The Ultimate Addition for a Circa 1800s Stone House

This thoughtfully renovated historic home, by Peter Zimmerman Architects, in Berks County, Pennsylvania, is rooted in the story of the Yoder family, who lived in the Oley Valley prior to 1720 and owned this property before 1780. While the main stone house is dated to 1829, evidence of an earlier log structure and pre-1829 outbuildings reveals layers of history carefully preserved through a sensitive renovation and expansion.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

A cozy library nook just off an entryway is wrapped in rich wood paneling and built-in shelves filled with books and collected treasures. A tall antique clock and ladder-back chair add to the room’s historical character with its amazing mill work and arched doorway.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

Exposed beams and a brick fireplace anchor this welcoming living space, furnished with classic Windsor chairs and upholstered seating. A painted portrait above the mantel adds a sense of history and personal story to the stone house.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

The kitchen addition blends seamlessly with the original structure, featuring farmhouse sinks, handcrafted cabinetry, and exposed ceiling beams. All materials were locally sourced from the Oley Valley, echoing the home’s 18th-century roots.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

A second view of the kitchen highlights glass-front cabinets filled with collected dishware and a central prep island. This addition to the stone house increased the home’s size while staying true to the original architectural fabric.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

A stone sunroom space reflects the home’s early origins, with salvaged stone flooring harvested from on-site excavations and a rustic utility sink reminiscent of early domestic life. Weathered blue cabinetry and exposed brick honor the 18th-century materials used throughout the renovation.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

This intimate hearth space reflects early American living, with hand-crafted chairs and simple finishes that evoke daily life from centuries past. It honors the original function of the home while serving as a cozy gathering spot today.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

The upstairs hallway features lantern-style lighting and wide plank floors crafted from authentic timber systems. These details reinforce the commitment to preserving period-appropriate craftsmanship. Note the wood dresser tucked inside an alcove in the hallway.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

A charming bathroom reveals a freestanding tub tucked beneath the sloped ceiling, blending old-world charm with modern comfort. The simple fixtures and original-style flooring maintain historical integrity.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

The upper-level bedroom showcases original-style timber floor systems and sloped ceilings that preserve the home’s historic character. This peaceful retreat is part of the expanded master suite added to accommodate modern living while maintaining period authenticity.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

The garden and fenced yard recall the property’s early farming roots, with heirloom plantings and brick pathways. This outdoor space feels like a natural extension of the home’s long history.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects

All materials used throughout the interior and exterior were sourced locally from the Oley Valley and reflect authentic 18th-century origins. The stone was carefully reclaimed from on-site excavations required for the new basement spaces.

Photo by Peter Zimmerman Architects