they needed smart solutions to make it work for their evolving needs.
What They Were Looking For:
Functional space planning that maximized existing square footage
Reliable scheduling they could count on
Follow-through on commitments from design to completion
Creative solutions for structural and site constraints
A team that would problem-solve rather than make excuses
Why Space Conversion Made Sense: Rather than the disruption and expense of a major addition or the emotional cost of moving, transforming their existing second floor offered the perfect solution – adding functional living space within the home they already loved.
Our Design-Build Approach
Space Planning Innovation:
The existing second floor had square footage, but it didn't have functionality. Our team saw the potential to transform this oversized storage area into a dream master suite through strategic design decisions:
Natural Light Maximization:Â Cutting into both sides of the roof to add windows
Dramatic Focal Point:Â Installing a gorgeous 9-foot sliding patio door
Height Optimization:Â Moving existing collar ties as high as possible to create an A-frame aesthetic
Functional Layout:Â Designing a master suite that serves the family's daily needs
The Technical Challenge:
This wasn't a simple renovation – it required significant structural modification:
Cutting into the existing roof system on both sides
Relocating collar ties to maximize ceiling height
Creating cathedral-style volume in previously constrained space
Engineering solutions that maintained structural integrity while opening up the room
Navigating Site Constraints
The Tight Lot Reality:
Some projects look easy on paper but reveal their true complexity on site. The Lubsey property presented a significant challenge – a tight lot that would test our team's coordination, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to collaboration.
The 9-Foot Door Challenge:
Installing a 9-foot fully assembled sliding patio door into a second-floor space on a tight lot isn't just difficult – it's the kind of challenge that separates experienced teams from the rest. There was no room for error, no easy access, and no simple solution.
Our Solution: True Teamwork
This is where BAB Design Build's culture of collaboration and employee ownership truly shined. When one crew faced a challenge that could delay the project, five crew members came together one afternoon to make it happen.
It wasn't just about muscle – it was about:
Coordination:Â Multiple teams working in perfect synchronization
Communication:Â Clear direction and constant updates
Commitment:Â Going above and beyond to keep the project moving forward
Careful Execution:Â Precision work that made a complex installation look effortless
The Result:Â What could have been a major setback became a demonstration of teamwork and careful execution that made it look like a breeze.
Craftsmanship Highlights
Structural Expertise:
Lead Carpenter Steve and his crew demonstrated the kind of technical knowledge that comes from decades of wood-framing experience:
Safely cutting into the existing roof system
Strategically relocating collar ties to maximize height
Creating structural support for new window and door openings
Maintaining building integrity throughout the transformation
Design Vision:
The decision to create an A-frame style room wasn't just aesthetic – it was about maximizing every inch of available space while creating a dramatic, light-filled environment.
Precision Installation:
From the multiple window openings to the show-stopping 9-foot sliding patio door, every installation required careful measurement, expert execution, and attention to detail.
Collaborative Spirit:
The afternoon when five crew members came together to lift that 9-foot door into place perfectly captures what makes BAB Design Build different – employee owners who are personally invested in every project's success.
The Results
The Lubsey family's second floor transformation exceeded expectations, converting underutilized storage space into a dream master suite that serves their growing family beautifully.
Key Achievements:
Functional Living Space:Â Transformed storage area into a fully functional master suite
Natural Light:Â Dramatic increase through strategic window placement and 9-foot patio door
Cathedral Ceiling:Â A-frame design maximizes perceived space and creates architectural interest
Structural Innovation:Â Relocated collar ties to optimize ceiling height
Seamless Integration:Â New space feels like it was always part of the home
On-Time Completion:Â Despite site constraints, reliable scheduling kept the project on track
Design Elements That Made the Difference:
9-Foot Sliding Patio Door:Â Creates stunning focal point and floods room with light
Dual-Side Windows:Â Opening both roof sides maximizes natural illumination
A-Frame Aesthetic:Â Raised collar ties create dramatic vertical space
Smart Space Planning:Â Every square foot designed for functionality
Quality Materials:Â Selections that balance beauty with long-term durability
What Made This Project Special
Reliable Follow-Through:
Jonah and Rebecca specifically chose BAB Design Build for reliable scheduling and follow-through. In an industry where broken promises are common, we understand that keeping commitments matters.
Creative Problem-Solving:
Tight lot constraints could have limited design options. Instead, our team found creative solutions that allowed the dramatic 9-foot door installation that defines the space.
Team Collaboration:
The afternoon when five crew members united to lift that door exemplifies our employee-owned culture – everyone invested in collective success, willing to help when it matters most.
Structural Expertise:
Steve and his crew's ability to safely modify the existing roof structure while maximizing interior space demonstrates the carpentry expertise we've built since 1979.
Space Planning Excellence:
Understanding how to transform underutilized square footage into functional living space requires experience, vision, and careful attention to how families actually live.
The BAB Design Build Difference
This project highlights several core advantages of working with BAB Design Build:
Functional Space Planning:Â Understanding how to maximize existing square footage rather than always building bigger.
Structural Expertise:Â Decades of wood-framing knowledge applied to complex renovation challenges.
Team Collaboration:Â Employee ownership creates a culture where crew members support each other's success.
Reliable Execution:Â Keeping commitments on scheduling and follow-through, even when challenges arise.
Creative Problem-Solving:Â Finding solutions to site constraints rather than compromising design vision.
Careful Craftsmanship:Â Making complex installations look effortless through skilled execution.
Growing Families, Growing Spaces
The Lubsey family's project represents a common story – loving your home and neighborhood but needing more functional space as your family evolves. Rather than the upheaval of moving, smart renovation can unlock potential you didn't know existed.
Why Dormer Additions Work:
Utilize existing footprint without expanding property boundaries
Add significant functional space at lower cost than full additions
Maintain neighborhood connections and avoid moving disruption
Transform underutilized attic areas into beautiful living spaces
Increase home value while improving daily functionality
The Key to Success:
The difference between a dormer addition that feels cramped and one that feels expansive lies in the details – strategic window placement, ceiling height optimization, natural light maximization, and expert execution.
When Teamwork Matters Most
Every construction project has its moment of truth – the challenge that tests whether you're working with a good team or a great one. For the Lubsey project, that moment came on a single afternoon when five crew members united to lift a 9-foot door into place.
In that moment, everything that makes BAB Design Build different came together:
Employee Ownership:Â Personal investment in project success
Collaborative Culture:Â Teams supporting teams without being asked
Skilled Execution:Â Making difficult work look easy
Collective Pride:Â Everyone committed to delivering excellence
The Result:Â Reliable scheduling, exceptional follow-through, and the kind of teamwork that turns challenges into success stories.
From Storage to Sanctuary
What was once an oversized storage area is now a light-filled master suite where the Lubsey family can enjoy their growing home. The A-frame ceiling, strategic windows, and stunning 9-foot patio door transformed cramped attic space into a room that feels expansive, inviting, and perfectly suited to their needs.
The Transformation:
Before: Underutilized storage space with limited light and low ceilings
After: Dream master suite with cathedral ceilings and abundant natural light
The Impact:Â A growing family gets to stay in the home and neighborhood they love, with the functional space they need for years to come.
Ready to Unlock Your Home's Potential?
Whether you're a growing family needing more space, looking to transform underutilized square footage, or planning a dormer addition that maximizes natural light, the key is finding a team with the expertise to execute your vision and the reliability to deliver on their promises.
At BAB Design Build, we bring 45+ years of carpentry expertise, creative space planning, and employee-owned commitment to every project. We don't just add square footage – we transform how you experience your home.
Contact BAB Design Build:
VP of Pre-Construction: Dan Schmidt - dschmidt@bobandersonbuilders.com Office: webuildforyou@bobandersonbuilders.com Phone: [Phone Number] Website: [Website]
We Build For You
BAB Design Build is part of The Anderson Construction Group, an employee-owned company serving Wisconsin since 1979. From dormer additions to complete home transformations, we're honored to help growing families unlock their home's full potential.