Coach House

REMODEL

After several construction attempts by previous owners, our clients, the latest owners of the historic Greenleaf-Wood house, were ready to restore the 1799 coach house outbuilding on the property. The coach house sat unused for years and had become unsafe due to rot, insect damage, and the passage of time. While preventing the structure from collapsing was paramount, the project’s overall goal was to provide a new extracurricular space for our clients. After carefully and methodically dismantling the existing timber-framed structure and rebuilding it, using as much salvaged historical lumber as possible in the same timber frame technique, we transformed the former coach house to include a golf simulator, bar and viewing space, kitchenette, ¾ bathroom, gym, and gaming room.

DETAILS

Project Type: Whole Home Remodel
Size: 1,600+ square feet
Location: Newburyport, MA

PROJECT TEAM

Builder: BLB Design / Build
Architect: Latady Design
Timber Frame Specialists: Mink Hill Timber Frames
Photographer: Freebird Photography

Coach House

REMODEL

After several construction attempts by previous owners, our clients, the latest owners of the historic Greenleaf-Wood house, were ready to restore the 1799 coach house outbuilding on the property. The coach house sat unused for years and had become unsafe due to rot, insect damage, and the passage of time. While preventing the structure from collapsing was paramount, the project’s overall goal was to provide a new extracurricular space for our clients. After carefully and methodically dismantling the existing timber-framed structure and rebuilding it, using as much salvaged historical lumber as possible in the same timber frame technique, we transformed the former coach house to include a golf simulator, bar and viewing space, kitchenette, ¾ bathroom, gym, and gaming room.

DETAILS

Project Type: Whole Home Remodel
Size: 1,600+ square feet
Location: Newburyport, MA

PROJECT TEAM

Builder: BLB Design / Build
Architect: Latady Design
Timber Frame Specialists: Mink Hill Timber Frames
Photographer: Freebird Photography

Custom walnut vanity with recessed pulls, hanging mirrors, and terrazzo tiled floors for a bathroom remodel in Newburyport, MA by BLB Design / Build

Textured green wallpaper in water closet for a bathroom remodel in Newburyport, MA by BLB Design / Build

Open glass shower featuring terrazzo tile and a rain shower head for a bathroom remodel in Newburyport, MA by BLB Design / Build

Highlights

1. HAND-HEWN BEAMS

2. CUSTOM METAL RAILINGS

3. HISTORIC BARN BOARD WALLS

4. COMPOSITE SLATE ROOF

5. STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANEL CONSTRUCTION

PRESERVING HISTORY

Because the building fell within one of Newburyport’s Historic Districts, its restoration could not be treated like a contemporary construction project. To satisfy the requests of the Historical and Zoning Commissions, we proposed carefully and methodically dismantling the existing timber-framed structure and rebuilding it, using some salvaged historical lumber, in the same timber-frame technique. Together with our team, Mink Hill Timber Frames and Latady Design, we respectfully demolished the historic structure, labeling and cataloging each salvageable framing member for future reuse. The finished design, which remained within the same external dimensions and proportions, is a thoughtful and intentional nod to the bygone era of timber-framed structures.

THE ULTIMATE MAN CAVE

An avid biker, golfer, and tabletop game enthusiast, our client sought a space on his property to indulge in all his favorite activities. On the first floor, we installed a golf simulation zone complete with a faux putting green. Behind the golf simulator is a viewing section, wrapped in reclaimed barn sheathing with a live-edge walnut bar top, and a dry bar with integrated beer taps. The standout feature of this project, however, is the second-floor gaming room. Surrounded by custom white oak and walnut shelving for the expansive board game collection, the game room featured a made-to-order Wyrmwood gaming table, period-appropriate lighting, and exposed timber. Off the game room was a newly added gym space fitted to our client’s athletic needs.

MODERN AMENITIES

While the design plan was to preserve and honor as much of the coach house’s historic background as possible, we did need to bring the building into the 21st century. To meet modern energy codes while utilizing historic building techniques, we employed structural insulated panels (SIPS) between the interior and exterior to provide proper insulation and prevent moisture intrusion. On the first floor, we also created a 3/4 bathroom featuring wood-inspired tile and a kitchenette equipped with GE Cafe Series appliances, including a fridge, freezer drawer, and dishwasher.