A Historic Home Reinvented: Renovating a Treasure in the Upper Valley of VT and NH
Nestled in the beautiful Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire, this Federal-style gem—built in 1817—offered us the unique challenge of balancing history and modernity. Known locally as “The Double House,” this property had so much untapped charm just waiting to shine.
At Houseal Construction, we pride ourselves on creating spaces that are both functional and timeless, and this project exemplifies that. With thoughtful updates, we transformed this historic home into a warm, practical, and beautiful living space for a family with young kids.
Before AND After Photos
A Space That Marries History and Functionality
The finished home reflects the perfect harmony of old-world charm and modern convenience. Each room tells a story while being thoughtfully tailored to the needs of a busy family.
One of our favorite features is the arched doorway leading to the pantry—a custom detail that creates flow and elegance. The pantry itself, once part of a disjointed bathroom, now offers organized storage and easy access from the kitchen.
The kitchen is another standout space. We incorporated panel-ready appliances to seamlessly blend them with the custom cabinetry because we believe a beautiful kitchen shouldn’t be interrupted by visible appliances. Exposing and restoring the original beams, paired with unique pendant lighting, gave the space depth and character. The result is a kitchen that feels cohesive, inviting, and practical for a family.
And then there’s the mudroom—perhaps the most practical space in the house. Once an uninsulated shed, it’s now a light-filled haven designed for Upper Valley mud season. With ample custom storage, checkerboard tile floors, and a utility sink, this space was thoughtfully designed for a family with kids. The restored beams and soft green cabinetry create an understated elegance, while the room’s functionality makes it an invaluable addition to the home.
The bathrooms were transformed into spaces that balance style and utility. The powder room features bold, hexagonal flooring and vintage-inspired fixtures, while the upstairs bathroom incorporates brass finishes, green subway tile, and thoughtful storage solutions.
Overcoming the Challenges of Historic Renovation
As with all historic homes, the Latham-Kendrick house came with its share of challenges. These quirks are part of what makes old homes so special, but they also require careful planning and creative solutions.
Exposing and Resupporting Beams: In the mudroom, kitchen, and laundry, the beams needed refinishing and structural reinforcement. While the mudroom beams were already visible, the kitchen and laundry beams had been hidden for decades. Bringing them back to life required custom-made metal brackets and meticulous work to retain their authenticity.
Unlevel Floors: Uneven floors are a common issue in homes of this age, and this project was no exception. In some areas, the flooring structure was so unstable that we had to entirely rebuild it. While this wasn’t the most glamorous part of the job, it was necessary to ensure the family could enjoy the home safely for years to come.
Outdated Systems: As with many homes from this period, we encountered aging plumbing and electrical systems that required significant updates. These behind-the-scenes improvements are essential in any renovation, ensuring the home functions as beautifully as it looks.
A Home Full of Heart and History
Renovating this historic Upper Valley home was more than just a project—it was a journey. Every detail, from the arched pantry doorway to the practical mudroom, the seamless panel-ready appliances to the timeless beams, was thoughtfully chosen to honor the home’s history while creating a space that feels fresh, functional, and tailored to the family’s lifestyle.
We loved collaborating with the homeowners to transform this special property. Bringing out the natural beauty of its original features, such as the beams and wide-plank flooring, made this project particularly rewarding. The finished home is bright, cohesive, and full of personality—a space that honors its past while embracing its future.
At Houseal Construction, we’re passionate about breathing new life into homes like this. Whether your property is historic or modern, we’d love to help you create a space that tells your story—one that feels just as thoughtful and unique as this one.
Final Gallery
Sources
Historical details on the Latham-Kendrick house: Buildings of New England
Family reflections and background on the property: Instagram: Thetford Hill House
