Blending new and old is always a daunting proposition—and the challenge looms especially large when you’re talking about putting a new addition on a historic house. Annexing additional living space is a time-honored building tradition; the trick to doing it well lies in studying and matching original details as closely as possible.
These two home tours feature seamlessly blended additions that address a variety of needs, from adding wheelchair accessibility to accommodating a growing family.
In the kitchen, the tin ceiling is painted a vibrant hue, which complements the tile backsplash.
Updating for Accessibility: An Italianate gets a sympathetic addition, and some thoughtful improvements, to make it more wheelchair-friendly.
Happy Marriage: Gregory and Carolynn Schipa join an 1810 Greek Revival and a 1790 Cape-style cottage harmoniously on the island of Nantucket.
New This Week
An Aesthetic chair with carved sunflowers and oriental fretwork wears embroidered paisley and blue velvet.
William Wright
A Ravishing Victorian Home: Never has the interior of this Queen Anne looked so good, from its wallpapers to textiles.
How to Decorate with Vintage Textiles: Become a fan of Old-House Online on Facebook to view homeowner Audry Bond’s tips on using vintage textiles in your home!
Expert Advice: Low VOC Paint: The environmental impact and performance of low VOC paint.
