Part of the joy of renovating historic homes is being able to incorporate the design elements of the region into a fresh iteration for the 21st century.
Designer Chuck Hart, owner and builder at Lewis and Weldon Custom Cabinetry, LLC, has a passion for the architecture and artisanship of old New England homes. Based on Cape Cod, he and his team are well-versed in the traditions of the area, as well as the desires of the clients they work with.
When people cross the bridge from the mainland, their mindset changes, Chuck says. They want 'days of old'—a painted kitchen, all-white trim; essentially, a classic New England look.
In this kitchen remodel, which is part of a broader total home renovation, Chuck sought to preserve the essence of the coastal cottage while also allowing for modern amenities.
I wanted to make it feel as if it has always been there, to recreate the original feeling with today's conveniences, he says.
INTERIOR OVERHAUL
Built in the 1880s, the three-story Victorian home was in need of a refresh to lovingly and respectfully bring it up to date. The homeowners had lived in the cottage for three years before deciding to make some changes.
They became aware of the lack of convenience and modern appliances, as well as the super-low ceilings, but they still wanted to keep the feeling of the original home, Chuck explains.
Achieving their goals meant a complete gut of the home and a rethinking of key entertaining spaces, especially the kitchen, to accommodate the clients' love of hosting family and friends.
This story is from the April - May 2022 edition of Cottages and Bungalows.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April - May 2022 edition of Cottages and Bungalows.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The POWER or Patience
Learn how collecting décor over time, rather than filling areas quickly to appear finished, can transform the appeal of your spaces and ensure your home reflects you
Destined for Design
See how Cara Fox, the force behind The Fox Group and our partner for Project House Utah, achieves her career goals with the support of her family
Clearing Clutter, Adding Color
A designer creates more space, adds storage and warms up the neutral palette of a guest house with accent colors
A Return to Minden
We revisit our 2022 Project House Louisiana for an update since the project was completed and see The Carrie, the final unit at The Villas
Gathered at the Table
Create a charming fall tablescape with items collected over time
Vacation Venture
The hunt for a short-term rental with good design inspires a new properties business
Farms Fresh Flowers
Pumpkins and colorful blooms abound on this South Dakota flower farm, which has quickly become a beloved hub in its community with its special events and U-Pick gardens
The House Next Door
Ready to downsize, a couple builds their new home in the location they still loved
Memories Made Modern
Family heirlooms, bright colors and sumptuous textiles transform a home from basic build to bespoke beauty
Fall Décor Harvest
Our 2023 brand ambassador fills her home's interiors with welcoming warmth and seasonal wonder