Renovating a historic home is an art—one that balances preserving timeless character with integrating modern comforts. In Boston, where rich architectural history meets contemporary living, homeowners face unique challenges and opportunities when updating older properties. Thoughtful renovations honor original craftsmanship while incorporating modern layouts, energy-efficient systems, and high-end finishes. Whether it’s restoring intricate millwork, upgrading kitchens and bathrooms, or enhancing functionality without compromising charm, the goal is to create a seamless fusion of past and present. With the right expertise, a historic home can be transformed into a masterpiece that offers both heritage and modern luxury.
Historic Meets Modern | Cambridge, MA
S+H worked on a complete renovation of this gorgeous nineteenth-century home before being hired by the new homeowners and, again, starting from scratch. This time around, a clean, modern aesthetic was for this three-story beauty in a historic Boston area neighborhood. Recognized as a historic home, the renovation needed to be following the constraints of the historic district. Interior walls were demolished to expand the kitchen and improve the primary suite. The bathrooms were all renovated, but many of the previous owners’ custom marble moldings and door casings remained. Contemporary recessed lights draw attention to the exquisite artwork, and steel doors now grace the front foyer. The previously dark raised paneled library was completely restructured with moldings and a series of built-ins highlighting the Anish Kapoor sculpture. A subtle palette of gray, taupe, and sea-green throughout the private spaces complement the Namibia White stone backing the couple’s tub. This exquisite home’s transformation reflects the homeowner’s exceptional taste and pays homage to the successful design and construction collaboration.
19th Century Modernization | Brookline, MA
This beautiful 19th-century home in Brookline featured handsome architectural details prevalent in homes of this era. Over the years, various modifications were made, and in the 1950s, the homeowners divided the house into two separate properties. When our clients relocated to the area, they fell in love with the house and location but wanted the home converted back to a single-family residence with modern amenities. Architect David Boronkay of Slocum Hall Design Group re-imagined the entire layout. A modern kitchen complete with a butler’s pantry and mudroom now occupies the back of the house. All the bathrooms were relocated and updated. We took great care to restore elements of the home that paid homage to the original craftsmanship including the main staircase and various stained glass windows. The exterior, which underwent an entire facelift and restoration, gained two new roof decks, which expanded the outdoor space.
