It all starts with a Vision
Chilton Street marked a special milestone in my career—my first project in Cambridge. The location, just a stone’s throw from Harvard Square, was ideal, and the project took on personal significance for me as Cambridge is where my son was born. I wanted this home to be a masterpiece that reflected both my love for the city and my unique approach to blending contemporary and traditional design elements.
As an architectural designer, I often take an active role in the design process, sketching out ideas by hand to shape the vision. For this project, I wanted to create something that stood out while harmonizing with the surrounding neighborhood. By adding a square tower with tall, narrow windows, using large-format cement panels for siding, incorporating granite slabs to cover the foundation, and adding glass paneling on the balcony, I infused the exterior with a sleek, modern look. The use of red cedar planks added a natural, organic touch to the facade, balancing the modern elements with warmth.
I also personally designed every bathroom, kitchen, fireplace, and wet bar in this home. For the bathrooms, I wanted to evoke a spa-like atmosphere, combining clean lines with luxurious finishes to create spaces where relaxation comes naturally. My goal was to deliver a space that would stand the test of time, both in functionality and style.
The project took over a year to complete, but the end result was well worth the effort. For the first time in my career, the buyers specifically requested to meet the builder, which led to a memorable moment. They initially visited the open house to gather ideas for a future fixer-upper, but after seeing the home, they fell in love with it. They realized they couldn’t recreate what I had done and decided to purchase both units outright—an incredible honor. Even more astonishing was that they paid the full asking price without requesting any reductions, a rare occurrence in the luxury market. Their appreciation for the details and craftsmanship reaffirmed my belief that exceptional work speaks for itself.
This project will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me that putting your best work forward—no matter how challenging—yields deeply rewarding results.
Are you looking to get your Home Remodeled?
Get in touch with Paulo Santos for a custom design that will elevate your residence & greatly enhance its value.
