top of page

Antique Revival Project Update, Q&A with Interior Designers Josh and Nicole

  • Writer: Joshua Allen Design Team
    Joshua Allen Design Team
  • Sep 29, 2023
  • 5 min read

Updated: Oct 27, 2023


Today's update post focuses on the Antique Revival project! You know it and love it, and we've been doing our best to bring you regular updates to the home's renovation through weekly site visits, client meetings, and communication with our on-site partners Build Simple Construction Management. Marketing manager Erica sat down with our interior designers Josh and Nicole, who have been working closely with the clients and renovation teams, to get the inside scoop on the project's timeline and other sneak peeks into the interior design.



E: Ok design team! What is the status of this project right now (end of September, 2023)


J: We are about 40% through the project. More than half of the windows are installed, and both electrical and plumbing stared to go in this week. The next phase will include flooring, drywall, and interior doors.


N: The Build Simple crew is currently working on installing all of the windows for the home. The standard windows have been installed, we are just waiting on the detailed stained glass windows and custom windows to be installed. The siding has been ordered and should also be arriving soon!


E: Have there been any unexpected challenges that have arisen so far in the redesign?


J: The age of the structure has been slightly challenging. Being that the home is over 200 years old, it wasn’t truly level in any single area, so the entire home needed to be re-leveled. The interior stairs had to be replaced due to code and safety concerns, which was a little unexpected.


N: We had some challenges with the leveling of floors due to it being such an old home but we were able to work together with the contracting company to get all of the floors fully leveled.



E: Will we get to share some interiors on social media soon?


J: Yes, we should be ready for some more completed interior shots by mid October!


N: Yes, so soon! Once the windows are in and the electrical and plumbing finished we will be able to have the home drywalled and then give an interior tour of the spaces. Make sure you keep an eye on our social media and sign up for our emails so you'll know when new updates on this project are released.



E: What have been your goals for this project?


J: The goal for this project has been to completely redesign an antique home in such as way that the character and charm of the property remains, and the clients are able to enjoy all of the modern-day conveniences a new build would offer. Keeping design choices true to the history of the home is of utmost importance for me.


N: A career goal of mine has always been to do a full home remodel! This project represents such an amazing accomplishment for us as a design firm with all of its unique character and features, that I would just love if it were featured somewhere, like a magazine. I am beyond excited to watch this home come together!



E: We know every project is unique, but what is the overall design concept behind the Antique Revival project?


J: The design project is coined “the Antique Revival” because the name represents the overall design's aesthetic and concept. Mixing antique and historic pieces with modern elements is the vision, we were able to preserve the “story” of the home without sacrificing the convenience of a modern home. The concept is rooted in a dedication to being true to the home's original period. To accomplish this we even went as far as to add elements that would have been true to the time of the home that did not exist prior, like a hidden butler's pantry!


N: This concept is the definition of keeping true to an antique style, but in a new and updated way. We are turning a very old home into a beautiful new one, and in the process keeping so much of the character by designing to incorporate the old style beams and fireplaces. The home will be filled with hints of the house before the renovation. The new wood flooring will be made from the pine trees that were cut down in the yard, which is something truly unique and special


E: How are the client's specific style and preferences coming through in the design?


J: Dana has a true love of history and likes primitive design elements. She gravitated toward subtle tones in color and texture in our initial consultations, but wanted bold emphasis on the history elements of the home right from the start. We can't wait for this combo to come to life! She fully embraces the character of her home, and every decision we have made for the home's design has been tied to this preservationist approach.


N: Our client Dana has wanted to keep as many details of the old home alive as possible. She is a fierce advocate for the preservation of the home's history, and luckily we're on the same page! We have been careful to make sure the fixtures, furniture and other details work with the exposed brick and beams, and to source lighting that will match this style and inspiration.



E: What are some really cool materials and finishes you & the clients have selected?


J: I am thrilled about some of the tile, stone and color options. But I particularly love the laundry room floor, butler's pantry backsplash tile, first floor laundry room stone, and the main bathroom accent wall color. Take a look!


N: We have sourced some amazing light fixtures for the space. Some of my favorites are these two! One of my favorite pieces is also this cast iron sink, this will be perfect for the antique-mod farmhouse style we are going for.



E: What has been your favorite space/room to design/work on? Why?


J: The butler’s pantry has been my favorite area to design. It has such character and will bring so much “new history" to the home. It's a very exciting design with strong elements.


N: My favorite room in the house is the kitchen and butler's pantry too. We are installing a hidden door for the butlers pantry and I think it will be such a unique and fun feature. The large kitchen will feature a double island, which will be a huge focal statement in the home and I am excited to watch this room transform— especially as before it was an extremely small and narrow kitchen!


E: What are some of the unique features or details that will make this design special?


J: I am most excited about the overall, final feel of the home when it is completed. I know every space in the home will have a handful of incredible elements and features that will bring personality and charm to the overall design. The wooden beams throughout the entire home are a special and unique element that ties the home together and carries the history and charm throughout.


N: One unique feature is we are leaving the existing wall with the vertical wood strips showing in the master closet. The design incorporates exposing the antique beams, old fireplaces, and creation of handmade floors. This home will have two laundry rooms, and a brand new addition at the back for a large dining room surrounded by windows!


-----


Thanks for reading along, we ❤️ and appreciate you! Please take another second to follow + connect with us online.→instagramfacebooktiktokthreadsXpinterestlinkedinyoutubereddit


Comments


bottom of page

Interior Design Services in Massachusetts

Joshua Allen Design provides professional interior design services across Massachusetts, offering residential and commercial solutions tailored to every client’s lifestyle and vision. Our team specializes in space planning, color consultation, furnishings, and full-service renovations. Whether you need a kitchen remodel in Boston, a luxurious bathroom redesign in Cape Cod, or a modern update to a suburban home in Worcester, we deliver transformative interiors that reflect your taste and add lasting value. As a leading interior designer in Massachusetts, Joshua Allen Design combines creativity, technical skill, and extensive experience to ensure each space is beautiful, functional, and timeless. From small-scale updates to full home makeovers, we bring ideas to life with meticulous attention to detail and an unparalleled commitment to client satisfaction.

Kitchen Renovation and Custom Kitchen Design

At Joshua Allen Design, we believe the kitchen is the heart of the home. Our kitchen renovation services are tailored to enhance functionality, efficiency, and style. From custom cabinetry and kitchen islands to luxury finishes and top-grade appliances, we design kitchens that work for how you live. Whether your goal is a rustic farmhouse kitchen, a sleek contemporary space, or a traditional chef’s kitchen, our expert design team brings a unique perspective that transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary culinary environments. We specialize in high-end kitchen remodels throughout Massachusetts, using top materials and trusted contractors. Clients love our seamless design-build process and personalized approach that ensures a stunning, one-of-a-kind result.

Luxury Bathroom Design and Remodeling

Joshua Allen Design offers elegant, spa-inspired bathroom renovations that maximize comfort and value. We specialize in luxury bathroom design services including walk-in showers, custom vanities, freestanding tubs, heated flooring, and high-end tile work. Whether you’re updating a powder room, adding a master ensuite, or renovating a full guest bath, our team will craft a custom solution that elevates your lifestyle. We work with clients to choose timeless finishes, modern fixtures, and smart layouts that enhance everyday function. With experience managing both new builds and older home renovations, we ensure plumbing, lighting, and materials align perfectly with your design goals.

Basement Finishing and Creative Lower-Level Design

Unlock the hidden potential of your home with Joshua Allen Design’s basement finishing and design services. We transform underutilized spaces into cozy living rooms, home offices, media centers, fitness studios, guest suites, and more. Our interior designers are skilled at optimizing low-light areas with smart layouts, lighting plans, and material choices that create inviting, comfortable environments. Whether you want a family-friendly basement or a high-end entertainment space, we deliver designs that blend functionality and beauty. Our basement remodels focus on adding square footage, increasing home value, and creating personalized areas that support your lifestyle.

Whole Home Renovations and Space Planning

Joshua Allen Design is your trusted partner for whole-home renovations and strategic space planning. We assess how each room connects, ensuring flow, function, and beauty throughout your home. Our team manages everything from floor plan redesigns and structural updates to furnishings, paint palettes, and custom millwork. We excel at transforming outdated layouts into open-concept living areas with cohesive, elevated aesthetics. Whether you’re restoring a historic New England home or customizing a newly built property, we bring experience and inspiration to every step of the process. Our mission is to make the most of every square foot, creating luxurious, livable spaces tailored to you.

Decorating Services and Seasonal Styling

Joshua Allen Design offers full-service decorating and seasonal home styling that reflects your taste and enhances your space year-round. From furniture selection and art placement to window treatments, color coordination, and accessorizing, our decorating services elevate your home’s style. We offer seasonal décor installations—holiday-ready entries, spring refreshes, cozy fall interiors, and festive winter arrangements—perfect for entertaining or celebrating at home. Whether you're styling a new property, staging for resale, or simply craving a design refresh, our expert eye ensures your space always looks stunning. We source from trusted vendors and incorporate heirloom pieces or custom accents to give your home a unique, lived-in elegance.

Closet Design and Custom Storage Solutions

Our team designs custom closet systems and storage solutions that are both beautiful and functional. From walk-in closets and pantries to mudrooms and laundry spaces, Joshua Allen Design helps maximize storage without sacrificing style. We assess your space, needs, and personal aesthetic to create built-in cabinetry, open shelving, and organizational systems that streamline daily routines. Whether you prefer minimalist design or boutique-style elegance, we design custom closets using high-quality materials and smart planning. Our solutions are ideal for modern families, busy professionals, and anyone craving an organized, stylish home.

Virtual Interior Design and E-Design Services

Joshua Allen Design proudly offers virtual interior design services to clients across the U.S. Through our e-design process, we provide concept boards, digital layouts, product recommendations, and custom plans tailored to your space and budget. Our remote services are perfect for DIY homeowners, second homes, or clients outside our local service area. Even without in-person meetings, we deliver the same level of creativity, detail, and personalized care. Whether you're furnishing a single room or renovating an entire property, our online design packages offer flexible, affordable options guided by expert designers.

Our Design Philosophy – “We See Space Differently”

At Joshua Allen Design, we approach every project with a singular philosophy: we see space differently. Our design process begins with listening—to your needs, your habits, and your dreams for the space. Then we layer in creativity, color theory, technical skill, and years of industry experience. Our unique ability to reimagine interiors helps clients uncover potential they never knew existed. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Each project is a bespoke collaboration resulting in a space that is both functional and extraordinary. Whether it’s a single-room refresh or a full-scale remodel, we create interiors that are authentic, timeless, and deeply personal.

Why Choose Joshua Allen Design?

Choosing Joshua Allen Design means partnering with a trusted team that’s passionate about design and committed to excellence. We’ve built our reputation on integrity, communication, and a client-first mindset. Our full-service interior design firm handles every detail—from concept to installation—ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience. With years of experience in residential design, renovation, and construction coordination, we have the skills and network to execute projects of any size or complexity. Our clients appreciate our refined aesthetic, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to bring vision to life. Whether your style is modern, traditional, transitional, or eclectic, we are here to design a home that reflects your identity and inspires joy every day.