Armed with a vision, Markus and Stacie Winkler teamed up with Laura Popovich of Creative Interiors to develop a plan to revitalize the home, while making it functional for their growing family. Markus Winkler, who has a do-it-yourself mentality, was able to use his creative ingenuity to put his own stamp on the project. The end result is a home that breathes with new life and vitality while keeping its old world charm.

Once closed off from the rest of the home, the kitchen is now an open space ideal for this young family at mealtime. White bar chairs embrace the oversized island with a honed marble top and gray base. The built-in banquette surrounds a white table, paired with their son, Benjamin’s high chair for active family meals. Steel, gray-leathered granite counters pair nicely with the white cabinetry, accentuated with a subtle glaze. An arabesque tile backsplash is an attractive focal point in the room.

Imagination and play are encouraged in the theater room, a new addition to the home. A large media screen is creatively showcased on a stage that also allows the kids to show off their talents. A built-in closet to the left of the stage holds a variety of costumes for any occasion. Sofas with chaise lounges occupy the tiered platforms that allow prime viewing. Framed movie posters line the walls while a popcorn machine completes the fun.

Doors lead from the family room out to the airy covered porch. While exploring in the attic, Markus stumbled across a beam with “Anchorage” carved in it. He re-purposed it into the mantel for the brick fireplace, flanked by a built-in grill and small refrigerator. A television hangs above the mantel. Chairs surround a long table, inviting informal gatherings. A cozy sectional is the ideal space for Markus and Stacie to relax while supervising the kids on their swing set.

A charming treasure in St. Matthews

The master bedroom is a mix of new and old. Chocolate and blue linens dress the sleigh bed. A stained glass window pays homage to the history of the home while contemporary accent chairs provide a place to unwind. Photographs decorate the walls. Shadow boxes showcasing mementos flank the television. An area rug anchors the room.

Understated elegance describes the master bathroom. Original shutters that Markus found in the attic are a perfect fit for the windows. White cabinetry is highlighted by the steel gray-leathered granite countertops. A vanity tower — embraced by stylish mirrors — provides a hideaway for personal items. The large walk-in shower features a mix of marble, adding texture to the room. A freestanding tub adds an element of pampering to the space.

Homeowners: Markus and Stacie Winkler. Markus is a business strategist for FedEx and Stacie is division vice president and associate general counsel of the Hospital Division for Kindred Healthcare. They share their home with their children, Emma, Libby and Benjamin.

Home: This historic home in Anchorage was built in 1891 and is a 5-bed, 4-and-1/2-bath home.

Distinctive elements: Original fireplaces; tall ceilings; pocket doors and architectural elements; addition with bar and theater room; open kitchen and family room; covered porch with built-in fireplace; refrigerator and grill; and renovated attic converted into a playroom.

Applause! Applause! Markus and Stacie were pleased with the assistance from ReMax realtor Cindy Albright-Parrish; builder/designer Laura Popovich of Creative Interiors; and Wendy O’Brien of Commonwealth Bank & Trust.