Historic Colonial Kitchen Renovation, Price-Baldwin House

The Price-Baldwin House, originally built in 1770, holds a significant place in Chatham’s history. Owned by the president and vice president of the Chatham Historical Society, this home renovation project required a delicate balance between modern convenience and historical preservation. The goal was clear: to create a fully functional, updated kitchen that seamlessly integrates with the aesthetic and character of the original structure, down to details like rose-head hand-nailed flooring and wooden peg construction on the doors.

The transformation centered on expanding the usability of the space without altering the home’s footprint. The existing kitchen was compact and lacked adequate storage and counter space, with the refrigerator inconveniently located in an adjacent laundry room. To address these limitations, KraftMaster designer alongside the owner, Bob Gockeler and the KraftMaster team worked closely with the homeowners to reposition key elements and improve efficiency. One of the most notable changes was the strategic relocation of a historic cross-and-bible style door, allowing for a more cohesive kitchen layout while preserving its original charm.

The renovation included custom cabinetry in a deep, muted red—a shade inspired by historic American furniture and complementary to the home’s existing painted brick fireplace. A carefully selected quartz countertop, reminiscent of soapstone but in a softer gray tone, paired with a subtle veined backsplash, helped to maintain the period-accurate feel. Modern appliances, including a gas range and a built-in microwave, were integrated thoughtfully into the space to ensure they did not detract from the overall colonial aesthetic.

A highlight of the remodel is the preservation of the original beehive oven and brick cooking fireplace, which remains a focal point of the room. Original hardwood floors were carefully patched and refinished in a rich, dark brown to create contrast with the cabinetry while staying true to the home’s historic character. Additional lighting solutions were incorporated to brighten the previously dim space, without compromising its cozy, warm ambiance. Every decision was made with the home’s history in mind, resulting in a kitchen that feels both timeless and highly functional.