Before and After Photos Reveal the Amazing Transformation of a Demolition 1820 Farmhouse into a $1.2 Million Dream Property

The best love stories are those that come through perseverance, hard work, and tender loving care. And that’s exactly how the transformation of a 200-year-old New Hampshire farmhouse happened—with a bold vision, unwavering dedication, and plenty of elbow grease.

Sitting on more than 12 acres in Hopkinton, NH, the property, originally built in 1820, began its latest chapter four years ago, when a husband-and-wife team saw the power in its crumbling, abandoned bones.

Now on the market for $1.19 million, the meticulously restored residence stands as a testament to what can be achieved with strength and energy.

Once a working farm and later home to a local oil company, the historic four-bedroom residence had many setbacks over the years, before being left to rot.

For many, the dirty interior, peeling paint, and stained floors would have been glaring red flags, warning them away from the place. But for Larry Cohen, they were just obstacles to overcome in his quest to restore the farmhouse to its original glory.

Cohen and his wife, Devon Elseinterior designer, immediately fell in love with the farmhouse, purchasing the property and its 12 acres for just $245,000 in 2022. They soon began an extensive renovation of the residence, which would eventually take more than two years to complete.

“Almost everyone in the community knows about this house, and we’ve had people in town asking for information about the property all the time,” Cohen tells Realtor.com®.

The couple had to walk a fine line with their restoration—figuring out how to retain its vintage appeal and timeless details, while updating the home into a sanctuary fit for the modern age.

“The appeal of this home is that it has all the charm of an 1800s farmhouse with all the modern conveniences,” explains Cohen.

Behind the old farmhouse facade lies a completely remodeled interior, measuring 4,426 square feet, which was no small feat.

The home now includes dual-zone HVAC—a significant improvement from this home’s lack of climate control—as well as new plumbing and electrical systems, spray foam insulation, new windows, floors, roof, siding and even copper tile. Custom LP gas lamps frame the front, subtly mixing old-world ambiance with modern art.

Creating hosting spaces has also been a priority in the rebuild. The kitchen is equipped with a scullery—complete with a Bosch dishwasher—ice maker, custom built-ins, and a True range-topping refrigerator and freezer.

“Absolutely everything was gutted and rebuilt, including a remodel of the entire house,” Cohen said. “The list is endless.”

Despite extensive renovations, the home has maintained its architectural integrity.

He says: “We really appreciated all the detail and craftsmanship and wanted to keep as much as possible.

The result is a curated mix of new and original materials, seamlessly layered throughout.

Else led the design herself, determined to honor the farmhouse’s classics—even if that meant going head-to-head with contractors who tried to rip off some of the building’s original features.

“Every contractor tried to get us to remove the curved stairs, but we couldn’t,” recalls Cohen. Today, those stairs make a stunning focal point and are a testament to the couple’s commitment to preservation.

Interesting details can be found throughout the home, including a small room under the stairs affectionately called “Harry Potter’s room.” Vintage-era pieces are also thoughtfully integrated, alongside well-chosen wallpaper, a cozy bookcase, and custom millwork.

The 12-plus acres offer room to roam, anchored by a large barn that complements the area’s agricultural heritage. A separate garage offers ample room for expansion.

Outside, the homeowners created a beautiful patio area with a custom deck and movie screen.

“We’re very focused on character and those unique details that make older buildings so beautiful,” Cohen said. “That, coupled with the stunning design, creates an inviting and comfortable atmosphere.”

The property is just minutes from Pat’s Peak Ski Area and about 30 minutes drive from Manchester.

This two-year restoration was more than just a construction job—it was a labor of love.

“Devon has brought out the true personality of the home while maintaining that ‘homey’ feel,” said Cohen.