Historic Home Renovation
& Preservation
Sensitive restorations that preserve a home's character while introducing modern comfort, across Boston and Greater Boston's historic neighborhoods.
Start Your ProjectHonoring the past. Built for how we live now.
Arco Design + Build restores and renovates period homes across Greater Boston, from Back Bay brownstones to turn of the century Colonials. As a design build firm, our architects, designers, and builders work under one roof, so historic detail is protected while the home is quietly brought up to modern standards.
We preserve what makes an older home special, the millwork, the proportions, the character, and reimagine what should change, the kitchens, the systems, the energy performance, with a single point of accountability from first assessment to final finish.
Where we restore and renovate
Deep familiarity with Greater Boston's historic districts, review boards, permitting, and Massachusetts high performance energy codes.
Proof, on the ground
Two historic homes we brought back to life, from a Back Bay brownstone to a Coolidge Corner Colonial.
50 Naples Road
A turn of the century Colonial Revival on a prominent Coolidge Corner lot, meticulously restored to bring back its historic elegance while introducing modern luxury. Over 6,100 square feet across four levels blends period craftsmanship with today's amenities.
235 Beacon Street
A 1920s Back Bay brownstone reimagined to blend timeless architectural character with the comforts of modern living. An open concept plan and clean, sustainable materials sit alongside a formal entry archway, high ceilings, hardwood floors, and a fireplace framed by custom millwork.
More of our work
A selection of homes across Greater Boston. Click any project to see more.
Why Arco for Historic Work
What it takes to restore a period home without losing what makes it special.
Historic District Fluency
From Back Bay to Coolidge Corner, we navigate historic commissions, review boards, and preservation requirements so your project moves forward without missteps.
Old and New, In Balance
We preserve original millwork, plaster, and proportion, then quietly integrate modern kitchens, systems, and energy performance so the home works for how you live now.
One Point of Accountability
Design and construction under one roof means no finger pointing between architect and contractor. One team owns your vision, your budget, and your timeline from day one.
Restoration-Grade Craftsmanship
Custom millwork, period-appropriate detailing, and the specialized trades a historic home demands, delivered to a standard that matches the original.
A clear path from vision to finished home
Discovery & Planning
We start by listening.
We review your property, zoning, and goals so the project starts on solid ground, with no surprises.
Design & Pre-Construction
Your vision, made buildable.
Architecture, engineering, and permitting move in parallel so every detail is aligned before we break ground.
Construction
Built with precision.
A dedicated Arco team manages every trade, milestone, and detail throughout the build.
Completion & Walkthrough
Delivered with confidence.
A full internal review and walkthrough before you move in, down to the final finish.
Custom Residential Design Build
Architectural designer, builder, or both. One full service team from concept to completion.
Ground Up Construction
From vacant lots and teardowns to final finishes, every stage of new construction managed with precision.
Renovations & Historic Preservation
Seamless structural and aesthetic upgrades that respect a home's architectural integrity.
Project Management
Trusted oversight of schedules, budgets, and execution on your behalf, start to finish.
Historic renovation questions
Yes. Historic work is core to what we do, from our Back Bay brownstone at 235 Beacon Street to our Coolidge Corner Colonial Revival on Naples Road. We are experienced with the review boards, permitting, and preservation requirements of Greater Boston's protected districts.
Yes. Coffered ceilings, French doors, fireplaces, plaster, and millwork are carefully preserved and restored, while worn or failing elements are rebuilt to match the original craftsmanship.
In a design build model, the design team and the construction team are the same firm. Instead of coordinating between a separate architect and general contractor, you get one point of accountability for your vision, your budget, and your schedule from the first sketch through the final walkthrough.
Yes. We reimagine kitchens and baths, update mechanical systems, and bring homes toward Massachusetts high performance energy standards, all while protecting the historic character that makes the home special.
It begins with a conversation. We review your property, goals, and any zoning considerations, then move into design and pre construction planning. Reach out through our contact form to set up an initial consultation.
Ready to start your project?
Whether you are restoring a period home or updating a classic, we would love to hear about your vision.
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