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.

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.

Timeless Updates in Concord

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. Rich in architectural details, this estate 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, or read more here in our portfolio.

Victorian Charm

Victorian brownstones are iconic to Boston’s South End, with their detailed molding and trim. Ornate marble fireplaces, intricate plaster, and historic millwork define these homes. Our design approach celebrates these elements while introducing thoughtful updates that align with contemporary living.

One such project brought new life to a home for a young family, complete with wipeable leather seats to withstand everyday life with children. A custom curved sofa in durable dark green velvet anchors the living room, and Scandinavian-inspired furniture adds a light, modern contrast to the brownstone’s historic character. 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 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 original ornate fireplaces and detailed wainscoting are paired with modern conveniences – the tv. 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 and see additional photos of this historic renovation here.

Historic Home Design

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.

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 design history.

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.