This Charming Farmhouse Is Hiding a Surprising Secret in Its Beautiful Design
Look closely: While this rambling Idaho retreat may look multi-generational, it’s actually brand-spankin’-new construction.
Barn, log cabin, plantation, hacienda—Alison and Jim Luckman have lived in them all. But when the couple bought 14 acres in Ketchum, Idaho, only one style of house would do: an old-fashioned farmhouse.
“We wanted something comfortable,” says Alison. “We live with dogs and grandchildren, and we want everyone to feel at home.” Fortunately, the Luckmans had just the right team in place: Jim Strickland and Aaron Daily from Atlanta-based architectural firm Historical Concepts, who designed four of their previous homes and have a reputation for capturing the spirit of old architecture in new builds.
“The Luckmans didn’t want something that looked like one big house,” says Jim Strickland. “It was important to capture the rambling, multigenerational nature of a farmhouse.” So the team designed it to look like a main house with outbuildings that would have been connected at some point, like in the old days. Thanks to the serene setting, thoughtfully sourced materials, and century-old details, the Luckman farmhouse is a true lesson in character building.
Take a step inside to see how the team at Historical Concepts achieved the new-old look.
A Large Kitchen
Back in the day, the first floor of a typical New England farmhouse consisted of an expansive kitchen and a more formal adjacent room “for when the minister came by.” Shaker-style cabinetry, wide-planked pine floors, and Alison’s mother’s collection of early Canton dishware reinforce the age-old feel.
RELATED: For more farmhouse kitchen ideas, check out 34 Farmhouse Kitchen Ideas for the Perfect Rustic Vibe.
Four Fireplaces
The dining area just off the kitchen is home to a cozy fireplace, framed with salvaged wood and brick for additional character.
RELATED: For more information on reclaimed wood, check out 6 Best Places to Find or Buy Reclaimed Wood Near You.
Above-the-Door Details
Historic architecture books inspired the cutout details above the pass-throughs. Alison’s friend painted the folding mural, of which you see just a hint at left.
Storied Stone Walls
Channeling the iconic stone walls of New England, Alison and Jim chose to outfit their bedroom with a mix of stones from Rolling Rock Building Stone.
Antique Lighting
Lighting designer Eloise Pickard refurbished the fixtures throughout the house, including in the bathroom. “Eloise collects old fixtures and then electrifies and reworks them for present-day homes,” says Alison. “It’s great fun!”
Varying Ceiling Heights
To mimic the feeling of multiple buildings coming together over the years, the ceilings range from 10 to 20 feet. “Back in the day, even the most modest houses had 10-foot ceilings and high transoms to keep the heat moving,” says Jim Strickland.
A "Generational" Footprint
To capture the spirit of a house that’s been added on to through the years, the exterior features a mix of materials and textures.
Ample Porches
Covered porches became popular in the 1800s as a place for farmers to relax and enjoy the land. The Luckmans’ home boasts 3,000 square feet of space that’s abundantly shady thanks to the eaves of the metal roof.
RELATED: For more front porch inspiration, check out 80+ Best Front Porch Decorating Tips for Making the Coziest Space
Lasting Landscape
An avid gardener, Alison outfitted the rose, delphinium, and peony-dotted property with seemingly been-around-forever touches like an old stone wall and post lamps.
RELATED: For more garden-related content, 25 Best Perennial Flowers and Plants to Make Any Yard Beautiful
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