Northshore Home magazine highlights the best in architectural design, new construction and renovations, interiors, and landscape design.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1206063
61 ornate fireplace carving with gargoyle eyes, a serpent's body, and a dragon's mouth—not something you'll see in every house. The Weishaupts turned to respected local builder Benjamin Becker, owner and general contractor at BLB Custom Building, to help bring their vision to life. "[Be- ing] a landmark property in the city of Newburyport, due to its historical significance, created some chal- lenges with regard to permitting, because we had to seek approval from the Historical Commission before moving ahead," explains Becker. He notes that the entire process was helped along by the Weishaupts, who were "very conscious of this process and wanted to make sure that the city approved, but also that their neighbors were on board with the design." The Weishaupts knew they wanted a larger kitchen with an open-concept design that incorporated the living and dining room areas, and a 200-square-foot single-story addition fulfilled this requirement. Not only did this provide the extra space the clients desired, but it allowed for the creation of the wood-burning stone fireplace, something that was at the top of their wish list. Architect Rachel Harris explains how the addition came about. "With a one-story addition, we could build Above, Butler's pantry–style cabinets and a vertical board ceiling maintain a historical feel to the house. Far left, A fieldstone fireplace becomes the focal point of the living room.