Orford Howard House

Housewright Construction was honored to lead the preservation, restoration and renovation work at the Howard House (1829), one of the most significant Federal-style residences in central New Hampshire and Vermont. Our work focused on safeguarding the home’s architectural integrity while thoughtfully integrating modern systems, including central air, to support comfortable, year-round living.

This project required a highly detailed approach, balancing conservation with discreet upgrades. Original features—including the home’s generous room proportions, lofty ceilings, elegant spiral staircase, decorative painted finishes, and historic wall coverings such as the De Gournay “Early View of India”—were preserved and restored using period-appropriate methods and materials. Where new elements were introduced, they were seamlessly incorporated to remain true to the home’s historic character.

Set on 14 acres, the property occupies a prominent position within Orford’s nationally recognized row of Federal homes along the Connecticut River. The surrounding landscape—open lawns, specimen trees, perennial gardens, a tennis court, a heated greenhouse installed by Housewright Construction with direct access to the house, and a fenced vegetable garden—complements the architectural significance of the residence.

This project exemplifies Housewright Construction’s commitment to craftsmanship, historical accuracy, and the thoughtful integration of modern living within heritage structures.