This historic seaside cottage was constructed in 1712 and has undergone a full-scale renovation by Patrick Ahearn Architect, located in Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts. The third house in Holmes Hole and the oldest surviving structure in Vineyard Haven, the Thomas Chase House had fallen into significant disrepair.
The three-quarter Cape Colonial had at one point served as an inn known as The Beehive but was now completely overgrown and on the verge of demise. The homeowners sought to preserve and support the historic shell while reimagining the interior in classic Vineyard tradition. The undertaking was no easy task.
With a crumbling fieldstone foundation, the house needed to be lifted and placed onto newly poured concrete before any interior work could be completed. Structural floors were kept, and joists were all sistered to reinforce the house, while the floor plan was respectfully reconsidered to achieve the homeonwers’ requested program.
On the exterior, the home was carefully restored and renovated. Even small details like window boxes beneath front-facing windows were maintained for authenticity.
New detailing on the home’s interior was crafted to speak to the property’s history. Exposed reclaimed beams, wide plank floors, and significant architectural wall paneling all reinforce the splendor of the past. Beadboard on walls and ceilings, which would have been used for insulation centuries ago, adds coastal character to informal spaces.
What We Love: This historic seaside cottage has gone through a bright and airy transformation, providing its occupants with warm and welcoming living spaces — indoors and out. We are loving the gorgeous curb appeal of this home, preserving its historic past while giving it a facelift. The interior living spaces offer updated trends while still using historical references throughout to create a feeling of relaxation and comfort.
Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the renovation of this residence? Would you have done anything differently if this were your own home? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Have a look at a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Massachusetts: See inside the dreamiest beach house on the island of Nantucket and Shingle style beach house offers serene seaside escape in Rhode Island.
At the rear of the house, plentiful windows bring harbor views into every room, while a fireplaced covered porch allows for outdoor appreciation. On the second floor, decking runs the full length of the house, with sets of French doors firmly linking interior rooms with the open-air program.
While some would have seen the property’s sloping grade as a detriment, it was reconsidered as a benefit. The site was table-topped, and a petite folly building was built into the hill to offer carriage house functionality.
New brick and stone retaining walls were added, each further supporting the theme of a quintessential cottage by the sea.
EXTERIOR BEFORE THE RENOVATION
PHOTOGRAPHER Mark Alan Lovewell
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