Crescent Hill

Brookline, MA

This elegant turn of the century home was awaiting new owners with the vision to see its potential. Taking over from only the second family to own the house, our clients approached us with the desire to strategically mix preservation with needed renovations that would reflect their desire for contemporary living. We guided them in designing appropriate internal changes and additions that would add the square footage they needed, maintain the classic front façade and historic details, but transform the garden side of the home with a modern insertion that embraced openness, views and natural light.

The expanded rear of the home delivers striking views of a local park and the Boston city skyline beyond while adding significant daylight. Added rooms include an enlarged and relocated kitchen, breakfast area, family room and patio, and a new master bedroom suite on the second floor, with a new garage added on the west side of the home. A new mudroom, rear stair and elevator provide access to all four floors, as special attention was given to barrier free design for aging grandparents who visit often. The basement level was finished and expanded, adding a media and crafts room, golf simulator, and exercise room.

Exterior improvements include new windows, shutters, gutters, roof and stucco. The transformed landscape features a new rear stone patio and lower play yard, and a new overall planting and lighting scheme. Interior layout and finishes were changed to improve flow and add elegance and sophistication while staying true to the historic fabric. The unusual entry, staircase, and columned entry hall were preserved along with the original living room with its period molding and fireplace. The resulting renovation fully blends into the rich architectural history of this Brookline neighborhood, building upon the past, but looking towards the future.