garage was replaced with wood siding that won’t require replacement for at least 50 years. A Manhattan balcony was added to the second story, unattractive windows were replaced with tall, energy-efficient models, and custom-made wood corbels were added underneath the oversized eaves. Old landscaping was replaced with lush plantings. Nick and Danielle’s grandfather, Fred King, poured a new concrete porch and sidewalk; Danielle added a flagstone walkway; Nick built a wood deck on the back.

The house they had affectionately dubbed “Ugly Betty” had been transformed. They moved back in October 2009.

“We took the classic, simplified it, and made it bold,” says Danielle, “We wanted to keep the flavor and theme of the home without changing its footprint. Though we have repurposed some of the space, it is the same configuration on the outside.”

This is the fourth house the couple has restored. Both Springfield natives, they met as double art and communications majors at Springfield College in 1990 and admit their shared artistic interests and talents contribute greatly to their enjoyment of renovating and decorating homes. Besides, renovating houses just might be in their DNA –Danielle’s parents are Jim and Linda Fulgenzi, well known throughout the area for their ability to transform homes from the inside out, and Nick also hails from a proud tradition of home builders.

Their latest transformation has resulted in a soothing, elegant living space that also allows for the energetic activities of their children. They opted for a minimalistic, youthful decor that features a monochromatic color scheme with just enough splashes of color to keep things interesting. The neutral palette gives them a perfect backdrop for their contemporary art collection and Danielle’s photography, as well as their children’s artwork.

The floor of the spacious foyer is covered with cream Travertine marble tile that extends down the hallway into the kitchen area. A leopard print rug provides an interesting accent. At right, an 8’ tall “pier mirror” stands where the infamous bathroom once stood. Painted cream, it repeats the banding pattern found on the exterior of the home. At left, a cream painted geometric metal railing leads to the upstairs bedrooms. It is the only original furnishing still in the home and provided the inspiration for the outside balcony railing.

The spacious living room projects a sophisticated vintage feel, with its sleek furniture and bamboo floor.

“We like to purchase or acquire classic furniture with clean lines that allow us to change the fabrics to fit the decor,” Danielle says.

One of her favorite “finds” is the eight-foot-long circa-50s Baker sofa. She purchased yellow and cream checked chenille and silk fabric for the cushions to closely match its original fabric. Two barrel chairs, angled toward the sofa, were recently reupholstered with a burnt orange and cream floral fabric. Black and white framed family photos are arranged on a gilded gold round coffee table set upon a large sheepskin rug that Nick compares to “walking on a soft carpet of grass.”

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