Historic Structure, Contemporary Life
This restoration project was a stunning success because the designer and her clients decided
early on to feed off the historic energy of the house rather than fight it or ignore it.
Design Resources
Indeed, what began as a 19th-century barn on a family-run farm had evolved greatly over the years, but the character of the structure remained. And that inspired Robin Muto as she blended some old with some new for a distinctive interior that delivers modern performance for the current homeowners.
“There’s an energy in this house, which has been lived in by generations and generations. You feel it right away,” said the owner and principal designer of Robin Muto Interiors in Rochester, New York. “For me, it was just so interesting to be there.”
She initially was brought in to lead the kitchen renovation, transforming it from what Muto described as “a utilitarian back room” into an appealing gathering space bathed in natural light.
Mission accomplished — and then tragedy struck.
A fire later swept through the house, causing considerable damage to many rooms. Incredibly, the kitchen survived the blaze. Although ugly soot clung to every surface, a professional cleaning helped to restore the beauty of the handmade concrete floor tiles, the focal-point island, the sleek cabinetry, and the contemporary lighting fixtures.
The homeowners ultimately turned to Muto to guide the aesthetic reconstruction of the rest of the house. Working with a host of contractors and subcontractors, she zeroed in on bathrooms, bedrooms, architectural and decorative lighting, flooring, windows, doors, and more.
“This house has all the original angles — they’re everywhere,” she said. “And what makes it even more interesting is the clients decided to put in a geothermal system as part of the restoration. Instead of covering the pipes, they’re all exposed.”
The galvanized steel ductwork is functional but adds a striking decorative element. A boldly tiled powder room, meanwhile, boasts a “steampunk” concept with the light fixture and the sink constructed from reclaimed plumbing pipes. Edison lightbulbs add a touch of vintage to the overall look.
The historic house, set on a lush green lot along a gently winding road, comes into view once drivers pass under an ages-old stone archway. Step inside and you’ll see reminders of concerts the homeowners attended in the form of collectible posters that were brought home and later framed to display on walls.