3 Renovated Century-Old Portsmouth NH Homes with Modern Systems Fenced Yards and Vaulted Primary Suites

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, may be best known for its coastal beauty and colonial roots, but it’s also home to a remarkable collection of historic residences that radiate architectural brilliance and timeless charm. In this curated spotlight, we’re featuring three stunning century-old homes—each one a testament to Portsmouth’s rich heritage and evolving style. From grand colonial revivals with soaring ceilings and detailed millwork to beautifully restored bungalows with sun-drenched dens and stained-glass accents, these properties offer the elegance of the past with the comforts of modern living. If you’re dreaming of a forever home with character, grace, and story, this list is your starting point.

1. 1900 Colonial Revival Home in Portsmouth

Listed at $1,500,000, this 1900 Colonial Revival home offers a rare chance to own a piece of New Hampshire history just steps from downtown Portsmouth. Set on an 8,276-square-foot lot, the 2,322-square-foot residence features 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a large third-floor bonus room. Recent updates include granite kitchen countertops and refinished hardwood floors, while classic details like original radiators, woodwork, and a wide front porch preserve its turn-of-the-century charm. This historic gem blends early 20th-century craftsmanship with modern livability.

Where is Portsmouth, NH?

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a charming and historically rich coastal city nestled along the Piscataqua River in the state’s southeastern corner. Known for its beautifully preserved Colonial and Georgian architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and thriving waterfront, Portsmouth blends small-town charm with modern amenities. The city boasts renowned attractions like Strawbery Banke Museum, Prescott Park, and an eclectic mix of shops and eateries in Market Square. With its walkable streets, proximity to Boston, and strong sense of community, Portsmouth offers a unique lifestyle full of character, making it a highly desirable location for homeowners seeking history, elegance, and coastal serenity.

Living Room

A sunlit gathering space filled with warmth, this living room features original hardwood floors and traditional wallpaper with a vintage border. The furniture arrangement includes a paisley sofa, striped armchair, and glass-topped wooden coffee table, creating a cozy yet formal ambiance. Radiators and double-hung windows speak to the home’s age, while natural light adds a soft glow to the nostalgic, welcoming setting.

Dining Room

With its high ceilings, natural wood crown molding, and floral wallpaper, this dining room is a beautiful tribute to traditional design. Bay windows framed with sheer curtains invite daylight to spill across the light wood flooring, creating a bright and open atmosphere. A brass chandelier adds elegance above, while fluted columns and detailed trim reflect the care and artistry of historic-era interiors.

Half Bathroom

This charming half bath captures vintage elegance with custom wood cabinetry, brass hardware, and paneled accents throughout. A window above the toilet brings in soft natural light, complementing the warm tone of the golden oak finish. The compact layout is efficient and stylish, and shutter-style upper cabinets bring a distinct architectural texture that feels true to the home’s early 1900s origin.

Kitchen

This inviting kitchen merges historic detail with modern convenience. Original wood cabinetry features rich golden tones trimmed in black, contrasted by dark green granite countertops. A large window over the sink offers a view to the outside and fills the space with light. Stainless steel appliances and black fixtures subtly update the room, while the overall layout preserves its historic warmth and usability.

Library Nook

Bathed in natural light, this cozy second-floor nook is perfect for quiet reading or reflection. Built-in white bookshelves stretch floor to ceiling along two walls, neatly framing a loveseat and woven accent chair. Soft floral drapes and plush carpeting enhance the serene mood, while large windows provide a view of the surrounding neighborhood, connecting the peaceful space to the home’s classic charm.

Blue Bedroom

This tranquil bedroom is painted in a calming blue that contrasts beautifully with warm wood flooring and richly colored area rugs. Period-style windows line two walls, bringing in plenty of daylight that softens the room’s deep hues. A traditional wooden bed frame and writing desk nod to the home’s heritage, while white curtains and subtle decor lend a restful, timeless elegance.

Primary Bedroom

This primary bedroom pairs antique charm with comfort. A four-poster bed is the focal point, framed by bay windows dressed in golden curtains that fill the room with filtered light. Polished hardwood floors are warmed by a patterned red rug, and a vintage dresser with curved mirror completes the space. High ceilings and neutral walls elevate the traditional furnishings with understated sophistication.

Full Bathroom

Natural wood paneling wraps this bathroom in warmth, offering a classic, cabin-like aesthetic that feels both cozy and refined. A marble vanity top adds a touch of luxury, while modern lighting above the mirror keeps the space bright. Brass fixtures and beadboard walls echo early 20th-century design. The bathroom’s simplicity and style make it a perfect extension of the home’s heritage.

Bonus Room

This expansive attic-level bonus room is full of potential, with sloped ceilings, two skylights, and bright white walls. The large open layout accommodates a variety of uses—workspace, playroom, studio—with ample room for creativity. Clean lines, neutral carpeting, and multiple desks contribute to a productive yet airy feel. Natural light flows in generously, enhancing the spaciousness and making this upper floor truly multifunctional.

Source: KW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty via Zillow

2. 1900 Bungalow Home in Portsmouth

Listed at $1,355,000, this classic Bungalow-style home was built in 1900 and offers 3,209 square feet of living space on a beautifully landscaped 0.44-acre lot. Blending timeless character with modern convenience, the home features coffered ceilings, original wood trim, and elegant leaded glass cabinetry. Recent updates include butcher block countertops, stainless steel appliances, and central air on the upper floor. With three bedrooms and three bathrooms, this well-preserved gem sits just over a mile from downtown Portsmouth, offering both historic charm and modern-day comfort.

Where is Portsmouth, NH?

Living Room

This warm and stately living room features original wood coffered ceilings, hardwood floors, and a white-painted brick fireplace that serves as the focal point. Flanked by built-in leaded glass cabinets and dual radiators, the room feels both elegant and grounded. Oversized windows allow natural light to stream in, enhancing the intricate woodwork and period charm that define this historic space.

Sunroom

Framed by tall windows and intricate wood trim, this sunroom radiates calm and vintage elegance. A coffered ceiling overhead and leaded glass accents in the front-facing window add refined details to this bright, quiet space. With views of the front yard and a warm wood piano tucked to one side, it’s ideal for music, reading, or relaxed morning coffee.

Kitchen

The kitchen blends clean modern function with vintage charm. Butcher block countertops, beadboard details, and a built-in pantry cabinet echo the home’s early 20th-century roots. Stainless steel appliances and recessed lighting add modern ease, while leaded glass windows and warm wood accents preserve the historic aesthetic. It’s a space designed for everyday comfort and timeless appeal.

Bedroom

This airy bedroom is wrapped in natural light thanks to large windows on two walls, framed by original dark wood trim. The hardwood floors and vintage radiator reflect the home’s enduring craftsmanship. Corner shelving adds a functional yet charming touch, while a ceiling fan keeps the space cool and comfortable. It’s simple, bright, and full of understated beauty.

Upstairs Retreat

A spacious upper-level room offers flexibility for use as a private suite, lounge, or creative studio. Sloped ceilings and wide windows create cozy alcoves and reading spots, while recessed lighting and neutral tones enhance the calm atmosphere. Carpeted flooring adds warmth underfoot, making this versatile space ideal for work or relaxation away from the home’s main level.

Ensuite Bathroom

This bright and airy ensuite bathroom features soft sloped ceilings and a large skylight that bathes the room in natural light. A pedestal sink and traditional wall sconces enhance the timeless style, while modern fixtures and warm wood cabinetry provide practical comfort. The space feels open yet cozy, with thoughtful touches that honor the home’s classic roots.

Lower Living Area

The finished lower level expands the home’s functionality with a carpeted lounge space and built-in shelving. White walls and ceilings with recessed lights brighten the room, while an ornate red rug adds texture and warmth. An open half-wall separates the staircase area, keeping the layout airy yet defined—perfect for a media space, playroom, or library nook.

Basement Bath

This compact bathroom keeps things bright and functional with clean white finishes, updated fixtures, and generous mirror space. The granite-look countertop, crisp cabinetry, and wall-mounted lighting offer a clean contrast to the home’s more vintage spaces. Ideal for guests or a lower-level suite, it continues the home’s thoughtful blend of old and new.

Storage Room

Tucked into the basement level, this storage room showcases the home’s original character with exposed beams, built-in shelving, and vintage wood paneling. The open doorway leads to additional finished spaces, while ceiling piping and painted floors reflect the era of construction. It’s a versatile, no-frills space perfect for archives, crafts, or seasonal decor storage.

Source: GRG Gosselin Realty Group via Zillow

3. 1900 Colonial Home in Portsmouth

Listed at $3,500,000, this meticulously renovated 1900 Colonial residence in Portsmouth’s Little Harbour neighborhood offers nearly 3,800 square feet of refined living space on a 0.34-acre lot. Blending historic charm with modern convenience, the home features tall ceilings, maple hardwood floors, and intricate millwork throughout. Recent top-to-bottom renovations include updates to plumbing, HVAC, electrical, windows, and siding. A custom-designed kitchen with Thermador appliances and an 11-foot island anchors the open-concept main floor, while five bedrooms, a finished third floor, and a spacious yard make this home both elegant and functional.

Where is Portsmouth, NH?

Light-Filled Living

The spacious living room welcomes you with tall windows that invite natural light into every corner. Pale maple hardwood floors and soft-gray walls provide a serene backdrop, while the modern furnishings add a cozy yet sophisticated touch. The layout maintains a clean aesthetic, ideal for relaxing or gathering with guests in this thoughtfully updated historical setting.

Elegant Dining

Anchored by a striking black chandelier, the dining room blends contemporary style with subtle nods to tradition. Large windows bathe the room in daylight, highlighting the warm wood tones of the table and the surrounding light-colored walls. Seamlessly connected to the kitchen, this space is perfect for entertaining and family meals.

Chef’s Kitchen

A culinary dream, the kitchen is fitted with premium Thermador appliances, including a professional-grade gas range. Clean white cabinetry and a glossy subway tile backsplash enhance the kitchen’s bright, polished appearance. Every detail, from the modern hardware to the expansive countertops, speaks to both beauty and function.

Guest Bedroom

This cozy bedroom offers a peaceful corner of the home with large windows that bring in calming views and daylight. The neutral palette pairs beautifully with the soft-toned flooring and traditional trim work, maintaining the home’s classic roots while supporting a modern lifestyle.

Primary Suite

The inviting primary suite is a restful sanctuary with ample space, soft lighting, and a soothing color scheme. Three large windows frame outdoor views and flood the room with light. Simple, plush furnishings add warmth, making this a perfect retreat within the home.

Spa-Like Bathroom

This luxurious bathroom features a dual-sink vanity topped with marble and illuminated by sleek, modern mirrors. A glass-enclosed shower with marble tile completes the serene spa experience. The combination of clean lines and elegant materials offers both comfort and style.

Second Bedroom

Another bright and spacious bedroom showcases large windows and warm wood floors, ideal for use as a guest room, office, or children’s space. The simple trim work and soft gray walls mirror the calming design seen throughout the home, creating consistency in this thoughtfully renovated layout.

Loft Retreat

The expansive third-floor loft boasts vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and multiple skylights that bathe the space in daylight. With its open design and charming architectural angles, this area is perfect for a creative studio, playroom, or quiet hideaway.

Historic Basement

The basement blends historic texture with practical updates. Whitewashed stone walls and exposed beams retain original character, while fresh flooring and modern lighting make the space usable and inviting. Ideal for storage, a home gym, or workshop, this area is a true extension of the home’s utility.

Source: KW Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty/Portsmouth Erin via Zillow