Introduction: Balancing History with Modern Living

Renovating historic homes in New England is both a challenge and an art form. It requires a thoughtful balance between preserving the charm of the past and incorporating the necessities of modern living. From colonial-era farmhouses to Victorian brownstones and Arts and Crafts gems, these homes hold stories in their walls. Each detail, whether it’s a plaster medallion or an original marble fireplace, speaks to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. We are Boston-based interior designers who specialize in historic homes, we cherish our city’s rich history. And we can’t wait to preserve vintage details in every project we undertake.

At Sarah Scales Design Studio, our passion lies in bringing new life to these homes while honoring their history. As historic home designers based in New England, we focus on reimagining spaces. We make sure that our projects meet contemporary needs without erasing the legacy of their architecture. From intricate millwork to historic staircases, the studio celebrates the original features of each property, enhancing them with modern updates that blend seamlessly into the home’s design. The result is a harmonious balance of past and present, ensuring each renovation feels both timeless and personal. Enjoy a few of our favorite historic home renovations from our portfolio: a classic Concord estate, a modern brownstone, and a traditional brownstone.

Boston Historic Home Design | Timeless Updates for a Concord Treasure

Nestled in Concord, Massachusetts, a circa-1900 historic home presented a unique opportunity to honor the past while creating a livable, modern space for a busy family. This treasure is rich in architectural detail and boasts intricate molding, ornate fireplaces, and beautifully detailed millwork. We updated key spaces, like the kitchen and bathrooms, where we embraced traditional design elements and worked within the original footprint of the home.

Using a neutral palette, we added layers of modern furniture and a curated collection of contemporary art. The soft hues provide a serene backdrop, allowing the architectural details to shine while creating a space that feels approachable and functional. Subtle modern touches include streamlined lighting and minimalist hardware. The studio introduced both to elevate the design without overshadowing the home’s historic charm. See more of this project in Boston Home Magazine, or read more here on our portfolio page.

Victorian Brownstone: Timeless Boston Charm

Victorian brownstones are iconic to Boston’s South End, with their rich architectural details and undeniable charm. Ornate marble fireplaces, intricate plaster trim, and historic millwork define these homes. They are also a hallmark of the city’s 19th-century elegance. Our design approach celebrates these elements while introducing thoughtful updates that align with contemporary living.

One such project brought new life to a Victorian brownstone for a young family. We selected wipeable leather seats to withstand everyday life with children, while maintaining the elegance of the space and still feeling formal. A custom curved sofa in durable velvet anchors the living room, blending practicality with luxury. Scandinavian-inspired furniture adds a light, modern contrast to the brownstone’s historic character.

Updated lighting fixtures and tailored window treatments further enhance the home’s functionality while remaining true to its Victorian roots. The result is a space that feels warm and inviting. The home is a perfect balance between its historic origins and the needs of a modern household. See more of this project’s historic home design here.

Preserving New England’s Heritage

In another historic Boston brownstone, a large-scale renovation presented opportunities to blend preservation and innovation. Spanning all floors of the home, the updates included increasing the basement level’s height for greater usability. We also added a stunning rooftop deck with city views, thanks to the help from our architect Owen Thomas.

Throughout the project, our focus was on preserving the home’s architectural integrity. The team sanded and refinished original wood floors. We meticulously restored plaster details and wired and installed antique light fixtures in the foyer – all restorations are a nod to the home’s history. Classical millwork and subtle wallpaper add depth and texture, while traditional furniture brings cohesion to the home’s timeless aesthetic.

The home’s original ornate fireplaces and detailed wainscoting are paired with modern conveniences. Softly patterned rugs, custom drapery, and elegant wallpaper provide a thoughtful counterbalance to the home’s historic architecture. The result is a home that feels cohesive and relevant while honoring its late-19th-century origins. Read more about this project in Boston Home Magazine and see additional photos of this historic renovation here.

Historic Home Designer: Preserving New England’s Heritage

Sarah Scales Design Studio is dedicated to preserving New England’s architectural heritage through thoughtful interior design. Historic homes hold a unique charm, often featuring details like aged marble fireplaces, ornate trim, and plaster medallions that reflect the craftsmanship of their time. Whether designing for a Victorian brownstone, a colonial farmhouse, or an Arts and Crafts home, our mission as historic home designers is to enhance these details while ensuring the spaces meet the needs of modern living.

Our approach blends traditional and contemporary styles, creating luxury interiors that feel timeless yet livable. We work closely with local New England craftsmen, from upholsterers to wallpaper installers, to ensure every project features the highest quality materials and artistry. This collaboration not only supports the local community but also adds an authentic touch to each project, celebrating the region’s rich design history.

While our work varies from project to project, certain elements remain constant: a dedication to quality, a respect for history, and an eye for timeless design. Whether restoring plaster medallions, designing custom millwork, or selecting modern furniture to complement historic spaces, we ensure that every detail is considered. Historic home design isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about making it part of the present. We believe that historic homes deserve to be lived in and loved, not simply admired for their beauty. By blending old-world charm with modern functionality, we create spaces that honor New England’s heritage while embracing the future.

To learn more about our work or to see additional projects, visit our portfolio or connect with us. We’d love to help you transform your historic home into a space that feels personal, timeless, and uniquely yours. Inquire here.