Older and Wiser

A smart addition to a historic home demonstrates that big improvements don’t require big spaces

When Dan and Betsy Pfau bought their Edgartown, Massachusetts, residence, they inherited its rich past. Built in 1829 by renowned shipowner Jared Coffin, the Colonial structure had weathered everything from nor’easters to service as a boarding house. It had character. It had resilience. It also had typical old house troubles (rotten floor joists, collapsing chimneys) and a few unique quirks.

Featured in Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications – Remodel, April/May 2006 issue.

Download PDF