During the pandemic, we spent so much time in our homes that no one was immune to desiring a design refresh. But this “COVID project,” as Caroline Rafferty of calls it, was a far cry from the small tweaks the rest of us made in our homes. It involved updating a 9500-square-foot historic landmark on the East Coast that was built over 200 years ago. With seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, this was certainly a pandemic project of epic proportions.
This timeless home features several bespoke touches, along with a colorfully contemporary feel, but its thoughtful and beautiful juxtapositions are what elevate it to star status. Rafferty and her team breathed new life into the home's Greek Revival architecture, and though the home is undoubtedly historical and traditional, the decor can easily be described as “fun.”
Exterior
Featuring a Greek Revival design and originally constructed in 1820, the historic home is framed by towering mature trees. Looking pristine and refreshed, the exterior wasn’t altered during the renovation process. As Rafferty says, it was “only enhanced to its original glory.”
Foyer
In the entryway, bold black-and-white flooring was fully embraced, which contrasts flawlessly and unexpectedly with the stunningly patterned wallpaper. Rafferty says that this juxtaposition “gives the old-new mix the owner was looking for.”Stair Hall
“The light in the stairwell was made by a contemporary artist from France, ,” Rafferty says. “I have loved Simone’s work for many years and was thrilled that a client was brave enough to go with such a statement piece.”Living Room
Another juxtaposition spotted in this home? Contemporary furnishings paired with trim work that’s original to the home. Coffee table, .Den
The den is a study in mixing traditional and contemporary design. Area rug, .Dining Room
Gleaming gemstone-inspired pendant lights beautifully punctuate the dining room. Rafferty details, “The lights are by a contemporary Swedish artist, , that we purchased through . We knew we wanted something sculptural and colorful to juxtapose the more serious wall paneling.”Family Room
With a pair of and a custom L-shaped armless sectional, the family room manages to look simultaneously contemporary and classic.Breakfast Area
The vintage dining room chairs in the breakfast room have been reupholstered in functional fabric, which look right at home next to an oak-topped dining table with a custom specialty finish base, crafted by .Kitchen
The gorgeous wood floors in the kitchen are entirely original to the home. Elements like the oversized apron-front sink and butcher block island add to the patina and charm.Powder Room
The existing wallpaper in the powder room, made by , looks striking against new lighting and a dark marble countertop. Vintage sconces (sourced from ) and an antique gilt bronze mirror bought on a trip to France add a dose of glamour.Primary Bedroom
The primary bedroom is “a calming retreat from the rest of the home,” Rafferty says. “Here, with the lower ceilings, we knew we wanted to keep the room light, airy, and soft. There is a lush mohair area rug underfoot, a cascading custom embroidery on the roman shades, and a classic Jansen-style bed.”
Pool
Rafferty explains, “The existing pool area with the plantings existed in the home, and were absolutely stunning. We changed nothing in the exterior besides bringing in our clients’ collection of and setting it up in a simple layout to allow the sightlines to sing. We loved that the furniture bought in another happy shade of blue.”Garden
Landscape designer flanked the turquoise pool with blossoming flowers and verdant greenery.Exterior
The home is ideal for outdoor entertaining. Rafferty shares, “The way the house is situated, every room has an opening to the outside leading you out. There’s a place to have a conversation, a quiet moment with a coffee, or to meander through the gardens.”Garden
Landscape designer nestled a charming fountain among fragrant roses, manicured boxwood and climbing vines.
Garden
Throughout the property, there’s a variety of rose bushes, peonies, wisteria, begonias, and lilacs.Tennis Court
An on-site tennis court allows for outdoor games in the midst of elegant surroundings. Verdant vines drape over the outdoor structure to add a natural respite from the sun.Patio
The outdoor stone fireplace sets the scene for cozy evening conversations.Photography by Manu Rodriguez () | Styling by | Landscape designer