Many of the old Colonial homes in New England have been flattened to make way for newer houses. Although these classic Colonial homes are pretty, they don’t really suit the way we live today. Of course, you can do a good renovation of a classic Colonial home but it does require vision. I was delighted to find this American colonial home which has been thoughtfully renovated to provide a sympathetic modern refresh.
An Old Colonial Home Gets a Sympathetic Modern Refresh | Modern farmhouse living room | American colonial home decor ideas | classic colonial homes
American colonial home decor ideas
As is usually the case, this classic American colonial home was an older home with subsequent additions. The oldest part would have been a farmhouse dating from the 18th century, the middle section from the 19th century and the last part added in the 20th century.
As with so many renovations, its the details that make a house a home. Even my children were enamoured with these charming handrails.
A charming sets of stairs with a handrail made of tree branches invites you into the property
Modern farmhouse living room
This modern farmhouse living room is located in the oldest part of the house. I love all the original details in this room but also how comfortable it is for modern living.
A traditional fireplace, a comfy lounge chair and an industrial-inspired side table
Dark wood beams are pretty but together with the low ceiling, the room could be just told dark. Here the problem is fixed by hanging pretty pendants thoughtfully the space.
Charming lanterns hung from the old beams
There’s lots of wood but fabric adds warmth and texture to the space.
Eclectic furniture sets the modern mood
A functional yet attractive home office space with a double view and lots of space to spread out.
Eat In Kitchen
The kitchen was small but delightful with a wood-burning stove and a breakfast area. It lead onto a separate dining room and then the modern farmhouse living room.
Now where could that downstair toilet be?
You could tell the biggest problem with this lower ground floor plan was where to put a downstairs toilet. Many people don’t like having a bathroom right off the kitchen. On the other hand, in this house there was no other place for the downstairs light.
The hidden downstairs toilet is revealed by opening a bookcase.
The owners had a masterful solution by hiding the downstairs toilet behind an ornate bookcase. It opened easily if you needed a bathroom in a hurry but you could also tell guests to use one of the bathrooms upstairs. Honestly, you really couldn’t tell it was there!
The downstairs toilet is hidden behind a bookcase.
Modern Master Bedroom Suite
The master bedroom sits right above the kitchen in the newest extension of the house. It had its own bathroom and walk-in closet.
Just because you have an older home, does not mean you need to decorate it in a traditional style.
The master bedroom with its low ceilings feels cozy.
The master bedroom has views over the landscape.
Updating an Old Colonial
As you can see, a sympathetic update of an old Colonial house is possible. Sure, it would be possible to tear it down and start over with straight walls and floors, but where’s the charm and history in that?? I guess I am biased having lived in London all these years. I love old homes that have been tastefully updated.
Get The Look
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