Restoring Timeless Elegance: Phase One of the Tea House Renovation

Our sister construction company Cashman Development officially wrapped Phase One of a renovation on a historic home lovingly known as the Tea House—and we’re excited to finally share a look inside.

Like many historic homes, the Tea House had evolved over time through a series of renovations by previous owners. While each update added character, the result was an interior filled with ornate details and competing styles that no longer felt cohesive. Our goal for this renovation was clear: honor the home’s original character while restoring a sense of balance, simplicity, and timeless elegance.

A Thoughtful Approach to Historic Renovation

When renovating a historic home, restraint is just as important as creativity. Rather than layering on more detail, we focused on edits that would feel intentional, period-appropriate, and lasting.

Reimagining the Entryway

The entry sets the tone for the entire home. In this case, the existing curved and highly ornate staircase felt visually heavy and disconnected from the home’s architectural roots. We replaced it with a more traditional staircase design—one that feels authentic to the era and instantly grounds the space.

To further open the entry, the original heavy front doors were replaced with tall, solid wood doors featuring glass panels. This simple change allowed natural light to pour into the foyer while framing views of the surrounding neighborhood—bringing a sense of warmth and welcome back to the home.

Throughout the main hallway, we installed white oak herringbone floors. The pattern adds quiet movement and craftsmanship, while the natural wood tone enhances the home’s subtle coastal influence without feeling overtly themed.

A Serene Primary Bathroom Retreat

Upstairs, we completely reimagined the primary bathroom. The goal was to create a space that felt calm, bright, and restorative—a true retreat for our clients.

By prioritizing light, proportion, and timeless materials, the new bath feels both elevated and livable. It’s a space designed to age gracefully alongside the home itself.

All photography is by James Reed Photography

Looking Ahead to Phase Two

Phase One was all about setting the foundation—restoring flow, light, and architectural clarity. Next up: the kitchen.

We’ll be kicking off Phase Two this spring, where we’ll bring the same thoughtful, historically respectful approach to the heart of the home. Stay tuned for more as the Tea House continues to evolve.