Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill’s namesake firm is known for its sensitive restorations of historic homes. Originally raised in the same town in Connecticut, the couple met after graduating college and have been together ever since. Three years ago, they merged skill sets: Churchill focuses on architectural design while Hendricks oversees the interiors and finishes.

After seeing the firm’s work on Instagram, a couple reached out with a seven-acre property in Millbrook, a picturesque town in Hudson Valley, New York. Half of the 1,750-square-foot house was gutted, including the two-and-a-half bathrooms, kitchen, mudroom, and master bedroom suite; the entire mechanical infrastructure was replaced, highlighting HVAC, with all new plumbing and electrical systems.

“What’s great about renovating these old houses, especially when you find one with good bones, is that you really have to honor the house,” says Churchill. “You have to respond to it in a way that’s respectful.”

Before: Exterior

After: Exterior

Before: Mudroom

After: Mudroom

After: Butler’s Pantry

Before: Dining Room

After: Dining Room

Shop the Look

Before: Kitchen

After: Kitchen

Before: Living Room

After: Living Room

Before: Master Bedroom

After: Master Bedroom

Before: Guest Room

After: Guest Room

More Before & After:

A Gut Reno Restores Gatsby Glamour to This Art Deco Brooklyn Loft

A Dreary Woodland Cabin Gets a Sparkling Update for $20K

A Pitch-Perfect Remodel Strikes Harmony in a Home Atop a Violin Shop

Project Credits:

Architect: Hendricks Churchill / @hendrickschurchill

Builder: Hendricks Churchill

Lighting Design: Circa Lighting

Cabinetry: Omega