The new owners of this house fell in love with the potential, the character and historic qualities of this large lot and gracious home, Despite missing many original details and being in need of an update, they determined to not tear the house down and discussed shepherding the next period of the home with the sellers. Additions over the past 10 decades, overgrowth of the landscape and removal of period details were all considered when bringing the house back to the past and setting it up for modern living.
A new attached carriage house and guest suite completed the front courtyard design, travel into and out of the house and the hub of daily life. The formal rooms on the first floor were retained and a great room and kitchen design, with large glass doors offering a view and connection to the stunning landscape were engaged in the design. Clean lined paneling, wood beams and a Dutch door were designed into the formal front entry and foyer, so that entertaining spaces were connected to the family spaces in a way that encourages flow and use of the entire house.
A new three floor stair was created to flow daylight through the core of the house and connect all levels of living. The stairs have a stunning brass and steel continuous curve. The second floor was re-organized to infill an underutilized outdoor deck and create a conservatory for the primary suite and three guest bedrooms. The former staff quarters and storage on the third floor were laid out to create an office and large guest suite. Historic photos and extensive work with the Chestnut Hill Historic commission revealed that a large dormer had been removed and was added to the renovation to offer head height, daylight and a truer version of the original home.
Extensive study of the exterior was undertaken to create an approach to restoration that would honor the original design, quality, and charm of this home. Shingle patterns, trims and details were preserved and repeated. The landscape design created a winding and wooded entry, preserved an Icon Beach Tree and wildflower meadow and worked to create outdoors rooms, a formal front and paths for vehicles that are reminiscent of carriage paths rather than asphalt drives.
