SARAH SCALES

INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO  |  BOSTON

Old Meets New at Historic Concord Estate: A Perfect Blend of Past and Present

Completed 2023
Scope of Work: Decorate & Style
Press: Boston Home Magazine
Team: Gail Alden Landscape Design
JW Adams Construction
 

Explore timeless architecture and modern updates at a Concord estate, with outdoor spaces designed for all seasons.

A cobbled garden wall surrounds an original water feature at this 1903 estate. Symmetrical stairs create a unique fence feature, connecting the backyard to the meadow. Climbing greens cover the railings, which double as retaining walls, and a brick patio below offers the perfect spot for a collection of lounge chairs around a central table.  Tea time, anyone? 

often requires a delicate balance of preserving its original essence while making it suitable for modern living. At this turn-of-the-century Concord estate, the outdoor spaces embody this philosophy. From the original cobbled garden walls and water feature to the addition of a serene pool, designed by Gail Alden, each element thoughtfully blends history with contemporary comfort.

The renovations began with a mindful approach to outdoor living, enhancing both form and function - the new pool, desgined by Gail Alden. Instead of the expected stone patio, a lush grass surround softens the edges. In the adjacent garden, the historic water feature and cobbled stairway serve as the centerpiece, their symmetry providing a seamless connection to the backyard and meadow.  Movable folding chairs offer flexibility for enjoying these serene spaces - they can be moved from pool to garden to patio.

At the original covered porch, classic columns and century-old brick pavers now take center stage after the removal of screened walls, creating an inviting atmosphere around the wood-burning fireplace.  New contemporary furnishings, including sofas and a hanging daybed, elevate comfort. Nearby, a simple bluestone patio, laid in a contemporary grid pattern, hosts an outdoor dining area and cozy seating around a gas firepit—perfect for al fresco entertaining. Summer ready. 


Restoring the charm of a historic home

"We’re fully embracing summer,
this glorious season of the living landscape. We love the idyllic
timeless nature of this sprawling outdoor oasis."

Boston Home Magazine

SARAH SCALES

INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO

BOSTON

Completed 2023
Scope of Work: Decorate & Style
Press: Boston Home Magazine
Team: Gail Alden Landscape Design
JW Adams Construction

Old Meets New at Historic Concord Estate: A Perfect Blend of Past and Present

Restoring the charm of a historic home requires carefully preserving its character while making it suitable for modern living. At this turn-of-the-century Concord estate, the outdoor spaces reflect that balance. Original cobbled garden walls and a water feature blend with new elements like a simple pool, designed by Gail Alden.

Upgrades focused on outdoor living, with a lush grass surround softening the pool area. In the garden, the historic water feature and stairway connect to the meadow. Movable folding chairs add flexibility for enjoying the space.

Classic columns and brick pavers frame a wood-burning fireplace on the porch. Contemporary furnishings, including sofas and a hanging daybed, create a comfortable setting.

A New England summer is best enjoyed by the pool, surrounded by the garden, and dining al fresco — embracing the beauty of outdoor living.