Classic New England Home: A Family-Centered Transformation in Bedford
From Outdated to Outstanding: How a Traditional New England Home Became the Perfect Family Retreat
An elegant entry with a grand staircase in this timeless Bedford, NH family home.
This classic New England home renovation gave an outdated residence a fresh, custom look.
When my clients first approached me, they were at a crossroads—should they move or renovate? They loved their location, but their home felt tired and uninspiring. With two active kids, a new puppy who was very much part of the family, and a lifestyle that revolved around hosting and gathering, they needed a space that worked for them rather than against them.
They weren’t just looking for a fresh coat of paint or new furnishings. They needed an aesthetic wake-up call. More importantly, they needed reassurance that their home could be transformed into something truly special—something that felt custom, comfortable, and uniquely theirs.
Bringing a Classic New England Home Back to Life
From the beginning, I knew this project would require more than surface-level updates. It needed a complete overhaul—the kind of transformation that makes homeowners fall back in love with their space.
One of the biggest challenges? The kitchen. It felt cramped and disconnected, far from the heart of the home that it needed to be. Instead of working within the existing footprint, we made a bold move—we incorporated the porch into the design, giving us the space to create a truly functional eat-in kitchen.
To make it work, we designed custom seating and a flexible banquette that could change shape to accommodate up to 12 people. Whether it was a casual weeknight dinner or a big holiday gathering, this family now had a kitchen that worked with their lifestyle a family-friendly interior design ready to grow with them.
A bright, elegant kitchen with marble island and sunny breakfast nook—designed for family gatherings
The Details That Make a House a Home
I always say that the best designs aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about personalization. The details are what make a house feel truly lived in, and this project is a perfect example.
For example, I knew how much they loved their second home in the northern countryside and the quiet river beside it. To honor that and connect the two residences, we created new custom artwork featuring river rocks for their spa-like bathroom. We also enlarged a family portrait by the same river and placed it in the husband's office. Finally, because their dog is just as much a part of the family as anyone else, we designed a custom-built dog crate—a thoughtful touch that blended seamlessly into the home’s aesthetic while giving their pup a cozy space of his own.
It’s these little things—the ones you can’t buy off the shelf—that turn a renovation into a home.
A refined home office with custom built-ins, timeless navy tones and personalized, custom artwork
A Home That Finally Feels Like Theirs
This project reflects the best of New England home renovation—preserving character while enhancing function. By the end, my clients had no doubt they had made the right decision. Instead of moving, they now had a home that truly reflected their lifestyle—one that felt fresh, fun, and built for the way they live.
More than just a renovation, this was a complete reinvention. And for me, that’s the magic of design—it’s not just about making something beautiful; it’s about making it deeply personal.
A sun-filled family room designed for comfort, connection, and everyday living in New England
See More from This Project
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Thinking About a Home Transformation?
If you’re wondering whether to move or renovate, I’d love to help you see the possibilities within your own home. Let’s create something special together.
Disclaimer: This case study is provided for informational, educational, and promotional purposes only. The content reflects the specific design process and outcomes for this individual project and should not be interpreted as direct advice for any other home or renovation. Every home and design project is unique, and results may vary based on individual preferences, architectural considerations, and other factors. Boehm Graham Interior Design is not responsible for any design choices made based on the information provided in this article. For professional guidance tailored to your home, we encourage consulting directly with a qualified interior designer.
