The homeowners came to Christopher Zoltan Designs with a clear vision: to honor the history of their 1766 Georgian farmhouse in Historic Shepherdstown, West Virginia, while creating a home that felt bold, layered, and fully functional for modern living. They were drawn to moody contrast, expressive materials, and authentic craftsmanship – and were equally committed to preserving as much of the original structure as possible.
In response, CZD took a preservation-driven approach, carefully restoring original pine floors, staircases, and railings, and celebrating the home’s Georgian proportions and seven original fireplaces. Strategic interventions allowed the home to evolve without losing its integrity, including an expanded kitchen and scullery designed to deliver contemporary storage and functionality while remaining deeply rooted in the home’s historic character.
Throughout the house, natural stone, reclaimed wood, historical brick, and custom millwork create a rich material dialogue between past and present. Deeply personal moments – custom furniture, hand-painted murals, and commissioned artwork – layer storytelling into the interiors, resulting in a home that feels timeless, expressive, and uniquely its own.
The finished residence stands as a testament to what’s possible when thoughtful preservation and fearless design work in concert: a historic farmhouse that doesn’t simply honor its past, but lives confidently in the present.
