This striking farmhouse renovation project was designed for the 2012 Southern Living Idea House by Historical Concepts in the tiny town of Senoia, Georgia. The project was Southern Living Magazines first ever historical renovation project. Over a period of seven months, a tired 19th-century home located in this historic town south of Atlanta was transformed into a charming and up-to-date farmhouse.

Multiple renovations had masked much of the historic character, so the restoration began by peeling back generations of changes to uncover the essence of the 1830s home. The design team then set out to salvage what remained of the home’s original materials, retaining heart pine floors and hand-planed wall boards. Additions sympathetic to the style and massing provided room for porches, a laundry room, a mudroom, an office, and a carriage house, accommodating modern living while staying true to the home’s architectural heritage and rural roots.

Above: The wall-mounted and hanging lanterns are by New Orleans-based Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights, adding historical charm.

Photos: Laurey W. Glenn (Courtesy of Southern Living)