Amy Forshew of Proximity Interior Design in Wayne, recently helped transform a historic outbuilding on a Berwyn property into a cozy guesthouse, writes Eileen Smith Dallabrida for Main Line Today. 

Forshew was tasked with bringing back a dilapidated cottage while retaining the charm of the historic original design. The cottage needed to be a retreat for the owners of the property, which also boasts a much larger and grander home, and a place for short-term guests. 

“Reclaimed barn beams and a gorgeous fireplace were must-haves for the client,” said Forshew. 

To keep with the historic nature of the outhouse, Forshew chose materials that are an artful blend of the original stone and various other elements found at other sites. 

“It was really interesting to watch them salvage the stone and then work it together like a jigsaw puzzle,” said Forshew. “The barn beams are reclaimed from another property.” 

Other details include pale wood floors and white shiplap walls that offer a contrast to black-framed windows and a single French door at the end of the galley that brings in natural light. Meanwhile, accessories are inspired by nature, such as woven reed baskets. 

Read more about the Berwyn guesthouse transformation in Main Line Today.

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