Seaside Charm Reimagined: The Transformation of a Historic Manchester Farmhouse
What began as an 1820 cottage-turned-farmhouse is now a four-season family retreat—a seaside charmer balancing historic character with modern comfort. Guided by a clear vision and a commitment to thoughtful design, the homeowners partnered with John Olson, AIA, of OLSON LEWIS + Architects, to bring their dream home to life.
A Home that Honors the Past and Embraces the Present
Set on four-and-a-half picturesque acres in Manchester-by-the-Sea, the farmhouse’s prime location—close to town, train, and beach—made it irresistible. But inside, small rooms and dated additions didn’t meet the family’s needs.
Enter John Olson.
“They wanted the house to fit them, almost as if they were building it from scratch,” John explains.
Together, the homeowners and architect preserved the home’s historic Queen Anne façade, keeping its village presence intact, while reworking and expanding the interior to meet modern living standards.
A Seamless Blend of Old and New
Designing around the original cottage portion of the home, Olson introduced a new wing that transformed the home’s flow:
- Historic front rooms retain their intimate scale and character
- A step-down into the addition introduces soaring ceilings and open living spaces
- Careful millwork details mirror Shingle Style architecture for a cohesive aesthetic
The home now forms an L-shaped layout, with a generous family room nestled in the crook, opening to both the chef’s kitchen and the outdoor living spaces beyond.
Designed for Everyday Comfort—and Gatherings
From the sunlit kitchen with period-inspired Carrera marble to the cozy front living room, the house adapts to the seasons and the family’s rhythms. Thoughtful planning ensures that large, open spaces feel welcoming even when it’s just two people at home—but easily expand to accommodate visiting sons and friends.
“John did an amazing job of creating big, open rooms that don’t feel too cavernous when it’s just the two of us,” note the owners.
Above the garage, a game room and hangout space provides additional flexibility for larger gatherings.
A Home Built for Generations
This farmhouse renovation reflects what OLSON LEWIS + Architects does best: respecting history while designing for how families live today. The result is a comfortable, timeless home that welcomes both quiet moments and lively gatherings.
One part summer home, one part year-round retreat—a Beautiful Place for all seasons.
