Kitchen Renovation Blending Old and New in Historic Andover, MA
This kitchen in historic Andover, Massachusetts, was once a small, closed-off space tucked away from the heart of the home. With just 170 square feet, it offered functionality but felt isolated. Right beside it, the 190-square-foot dining room held untapped potential, separated only by a wall that kept both spaces feeling confined. The homeowners dreamed of a kitchen that felt open, welcoming, and truly connected to the life of the house.
We helped bring that vision to life by removing the wall that stood between the kitchen and dining room. In its place, we installed a structural beam to support the expanded space, creating a beautiful new 360 square foot kitchen that finally felt connected and spacious. Where there were once boundaries, there was now a sense of openness and possibility.
To enhance the flow even further, we introduced two new arched openings. One led directly from the kitchen to the sunroom, inviting light and warmth deeper into the home. The other opened into the back hallway, seamlessly connecting the kitchen to the rest of the first floor. Throughout the renovation, we were inspired by the home’s original architectural details, and these new arches echoed the elegant curves already found in other rooms, preserving the character and history of the house.
New prefinished white oak flooring was installed throughout the kitchen, foyer, living room, and side hallway, creating a sense of continuity and warmth across the entire first floor. We added custom cabinetry, soapstone countertops, a stunning tile backsplash at the stove wall, and new appliances and fixtures, all brought together with fresh plaster, paint, and recessed lighting. Every detail was chosen to balance beauty, functionality, and timeless style.
One of the most significant challenges we faced was the aging bow window at the front of the house. Years of water infiltration had left the surrounding wood and structure compromised. We carefully replaced the deteriorating window with a large flat window that honored the home’s original design, a thoughtful update that received approval from the Andover Historic Commission. Alongside this, we installed a new main front door, a new side front door, and elegant new hardware, adding a final touch of charm to the home’s exterior.
This renovation was more than just a kitchen update. It was about transforming the way this family experienced their home. By opening walls, honoring original details, and blending old and new, we helped create a space that feels both fresh and familiar, beautiful and deeply personal. A place where everyday moments can be celebrated, and memories can be made for years to come.
