The value of charm & nostalgia

Sometimes the value of a home is greater than it’s physical structure and monetary value. Location, family ties and deep rooted nostalgia can boost a home’s personal and perceived value tenfold and that was exactly the case for the homeowner at our Highland Whole House Renovation project.

This multi-phase project began in 2013 with the renovation of the main structure. Phase II added a handsome detached  2 car garage with recreational space above. Fast forward to 2019 and we are just beginning Phase III of this project to build an addition that connects the main house to the garage and adds a spacious master suite. The commencement of Phase III made us reflect back on our long standing relationship with this client and their journey to transform this home from a nostalgic summer retreat to a permanent full time residence that will no doubt last for generations.

This home, built in 1922 was one that evoked a sense of nostalgia for the client who was raised in this coastal community and since returned to spend countless summers always surrounded by friends and family who occupy several other homes in the area. They personally rented this summer home for years and when it came on the market there was no question that they would purchase it and plan to keep in in the family for generations to come.   The home was loaded with charm but needed updating, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. The family also needed more space in the home overall to be able to comfortably summer here.

The resulting design by Noseworthy Residential Design added a full length addition off the rear to include an expanded kitchen, full bathroom, side entry, screen porch & outdoor covered patio. In 2013 Phase I of this multi-phase project began and would be the beginning of an ever evolving project that would fully transform this property while trying to remain true to the original bones & feel of the home.

The house was lifted off of it’s foundation, porches removed and a new full height foundation was poured to allow for the finishing of the entire basement area.  This portion of the project presented plenty of challenges but the homeowner once again saw value in making this home well suited for them so chose to move forward despite the complexity of the work.    The new full height basement significantly increased the square footage of the home and added an additional bathroom, kitchenette and recreational space that the entire family could make use of.

The scope of the project soon expanded to other parts of the home as the client explains; “At our first meeting with Eric, his excitement inspired us. As he got to know us, he intuitively offered us suggestions that we did not consider, but were just what we wanted.”

In 2016 a small underutilized detached garage on the property was demolished and a new 2 car garage with recreational space above was built in it’s place. The garage is perfect additional entertainment area for the countless family visitors that frequented the property throughout the summer months. Aesthetics of the property were significantly enhanced with exterior finishes to match the newly remodeled main home.

With the garage complete it wasn’t long before the client began planning for phase three of this  multi-phase project.  The client returned to architect Gordon Noseworthy to draft plans for an expansive master suite addition that would connect the garage and main house and prepare the home for the client to eventually make it their permanent year round residence.

With plans complete & permits pulled, construction on the phase III addition began on March 25, 2019. We look forward to working with this long standing repeat client to complete their vision of a home well suited to their personal lifestyle that maintains its original charm and nostalgia.

If you love your home and it’s charm and nostalgia but wish it was better suited for your lifestyle, now may be the time to start planning!

Contact us and let’s discuss your home’s story and how we can help make it uniquely yours! 508-279-0656