Before and after photos reveal incredible transformation of crumbling 1820s farmhouse into dreamlike $1.2 million retreat

The best love stories come from perseverance, hard work and loving care. And that’s exactly how the transformation of a 200-year-old New Hampshire farm has unfolded: with a bold vision, unwavering dedication and a lot of effort.

Located on more than 12 acres in Hopkinton, NH, the property, which was originally built in 1820, began its final chapter four years ago when it was acquired by a couple who saw potential in its crumbling, abandoned bones.

Now on the market for $1.19 million, the meticulously restored residence is a testament to what perseverance and willpower can achieve.

Once a working farm and later home to a local fuel company, the historic four-bedroom home had undergone many iterations over the years before falling into disrepair.

For many, the shabby interior, peeling paint and stained floors would have served as glaring red flags, warning them to stay away from the property. But for Larry Cohen, they were merely obstacles to overcome in the quest to restore the farm to its original glory.

Cohen and his wife, Devon Andersan interior designer, quickly fell in love with the farm and purchased the property and its 12 acres in 2022 for just $245,000. They immediately began an extensive renovation of the home, a renovation that would ultimately take more than two years.

“Almost everyone in the community knows this house, and there were people in town constantly asking for information about its construction,” Cohen said. Realtor.com®.

The couple had to walk a fine line in their restoration: figuring out how to preserve the vintage charm and timeless details while transforming the house into a retreat worthy of the modern era.

“The appeal of this house is that it has the charm of a 19th century farmhouse, with all the modern amenities,” Cohen explains.

Behind the classic farmhouse facade lies a completely rebuilt interior, which at 4,426 square meters was no small feat.

The home now features dual-zone HVAC – a dramatic upgrade from the home’s previous lack of climate control – as well as new plumbing and electrical systems, spray foam insulation, new windows, flooring, roof, siding and even copper gutters. Custom LP gas lanterns frame the front entrance, subtly combining the old-world atmosphere with contemporary craftsmanship.

Creating spaces for hosting was also a priority in the redesign. The kitchen is equipped with a utility room, complete with a Bosch dishwasher, ice maker, custom built-in appliances and a premium True refrigerator and freezer.

“Absolutely everything was removed and rebuilt, including reframing the entire house,” says Cohen. “The list is endless.”

Despite the extensive renovation, the house has retained its architectural integrity.

“We really appreciated all the detail and craftsmanship and wanted to preserve as much as possible. We were determined to reuse everything we could when rebuilding,” he says.

The result is a curated mix of new materials and original elements, seamlessly layered.

Else led the design herself, determined to pay tribute to the farm’s past, even if that meant taking on contractors who tried to rip out some of the property’s original features.

“Every contractor tried to get us to remove the curved stairs, but we couldn’t,” Cohen recalls. Today, that staircase provides a dramatic architectural centerpiece and a testament to the couple’s commitment to preservation.

Whimsical details can be found throughout the house, including the small room under the stairs affectionately referred to as the “Harry Potter Room.” There are also vintage-era pieces carefully incorporated, in addition to well-chosen wallpaper, a cozy library, and custom millwork.

The more than 12 hectares offer space to wander, anchored by a huge barn that references the property’s agricultural heritage. A separate garage offers plenty of room for expansion.

Outside, the homeowners created a picturesque patio with a custom deck and movie screen.

“We really focused on character and those quirky details that make older architecture so beautiful,” says Cohen. “That, in combination with a great design, really creates an inviting and cozy atmosphere.”

The property is just minutes from Pat’s Peak ski area and approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Manchester.

This two-year restoration was more than a construction project; it was a labor of love.

“Devon has really brought out the true character of the house while maintaining the ‘homey’ feel,” says Cohen.