The renovation of this 1914 Arts & Crafts style home in the Farlow Hill Historic District of Newton began with the combined goals of preserving the wonderful architectural character of the house, completing the renovations in a sustainable manner and that any modifications would support the home well into the next 100 years.

As it was, the home was poorly insulated, but in fair condition with dated finishes, uninspiring landscape and an undersized garage. Plans for the renovation included adjusting the landscape for better drainage and recreation, enlarging the garage with a living green roof, re-cladding the exterior and replacing mechanical systems. A new addition was added, connecting the home to the new underground garage and adding a mudroom, expanded kitchen with breakfast area and expanded master suite on the second floor. Interior finishes and details were preserved whenever possible or replaced with appropriate materials. The resulting project brings more daylight into the interior, improves flow between rooms and celebrates the home’s traditional roots.

This project was designed to LEED for Homes standards and received a Gold rating. The client was an active participant in the design process and was eager to incorporate cutting edge technology into the historically-sensitive renovation, as long as it was discreet enough to fade into the background of a space. Sustainable design features include water-sensitive landscaping, high performance insulation system, highly efficient HVAC systems that were tested thoroughly, a rainwater collection system for irrigation, FSC Certified framing materials, low-VOC paints & adhesives and high efficiency water fixtures.

TEAM

Architect: LDa Architecture & Interiors
Builder: Poineer Construction
Landscape Architects: Sudbury Design Group
Photographer: Greg Premru Photography