Historic Stone Cottage Addition, Part 3: Interior Finishes, Tile, Stone and Move-In
Bringing the Cottage to Life
From Rough-In to Move-In
With the cottage addition closed in, winter became the season of systems and surfaces. From January to early April 2025, our team moved through rough-ins, inspections, finishes and site work. The result is an addition that feels like it has always been part of this historic Upper Bucks County home.
Getting the Bones Right
Before any finishes, we made sure the hidden work was done carefully:
The shower floor framing was lowered to fit the finished shower design
Stairs were installed to connect the original home and the new upper floor
Insulation and fire-stopping passed inspection
Plumbing, electrical and HVAC rough-ins were completed and inspected
Drywall went up in January, and the spaces finally started to feel like rooms.
Exterior: Clay Siding and Classic Color
The exterior uses clay siding, chosen for durability and a traditional look next to the original stone and stucco. Matching stock was hard to find, so our team tracked down enough material to finish the job without compromising the design.
In March, the exterior was painted and finished with deep green shutters, a timeless pairing with white siding and old stone.
Interior Finishes With Old-Home Character
February and March brought the details:
Heated tile floors for comfort through Bucks County winters
A herringbone brick-look floor and a hexagon tile bath
Custom cabinets with granite countertops and a mosaic backsplash
Interior trim and solid doors
Stained railings and stair treads
Where Old Meets New
Some of the most rewarding work on this project happened where the addition meets the original cottage. Our team carefully finished plaster up to exposed historic stone, so the old walls stay a visible part of the home's story rather than being covered over. In the converted attic, the original stone wall is now a feature of the new living space.
Outside, the stone patios were pointed to match the home's historic masonry.
Move-In and Final Site Work
The homeowners moved in during early April 2025. That month, we finished grading and drainage, seeded the lawn and installed gutters. After move-in, we stayed responsive through the warranty period, adding sump and dehumidification improvements and installing the final shutters.
What This Project Highlights
An addition that respects and showcases a historic stone home
Heated floors, custom cabinetry and durable, traditional materials
Careful transitions between new plaster and original stone
Ongoing warranty support after move-in
Why Design-Build Makes a Difference
From the foundation to the last shutter, one team carried this project through every decision. That continuity is what let the old and new parts of this home come together seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a cottage addition from foundation to move-in?
On this project, excavation started in late August 2024 and the homeowners moved in during early April 2025, about seven months of construction.
Can you keep original stone walls exposed in a renovation?
Yes. With careful plaster work and detailing, original stone can stay exposed as a feature wall. It takes planning so the transitions look intentional.
Are heated tile floors worth it in Bucks County?
Many homeowners choose radiant heated floors in bathrooms and kitchens for winter comfort. They're easiest to add during construction, before tile goes down.
What happens after move-in with a Revival Building Group project?
We stay involved through the warranty period, handling punch-list items and any adjustments the home needs as it settles into its first seasons.
See the Next Project on This Property
The cottage was just the beginning. Next, our team took on a major addition and renovation of the main farmhouse on the same property. Follow that series to see what came next.
Considering a Renovation or Addition?
Whether you're planning an addition, renovation or custom home, understanding the process is just as important as the final result.
📩 Reach out to learn more about our process or explore additional projects for inspiration.