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Massachusetts is home to a wide variety of distinctive properties that blend architectural legacy with modern refinement. From Shingle-Style estates on the South Shore to Colonial Revival landmarks in the Berkshires and waterfront retreats on Cape Cod, each home reflects a unique chapter in the state’s residential history. These homes are thoughtfully updated while preserving original craftsmanship, offering features such as sweeping porches, custom millwork, period fireplaces, and panoramic views. Whether tucked away in conservation land or perched above the shoreline, these properties showcase the enduring appeal of New England architecture in premier locations across the state.
1. Apple Knoll Coastal Retreat
This 4,707 sq. ft. Shingle-Style home in Cohasset, built in 1895 and known as “Apple Knoll,” includes 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 2 half baths. The property features four fireplaces, hardwood floors, a central staircase, and a wraparound porch with views of Straits Pond and glimpses of the ocean. It offers a mix of historic detail and modern updates, with high ceilings and refined millwork throughout. Situated on a 0.69-acre lot, the home is valued at $2,275,000 and includes a charming carriage house.
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Where is Cohasset?
Cohasset is a coastal town located about 25 miles southeast of Boston, along the South Shore in Norfolk County. It sits on Massachusetts Bay and is bordered by Hingham, Scituate, and Hull. Known for its rocky coastline, small harbor, and scenic beauty, Cohasset combines seaside charm with residential appeal. The town is accessible by car via Route 3A and also by the MBTA commuter rail, making it a desirable location for commuters.
Entry Hall
The entry hall includes a wide staircase with dark wood railings, white risers, and hardwood floors. An arched doorway frames the staircase, and a blue cabinet with a vase of flowers sits beneath a photo collage. The area has white walls, decorative trim, and a modern overhead light fixture. Doorways lead to other rooms on either side.
Living Room
The living room features two brown sofas, a black rectangular coffee table, and a fireplace with a wood-framed mirror above it. The space has hardwood floors, white walls, and an overhead light fixture with multiple glass shades. A large archway connects the room to the entry hall, and a plant is placed in the corner near the doorway. Additional light enters from a nearby room through double doors.
Eat-in Kitchen
This kitchen includes white cabinetry with glass-front upper cabinets, a central peninsula with bar seating, and a built-in banquette dining area with a wooden table. French doors provide access to the yard and allow natural light into the room. The flooring is dark hardwood, and the space includes recessed lighting and a pendant light over the table. Open shelving and multiple windows are integrated into the design.
Bedroom
The bedroom includes a four-poster bed, a fireplace with a white mantel and brick surround, and hardwood floors. The walls are painted a muted blue-gray, and a round mirror hangs above the fireplace. Two nightstands and wall-mounted sconces are placed on each side of the bed. Multiple windows provide natural light throughout the space.
Porch
The covered porch features wood decking and white structural posts with an overhang ceiling painted green. A metal outdoor bench with cushions is positioned to face the water and surrounding landscape. Trees and shrubs border the edge of the porch, with a view of the pond and road beyond. The porch wraps slightly, suggesting additional outdoor space.
Source: Coldwell Banker
2. The Kemble Grand Colonial Revival Estate
The Kemble is a 9,556 sq. ft. Colonial Revival estate in downtown Lenox featuring 13 bedrooms, 13 full baths, and 1 half bath. Built in 1881 and designated as a registered “Great Estate,” it has been updated with modern furnishings and operates as a turnkey luxury rental property.
The interior includes expansive gathering areas, a commercial-grade kitchen, and a mahogany bar, with each bedroom offering its own en-suite bath. The property is valued at $5,285,000.
Where is Lenox?
Lenox is a small town located in Berkshire County in western Massachusetts, about 130 miles west of Boston. It is nestled in the Berkshire Mountains and is known for its cultural attractions, including Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Lenox offers a mix of historic charm, boutique shopping, and access to outdoor recreation such as hiking and skiing. The town is a popular destination for both seasonal visitors and year-round residents seeking a scenic and culturally rich environment.
Living Room
The living room includes a long red velvet sofa, a second red loveseat, and two beige chairs arranged around a glass coffee table. The space features a white fireplace with ornate molding and a decorative mirror above. Windows are dressed with full-length red curtains, and the room includes crown molding and recessed lighting. The area rug has a colorful, patterned design.
Bar Area
The bar area includes a U-shaped wooden bar with high-back leather stools and two built-in wood and glass shelving units behind it. The shelving includes green tile backing and glassware displays with underlighting. Overhead are large globe light fixtures. The space also includes a mounted TV and several two-top tables.
Dining Room
This dining room features two long wood tables with benches on one side and modern dining chairs on the other. A red patterned rug runs beneath both tables, and a row of geometric pendant lights hangs above. The room includes white walls, crown molding, and columns dividing the main space from a windowed seating nook with mountain views.
Bedroom
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This room includes a variety of seating such as a tufted gray sofa, leather chairs, and green armchairs along with a purple-upholstered bed with gold trim. A large white fireplace with a decorative surround and mirror is the focal point. The space includes light wood flooring, neutral area rugs, and crown molding. Large windows allow natural light into the room.
Backyard
The exterior of the home features a large Colonial Revival structure painted navy blue with white trim and multiple awnings. The backyard includes a tiered stone patio with built-in planters, stairs, and lounge seating. The landscape is well-maintained with grass, flowerbeds, and hedges. Multiple HVAC units are placed along the side of the building.
Source: Coldwell Banker
3. Private Duxbury Retreat with Marsh Views and Conservation Surroundings
This 4,980 sq. ft. custom home in Duxbury features 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 1 half bath, and is set on 1.77 private acres. Surrounded by over 15 acres of conservation land protected by the Wildlands Trust, the property offers expansive marsh views and abundant natural scenery. The interior includes soaring ceilings, large windows, a chef’s kitchen, and generous living spaces designed for both comfort and entertaining. The home is valued at $3,400,000 and includes multiple outdoor living areas such as stone patios, spacious decks, and a screened porch.
Where is Duxbury?
Duxbury, Massachusetts is a coastal town located about 35 miles south of Boston in Plymouth County. It lies along Cape Cod Bay and is known for its historic homes, scenic shoreline, and strong maritime heritage. The town includes beaches, conservation areas, and a harbor, making it popular for boating and outdoor recreation. Duxbury is accessible via Route 3, making it a convenient location for commuters traveling to the Boston area.
Living and Dining Room
The open-concept living and dining space includes a long wooden table with seating for eight and two couches arranged around a large stone fireplace. Hardwood floors run throughout, and the room is well-lit with recessed ceiling lights. French doors and multiple windows provide natural light. The layout combines casual seating and formal dining in one shared space.
Kitchen
The kitchen features a central island with bar seating for three and a stainless steel range hood overhead. Wood cabinetry and drawers line the walls, along with a built-in refrigerator and open shelving. Multiple windows provide natural light, and pendant lights hang above the island. The space is open and connects to the adjacent dining area.
Sunroom
The sunroom has a wood-paneled ceiling, light blue walls with white trim, and large windows on three sides. The furniture includes two wicker couches with plaid cushions, a central coffee table, and three rocking chairs. A ceiling fan is mounted in the center of the room. The view overlooks wooded surroundings.
Bedroom
The bedroom features hardwood floors, white walls, and a row of large windows with shutters. A gas fireplace is built into a corner cabinet below a curved wall. Furnishings include a wooden bed frame, a red armchair with a side table, and a tall dresser. The ceiling has recessed lighting and a small chandelier.
Backyard
The exterior shows a large cedar-shingled home with multiple gables and dormers. It sits on a spacious lawn with a paved driveway and a stone walkway leading to the entrance. A woodpile is stacked near the drive, and the lot is surrounded by trees. The structure features a screened porch and a barn-style roofline on one wing.
Source: Coldwell Banker
4. Coastal Yarmouth Residence with Direct Views of Lewis Bay
This 2,338 sq. ft. home in Yarmouth features 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, thoughtfully arranged across two levels. Recent updates blend with the home’s original character, offering both comfort and style. Multiple rooms are positioned to take advantage of sweeping views over Lewis Bay, while the outdoor area provides space for relaxation without extensive upkeep. The property is valued at $2,150,000 and offers a balance of modern convenience and classic coastal charm.
Where is Yarmouth?
Yarmouth is a town located on Cape Cod in Barnstable County, about 75 miles southeast of Boston. It stretches from Cape Cod Bay on the north to Nantucket Sound on the south, offering both bay and ocean beaches. Yarmouth includes several villages, such as South Yarmouth, West Yarmouth, and Yarmouth Port, each with its own local character. The town is known for its coastal charm, recreational opportunities, and mix of residential areas, historic sites, and tourist attractions.
Dining Room
The dining area includes a large rectangular table with eight white slip-covered chairs and a modern rectangular light fixture above. The space features white walls and a beamed ceiling. Multiple windows span the back wall, providing full views of the ocean. The layout opens into a living area with consistent finishes and sightlines.
Kitchen
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The kitchen includes a marble or granite countertop island with seating for five on metal barstools. Two pendant lights hang above the island, and the cabinetry is white. Stainless steel appliances and recessed lighting are visible in the background. The space includes multiple windows allowing for natural light.
Bedroom
This bedroom features a large bed with white linens and a blue bolster pillow, next to two windows with views of the surrounding neighborhood and water. A dark wood dresser sits against one wall beneath a piece of artwork. There is a sliding glass door that leads to an outdoor balcony overlooking the beach. The room includes a white paneled ceiling and light flooring.
Bathroom
The bathroom includes a soaking tub positioned beneath a round porthole-style window with a water view. A white vanity with a round mirror is set to the right of the tub. Vertical white paneling covers the walls and ceiling. Recessed lights and a simple faucet complete the design.
Rear Exterior
The rear exterior of the home features natural cedar shingles and white trim with two levels. A white-railed deck connects to a set of steps leading down to the lawn. A small hot tub is installed on the left side of the home. Multiple windows face the water, and a second-story deck area is also visible.
Source: Coldwell Banker
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