Verdant Living

Starting with a 5-bedroom Victorian Farmhouse style home in one of Boston’s western suburbs, the intent was to correct an awkward 1960s addition, expand and rethink the layout, add a larger garage and bring all systems to current sustainable design standards. The core historic section of the home was preserved where possible, with the entry, dining room and kitchen located as they once were, but augmented with changes in size and function. The expanded first floor now houses the primary living spaces as well as a new pantry, office and mudroom. The stair core was opened up, with the second floor bedrooms remaining in place, and a new master suite was added as part of the addition. To accommodate planned spaces in the basement, the foundation was deepened by four feet. With the added height, a new gym, media/game room, laundry, wine room, storage and mechanical room were added. The new 3-car garage is connected to the existing home with a side entrance gallery adjacent to the mudroom. Above the parking area is a new studio, bedroom and bath – flexible space that can be used for the new owner’s specific needs.

The interiors of the home were designed to reflect the overall mission of the project – a balance between the historic fabric and the practicalities of modern living. Custom millwork and paneling are traditional features, contrasted with contemporary lighting, tile, hardware and color choices.