In the coastal town of Kennebunkport, Maine, history and design converge in a trio of exquisite century-old homes, each offering a unique architectural identity and timeless charm. From a grand 1897 shingle-style cottage perched along Ocean Avenue to an impeccably restored 1806 Cape Cod in the heart of Dock Square and a sun-drenched 1920 New Englander overlooking Cape Porpoise Harbor, these three homes showcase the best of Maine’s historic architecture. With a combined value exceeding $3 million, they offer a rare opportunity to own a piece of New England history in one of the region’s most sought-after seaside enclaves.
1. 1897 Cottage Home in Kennebunkport
Built in 1897, this historic Cape Arundel cottage in Kennebunkport, Maine, captures the essence of New England charm with its shingle siding, classic gabled rooflines, and welcoming front porch. Perched along prestigious Ocean Avenue with sweeping Atlantic Ocean views, the 5,619-square-foot estate spans a 0.42-acre lot. Thoughtfully preserved, the residence offers six bedrooms, four baths, and multiple fireplaces. Priced at $5,495,000, this ocean-view home balances timeless architecture with modern comforts, including a spacious rear patio and detached garage with a summer guest room.
Where is Kennebunkport?
Kennebunkport is located in southern Maine, nestled along the Atlantic coast in the northeastern United States. Just 30 miles south of Portland and under 90 miles from Boston, this seaside town is renowned for its historic architecture, maritime roots, and artistic culture. Originally a 17th-century shipbuilding village, Kennebunkport today is known for its charming harbour, iconic Walker’s Point, and refined coastal lifestyle. With scenic beaches, art galleries, and historic estates, the town is a beloved destination steeped in tradition and elegance.
Kitchen
This warm, traditional kitchen is framed in custom cherry cabinetry with raised panel doors and glass-front uppers for display. The granite countertops offer rich, speckled patterns that complement the tile backsplash and neutral ceramic flooring. A vaulted ceiling adds vertical space, while the large window over the sink bathes the kitchen in natural light. Vintage details like a built-in microwave and subtle decorative items lend character, creating a cozy, functional space ideal for everyday meals or entertaining.
Dining Room
Set beneath white-painted beams, the dining room exudes timeless elegance with its deep blue walls, hardwood floors, and ornate millwork. A built-in wooden hutch with glass display doors anchors the room, adding both storage and historic charm. Large bay windows draw in filtered light, offering tranquil views of the surrounding landscape. A vintage chandelier hangs over the oval dining table, surrounded by antique chairs, creating an inviting space for formal dinners or relaxed family gatherings.
Living Room
The formal living room is a study in period elegance, with white coffered ceilings, lustrous hardwood floors, and richly panelled woodwork. A stately wood-burning fireplace with built-in benches and brass sconces commands attention, flanked by tall windows that invite soft natural light. Comfortable seating is arranged atop vibrant, patterned rugs that echo the home’s coastal setting. Framed art and books add a lived-in warmth, making this space perfect for relaxing or entertaining by the fire.
Sunroom
Flooded with sunlight, this year-round sunroom offers a serene coastal retreat. The space features pale blue walls, crisp white beadboard ceilings, and an array of tall windows that provide panoramic views of the ocean and garden. Upholstered in soft florals and stripes, the furniture includes plush seating, perfect for lounging or entertaining. Accent lamps, a glass coffee table, and soft blue carpeting enhance the relaxed seaside atmosphere in this light-filled, tranquil space.
Bedroom
This spacious primary bedroom features soft blue carpeting and subtly patterned wallpaper for a calming, coastal ambience. A large bed with coordinating pillows and a throw blanket anchors the room, while antique wood furniture and a cozy reading nook with upholstered chairs provide warmth and function. A white fireplace mantel adds charm and symmetry, framed by built-in shelving. Soft, ambient lighting and layered textures create a restful retreat full of historic character and comfort.
Patio
Tucked behind the home and shaded by mature trees, this private brick patio offers a quiet outdoor escape. Surrounded by natural landscaping, it includes a circular glass-top dining table and wrought iron chairs, perfect for al fresco dining. A grill and decorative coastal artwork on the home’s grey shingle siding add a casual, lived-in feel. Just steps from the kitchen, it’s ideal for hosting summer barbecues or enjoying the salty breeze in peaceful seclusion.
Garden
The lush backyard garden is a rolling expanse of manicured lawns framed by evergreen trees and mature plantings. The rear façade of the home, with its signature shingle siding and gabled roof, overlooks the greenery with an enclosed porch offering year-round views. The landscape provides both privacy and open space, making it a tranquil setting for outdoor recreation or quiet reflection. It’s a timeless Maine coastal yard that blends natural beauty with architectural grace.
Source: Pack Maynard and Associates via Zillow
2. 1806 Cape Cod Home in Kennebunkport
Built in 1806, the Eliab Stevens Home is a beautifully preserved Cape Cod residence in the heart of historic Kennebunkport, Maine. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath home has undergone a full renovation, seamlessly blending its original craftsmanship with refined modern updates. With 1,635 square feet of living space on a 4,791-square-foot lot, it offers elegant interiors, a cozy wood stove, and high-end finishes throughout. Listed at $1,349,000, this charming antique home is just steps from Dock Square’s boutiques, restaurants, and beaches.
Where is Kennebunkport?
Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine known for its rich maritime heritage and scenic Atlantic shoreline. Located about 30 miles south of Portland and 90 miles north of Boston, it’s a popular year-round destination. The town’s Dock Square area features 18th-century architecture, artisan shops, and fine dining. Home to former U.S. presidents and famed summer estates, Kennebunkport blends historic charm with coastal elegance, making it a sought-after community for both residents and visitors.
Kitchen
This fully updated kitchen boasts crisp white cabinetry, polished quartz countertops, and soft aqua walls for a fresh coastal feel. Glass-front upper cabinets add charm, while recessed lighting keeps the space bright and inviting. A stainless steel range and large refrigerator offer modern function, and hardwood floors add warmth underfoot. A peninsula with a built-in sink and bar seating maximizes prep space and makes this kitchen ideal for both casual meals and entertaining.
Laundry Room
Tucked into a bright, efficient alcove, the laundry room features a Bosch washer and dryer beneath a granite countertop for convenient folding space. Tall built-in cabinetry and upper cabinets provide generous storage, all in a soft white palette that enhances the clean, organized aesthetic. Recessed lighting and an arched doorway add subtle architectural interest, creating a streamlined and pleasant utility space with a practical style.
Dining Room
The dining room combines early American charm with casual elegance. Pale green walls and white wainscoting set a calming backdrop, while three windows with decorative valances allow soft light to filter through. A rustic wood dining table is surrounded by classic Windsor chairs atop a richly patterned area rug. A pine corner hutch adds antique character and a modest chandelier overhead provides warm, ambient lighting for intimate meals and gatherings.
Sitting Room
This cozy sitting room offers a tranquil retreat with earthy brown walls and white trim. A plush cream-coloured sofa and two patterned armchairs are arranged on a traditional floral rug, complemented by a dark wooden coffee table. Pops of colour from the red lamp and pink throw pillow add warmth, while a small window allows natural light to filter in. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for reading or quiet conversation.
Bedroom
The upstairs bedroom is bathed in natural light from two sets of windows, creating a bright and airy space. Sloped ceilings and soft white walls frame the room, which is furnished with a carved wooden bed dressed in blue and floral bedding. Antique dressers and a wooden bench at the foot of the bed add timeless character. The hardwood floors and simple decor evoke the home’s historic roots while ensuring modern comfort.
Patio
Tucked behind the bright orange guest cottage, the backyard patio is a private garden oasis. A paved seating area is furnished with a wrought iron sofa, and chairs with bright yellow and grey cushions centred around a sleek coffee table. The area is framed by trees and a wooden fence for privacy. A sliding glass door leads back inside, and a striped awning overhead provides shade, creating an ideal spot for relaxing or entertaining outdoors.
Source: Pack Maynard and Associates via Zillow
3. 1920 New Englander Home in Kennebunkport
Built-in 1920 and fully renovated in recent years, this charming New Englander cottage is nestled in Cape Porpoise, one of Kennebunkport, Maine’s most picturesque seaside villages. This 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers 792 square feet of bright, updated living space on a 3,484.8-square-foot lot, with expansive harbour views and direct access to protected conservation land. Priced at $1,100,000, this sun-filled retreat blends classic coastal architecture with modern touches, making it ideal as a full-time residence or income-producing vacation rental.
Where is Kennebunkport?
Located in southern Maine along the Atlantic coastline, Kennebunkport is a historic fishing village turned year-round destination known for its maritime charm, preserved architecture, and vibrant local culture. Just 30 miles from Portland and under 90 from Boston, this coastal gem features landmarks like Cape Porpoise Harbor and Dock Square. With a legacy dating back to the 1600s, Kennebunkport is home to quaint shops, seafood eateries, and scenic beaches, drawing visitors with its peaceful yet lively New England character.
Kitchen
The kitchen is a blend of vintage charm and modern simplicity, with white beadboard cabinetry, granite countertops, and a farmhouse apron sink set beneath a wide window. A compact layout maximizes efficiency, while an antique-style metal backsplash behind the gas range adds personality. The room is bathed in natural light, enhanced by crisp white walls and warm cork flooring. Open shelves and pendant lighting over the range offer both functionality and a touch of coastal flair.
Living Room
This cheerful living room is a coastal retreat filled with character. Bright white walls and light wood floors create a breezy, sunlit space framed by large windows that overlook the front porch. A grey sectional sofa is layered with colourful striped pillows, while eclectic artwork and nautical accents bring a playful, seaside vibe. Bookshelves and a rocking chair add warmth and function, making this a cozy and inviting gathering space.
Dining Room
The dining room blends modern whimsy with cottage charm. A painted slat-top table in orange, turquoise, and grey anchors the room, paired with sleek black chairs. A sculptural paper lantern hangs overhead, casting a soft glow. White walls and light wood floors keep the space airy and bright, while built-in cabinetry and a large wall mirror add depth and character. The room opens directly to both the kitchen and living area, creating a seamless flow for entertaining.
Bedroom
Set against warm taupe walls, the bedroom features a large window wall framing breathtaking harbour views. A platform bed with a dark wood headboard is dressed in soft grey and white linens, accented by patterned throw pillows. Matching bedside lamps provide ambient lighting. Nautical artwork and a coastal blue rug complete the serene seaside ambience, creating a peaceful space perfect for waking up to the sights and sounds of Cape Porpoise.
Porch
This classic front porch offers a relaxed setting with white railings, a sky-blue ceiling, and grey flooring. Wooden folding chairs with neutral cushions are paired with vibrant red side tables topped with cheerful potted flowers. Protected by a roof overhead, the porch invites morning coffee or evening unwinding while taking in the neighbourhood charm and views of the historic red barn across the street. It’s an inviting space for laid-back outdoor living.
Garden
The backyard features a modest grassy area framed by a weathered wood fence and young plantings that offer a touch of greenery and privacy. The rear facade of the home reveals its traditional gabled roofline and soft grey clapboard siding. With space for gardening, outdoor games, or quiet reflection, this simple yard blends easily into the surrounding natural landscape, including the adjacent protected conservation area. It’s a peaceful extension of this coastal Maine retreat.
