The challenge: Jeff and Janna Northrup didn't have enough space for the shoes, sports equipment and musical instruments their four kids have. So they wanted to add a new foyer, a mudroom with storage and a designated place where the kids could practice their music. The catch? They didn't want to expand the footprint of their 1939 Cape Cod in Edina. "We wanted more useful space," said Janna, "not more square footage."

The team: Architect Paul Hannan, SALA Architects, www.salaarc.com, 612-767-4135 and Steven Cabinets, Minneapolis.

The solution: Hannan renovated the existing large living room. A third of the room was converted into a foyer and mudroom, while the remainder was redesigned as a music room.

Workhorse wall: Hannan erected a new wall to divide the newly created spaces. In the foyer/mudroom, the wall contains built-in cabinets for sports equipment and pegs to hang coats and hats. In the music room, the wall has built-in shelving.

Window to door: To create a new front entry, Hannan inserted a custom door where the living room's bay window had been. The front entry opens to the foyer and mudroom. "It feels much more welcoming," said Janna.

New merges with old: While the mudroom storage is state-of-the-art, with specialized drawers for soccer equipment and an electronic charging station, Hannan finished the room with painted white wood, dark walnut and an upholstered bench that blends with the rest of the home.

Room with a view: A window in the foyer gives a glimpse of display cabinets in the music room. "This framed opening is a small gesture that creates interest," said Hannan.

Repositioned fireplace: Hannan removed a wood-burning fireplace and installed a gas fireplace a few feet away, using the existing chimney. "It works better for the shape of the new music room," he said.

Best part: "I'm not a musician, but seeing the instruments displayed in the cabinets encourages my kids to open them up and play," said Janna. "This is an inviting place for music."

Lynn Underwood • 612-763-7619