Originally part of an old farm, this 450 sq. ft. root cellar was on the brink of deterioration when the client decided to preserve its charm and give it new life.

What began as a structural restoration quickly evolved into a cozy hangout space designed for relaxing with friends. The Gnome Home features cobblestone floors with radiant heat, original 2-foot-thick exposed stone walls, and a mix of built-in benches and comfortable chairs for lounging. Equipped with a TV for football games and a music system, the space blends rustic character with modern comfort.

This project is a part of The New England House job. Read more.

Breathing new life into an old house is much like revitalizing a well-loved garden… it demands thoughtful pruning, a clear vision to guide fresh growth, and a steadfast dedication to preserving its timeless beauty and character.

This thoughtful approach was embraced by Michael Beck, executive director of the Berkshire Botanical Garden, and his husband, Beau Buffier, an antitrust lawyer and passionate gardener. Together with Lou Boxer Builder, they transformed this historic home while honoring its rich past and unique charm.

Dive into the details by reading the article below.

This Old House Magazine, July/August 2019 – “Better Than Ever: A 109-Year-Old House Grows Into Its Own”

Pilot and author Mark Vanhoenacker and banker-photographer Mark Jones didn’t set out to find a home in the Berkshires.

During a Thanksgiving visit with family, a leisurely drive through Lenox led them to an unexpected discovery—a one-car garage with a small apartment above it perched before a breathtaking view.

For Vanhoenacker, who grew up in Pittsfield, the spot was instantly familiar and brimming with nostalgia, offering a serene contrast to the couple’s bustling Midtown Manhattan apartment. This chance encounter marked the beginning of their journey to create a home with the help of Lou Boxer Builder.

Discover how it all came together by reading the article below.

Berkshire Magazine, Spring 2017 – “Garage Ménage: Family Members Collaborate on a Modern Country Retreat ”

Annie Selke, the visionary founder of Pine Cone Hill, is a celebrated name in the world of home design, known for her passion for creating vibrant, stylish, and approachable interiors.

With an eye for timeless patterns, rich textures, and fresh color palettes, Annie has redefined how we think about home décor, making it both luxurious and livable. Since launching Pine Cone Hill in 1994, her signature designs have inspired countless homes, blending comfort with sophistication. Annie’s commitment to quality and creativity has built a beloved brand and cemented her reputation as a leader in the industry.

In 2010, Annie embarked on a series of life changes, including moving into a 1960s ranch-style home that required a comprehensive renovation. With the expertise of Lou Boxer Builder, the transformation brought new life to the space. That same year, House Beautiful documented the journey in a series of articles, capturing every step from start to finish.

Click the links below to explore the full story.

• House Beautiful, February 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 1: The Inspiration”
• House Beautiful, March 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 2: Rethinking the Floor Plan”
• House Beautiful, April 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 3: The Facade Gets a Facelift”
• House Beautiful, May 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 4: The Kitchen/Dining Room”
• House Beautiful, June 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 5: The Master Suite”
• House Beautiful, July/August 2010– “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 6: The Living Room”
• House Beautiful, September 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 7: The Lower Level”
• House Beautiful, October 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 8: The Garage”
• House Beautiful, November 2010 – “Makeover: Annie Selke – Part 9: What I Learned…”

Nestled in the Berkshires’ scenic Williamstown, Massachusetts, this remarkable vacation home underwent a stunning transformation, tripling in size.

Under the guidance of architect Chad Floyd of Centerbrook Architects and Planners and featured in the October 2008 issue of Architectural Digest, the home’s lofty design embraces the breathtaking vistas of its elevated surroundings, seamlessly blending modern architecture with the natural beauty of the landscape.

Lou Boxer Builder played a key role in bringing this extraordinary vision to life. Read more about the project by clicking the link below.

Architectural Digest, October 2008 – “Stepping Up to the Views: A Lofty Expansion Triples the Size of a Vacation Home in the Berkshires”

Ensconced on the shores of Lake Garfield in Monterey, Massachusetts, this extraordinary home was transformed into a harmonious blend of modern design and natural beauty.

Designed by Musumanoco, LLC, the project reimagined both the structure and its setting with additions, façade updates, and a complete interior redesign. To reconnect the home to its lakefront woodland surroundings, the landscape was revitalized with native plantings, terraced stone paths, and rugged stone walls that merge seamlessly with the forest.

The home’s striking black exterior with a cobalt blue cast echoes the lake’s ever-changing hues, while its sculptural form and expansive windows celebrate the breathtaking views. Inside, reclaimed materials, such as historic beams and barnboard, create warm, textured spaces that feel timeless yet fresh.

With Lou Boxer Builder bringing the vision to life, this project perfectly balances innovation and a deep respect for its natural context. Explore the project details by visiting the Musumanoco project page below.

Musumanoco Architecture, Interior Design, and Decoration – “Berkshire Residence Project”