At Home Square Pro, we believe a space isn’t just a structure – it’s a living story, written by generations and rewritten with every thoughtful touch. That’s why we were thrilled to lead the amazing renovation of Eleish Van Breems Home’s new flagship at 177 Main Street in Westport, Connecticut. This project was a beautiful reminder that with the right vision, you can honor a building’s heritage while creating a fresh, fresh future.
As Ele says, “It’s like it’s connected us to the past with the present while making a modern destination for design lovers.”
A Building with a Past
The saltbox building at 177 Main Street dates back to around 1775. Over nearly 250 years, Westport went from a sleepy coastal town to a creative community. In the 60’s the building found new life as the “Remarkable Book Shop” – a bright pink landmark that was a hub for writers, artists, and locals. Edward Gorey, Erica Jong, and Paul Newman were known to frequent the shop, making it a cultural icon.
But like many old buildings, time took its toll. After the bookstore closed in 1995, the building slowly fell into disrepair. Despite its worn exterior, it remained a special place in the hearts of many locals, including Rhonda Eleish and Edie Van Breems, founders of Eleish Van Breems Home. Their memories and love for the building’s story were the spark that ignited the amazing renovation journey we were privileged to be a part of.
As the Eleish Van Breems team said, “We wanted to honor the spirit of this beloved building, preserve its heritage while making it relevant for a new generation.”
Our Vision to Restore and Reimagine
When Eleish Van Breems partnered with us at Home Square Pro, the goal was clear: preserve the essence of the space while reintroducing it as a modern destination for home design lovers. We saw beyond the worn walls and faded façade – we saw the opportunity to bring new life to a landmark with the care and respect it deserved. It wasn’t a facelift. It was a deep, thoughtful restoration. We worked with preservation specialists and architects to maintain as much of the original structure as possible, restoring historic wood beams, windows, and the iconic saltbox shape that speaks to 18th-century craftsmanship.
“We approached the renovation as a stewardship, not a reinvention,” says the Eleish Van Breems team. “Every decision was made with the building’s heritage in mind.”
At the same time, we infused the interior with Eleish Van Breems’ Scandinavian design philosophy – clean lines, open, light-filled spaces, and a neutral palette that creates a fresh, modern feel while honoring the building’s rich past. The result is a conversation between past and present – a space that feels both timeless and modern.
A Great Example of Good Design
At Home Square Pro, this is what we believe renovation should be. It’s not just about making a space look new – it’s about telling a story. It’s about honoring what came before while thoughtfully building for the future.
As Eleish Van Breems says: “A home – or in this case a store – should tell a story. It should feel layered and loved, not staged or stripped of its identity.”
Their philosophy is one we’re proud to support: homeowners and business owners who want to preserve the authenticity of older spaces rather than opting for quick fixes. Whether it’s restoring architectural elements, using traditional materials, or simply allowing a building’s quirks to shine, these choices create spaces with real soul – spaces that feel alive.
How We Can Help You Tell Your Story
You don’t need a centuries-old building to have a remarkable transformation. We work with homeowners, designers, and real estate investors to uncover the hidden potential in every property – whether it’s a historic farmhouse, a mid-century bungalow, or a sleek new construction.
We believe every renovation should be personal, purposeful, and connected to the story of the space. We help you find the right team of contractors, designers, and craftsmen who know how to preserve what matters most while bringing fresh perspectives to the table.
Just like with the transformation of 177 Main Street, we love blending tradition with innovation, creating spaces that honor the past while feeling perfectly suited for modern living.
Your Remarkable Makeover Awaits
Ready to start your own renovation – whether it’s a quick refresh or a full restoration?
Home Square Pro can help. We’ll work with you to make your project a true reflection of your vision while honoring the story of your space.
Let’s do something amazing.
Get in touch with Home Square Pro today.
