At the heart of Architect Matthew Arnold’s work is a dedication to elevating the lives and businesses of his clients through thoughtful and visually striking architecture and design that is profoundly impactful, tailored to each client’s individual goals.
The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd

Update on Charles Cove Residence: A Historic Home Reimagined

The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. 

The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. 

“We wanted to celebrate the home’s history without being confined by it,” says principal architect Matthew Arnold. “Every design choice became a conversation between old and new, between craftsmanship and contemporary clarity.”

A Dialogue Between Eras

The design retains the original 19th-century façade, complete with restored siding, the original front door, and salvaged flooring that’s been relaid in intricate herringbone and framed patterns. Inside, the structure has been completely reframed to enhance circulation and light while staying true to the home’s original proportions.

Historic details meet modern craftsmanship throughout:
  • Custom arched openings and curved-top doors echo the client’s love of classical architecture
  • Floor-to-ceiling Marvin windows flood the interior with natural light
  • Salvaged fireplace mantles with new hearthstones blend authenticity and renewal
  • Detailed ground moldings and millwork create layers of visual depth

The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd
The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd
The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd
Craftsmanship Meets Innovation

The addition—more than doubling the original footprint—creates space for open living, entertaining, and family connection. At its heart sits a sculptural floating steel staircase with custom wood box treads and a continuous metal railing system. The stair became an instant favorite on social media and among peers, embodying the firm’s balance of design integrity and innovation.

The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd

“That stair captures what we aim for in every project: structural clarity, elegance, and just enough boldness to make it memorable,” Arnold adds.

The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd
The Charles Cove Residence began as an 1860s-era home with deep roots and unmistakable character, but one that no longer served the way its family lived today. The challenge: how to preserve the home’s historic integrity while more than doubling its footprint and bringing it forward for modern life. Designed by ArnoldAnd
A Modern Estate Rooted in History

The reimagined home now spans more than double its original footprint, featuring a restored main house, expansive addition, three-car garage, and landscaped courtyards that frame the property’s stately approach. The clients move in this season, ready to begin the next chapter of life in a home that truly bridges past and present.

ArnoldAnd’s work at Charles Cove demonstrates how timeless architecture can evolve with sensitivity, craft, and vision. It’s not nostalgia, it’s renewal.

Location: Dover, Massachusetts
Project Type: Historic Renovation + Addition

Collaborators:

Architecture & Interiors  ArnoldAnd
Builder  Hillcrest Builders 
Landscape Design  Lemon Brooke