Tour a Charming 1920 Colonial House in Massachusetts With a Lush Garden Oasis, Bluestone Patio and Newly Built Guest House

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Located in the historic village of Manchester-by-the-Sea, this elegantly updated century home masterfully combines traditional New England architecture with contemporary amenities. The main residence offers four spacious bedrooms, including a tranquil primary suite with an en-suite bath. The bright chef’s kitchen features upscale finishes like a Sub-Zero refrigerator and custom white oak shelving, overlooking a blue stone patio and expansive backyard ideal for entertaining. A newly built guest house adds versatile living space with a bedroom, bonus room, and full bath. Priced at $2,375,000, this private lot places you just minutes from schools, parks, beaches, and downtown. This property epitomizes refined village living with comfort and style.

Historic Home Exterior

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A charming historic American home with a textured yellow stucco façade and contrasting black shutters enhancing the traditional double-hung windows. The roof features dark gray shingles with multiple pitched sections adding architectural interest. The front entrance is approached by a set of stone steps framed by mature, lush green shrubs. The driveway includes a gravel section leading to an adjacent paved parking area, bordering a detached structure painted in a muted charcoal color with vertical siding, blending rustic and modern elements. A well-maintained lawn and surrounding deciduous trees provide a serene natural setting.

Backyard Deck and Patio

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious wooden deck with wide, dark stained steps leads up to a two-level platform, blending seamlessly with the natural outdoor setting. The deck adjoins a beige stucco exterior wall of the house, featuring large sliding glass doors framed in white that open into the interior. Two cushioned lounge chairs sit on a textured light-colored outdoor rug, offering a relaxing seating area. The yard is enclosed by a natural wood privacy fence, creating an intimate and secure environment. Subtle landscaping accents like planter boxes and stone edging add texture without overwhelming the clean, modern aesthetic. Bare tree branches extend above, suggesting a late winter or early spring setting.

Outdoor Patio Seating

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Spacious stone tiled patio blending natural elements with modern comfort, framed by lush green bushes and tall trees in the background. Multiple seating areas include a large wooden sectional sofa with taupe cushions, accompanied by sleek black metal chairs with thin frames. A wooden dining set with matching benches sits under a large dark gray umbrella, providing shade. The setting is complemented by potted plants placed strategically on the patio adding warmth and color. Clean lines and natural wood tones contrast beautifully with the stone patio and the greenery, creating an inviting outdoor living space.

Backyard Patio Seating

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Two cushioned chaise lounges sit on a light-colored patterned outdoor rug, positioned for relaxation. The patio floor is made of dark-stained wood planks contrasting with the beige stucco exterior walls of the two-story house. Two sets of sliding glass doors provide access between indoors and this outdoor area. Black window shutters and lantern-style wall lights flank the doors, lending classic charm. A wooden privacy fence encloses the space, while string lights hang overhead, adding ambiance. To the side, a built-in bench planter contains some greenery, enhancing the cozy, private atmosphere of the backyard patio.

Backyard Patio Seating

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious paved backyard patio backed by a two-story beige stucco home with large windows and a prominent arched upper window. The patio is divided into two main seating areas: a wooden dining set with a large blue umbrella providing shade, and a cozy outdoor lounge with cushioned sectional seating and matching wooden framework. Neutral tones dominate the patio furniture, blending well with the natural stone patio tiles. Leafless trees and surrounding wooden fences enclose the area, creating an intimate yet open outdoor living space. Lush green grass borders the patio, adding contrast to the stone and wood elements.

Outdoor Patio and Yard

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious backyard with lush green grass and mature trees surrounding the area offers a serene outdoor environment. The two-tone house exterior contrasts earthy tan stucco with dark gray vertical wood clad structures that include a separate deck with a small table and chairs. The main patio area is paved and furnished with modern outdoor seating—two large cushioned sofas, a sizable dining table with umbrella, and potted plants for added greenery. Expansive windows, including a distinct arched window, allow natural light into the home. The area transitions smoothly from the lawn to outdoor living spaces designed for relaxation and social gatherings.

Outdoor Patio Dining

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Rustic wooden dining table accompanied by a matching bench and two metal-framed chairs with wooden slats sit on a stone-paved patio. A large dark grey umbrella provides ample shade for the dining area, creating a comfortable outdoor setting. The surrounding landscape features lush greenery with dense bushes and tall leafless trees in the background, suggesting an early spring or late autumn season. To the right, a raised wooden deck with a small seating arrangement of two chairs and a table adds a cozy and inviting element. The muted earthy tones of the furniture and natural materials blend harmoniously with the serene outdoor environment.

Backyard Deck and Facade

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Elevated deck in front of a dark gray, vertically paneled exterior wall is furnished with a wooden outdoor dining set, including four chairs and a rectangular table. Steps lead down to a well-maintained grassy lawn bordered by a mulched planting bed. Potted plants and lanterns add subtle decorative touches. The house facade showcases a modern farmhouse style with clean lines and black-framed windows, contrasting with the natural surroundings of sparse trees and shrubbery. A wooden fence on the right adds privacy, while the overall scene conveys a quiet, intimate outdoor living space blending simplicity and nature.

Backyard and Patio Area

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious, open backyard with a well-maintained green lawn stretches out toward a two-story beige house with large, arched windows on the upper floor, adding historic charm. A sizable wooden deck attaches to a dark-colored, modern-style structure on the left, furnished with casual dining chairs and a table. The patio area beside the house includes multiple seating arrangements shaded by umbrellas, inviting outdoor relaxation. Tall, bare trees and dense green shrubs frame the yard, while a small shed is visible on the right. The clear blue sky emphasizes the inviting, peaceful outdoor setting blending old and new architectural elements.

Backyard View

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A spacious backyard characterized by a wide, open green lawn bordered by large, leafy shrubs on either side. The background reveals a two-story house painted in a soft, warm tone with multiple windows allowing natural light inside. A wooden deck extends from the house with outdoor furniture including a chair and an umbrella, creating a cozy outdoor seating area. Surrounding trees, some leafless and others evergreen, add a natural, serene feel to the property, all under a clear blue sky with scattered white clouds, enhancing the peaceful suburban ambiance.

Entryway and Staircase

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space presents a clean and modern entryway with a staircase rising on the right. The stairs feature dark gray treads and matching handrails contrasted against crisp white risers and walls. To the left, a built-in white cabinet with brass hardware offers additional storage. Beyond the cabinet, an open-plan living room is partially visible with a light gray sofa sitting on a patterned rug, accompanied by subtle modern decor and ample natural light from glass doors and windows. The warm honey-toned hardwood flooring stretches throughout, tying the areas together in a cohesive and inviting manner.

Living Room Seating Area

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft gray walls paired with simple vertical paneling create a subtle textured backdrop behind a three-seat modern light gray sofa flanked by matching armchairs. Accent pillows with leafy green patterns add a splash of natural color. Two bedside tables with small plants and wall-mounted industrial-style sconces balance the symmetrical layout. An earthy-toned, geometric patterned area rug anchors the seating arrangement, complementing the warm wood tones of the central rectangular coffee table with a lower shelf holding magazines. A dark built-in shelving unit to the side holds books and curios, while a glass-fronted wooden cabinet displays decorative items near a large window letting in natural light.

Living Room Reading Nook

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A cozy living room corner with a focus on a built-in black bookshelf unit containing a flat-screen TV and arranged decorative items including books, photos, and small collectibles. The walls are painted white with subtle paneling. A neutral-toned armchair with a black frame and a plaid throw draped over it faces away from the bookshelf. Accompanying the chair is a small woven ottoman. A wooden side table sits adjacent to a light gray sofa with a white pillow printed with black arrows. Natural light filters through large windows, and hardwood floors with a patterned area rug complete the warm, eclectic space.

Fireplace Hearth Area

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A classic white wooden fireplace mantel with clean, sharp lines and subtle molding details anchors the space. The hearth features a black stone or granite base contrasting with the white mantel. A protective screen with black metal framing encloses the firebox, behind which a modest fire glows softly. To the left, a collection of antique fireplace tools including a broom and poker stand in a small circular holder, adjacent to a woven basket possibly holding firewood or matches. A large, aged copper basin sits on the right side, adding rustic charm. The background hints at wooden flooring and a nearby staircase with black railing. Decor items on the mantel include a framed vintage print, a small clock, an hourglass, and a white pitcher, blending historical and homey elements in a warm, inviting setting.

Kitchen Countertop and Backsplash

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The kitchen presents a modern yet warm design with sleek stainless steel appliances including a microwave, oven, and dishwasher. White cabinetry with simple metal handles contrasts beautifully with the dark polished countertops creating a clean and sophisticated look. The backsplash features a unique, earth-toned hexagonal tile pattern, adding texture and a vintage touch that complements the natural wood flooring. A soft gray wall tone frames the space, while open wooden shelves near the sink hold glassware and small decor. Natural light flows through a window above the sink, providing a view of the outdoors and highlighting the pendant light fixture that balances function and style.

Kitchen Countertop and Cabinets

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Black granite countertops contrast strikingly against white cabinetry that features simple, modern hardware. An island with vertical paneling doubles as a breakfast bar and workspace, unifying traditional textures with contemporary appeal. The backsplash is tiled in rich golden-brown tones with a honeycomb pattern, adding warmth and visual interest. Stainless steel appliances, including a microwave and gas range, blend seamlessly with the sleek design. Open wooden shelves display glassware and decor, adding a natural element. A pendant light with a woven shade hangs near the windows, which bring natural light into the otherwise cool-toned kitchen, blending modern elegance with subtle rustic charm.

Dining Room with Natural Light

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A rectangular wooden dining table sits centrally on a textured woven rug, surrounded by a mix of black woven and wooden chairs. A rustic pendant light fixture with exposed bulbs hangs directly above the table. Multiple large windows with white trim flood the room with natural light, offering views to a verdant yard. Walls are painted a soft light gray, complementing the warm honey-colored hardwood floors. A corner holds a dark wooden cabinet topped with potted plants, while a built-in white arched cabinet adds historic charm and storage flair. Simple framed art adds modest character to the space.

Entryway and Stair Step

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space features a transitional entryway that seamlessly leads into a raised hardwood floor area through a short two-step ascent. The walls are painted a soft grey, contrasting gently with bright white trim and door featuring black hardware. The flooring in the entry area consists of neutral-toned ceramic tiles that transition cleanly to warm wood planks. A built-in bench on the right side offers storage with two woven baskets atop, adding texture and a cozy, natural element. Above the bench, a black-framed mirror with a matching shelf holds small decorative items and plants, balancing functionality with minimalistic charm. Sunlight filters in through twin windows dressed with bamboo shades, illuminating the contemporary yet inviting atmosphere.

Entryway Details

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The entryway opens up with a warm, inviting feel highlighted by soft gray walls contrasted with bright white trim and door frames. Natural light streams through a central window overlooking the outside, balanced by a black door featuring glass panels for added brightness. A rustic wooden coat rack with iron hooks, holding a woven basket, introduces natural textures. Earth-toned ceramic tiles cover the floor, complemented by a woven rectangular floor mat near the door. A simple yet modern pendant light hangs centered overhead, giving the area a clean, functional, and subtly rustic aesthetic.

Living Room Seating Area

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The room has a clean and modern aesthetic with light gray walls and natural wood flooring. A large sectional sofa in neutral gray tones is accented by patterned and solid throw pillows in shades of blue, complementing the blue armchair nearby. The furniture is arranged around a simple, rustic wooden coffee table that adds warmth and texture to the space. A black and white patterned rug anchors the seating area. The walls are minimally decorated with a framed black-and-white photograph, and bamboo blinds partially cover the windows, allowing natural light while adding an organic touch. A flat-screen TV is mounted on a white shiplap accent wall above a wooden console filled with books and personal decor, blending functionality with homey charm.

Entryway Desk Nook

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A small built-in wooden desk nook with shiplap walls sits adjacent to a white door, presumably a coat closet, in the entry area. Above the desk are framed art and a decorative wooden canoe, adding rustic charm. Light hardwood floors transition to beige tile near the front door window, where a modern wooden pendant light hangs. To the left, a cozy sitting area with a cushioned white wingback chair and a blue rug is bordered by large vertical windows that flood the space with natural light. The room’s palette is neutral with white, gray, and natural wood tones, blending classic and contemporary elements.

Upstairs Hallway

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A bright upstairs hallway with light gray walls and natural wood flooring runs alongside a staircase with a sturdy black painted wooden banister. White trim and paneled white doors with black hardware provide contrast while maintaining a clean, classic look. A round, modern ceiling light fixture adds contemporary flair. At the end of the hall, a window with a wooden woven blind showcases a snowy outdoor scene, hinting at a cozy interior during colder seasons. An area rug with muted earth tones softens the space near the stairwell, blending traditional and modern elements in this transitional area.

Master Bedroom Details

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A vaulted ceiling enhances the spaciousness of this master bedroom, highlighted by a striking deep navy accent wall behind the bed. A modern painting and a vintage wooden paddle add character above the bed. Crisp white bedding contrasts beautifully with patterned throw pillows, while a rustic wooden trunk at the foot of the bed contributes warmth. The room’s light natural wood flooring complements the neutral geometric rug. Window treatments are woven bamboo shades, offering an earthy texture, balanced by white walls. A cozy blue patterned armchair and warm bedside lamps add comfort and charm, with a large gilded mirror reflecting light and space near the doorway.

Upper Hallway and Bathroom Entrance

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Hardwood floors in a honey oak tone stretch through an upper-level hallway characterized by neutral beige walls and white trim. The sloped ceiling features a modern ceiling fan with wood blades, complementing the contemporary yet cozy design. A black wooden spindle chair sits against the wall near an entry to a bathroom, which has white cabinetry, a white-tiled floor, and soft gray walls, maintaining a clean, bright feel. The hallway opens into a sunlit space with a large window featuring an arched transom that frames tall outdoor trees for natural views, accented by a decorative rug and a wooden console with a round mirror above it.

Bedroom Workspace

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

A cozy bedroom corner incorporating a work desk beneath a single window with natural light filtering through a woven blind. The dominant color on one wall is a rich navy blue, contrasting with the neutral white trim and softer grey tones on adjacent walls. A bed dressed in grey and white checkered bedding complements the subtle patterned area rug below. The hardwood floor adds warmth, balanced by the mid-century wooden rocking chair. Two framed maps on the blue wall and a modern desk lamp complete this peaceful, functional space that blends vintage charm with practical living.

Bedroom with Study Desk

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The room includes a cozy bed draped in a blue coverlet with white and plaid pillows, one humorously stating, “I’m kind of a big deal.” Light gray walls and white trim create a calm, neutral backdrop complemented by warm wood floors. A wooden desk with a modern chair sits against the left wall, providing a small workspace. Underneath is a long, striped runner rug adding texture. Art and framed prints adorn the walls, including a “Jaws” poster and a regional map. A window above a wooden side table with a lamp allows natural light to brighten the space. Built-in drawers are integrated into the angled wall near the desk.

Bathroom Vanity and Window

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft beige walls complement a classic white vanity topped with a light marble countertop, creating a bright and clean atmosphere. Matte black fixtures and cabinet knobs add contrast and modern flair. A large mirror above the vanity reflects soft, diffused light from overhead fixtures. The window framed in crisp white trim includes a natural woven bamboo shade that brings an organic texture to the space. The floor is tiled with simple light-colored squares, matching the clean, understated look. White towels are neatly rolled on shelves and hung on a black metal towel bar, reinforcing the neutral and modern theme.

Entryway Desk Area

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The entrance features a muted gray front door with glass panes near the top, flanked by white walls and trim that create a crisp, clean aesthetic. Adjacent to the door is a small wooden desk with multiple drawers, paired with a simple white chair, evoking a classic, traditional feel. A small lamp on the desk adds warmth, while art prints with maritime and race themes decorate the walls, contributing a coastal vibe. The floor is wide-plank light hardwood, accented by a striped blue rug at the door. Two white paneled closet doors add subtle texture on the right wall.

Compact Kitchen Corner

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Under a sharply angled white ceiling, this small kitchen corner combines rustic and modern elements with a minimalist design. Warm tones of natural wood characterize the open shelving on the left and the butcher block countertops on the right, contrasting with sleek black granite surfaces near the sink. A modest curtain covers the area beneath the sink, adding a casual, homey touch. Kitchen essentials, from a microwave to olive oil and cooking utensils, are neatly organized. A small bar setup with bottles and glasses fits snugly under the slanted wall, while a white Yeti cooler and a black backpack rest on the light wood floor. Bright, natural light comes through a window above the sink, enhancing the simple yet functional charm of the space.

Bathroom Vanity and Shower

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

The space displays a clean and crisp color palette dominated by white walls and trim, contrasted by dark slate floor tiles. A modern gray vanity with a marble countertop stands alongside a large mirror framed in white. The vanity includes multiple drawers and cabinets with sleek metal handles, providing practical storage. The shower area behind a patterned green and blue curtain adds a splash of color and subtle design flair. White subway tiles line the shower walls, continuing the fresh and timeless feel. The frosted window introduces natural light while maintaining privacy, enhancing the room’s airy and bright ambiance.

Cozy Sitting Room

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

White walls and ceilings create a bright and airy atmosphere for this small sitting room, complemented by recessed lighting. Soft natural wood flooring adds warmth underfoot. A deep blue upholstered sofa with salmon-colored cushions anchors one side, paired with a classic black wooden armchair featuring curved armrests. In the center, a round wooden coffee table atop a circular woven rug with a navy border offers a cozy focal point. Two windows with navy blue roller shades provide views of greenery outside. A corner bookshelf holds books beneath a lamp, while a wooden desk with metal legs supports a mounted TV and framed photos.

Bedroom View

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Soft gray walls and white trim frame a cozy bedroom space with a botanical-themed bedspread featuring light green palm leaves. A large bed dominates the foreground, complemented by a wicker chest in the corner. A striking teal dresser with an ornately carved mirror adds a touch of vintage charm, anchored by a dark rug beneath. A mid-century style wooden chair with striped blue cushions and matching throw enhances the relaxed and inviting ambiance. The room feels airy with natural light streaming in through a narrow window near the ceiling. Two white doorways reveal glimpses into adjoining rooms, with one opening toward a bathroom accented by a patterned shower curtain.

Home Gym and Yoga Space

Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty

Wooden plank flooring lends warmth to this bright, open workout area. White walls contrast with the natural wood tone, creating a clean and airy atmosphere. Two small windows bring natural light, enhancing the fresh and open feeling. A black treadmill is positioned centrally, facing a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, ideal for exercise motivation. Blue yoga mats and foam rollers are neatly arranged along the left wall, defining the yoga and stretching zone. The white door leads to another room, with a simple black knob complementing minimalist design. Two pendant lights with woven lampshades cast patterned shadows on the ceiling, adding visual interest and a touch of rustic charm.

Listing Agent: Kristin Francoeur of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty via Zillow 

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