Tsao & McKown Re-Tailor an 1850s Derelict Farmhouse into a Charming Weekend Retreat
When Brooklyn-based architecture firm Tsao & McKown arrived to this farmer’s cottage in upstate New York, they found the 1850’s building in a complete derelict state. They made all efforts to preserve its original charm, paying special attention to the materials and details found in every corner of the house. Located in Rhinebeck, this woodland retreat is full of endangered crafts and classic pieces by the likes of Victorian designer Christopher Dresser and Danish designer Hans Wegner.
Tsao & McKown brought this charming Farmhouse to its former glory in 2011. Measuring 1,205 square feet, the grey-painted home stands among orchards and luscious green woods. The scenery inspired the architects to choose an organic color palette that brings the stunning surroundings into the home’s interiors.
While most of the house’s floors and walls are painted creamy white, the glazed, naturally lighted porch features a sweet pea green that matches the leafy trees. The colors are complimented by a juxtaposition of bespoke and specifically selected vintage furnishings by the owners’ own collection. Each piece in the house holds a narrative of endangered craft and memories from various travels and experiences.
There is an exquisitely designed, antique, cast-iron Shaker stove that is sometimes used to warm up the screened-in porch during the spring or fall. In the same space there is a pair of fifty-year-old armchairs made of simple hickory frames laced together with strips of leather that were manufactured by a company known for making snowshoes.
Scottish Victorian designer Christopher Dresser‘s candlesticks where placed on the dinning table, sharing the same space with a wooden coffee table and a sofa by world renowned Danish furniture designer Hans Wegner. This way, each room of this re-tailored farmhouse celebrates the owners’ great appreciation for crafts and high-quality classic design.
See more amazing work by Tsao & McKown here.
Photos courtesy by Richard Powers for Tsao & McKown
