OUR PERSPECTIVES on the craft of building, gathering a series of short films exploring the architectural details that define each project. Together they reveal the intent, materiality, and precision behind elements that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Windurra USA Indoor Arena
Cochranville
View ProjectFirm partner Richard Buchanan gives a peek inside the state-of-the-art indoor arena designed for @boydmartineventing and @silvamartindressage at @windurrausa. It’s a thrill to know the facility plays a regular role in training, especially as we turn our attention to Paris and cheer on Boyd as he competes in the Three Day Event this weekend. Good luck, Boyd! Builder: @mccomseybuildersinc EuroTex footing and kick wall installation: @attwoodequestrian #boydmartin #silvamartin #windurrausa #paris2024 #fedarmanb #commando3 #eventing #dressage
July 26, 2024
Not everyone knows what a specialized pursuit the design of equestrian facilities is. In the case of something like an indoor riding arena, there’s quite a bit that goes in to creating a performance enhancing space that also keeps horse and rider safe and comfortable. Who better to understand all this than lifelong horseman and firm partner Richard Buchanan? We appreciate the knowledge and expertise he brings to every equestrian design project! Meet Richard, Cindy (an equine vet), Maggie and Audrey Buchanan – and a few of their lovely horses – as they test out the indoor arena at Windurra USA. Builder: @mccomseybuildersinc EuroTex footing and kick wall installation: Attwood Equestrian Surfaces Limited #boydmartin #silvamartin #windurrausa #paris2024 #fedarmanb #commando3 #eventing #dressage
July 31, 2024
Wishing the 2024 USA Olympic Equestrian Team the very best! A special shout out to client, international Three Day Eventing athlete and 3x Olympian @boydmartineventing (along with horses Bruno and Conner, of course) as he competes later this week. It’s been an honor and pleasure to be involved in projects at @windurrausa, the main training facility of Boyd and international dressage athlete @silvamartindressage, his wife. Builder: @mccomseybuildersinc EuroTex footing and kick wall installation: @attwoodequestrian #boydmartin #silvamartin #windurrausa #paris2024 #fedarmanb #commando3 #eventing #dressage
July 24, 2024
Honor Farm Pool House
Kennett Square
View ProjectA true sense of place is created by the thoughtful siting of home, pool house and pool–designed to appear as springhouse and pond—and a log cabin. Their relationships to each other and to the site appear natural; all is in harmony with no structure standing out as an intrusion on the landscape. Builder: Curtis Cruse Construction Landscape Architecture: Elliott Templeton #kennettsquarepa #ksq #honorfarm #farmhouse #landscapegoals
September 6, 2024
The log cabin at Honor Farm began life more than 125 years ago as an outbuilding on a Landenberg farm. Fallen out of use and into disrepair, the building’s materials were salvaged and reused to create what was originally intended to house a generator for the main house at Honor Farm. Builder: Curtis Cruse Construction #logcabin #honorfarm #ksq #kennettsquarepa #guesthouse
October 16, 2024
It’s always important to find the balance in creating spaces that work daily for the individual, couple or family living in a home while providing the flexibility to easily meet entertaining needs. Firm partner Richard Buchanan speaks about achieving just that at this farmhouse property in Kennett Square. Builder: Curtis Cruse Construction #kennettsquarepa #ksq #honorfarm #farmhouse #landscapegoals
September 10, 2024
Thoughtful siting within the landscape can make a new home appear as if it’s always been there. Honor Farm in Kennett Square is a fine example. Tucked into a hollow at one of the lowest points of the property, the house is revealed slowly upon approach through the gently cascading landscape. From this spot, lovely long views of the surrounding fields and tree line are enjoyed from the home. Still photography: Tom Crane Builder: Curtis Cruse Construction Landscape Architecture: Elliott Templeton #kennettsquarepa #ksq #honorfarm #farmhouse #landscapegoals
September 4, 2024
Honor Farm is a new home set amid stunning farmland in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Designed in the Chester County farmhouse vernacular with Brognard Okie influences seen in materials, forms and details, the dwelling shares the property with a pond-like swimming pool, a pool house designed to look like an old springhouse, and a log cabin reconstructed from salvaged materials. Builder: Curtis Cruse Construction Landscape Architect: Elliott Templeton #chestercountyfarmhouse #pennsylvaniafarmhouse #brognardokie #farmhouse #chestercounty
August 30, 2024
It’s often said that where there is a challenge, there is also opportunity. In the case of Honor Farm, a conservation easement limited our client to building her new home at the lowest point on the property. The most is made of this constraint by siting the home so that it appears nestled in the hollow, creating a series of intimate spaces yet having the full advantage of long views to the bucolic surrounding vistas. #chestercountyfarmhouse #pennsylvaniafarmhouse #farmhouse #chestercounty #designinspo
August 28, 2024
If you love the Chester County farmhouse vernacular, you may already be familiar with Philadelphia architect R. Brognard Okie, credited with elevating the typical farmhouse form to a new level at the turn of the 20th century. We are proud to have worked on renovations and additions to homes designed by Okie and also to apply the lessons learned from studying his work to brand new homes. Although the way we live and use our homes has changed since Okie’s time in the early 1900s, the timelessness of his design language is still admired and relevant. Still photography: Halkin|Mason, @JeffreyTotaro Builders: Curtis Cruse Construction, @CherokeeConstruction, @GriffithsConstruction #chestercountyfarmhouse #pennsylvaniafarmhouse #brognardokie #farmhouse #chestercounty
August 26, 2024
Duxbury Point Residence
Maryland
“The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” That idea comes to life at Duxbury Point Residence. A great client. A talented builder. A thoughtful interior designer. That alone sets the stage for success. But when you’ve worked together before—when trust, communication, and shared vision are already in place—that’s when a project truly excels. We’re always humbled to be invited back by our clients. And when we can reunite the same team, we know the process will be as rewarding as the result: efficient, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable. Thanks to Project Architect Laura Woolford Izzo, Principal/Interior Designer Laura Buchner of Meadowbank Designs, and Design Manager Christie Bowman Coyle of Lindsay Construction for sharing the value of this level of teamwork. Builder: @LindsayConstructionInc Interior Design: @MeadowbankTeam Still Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #Architecture #Collaboration #DesignProcess #Teamwork #ResidentialDesign
April 22, 2026
Ready for a little coastal escape? Take a peek inside Duxbury Point Residence on Maryland’s Eastern Shore—a sophisticated waterfront home resting in the sweet spot of stylistic balance that conveys beach and nautical themes, but quietly. Architectural details and interior design elements celebrate spirit and place in a way that is subtle, refined and completely personal to the client. The result? A calm, elevated retreat that feels effortlessly connected to its surroundings. Thanks to Project Architect Laura Woolford Izzo and Principal/Interior Designer Laura Buchner of Meadowbank Designs for sharing how this beautiful vision came to life. Builder: @LindsayConstructionInc. Interior Design: @MeadowbankTeam Still Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #WaterfrontLiving #CoastalDesign #Architecture #InteriorDesign #EasternShore
April 28, 2026
Every site presents its own opportunities and constraints, and this waterfront home was no exception. We're revisiting a project we've shared before to take a closer look at the design process behind it. Surrounded by water on three sides, the irregular site required careful planning to balance environmental considerations, maximize views, and create a layout that feels both functional and effortless. From repositioning key living spaces to ensuring every room captures a view, each decision was made with the clients' vision and the site's unique character in mind. We're looking forward to returning to this project later this summer to capture more of the finished home. Stay tuned for another behind-the-scenes look at how thoughtful design brings complex sites to life. Builder: @LindsayConstructionInc Interior Design: @MeadowbankTeam Still Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #WaterfrontLiving #CoastalDesign #Architecture #BeachHouse #EasternShore
June 24, 2026
Great design is often found in the details. For this waterfront home, some of the most memorable moments are found in the spaces that bring together craftsmanship, natural light, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. From the kitchen's soaring wood ceiling, custom cabinetry, and soft mineral blue palette to the distinctive ship's hull-inspired ceiling detail, every element was carefully considered to create a lasting impression. The home's "Eagle's Nest" offers another favorite feature, providing a peaceful place to take in expansive water views. It's these thoughtful details that transform a house into a home uniquely connected to its setting. Builder: @LindsayConstructionInc Interior Design: @MeadowbankTeam Still Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #WaterfrontLiving #CoastalDesign #Architecture #BeachHouse #EasternShore
June 25, 2026
Laurel Hill Gatehouse Exterior Rehabilitation
Philadelphia
May is National Historic Preservation Month, and we are highlighting a project that celebrates the value of historic places and the care that goes into their continued life. We are thrilled to congratulate @LaurelHillPHL for being recognized by the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia (@PresAlliancePHL) with a preservation award for the rehabilitation of the Gatehouse exterior. This recognition reflects a thoughtful and collaborative effort to preserve an important piece of the site’s history while ensuring its longevity. We are grateful to have been part of the team behind this work and to contribute to a project rooted in both stewardship and craftsmanship. Thank you to those who helped share the story: Nancy Goldenberg, CEO/President, Laurel Hill Grace Reynolds, Project Manager, Aegis Rachel Birch, Project Architect, Archer & Buchanan Owner's Representative: @AegisPropertyGroup CM & Builder: @WolfeScottBuilders MEP Engineer: Bruce Brooks & Assoc (now @IMEGCorp) Structural Engineer: @KeastandHood Consulting Engineer & Surveyor: Herbert E. MacCombie Conservator: @Kreilick_Conservation Lighting Design: The Lighting Practice Architectural Millwork: Boyertown Planing Mill Co. #HistoricPreservationMonth #PreservationAllianceofGreaterPhiladelphia #Philly #LaurelHill #PreservationAward
May 8, 2026
Historic Preservation Month is about more than saving buildings. It is about preserving the stories, spaces, and community connections they represent. Founded in 1836, Laurel Hill Cemetery became one of the pioneering cemeteries that transformed how Americans viewed these landscapes, creating places not only for remembrance but also for reflection and community. Today, the Gatehouse remains the only original cemetery building still standing, serving as an enduring symbol of @LaurelHillPHL and a gateway for generations of visitors. The recent rehabilitation of the Gatehouse addressed critical preservation needs while reinforcing its role as a civic and cultural landmark, ensuring this historic icon can continue welcoming visitors for years to come. Owner's Representative: @AegisPropertyGroup CM & Builder: @WolfeScottBuilders MEP Engineer: Bruce Brooks & Assoc (now @IMEGCorp) Structural Engineer: @KeastandHood Consulting Engineer & Surveyor: Herbert E. MacCombie Conservator: @Kreilick_Conservation Lighting Design: The Lighting Practice Architectural Millwork: Boyertown Planing Mill Co. #HistoricPreservationMonth #PreservationAllianceofGreaterPhiladelphia #Philly #LaurelHill #PreservationAward
May 20, 2026
As we conclude our highlight of the Gatehouse at Laurel Hill for Historic Preservation Month, we're taking a closer look at one of its defining features: the restored Gothic Revival gates. Dating back to approximately 1836, these monumental cast iron gates stand nearly 14 feet tall and weigh roughly 2,500 pounds. After years of deterioration and being removed from service, they underwent an extensive rehabilitation process combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, including 3D scanning to accurately preserve their historic design details. Today, these gates once again serve as the grand entrance to @LaurelHillPHL, welcoming visitors through a restored landmark that has symbolized the site for nearly two centuries. Owner's Representative: @AegisPropertyGroup CM & Builder: @WolfeScottBuilders MEP Engineer: Bruce Brooks & Assoc (now @IMEGCorp) Structural Engineer: @KeastandHood Consulting Engineer & Surveyor: Herbert E. MacCombie Conservator: @Kreilick_Conservation Lighting Design: The Lighting Practice Architectural Millwork: Boyertown Planing Mill Co. #HistoricPreservationMonth #PreservationAllianceofGreaterPhiladelphia #Philly #LaurelHill #PreservationAward
May 27, 2026
Willowdale Event Venue
Kennett Square
It was both an honor and a joy to take part in the barn raising at Willowdale Events. Alongside B&D Builders, Jeffrey A. Miller Hospitality Group & Catering, and an incredible community, we carried forward the spirit of teamwork that made this milestone possible. Can't wait to watch it all come together—congrats to everyone involved! Before photos: @JanaBannanPhotography Builder: @_BD_Builders Hospitality: @JAMHospitality Landscape Architecture: @JALA.inc Rafter Manufacturing: Rigidply Rafters #WeddingVenue #Willowdale #KennettSquarePA #KSQ #ChesterCountyWeddings
March 19, 2026
Chestnut Fields
Chester County
View ProjectWe are thrilled to have had the opportunity to be recognized in the January issue of Architectural Digest (@archdigest) for the Philadelphia region. The project being featured is Chestnut Fields, the result of a highly successful collaborative design process that delivered the forever home for a family of five and their cherished pets. Builder: Cassella Builders Inc. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Landscape Architecture: @Stoney_Bank #chestnutfields #chestercountypa #hillsideproperty #architectsnearme
January 12, 2024
Our project architect speaks on the Chestnut Fields project. Nestled in the rolling hillside of a bucolic 10-acre property in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Chestnut Fields is the result of a highly successful collaborative design process that delivered the forever home for a family of five and their cherished pets. Setting out to design the new home, Archer & Buchanan quickly learned that an easement dictated the amount of area that could be developed as well as its location within the bounds of the property. Builder: Cassella Builders Photography: @jeffreytotaro Landscape Architecture: @stoney_bank #chestnutfields #chestercountypa #hillsideproperty #architectsnearme
December 8, 2023
Gladwyne Residence
Gladwyne
View ProjectTake one visionary client, add an incredibly talented interior designer and a super skilled builder, then stir. The result? An outstanding project outcome like that attained at this restoration and renovation project in Gladwyne. The “secret sauce” to any successful project is the strength of our partnerships. It was a privilege to speak with Andrea Krill (Andrea Krill Interiors) and Project Manager Morgan Stear (Ernst Brothers Builders) about their experience in helping to write the next chapter for this historic property. The icing on this cake? The seamless collaboration that made it all possible. So grateful for our partners; we’re already looking forward to the next one! Interiors: @AndreaKrillInteriors Builder: @ErnstBrothers #GreekRevival #HistoricHome #HistoricDesign #GladwynePA #ForeverHome
February 23, 2026
Architects often liken their design work to solving a puzzle, and that definitely applies to the transformation of this early 1880s Greek Revival home! Fitting 21st century functionality into a 19th century form certainly came with challenges, but none too great our dream team. When good design merges with the commitment of an esteemed partner like Ernst Brothers, pieces fall into place with outstanding results. Interiors: @AndreaKrillInteriors Builder: @ErnstBrothers #GreekRevival #HistoricHome #HistoricDesign #GladwynePA #ForeverHome
February 19, 2026
We love a good “Cinderella story” and in this case it applies to an early 1800s three-story Greek Revival home already altered over the years with various additions and renovations. Enter: A modern young family with a vision. Follow along as we bridge the gap between historical soul and 21st century living, checking every box to make this a forever home. Interiors: @AndreaKrillInteriors Builder: @ErnstBrothers #GreekRevival #HistoricHome #HistoricDesign #GladwynePA #ForeverHome
February 17, 2026
Taylor Hill Farm
West Chester
To say it’s gratifying to see the barn at Taylor Hill Farm brought back to life is an understatement! We started with little more than a foundation hidden under decades of overgrown vegetation. We carefully deconstructed the ruin, salvaging the original stone to give it a "second act" in the new structure. By blending that historic material with modern design and high-efficiency construction, we delivered a barn that is as functional as it is beautiful. A perfect home for its equine tenants! Builder (house): @McComseyBuilders Builder (barn): @KingBarns_1978 #TaylorHillFarm #Farmhouse #ModernFarmhouse #Equestrian #Estate
January 29, 2026
300 years of history meet 2026 technology! When scans revealed structural issues at Taylor Hill Farm, our team didn't blink. With a committed client, a top-tier build team, and high-tech imaging on our side, we jumped in to right the wrongs. The goal was simple but ambitious: Restore the integrity without losing an ounce of that circa 1730 soul. Thanks to advanced scanning technology, we were able to pinpoint exactly where the 18th-century structure needed a 21st-century lift. We successfully stabilized the home’s "bones" while meticulously preserving the historic charm that makes this property a one-of-a-kind treasure. Builder (house): @McComseyBuilders Builder (barn): @KingBarns_1978 #TaylorHillFarm #Farmhouse #ModernFarmhouse #Equestrian #Estate
January 28, 2026
Every historic property is a puzzle just waiting to be solved. At Taylor Hill Farm, we searched for that one pivotal piece that would make the rest of the design fall into place. For this project, it was all about the connection. By focusing on the physical and visual relationship between the 1730s farmhouse and the barn, the rest of the layout decisions became clear. We honored the home's roots while creating a seamless flow that works for the rhythm of a busy equestrian family. Builder (house): @McComseyBuilders Builder (barn): @KingBarns_1978 #TaylorHillFarm #Farmhouse #ModernFarmhouse #Equestrian #Estate
January 26, 2026
We recently had the privilege of breathing new life into Taylor Hill Farm—a stunning 44-acre estate anchored by a farmhouse dating back to circa 1730. When we arrived, we found a "perfect" site layout, but a barn in ruins and a home that wasn't at all ready for the 21st century. Our mission? Keep the soul, but fix the friction. We repaired the historic structure, modernized the farmhouse for a busy family, and completely rebuilt the barn for active equestrian use. The result: A charming piece of history saved and ready for another 100 years of memories. Builder (house): @McComseyBuilders Builder (barn): @KingBarns_1978 #TaylorHillFarm #Farmhouse #ModernFarmhouse #Equestrian #Estate
January 22, 2026
Lewes Residence
Delaware
Who said the beach is just for summertime? With a home like this, we would happily spend every day here! Equally as comfy for just one or two as it is for the whole extended family, this house is a collection of delightful spaces to enjoy at any time of year. Builder: @dewsoncc Interiors: @bgdltd Landscape Architecture: @behrenshomedesign #lewesde #beachhouse #beachhousegoals #summerhome #coastalaesthetic
November 26, 2025
An exercise in balance, this project capitalizes on views while retaining an understated, New England appearance, and overcomes restrictions to maximize the true potential of the site. Beyond that, the scale tips generously towards fun and relaxation with a focus on the things that make time away so wonderful. Builder: @dewsoncc Interiors: @bgdltd Landscape Architecture: @behrenshomedesign #lewesde #beachhouse #beachhousegoals #summerhome #coastalaesthetic
November 25, 2025
It’s always an honor to be asked to collaborate with a client on multiple projects. And we certainly won’t complain if one of them is a beach home! As the weather turns cooler, we look back fondly on warmer days spent at this lovely bayside retreat in Lewes, Delaware. Only 213 days until summer! Builder: @dewsoncc Interiors: @bgdltd Landscape Architecture: @behrenshomedesign #lewesde #beachhouse #beachhousegoals #summerhome #coastalaesthetic
November 20, 2025
Bucks County Farmhouse
Bucks County
View ProjectIn the final part of our Bucks County farmhouse series, we reflect on the balance between preservation and new creation. What began as a more contemporary home poorly paired with the beautiful ruins of a barn has evolved into something that feels as though it’s always belonged—rooted in the landscape and the character of the community. With time, the architecture and surroundings have matured together, blurring the line between what is old and what is new. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Landscape Design: @maffei_landscape_design Landscaping: Cotswold Gardens Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
October 23, 2025
Continuing our look at this Bucks County farmhouse, we turn our attention outdoors to the pool house and surrounding landscape—spaces designed for gathering, relaxation, and connection to the land. The architecture mirrors the simplicity and material palette of the main home, allowing the structures to feel distinct yet harmonious. With views extending across the property, these spaces blur the line between inside and out, creating a seamless extension of the home’s contemporary farmhouse character. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Landscape Design: @maffei_landscape_design Landscaping: Cotswold Gardens Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
October 21, 2025
Earlier this year, we shared a glimpse of this Bucks County farmhouse, where the design celebrates the meeting of history and modernity. In this next part of the series, we look closer at how the home’s features and details reflect a refined yet comfortable approach to contemporary living. Clean lines, natural light, and a restrained palette allow the materials—wood, stone, and steel—to speak for themselves, while customization throughout pay homage to the home’s rural roots. This balance of authenticity and simplicity creates a modern interior that still feels deeply connected to the landscape and the farmhouse’s historic soul. Stay tuned for more videos that continue the story of this remarkable home. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Interior Design: @KiddCarrCo Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
October 16, 2025
In previous posts we've talked about the lovely setting of our Bucks County Farmhouse. Now take a peek inside at the interior designed to accommodate all of the contemporary living needs of a very busy family and their beloved pups. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Interior Design: @KiddCarrCo Landscape Design: @Maffei_Landscape_Design Landscaping: Cotswold Gardens Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
July 31, 2025
Although the outdoor living program for our Bucks County Farmhouse is ambitious (it includes a pool, poolhouse, generous terraces for dining and other gatherings, and a sport court housed in a barn ruin), it remains relatively compact. As a result, the rest of the site served as a wonderful canvas for our client and their landscape designer to collaborate and create a marvelous horticultural haven for pollinators and wildlife alike. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Interior Design: @KiddCarrCo Landscape Design: @maffei_landscape_design Landscaping: Cotswold Gardens Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
July 28, 2025
Taking cues from the surrounding farms and an existing barn ruin on the site, our Bucks County Farmhouse blurs the lines between old and new. Design, material choices and integration with existing elements of the site have created a property that feels right at home in it's historic setting. Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Interior Design: @KiddCarrCo Landscape Design: @maffei_landscape_design Landscaping: Cotswold Gardens Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #farmhousegoals #farmhouserenovation #farmhousedesign #buckscountypa #farmhouse
July 27, 2025
Chestnut Hill Residence
Chestnut Hill
View ProjectThis home at 15 years young looks as if it’s always been in this historic neighborhood of early 20th century homes. Classic material choices like Wissahickon schist and cedar shingles give it a timeless look, fit perfectly in its wooded lot, and make staying on trend easy with small tweaks like a color palette change. Builder: @CherokeeConstruction Interior Design: @WildChairy Still Photography: Halkin | Mason #philadelphiapa #chestnuthill #designupdate #basementgoals
October 2, 2025
Good bones matter! This traditional home we completed in 2008 for a young family of six has kept in step as kids have moved into adulthood. And now we’re thrilled to see how the work of Andrea Mihalik of Wild Chairy Interiors has infused a breath of fresh life into the successful home design. No need to move walls, add walls or add space; just a little creative vision and everything looks brand new again! Builder: @CherokeeConstruction Interior Design: @WildChairy Still Photography: Halkin | Mason #philadelphiapa #chestnuthill #interiordesign #basementgoals
October 1, 2025
There’s little more gratifying than being asked to do additional work for an existing client. After designing a new home for this family in 2008, we returned to help transform the basement into a usable space with an adult vibe. It’s always a thrill to know that a home has met intended needs, and to have the honor of helping prepare it for the next stage of family life. Builder: @CherokeeConstruction Interior Design: @WildChairy Still Photography: Halkin | Mason #philadelphiapa #chestnuthill #basementtransformation #basementgoals
September 30, 2025
Wine Cellar
West Chester
View ProjectFrom a forgotten icehouse to a stunning wine cellar with European charm, this project has been a journey of vision, craft, and transformation. Every detail, from the custom spiral stair to the hand-powered dumbwaiter and arched stone tasting room, came together beautifully to create a space that's both timeless and inviting. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who brought this project to life – it has been a pleasure to share the process. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
July 16, 2025
As we begin to wrap up our look at the Fernbank wine cellar, it's clear this space was designed for more than just storing bottles. Whether it’s hosting friends, sharing a quiet moment over a favorite vintage, or simply enjoying the craftsmanship, the cellar has become a true extension of the home, both practical and personal. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
July 14, 2025
The story of the wine cellar transformation unfolds further with the introduction of a hand-powered dumbwaiter. This charming feature echoes European tradition, seamlessly connecting the cellar and the upper entertaining area. Each element, like this manual lift, adds a unique chapter to our evolving narrative of this project. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
June 26, 2025
Remember the wine cellar that we featured last month? At cellar level, original stone walls have been carefully preserved and enhanced with custom wine racks, arched niches, and a millstone found on the property. It’s a space that feels like it’s always been here, but now with a renewed purpose. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
June 24, 2025
As the transformation of the old icehouse took shape, the next layer was all about access. A custom-designed spiral staircase now leads from the timber deck to the cool stone cellar below, blending function and artistry to this old-world retreat. It's a striking centerpiece that continues the story in this evolving space. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
May 20, 2025
Tucked behind the c. 1846 Fernbank Farm in West Chester, this long-forgotten icehouse was once home to an abandoned storage tank. After decades of neglect, the structure had fallen into disrepair, but a remarkable transformation was about to begin. Follow along as we tell the story of how we turned this outbuilding into a wine cellar inspired by the old-world charm of Europe. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro Builder: @PorterConstructionLLC Ironwork: Compass Ironworks Racking System: @Cellarium_Wine_Cellars #winecellar #cellarrenovation #18thcentury #housegoals #dreamhome
May 19, 2025
Clocktower Farm
West Chester
View ProjectOne of the major concerns for the addition to Clocktower Farm was how to design a substantial program of new spaces in a scale that made sense aesthetically and didn't overwhelm the original farmhouse. Project architect Alex Rice talks about the challenges involved and how the team worked to achieve a design for the new addition that is successful but still assures the prominence of the original farmhouse. Photos: Don Pearse #eastgoshentownship #renovation #architectureweek #farmgoals #historicpreservation
April 17, 2025
Sited on a beautiful 7 acre property, Clocktower Farm includes, in addition to the original 1830s farmhouse, its namesake clocktower and a lovely old barn. Placement of the new addition to the house considers location and orientation on the site so as to take the best advantage of views and light. Photos: Don Pearse #eastgoshentownship #renovation #architectureweek #farmgoals #historicpreservation
April 15, 2025
Originally a modest center hall colonial built in the 1830s, Clocktower Farm underwent numerous renovations over time. The first major and most recognizable occurred in 1882; others were smaller in scope and haphazard. Project architect Alex Rice talks about the central design intent for the restoration: to clarify and simplify the historic narrative that had been muddled by the numerous renovations. Research at historic societies and state archives, historic photographs and extant historic material provided the clues needed to guide this successful restoration. Photos: Don Pearse #eastgoshentownship #renovation #architectureweek #farmgoals #historicpreservation
April 14, 2025
In honor of National Architecture Week (April 13–19), we're celebrating the thoughtful preservation of Clocktower Farm. The future for iconic Clocktower Farm, perched on the hightest point of East Goshen Township, was not looking bright. The 1830s home was slated for the wrecking ball and the property poised for subdivision and redevelopment. Enter our clients, who purchased the property and committed to being the good stewards the house needed. Thanks to their incredible dedication, Clocktower Farm has been restored to its rightful state of splendor. After photos: Don Pearse #eastgoshentownship #renovation #architectureweek #farmgoals #historicpreservation
April 13, 2025
Party Barns
Take a barn once used for drying tobacco in western Pennsylvania’s Armstrong County, transport it to and reconstruct it in Chester County and voilà! The stunning Au Soleil d’Or Farm bank barn now houses the owner’s beloved horses as well as loft space for entertaining guests. It’s a great joy to see beautiful old barns find new purpose. Still photos: @AngleEyePhotography, @JimGrahamPhotography #antiquebarn #barnrenovation #barnremodel #barnrestoration #partybarn
March 31, 2025
Whether designed new from the ground up or reconstructed from an existing aging building, the party barn provides space for gathering and entertaining—here’s the key—outside of the home. In this case, an old house gets a second lease on life when it’s transformed into a dance barn. Still photos: @AngleEyePhotography, @JimGrahamPhotography #antiquebarn #barnrenovation #barnremodel #barnrestoration #partybarn
March 28, 2025
While party barns are all about fun, their form and placement on a property requires some thoughtful consideration. Firm partners Michele Thackrah and Richard Buchanan talk about some of the things to keep in mind when contemplating the addition of a party barn to your property. Architectural Rendering: Archer & Buchanan Architecture Photography: @hltfinc, @JimGrahamPhotography #antiquebarn #barnrenovation #barnremodel #barnrestoration #partybarn
March 27, 2025
So, just what is a party barn? As the name implies, a barn for hosting parties! Hear firm partner Richard Buchanan talk about why this particular breed of structure is so appealing and stay tuned for more on some of the wonderful party barn projects we’ve had the privilege to touch. Photography: @hltfinc, @JimGrahamPhotography, @TomCrane111 #antiquebarn #barnrenovation #barnremodel #barnrestoration #partybarn
March 26, 2025
Garage & Guest Suite
Gladwyne
View ProjectA thoughtful and creative approach prevented us from wasting time, money and energy on removing a solid outcropping of bedrock to make way for a freestanding garage. Project manager Matt Forsythe describes how the structure instead works with the outcropping, angled in such a way that not only avoids the need to blast or hammer out the rock but that also creates an entry courtyard feel in conjunction with the existing house. Still photography: @JeffreyTotaro #vintagecars #garageremodel #garagearchitecture #vintageaesthetic #garagegoals
March 6, 2025
Elevated beyond the norm, the design of this stair achieves fitting status for keeping company with the sleek vintage cars stored just adjacent. Constructed of warm wood, the stair hangs rather than taking up valuable floor space in the garage. In addition to its nod to modernity, the stair design also presents a light and airy feel and a visually appealing juxtaposition to the solidness of the stone wall backdrop. Still photography: @JeffreyTotaro #vintagecars #garageremodel #garagearchitecture #vintageaesthetic #garagegoals
March 4, 2025
A folding glass door system spanning the length of this garage facade provides ease of access, wonderful natural light, a sense of bringing the outside in, and an opportunity for viewing the client's vintage car collection from outside as well as from the main house across the courtyard. An excellent design solution that achieves a multitude of goals! Still photography: @JeffreyTotaro #vintagecars #garageremodel #garagearchitecture #vintageaesthetic #garagegoals
February 27, 2025
Project manager Matt Forsythe and interior designer Cheri Privor talk about this fabulously fun project done for a dedicated collector of vintage race cars. Designed with both the cars and the car enthusiast in mind, the garage provides the functionality desired for storing and maintaining the vehicles while also giving the client comfortable and attractive spaces for enjoying the collection. Still photography: @JeffreyTotaro #vintagecars #garageremodel #garagearchitecture #vintageaesthetic #garagegoals
February 25, 2025
Fallowfield Cottage : Addition to a c. 1910 home
Gladwyne
View ProjectInspired by a stair the client saw abroad, the showcase custom-designed helical stair in our Fallow Field Cottage project is a handsome and space-saving solution for connecting the first and second levels of the atrium without impeding views or interfering with the light streaming through the wall of windows. A work of art in metal and wood, the stair provides passage between the ground level of the atrium and its mezzanine which serves as the link between primary suite and library. Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Millwork (Atrium benches and library): @seven.trees.woodworking Staircase: Compass Ironworks Landscape & Hardscape: Elise Geyelin & Susan's Gardens Etc. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #countylinesmagazine #cottagerenovation #cottagegoals #cozycottage #spiralstair
February 7, 2025
It's a surprise and delight to find a stunning wood-paneled library complete with floor-to-ceiling custom bookshelves, hidden cubbies and a fireplace in the second level space above this property's new garage. Achieving the most important goal of providing a place to store the client's collection of over 3,000 books, the library additionally serves as office, entertaining space, and a great hideout for grandkids! We'd like to spend time here any time of the year, but imagine curling up by the fire with your favorite read during these bleak and dreary winter days! Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Millwork (Atrium benches and library): @seven.trees.woodworking Staircase: Compass Ironworks Landscape & Hardscape: Elise Geyelin & Susan's Gardens Etc. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #countylinesmagazine #cottagerenovation #cottagegoals #cottageremodel #cozycottage #librarydesign
February 6, 2025
We are so excited for folks to see Fallow Field Cottage in this month's issue of @CountyLinesMagazine! If we tell you some of the highlights of the project are a new garage and its link to the existing house, you may not be impressed. But what a garage and link it is! Firm partner Michele Thackrah talks about how the element that might have been a simple breezeway evolved into a fabulous, dramatic, light filled atrium. Stay tuned for more about this renovation of and addition to an already wonderful cottage in Gladwyne. Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Millwork (Atrium benches and library): @seven.trees.woodworking Staircase: Compass Ironworks Landscape & Hardscape: Elise Geyelin & Susan's Gardens Etc. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #countylinesmagazine #cottagerenovation #cottagegoals #cottageremodel #cozycottage
February 4, 2025
Greenville Residence
Wilmington
View ProjectRenovations of older homes always present a challenge in finding ways to integrate the systems and technology desired for a contemporary lifestyle into existing architecture. We tip our hats to the creative and collaborative approach of all design partners in this impressive renovation for arriving at thoughtful solutions that seamlessly accommodate the desired end result without being in any way obtrusive. For more information about this project (that also happened to be featured in AD100 2025!), visit the Portfolio page at the link in our bio. Still photography: Halkin | Mason #ad100 #architecturaldigest #uniquehome #highceilings #uniquedecor
January 23, 2025
Firm partner Richard Buchanan is often heard saying he doesn't want "our thumbprints" all over the projects we touch. Rather, we always strive for projects to be true expressions of our clients. In the case of this fabulous transformation of a 1950s Colonial Revival home, our client's tastes and style truly shine through and make the end result all the more rich and genuine. For more information about this project (that also happened to be featured in AD100 2025!), visit the Portfolio page at the link in our bio. Still photography: Halkin | Mason #ad100 #architecturaldigest #uniquehome #highceilings #uniquedecor
January 21, 2025
A key factor in the success of this renovation was our client. With a significant European family connection and influence, she brought an enthusiasm for a more global inspiration to act as a driver in the transformation of such a typical example of exclusively American architecture: the 1950s Colonial Revival home. The new spaces created an opportunity for celebrating our client’s collections and displays of family achievements. In a sense it became a museum of her life and a cultural expression of her family, expressing the best part of who she is. For more information about this project (that also happened to be featured in AD100 2025!), visit the Portfolio page at the link in our bio. Still photography: Halkin | Mason #ad100 #architecturaldigest #uniquehome #highceilings #uniquedecor
January 20, 2025
We're so excited to share this amazing transformative renovation of a typical 1950s Colonial Revival home. Project goals included not only morphing the outdated spaces and overall plan to accommodate today's modern family lifestyle, but also to genuinely reflect who our client is. Finding ways to work with limitations and embracing new opportunities, we achieved an end result that is stunning, personal and highly functional. For more information about this project (that also happened to be featured in AD100 2025!), visit the Portfolio page at the link in our bio. Still photography: Halkin | Mason #ad100 #architecturaldigest #uniquehome #highceilings #uniquedecor
January 16, 2025
Bough Haus : A new modern home
Chester County
View ProjectNestled on a gently sloping hillside amidst lush meadows and surrounded by dense woodland, Bough Haus is situated to minimize site disturbance and maximize its orientation to the movement of the sun. With copious south-facing glazing, the home provides expansive views, generous daylighting and a wonderful relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Although we love all of the indoor/outdoor connections, we absolutely adore the green roof visible from the second-floor balcony and loft. Builder: @DewsonCC Cabinetry: @ChristianaCabinetry/@ChristianaFactoryStudio Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #contemporaryhome #architect #architecture #contemporarydesign #cleanlines
December 11, 2024
Project Architect Ben Nia shares some of the thought process behind the selection of timber framing for the design at Bough Haus, a contemporary home recently completed in Chester County. As Ben notes, timber framing wonderfully celebrates the structure of a building rather than concealing it. At Bough Haus, the warmth of the exposed wood acts as a perfect complement to and frame for the incredible views of the surrounding meadows and woods. Builder: @DewsonCC Cabinetry: @ChristianaCabinetry/@ChristianaFactoryStudio Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #contemporaryhome #architect #architecture #contemporarydesign #cleanlines
December 10, 2024
Blending beautifully with its surroundings and presenting clean lines and warm materials inside and out, Bough House isn't just another pretty face. Collaborating with clients looking to focus on sustainability and functionality, we easily found many opportunities to incorporate sustainable design methods and materials. Maximizing natural daylighting, including a roof-mounted photovoltaic solar panel array, utilizing structurally insulated panels to maximize insulation levels, and incorporating a green roof to aid with capturing and filtering storm water runoff are just a few of the design strategies incorporated to elevate the performance of this home. Builder: @DewsonCC Cabinetry: @ChristianaCabinetry/@ChristianaFactoryStudio Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #contemporaryhome #architect #architecture #contemporarydesign #cleanlines
December 5, 2024
It's not uncommon for contemporary homes to be viewed as hard-looking or less warm and inviting than traditional homes. At Bough Haus, traditional materials are applied to a contemporary design with a focus on clean lines, simple forms and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The result is a welcoming home whose modern aesthetic suits the desires and lifestyle of the homeowners perfectly. Builder: @DewsonCC Cabinetry: @ChristianaCabinetry/@ChristianaFactoryStudio Photography: @JeffreyTotaro #contemporaryhome #architect #architecture #contemporarydesign #cleanlines
December 4, 2024
Dower House : Renovation and addition for a c. 1760 farmhouse
West Chester
View ProjectThe finished addition and renovations at Dower House retain all the charm and character of the original eighteenth-century home but has blended it to accommodate a modern lifestyle. The Norden family's careful preservation of their iconic home has added a new chapter to the historic legacy of the Dower House and is a significant gift to the West Chester community. Once again, congratulations to Lisa and Tait on being awarded a 2024 West Chester Preservation Award and huge thanks to entrusting us with being a part of this very important project! Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Vintage Hardware Supplier: Ball and Ball #WCpreservation #homepreservation #brognardokie #okieinfluence #westchesterhomes
November 21, 2024
The final design plan configuration of Dower House included a 2-story rear addition to accommodate generous Kitchen and Dining spaces and a Primary Bedroom Suite. Interior renovations included reconfiguration of spaces to accommodate an Entry Foyer, Butler’s Pantry, Mud Room, Powder Room, and a wider staircase leading to the second floor. Care was taken to remove existing stone, doors, hardware, cabinets, and millwork from the existing home for repurposing within the new addition; all existing building and landscaping stones were salvaged and reused. The success of the project was the result of a collaboration among architect, builder, tradespeople, and owner to achieve a remarkably elevated level of detail, fit and finish. Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Vintage Hardware Supplier: Ball and Ball #WCpreservation #homepreservation #brognardokie #okieinfluence #westchesterhomes
November 19, 2024
The original land on which Dower House is built was part of 5,000 acres purchased from William Penn by Richard Thomas. In 1715, John and Mary Wall bought 150 acres from Thomas’s son, building a log cabin that was later replaced c. 1760 with a stone house that formed the original Dower House. An 80-acre parcel was sold to Thomas Hoopes in 1767, and throughout the 19th century, the Hoopes and Taylor families added Serpentine stone extensions. In the early 1920s, author Joseph Hergesheimer and his wife Dorothy bought Dower House. Hergesheimer hired architect Richardson Brognard Okie to modernize it by adding fireplaces, storage niches, enlarged windows, and electricity along with other amenities. Landscape architect Thomas H. Sears designed the gardens. Hergesheimer memorialized these renovations in his 1926 book “From an Old House” along with tales of notable house guests such as Zelda and F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sinclair Lewis, and H.L. Mencken. If walls could talk! Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Vintage Hardware Supplier: Ball and Ball #WCpreservation #homepreservation #brognardokie #okieinfluence #westchesterhomes
October 24, 2024
Tait and Lisa Norden purchased the Dower House property in the Fall of 2013, having relocated to West Chester, Pennsylvania from Maine. As restoration enthusiasts, they purchased the home after researching and visiting several old homes in the region. They were attracted to the building’s historic construction, intact details and unique spaces. The Nordens hired Archer & Buchanan Architecture to help restore and modernize their home in keeping with the character and integrity of the existing farmhouse. Construction began in 2023 and wrapped up this year, exactly 100 years since the last significant renovation which was completed by R. Brognard Okie. Stay tuned for more information about the history and expansion of Dower House. Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Vintage Hardware Supplier: Ball and Ball #WCpreservation #homepreservation #brognardokie #okieinfluence #westchesterhomes
October 21, 2024
Congratulations to clients Lisa and Tait Norden on receiving a West Chester Preservation Award for the renovations and additions to their home, Dower House. We are thrilled to have been a part of this wonderful project and played a role in ensuring the legacy of Dower House—built c. 1755 and widely considered to be the oldest continuously occupied home in West Chester—lives on. Builder: @RittenhouseBuildersInc Vintage Hardware Supplier: Ball and Ball #WCpreservationaward #preservationaward #brognardokie #okieinfluence #westchesterhomes
October 18, 2024
Media Residence
Media
Folks looking to build a new home shouldn't be dissuaded from purchasing a lot with a smaller footprint; thoughtful and creative design can make a little space go a long way! A&B Partner Michele Thackrah shares our recently completed Media Residence, the new multigenerational home for a couple, their children and their parents built on a 1200 SF footprint in downtown Media, Pennsylvania. #threestoryhome #architecturedesign #dreamhome #visiontoreality #mediapa
September 30, 2024
Clean lines and an open plan flooded with natural light contribute to the spaciousness of this multigenerational 3-story home in downtown Media, Pennsylvania, despite being constrained by a relatively small footprint. Considering accessibility in the design – including space for an elevator – aids in planning for the elder generation to gracefully age in place. #interiordesign #design #openfloorplan #naturallight #mediapa
September 26, 2024
Burrows Run
Centreville
View ProjectWhat makes the DuPont house special is its blend of old and new. By integrating original elements with modern touches, the house has been transformed into a unique and distinctive style that seamlessly marries history with contemporary design. #contemporarydesign #DuPont #OldandNew #modernfinishes
July 3, 2024
Evergreen Farm
Southeastern Pennsylvania
View ProjectYears after completing the forever home for a young, growing family, our client —with kids-turned-teenagers—decided to add a standalone garage to Evergreen Farm to accommodate additional vehicles and provide supplementary storage space for a growing collection of sports equipment. At the same time, a recreational space with loft, kitchenette and powder room was designed to be part of the garage structure and provide a location outside of the main house suitable for informal gatherings of family and friends. A large glass sliding door system brings the outside in and, when fully open, blurs the line between the recreational space, covered porch and the landscape beyond. Builder: @greatestatesinc Interior Designer: @kellyruggeridesign Landscape Design: The Lingo Group Photography: Halkin | Mason Photography #EvergreenFarm #SoutheasternPA #RecreationRoom #Loft #Garage
June 1, 2024
Embracing opportunities to weave existing fabric into something new creates a richer design experiece. While the new home at Evergreen Farm is designed to accommodate modern family living, the incorporation of the c.1845 springhouse gives a nod to the past and creates the feeling of the house being more in context. Photography): Halkin|Mason Photography Builder: Guidi Homes Landscape: The Lingo Group, Inc. #EvergreenFarm #SoutheasternPA #SpringHouse #RootCellar #HistoricPreservation #NationalHistoricPreservationMonth
May 3, 2024
St. Patrick’s Church
Kennett Square
View ProjectAs part of the renovation at St. Patrick’s Church in Kennett Square, we designed new custom liturgical furniture pieces—including a front altar, high altar (reredos) with new tabernacle, pulpit, and baptismal font. Each was designed with the size of the existing sanctuary in mind, maximizing the space available. The details of each piece are attentive to the proportion and motifs found both in St. Patrick Church and in Gothic architecture more broadly, incorporating unique profiles and a stained wood finish to complement the bold color palette selected for the walls and ceiling. The church’s existing woodwork, including pews, were refinished to harmonize with the stain color of the new altar pieces. Custom Art: @neilsoncarlin Custom Liturgical Furniture: Fynders Keepers Decorative Paint & Stencil: St. Jude Liturgical Arts Studio Marble Flooring Install: @suburbanenterprises #StPatricksChurch #StPatricksDay #KSQ #KennettSquare #ModestGothic
March 23, 2024
Endorsed enthusiastically by the parish, the renovations at St. Patrick’s Church in Kennett Square transformed the interior with a design that was both new and historically compelling. We developed a rich color scheme for wall and ceiling finishes that incorporated custom stencil design emphasizing existing plaster moldings while introducing additional layers of definition and detail where appropriate. For the new floor design, the existing worn, wall-to-wall carpet was replaced with marble tile. The team designed floor patterns to articulate the layout of the space, including intricate mosaic borders in the nave, transition borders in the sanctuary/side chapels, and custom Celtic cross-floor medallions along the main aisle of the church. Custom Art: @neilsoncarlin Custom Liturgical Furniture: Fynders Keepers Decorative Paint & Stencil: St. Jude Liturgical Arts Studio Marble Flooring Install: @suburbanenterprises #StPatricksChurch #StPatricksDay #KSQ #KennettSquare #ModestGothic
March 21, 2024
Okie Farmhouse Addition
Willistown
View ProjectIt’s a privilege to attempt to put yourself in the shoes of a well-known architect—in this case, R. Brognard Okie—and imagine what he might have done if tasked with renovating and adding to his own design. Project Architect Alex Rice talks about how changes in the way we live today inspired changes to a lovely 1931 Okie farmhouse in Malvern, and how the original design sets the framework for the design of any alterations. #okiehouse #fundamentaldesign #moderntouch #dreamhome
July 20, 2024
We are so excited to have our Okie Farmhouse Addition featured in The Hunt Magazine this month! As new empty nesters, the owners of a charming 1931 farmhouse sought changes to suit their evolving lifestyle on 7 scenic acres in Willistown, Pennsylvania. With a poorly designed addition and cramped kitchen lacking exterior views, the home suffered from inefficient circulation. Archer & Buchanan proposed replacing the addition with a sympathetic new design, preserving Okie's legacy while integrating modern comforts. Photos: @jeffreytotaro Builder: @cherokeeconstruction Landscape Architecture: @jala.inc Timber Framing: Methods & Materials Building Company Interior Design: @janegooddesign #farmhousedesign #farmhouse #willistownpa #colonialfarmhouse #huntmagazine
March 13, 2024
As new empty nesters, the owners of a lovely 1931 farmhouse designed by R. Brognard Okie sought to make changes to better accommodate their current and future lifestyle. Set on 7 bucolic acres in Willistown, Pennsylvania, the Okie Farmhouse Addition included a previous, poorly conceived addition that lacked openings on two sides and consequently was without views to the exterior. Additionally, the existing adjacent kitchen was small, cramped and tucked into the interior of the plan, also without view to the exterior. In general, the first floor suffered from a choppy and poor circulation pattern requiring residents to travel unnecessarily through multiple rooms to arrive at their destination. #farmhousedesign #farmhouse #willistownpa #colonialfarmhouse
December 20, 2023
Home Bred Farm
Gladwyne
View ProjectVisitors to Home Bred Farm are surprised to learn that one of the equestrian barns on the property isn’t a barn at all, but the family’s private gymnasium! The barn appearance helps to conceal the mass of the structure, which is built into a hillside and relies upon a front facade designed to minimize visual impact and overall scale. Constructed using a steel truss system, the gym is clad in board and batten siding with a metal roof to reinforce the barn vernacular. It features a NCAA regulation size court, exercise loft, locker room, bathroom and a full kitchen. The other barn on the property is, indeed, a barn—providing four stalls for the family’s beloved equine friends. Hear from Principal Chad Peterson about how creating these diverse structures and meeting the individual and collective goals for the projects was achieved. #HomeBredFarm #RenovatedBarn #PrivateGymnasium #NaturalLight
February 23, 2024
Situated on an 11.5 acre property, Home Bred Farm – with the aesthetic of a restored or renovated barn combined with that of a traditional Main Line Philadelphia residence – is a careful balance between rustic comfort, modern amenities and traditional construction. The timber frame construction of the central mass of the house delivers an expansive and open space ideal for gathering and entertaining. Rough sawn Douglas fir timbers and reclaimed wood floor add a natural warmth reminiscent of a barn. The house is sited and designed so that plentiful natural light flows into the main spaces of the home and to take full advantage of the expansive views of the property’s farm and barn. A large wrap around porch at the rear of the house provides both visual and physical links between the indoors and out. Providing a sizable area for outdoor entertaining, the covered porch features a fireplace, patio, and pizza oven—all conveniently located adjacent to the in-ground pool. #HomeBredFarm #RenovatedBarn #ReclaimedWood #NaturalLight
February 21, 2024
Big Bend
Chadds Ford
View ProjectWe are thrilled to see “Big Bend” on the cover of the February issue of @CountyLinesMagazine! Partner Richard Buchanan and Project Architect Patrick Mohan discuss the challenges and exciting rewards of working on “Big Bend”. Restricted by a conservation easement, our restoration of the exterior took place without impact to the historic character of the home. The interior, however, is a different story! Completely re-envisioned through a gut renovation that achieves our client’s goal of surprising visitors, “Big Bend” delivers unique, dramatic spaces through vaulted ceilings, gorgeous custom casework, a double-height library, and remarkable elliptical stair that winds from the first to third story. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro (photos of finished project), @JimGrahamPhotography (before photos) General Contractor: @GriffithsConstruction Stair Fabricator and Installer: @SaienniStairsLLC Stone Masons: L&L Restoration and Stone Masonry LLC Brick Paving: Shaw Brothers Masonry Ornamental Plasterer: Rockwall, Inc. Stucco (springhouse): @Ladd_Plastering #bigbend #chaddsfordpa #brandywinecreek #georgeweymouth #archerbuchanan #architecture
February 16, 2024
We are thrilled to see “Big Bend” on the cover of the February issue of @CountyLinesMagazine! See how our client, together with our amazing project team, respects the past while creating a new future for “Big Bend” in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. While the historic exterior remains visually unchanged, the relatively small footprint of the home did not impede a complete reimagining of the interior. A radical departure from the former plan and program, “Big Bend” is transformed to meet the needs of a contemporary family lifestyle. Balancing functional needs (like a new family entry, modern kitchen, and more open floor plan to name a few) with some dramatic surprises (a two-story library with mezzanine and swirling elliptical stair), the result at “Big Bend” sets a path for the next century with a nod to its amazing and long history along the Brandywine. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro (photos of finished project), @JimGrahamPhotography (before photos) General Contractor: @GriffithsConstruction Stair Fabricator and Installer: @SaienniStairsLLC Stone Masons: L&L Restoration and Stone Masonry LLC Brick Paving: Shaw Brothers Masonry Ornamental Plasterer: Rockwall, Inc. Stucco (springhouse): @Ladd_Plastering #bigbend #chaddsfordpa #brandywinecreek #georgeweymouth #archerbuchanan #architecture
February 13, 2024
We are thrilled to see “Big Bend” on the cover of the February issue of @CountyLinesMagazine! Translated from the local Lenape tribe’s description for the curve along the Brandywine Creek where the property is sited, “Big Bend” had its start as a trading post for European settlers in the 18th century. Owned by renowned local artist George A. “Frolic” Weymouth from the 1960s until his passing in 2016, the Chadds Ford property and its fascinating history was inherited by Frolic’s son, Mac Weymouth. Looking to prepare Big Bend for its next phase of life, Mac retained our team to lead a full gut renovation and deliver a complete reimagination of the home. Photography: @JeffreyTotaro (photos of finished project), @JimGrahamPhotography (before photos) General Contractor: @GriffithsConstruction Stair Fabricator and Installer: @SaienniStairsLLC Stone Masons: L&L Restoration and Stone Masonry LLC Brick Paving: Shaw Brothers Masonry Ornamental Plasterer: Rockwall, Inc. Stucco (springhouse): @Ladd_Plastering #bigbend #chaddsfordpa #brandywinecreek #georgeweymouth #archerbuchanan #architecture
February 9, 2024