The beautiful, old barn on this Topsfield estate was at risk of being demolished. Before approaching Mathew Cummings, the homeowner had met with several architects about the structure, and they had all told her that it needed to be torn down. Thankfully, for the sake of the barn and the owner, Cummings Architects has a long and distinguished history of preserving some of the oldest timber framed homes and barns in the U.S. Once the homeowner realized that the barn was not only salvageable, but could be transformed into a new living space that was as utilitarian as it was stunning, the design ideas began flowing fast. In the end, the design came together in a way that met all the family’s needs with all the warmth and style you’d expect in such a venerable, old building. On the ground level of this 200-year old structure, a garage offers ample room for three cars, including one loaded up with kids and groceries. Just off the garage is the mudroom – a large but quaint space with an exposed wood ceiling, custom-built seat with period detailing, and a powder room. The vanity in the powder room features a vanity that was built using salvaged wood and reclaimed bluestone sourced right on the property. Original, exposed timbers frame an expansive, two-story family room that leads, through classic French doors, to a new deck adjacent to the large, open backyard. On the second floor, salvaged barn doors lead to the master suite which features a bright bedroom and bath as well as a custom walk-in closet with his and hers areas separated by a black walnut island. In the master bath, hand-beaded boards surround a claw-foot tub, the perfect place to relax after a long day. In addition, the newly restored and renovated barn features a mid-level exercise studio and a children’s playroom that connects to the main house. From a derelict relic that was slated for demolition to a warmly inviting and beautifully utilitarian living space, this barn has undergone an almost magical transformation to become a beautiful addition and asset to this stately home.

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Mediterranean beige two-story exterior home idea in Los Angeles with a hip roof and a tile roof

Capturing a sense of old-world charm, the Rowher Pendant Light is a must-have for any vintage design enthusiast. Available in classic finishes, this compact fixture features a rounded metal shade that adds just the right amount of light wherever it's hung.

This Shaker Style bar created using Homecrest Cabinetry and floating shelves.
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Example of a large transitional master dark wood floor and brown floor bedroom design with gray walls and no fireplace

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@Amber Frederiksen Photography
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Manolo Langis
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Best of Houzz Design Award Winner. The pavilion not only provides a shady respite during the summer months but also a great place to relax by the fire during spring and fall. The pavilion is convenient to the home, the pool and the outdoor kitchen. Landscape design by John Algozzini. Landscape design by John Algozzini. The complete landscape can be seen in our projects, listed as Fun By The Farm.

Photo by Oivanki Photography. Builder: Telich Custom Homes. Interior Design: Anne McCanless.
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On a flagstone patio/deck overlooking woodlands, a carefully placed Japanese maple provides a focal point. ©Melissa Clark Photography. All rights reserved.

Architect: Sarah Susanka, AIA Photography: Jim Westphalen Integration of Prairie-style architecture and Japanese garden. Palette of patterned and textures borrowed from the surroundings. Sequence of places makes a continuous necklace around the home.

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This custom pool and spa features an infinity edge with a tile spillover and beautiful cascading water feature. The open air gable roof cabana houses an outdoor kitchen with stainless steel appliances, raised bar area and a large custom stacked stone fireplace and seating area making it the ideal place for relaxing or entertaining.