NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. — Maugel DeStefano Architects has begun designing the restoration of the historic White Cliffs Mansion, an 1886 estate that will be transformed into a premier wedding and event venue while preserving one of Massachusetts’ notable architectural landmarks.
The project, developed by Elegant Banquets of Brookfield, Connecticut, will restore the former summer estate of industrialist Daniel B. Wesson, co-founder of Smith & Wesson, through a preservation-focused approach that balances historic authenticity with modern functionality.
Originally constructed in 1886, the Victorian Queen Anne-style mansion has undergone numerous alterations over the decades. The restoration seeks to reverse many of those changes by removing incompatible additions, restoring original architectural features, and introducing carefully designed new spaces that support the property’s future as a world-class event venue.
According to Maugel DeStefano Architects, the design follows the National Historic Guidelines, emphasizing transparency, compatibility, and architectural distinction between historic and contemporary elements.
A key component of the project is the removal of large additions constructed during the 1960s that currently obscure the mansion’s original front façade. Those structures will be replaced with restored front and side porches enclosed with frameless glass, allowing the historic architecture to remain visually prominent while providing functional gathering spaces for guests.
The transparent design is intended to strengthen the connection between the restored mansion and its new additions without compromising the building’s historic character.
Complementing the restoration will be a new cocktail pavilion and grand ballroom designed specifically to contrast with the original Victorian architecture rather than imitate it. The additions feature simplified forms, restrained detailing, and lower rooflines that defer to the historic mansion, following preservation best practices that distinguish new construction from original architecture.
Positioned away from the mansion’s primary façade, the new buildings preserve important sightlines while reinforcing the estate’s historic residence as the visual centerpiece of the property.
“White Cliffs presents a unique opportunity to restore one of Massachusetts’ distinctive historic estates while creating a premier wedding and event venue for future generations to enjoy,” said Mark Pelletier, principal at Maugel DeStefano Architects. “Working closely with Elegant Banquets and our project partners, every design decision has been guided by a commitment to preserving the mansion’s prominence, authenticity, and relationship to the landscape, ensuring that its historic character remains at the heart of the experience.”
The project reflects a growing trend of adaptive reuse in which historically significant properties are revitalized through new commercial uses that generate long-term economic sustainability while preserving architectural heritage.
The restoration team includes Lobisser & Ferreira Construction Co. as general contractor, Trillium Engineers providing structural engineering services, Hancock Associates leading civil engineering and landscape architecture, and Rich Correia serving as project advisor.
Once completed, the restored White Cliffs Mansion will offer a distinctive destination for weddings, celebrations, and special events while preserving an important piece of Massachusetts history for future generations.
