Plans in Motion

It's starting to get real. Being above ground on this build took longer than we expected, but it sure is exciting. Over a year and a half ago we started working with local architect John Marro to develop the plans. His collaborative work style and being amenable to my designer overdirecting worked out to be a successful partnership.

We wanted to pay homage to some elements of the original structures on the property including the Edgewood house and accompanying barn. The fine folks at the Grafton Historical Society unearthed some great property records and photos, and by the power of eBay and a like-minded friend, we have a couple copies of an original postcard depicting the Edgewood House over 100 years ago.

I'm not sure we have a tidy name for the style, perhaps a bit of farmhouse and sprawling ranch, but we're hoping to achieve an old-world meets new-world and Napa meets New England vibe. How about that for a succinct vision (suggestions welcome!)?! Here are a few details on the overall plan:

• Main residence is 2,900 sq./ft. and mostly one-floor living

• Open 'barn' concept for combined living room, kitchen and built-in dining room

• Pantry off kitchen

• Second floor three bedrooms for the girls

• Courtyard-like exterior spaces

• 1,100 sq./ft. in-law, all first floor

• White façade with field round stone end sections

Front and rear exteriors:

First floor plan (right portion of the layout is the in-law):

Second floor plan:

Here are some original inspiration boards:

We chose Tom Murphy of Murphy's Custom Homes to help us bring our dream to reality. Tom is a local builder with a great reputation for craftmanship and detail-oriented work. Oh, and he's a really great guy too.