Heritage Reimagined:
A Modern Legacy in Stowe
Stowe, Vt
Design and Interiors:
Fifth Wall Architecture
Construction and Project Management:
Understory Design Build
Photography:
Ryan Bent
The Context
As one of the oldest homes in Stowe, this property carried centuries of history within its walls. The challenge was to honor that legacy while creating a home that could finally keep pace with the needs of a growing family. Our goal was to more than double the living space through an addition that respected the town’s stringent historic guidelines while introducing the modern comforts and open-concept flow the original structure couldn't provide.
The Architectural Dialogue
Designed by Misty Kaplan of Fifth Wall Architecture, the addition is a study in seamless transitions. It doesn't try to mimic the past, but rather "plays nice" with it through a thoughtful color palette and finishes that bridge the gap between eras. The result is a home that feels fresh and updated, yet remains deeply contextual to its historic roots.
For a family with two young children, this wasn't just about square footage—it was about creating the backdrop for a lifetime of memories. From quiet mornings to hosting large holiday gatherings, the new layout offers the flexibility and "breathing room" required for a maturing family.
Modern Living, Rooted in History
The heart of the new wing is a generous, open-concept living space that integrates the kitchen, dining, and seating areas. At its center sits a handsome, high-output wood-burning stove—a true workhorse that provides a cozy, glowing anchor for the room.
The first floor also features a versatile playroom and exercise space, designed with a large, oversized pocket door that allows the room to be easily concealed when the day is done. A beautiful new staircase leads to the upper level, where tall ceilings and light-filled bedrooms offer a sense of scale and tranquility.
A Space to Grow
This project proves that you don't have to sacrifice modern livability to preserve local history. The family now has a home that functions with 21st-century ease—open sightlines and intentional storage—all while tucked inside a structure that honors Stowe’s architectural heritage. It is a space built for the long haul: for birthdays, special moments, and the simple, daily joy of a home that finally fits.
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