Lake Retreat Property Renovation
Residential Renovation in Eaton, NH
This comprehensive renovation project on the shores of Conway Lake in Eaton, New Hampshire, focused on revitalizing a cherished family compound, balancing preservation with meaningful upgrades across several structures. With the owners residing out of state, the intent was to transform the property into a welcoming and comfortable seasonal retreat that is ideal for family use and flexible for summer rental.
At the heart of the project was the structural and architectural renovation of the “cabin,” a quaint lakeside structure now equipped with increased functionality and reinforced with structural improvements. Our team re-imagined the interior layout to support a more functional living space.
Our team converted a small first-floor bedroom into a full bathroom, while redesigning and expanding the kitchen layout to enhance utility and convenience. We reinforced the existing first-floor beams with custom-fabricated black beam saddles installed at key ceiling connections to improve load distribution and structural performance while preserving the home’s original personality. To bring warmth to the space, we added brick around the central hearth and repaired and refinished the original wood floors to match seamlessly.
On the second floor, we reconfigured an open loft to create two private bedrooms, including a custom-built window seat that complements existing details and captures views of the lake.
We carefully repaired the extensive rot on the cabin’s exterior deck, and added drain grates at the roof dripline, new access stairs at the entry, and structural reinforcements, trim, and paint. We also added new backrests to perimeter benches to enhance usability and comfort, retaining the original footprint and feel of the outdoor space.
A 12' x 12' screened gazebo—once on the verge of collapse and held up by a tree—was meticulously stabilized. We replaced concrete footings and realigned, braced, and reassembled the structural framing. We also replaced the deteriorated flooring and screening, bringing new life to the structure. Our team repurposed an adjacent changing room into a lakeside bar, using salvaged materials from the cabin's original loft ladder. A rebuilt connecting deck completes the ensemble, reinforcing the gazebo's cozy, communal spirit.
The broader property improvements included replacing deck boards at the main house, repairing leaks and appliances, and removing a second-floor loft in favor of a new ceiling and structural beam installation. The former loft access was enclosed and re-imagined as a new closet.
We updated both second-floor shower enclosures and enclosed an existing screened porch with new windows, extending comfort through the seasons. The result is a series of timeless, highly usable living spaces that honor the property's architectural identity while extending its functionality for generations to come.A Thoughtful Restoration of a Multi-Structure Waterfront Property
To our client’s delight, we increased the utility and value of their cherished family compound through thoughtfully designed and implemented upgrades. Although the buildings renovated in this project required significant structural enhancements, the property has retained its original charm and character.
