Fernwood Residence

With an eye toward honoring the house’s mid-century character, the clients tasked the RBA design team to expand and reorganize the house to create a seamless integration of old and new—one that feels both timeless and distinctly tailored.

As part of the design challenge, the clients made it clear to RBA that they wanted to retain the original character of the home. That vision guided the interiors, along with an expanded footprint. Custom oak cabinetry, cedar tongue-and-groove ceilings, and stacked brick fireplaces echo the home’s original vernacular, while concealing modern infrastructure. Enlarged skylights, expansive sliding doors, and a refined curtain wall bring light and connect interiors to the outdoors.

The most significant transformation occurred on the main level, where the house was extended to establish a gracious new entry. A reconfigured stair now connects the entry to the basement, while the kitchen was expanded and reoriented to capture natural light and better accommodate daily life. The design team reclaimed space from an old deck allowing for a more generous living area and a new primary suite with a bedroom, walk-in closet, and spa-like bath. Below, the footprint was extended to make room for a guest suite and gym, while the den, laundry, and mudroom were refreshed for comfort and utility.

Beneath the surface, sustainability upgrades like high-performance glazing, improved insulation, and an efficient HVAC system ensure the home’s longevity. The exterior reads as both renewed and respectful, with fresh siding, brick accents, and new exterior stairs linking the main deck to the backyard. Even the landscaping gives a nod to the home’s mid-century roots through thoughtful landscaping, new plantings, poured concrete paths, and a turf lawn for the family dog.

Through close client collaboration, the Fernwood Residence is now a home that feels wholly of its time yet deeply rooted in its history: a midcentury modern gem revived to embrace light, connection, and contemporary family living.

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