Honoring the Past, Preparing for the Future

This remarkable Manchester-by-the-Sea property presented a very particular challenge: how to thoughtfully modernize a historic-inspired home without compromising the architectural integrity that makes it so special. Formerly owned by relatives of President Calvin Coolidge, the property includes a 4,416-square-foot brick Georgian-style home modeled after the 18th-century George Wythe House in Colonial Williamsburg, along with more than 800 feet of waterfront along Kettle Cove. Under the direction of Charles Rose Architects, Windhill Builders and Windhill Woodworks carefully approached the renovation with preservation in mind. The kitchen and baths were thoughtfully modernized to meet the needs of the home’s new owners. At the same time, much of the house was intentionally preserved, protecting its period character, architectural details, and sense of place. The result is a home that feels more functional and current without feeling newly made. This project is a reminder that great renovation isn’t always about how much you change; sometimes, the craftsmanship lies in knowing what to preserve, what to refine, and where modern improvements can quietly coexist with the architecture that came before.