Cambridge home Bob Vila transformed for his own family

Megan Johnson — Globe correspondent

July 14, 2022 5:07 pm

While home improvement icon Bob Vila has worked on endless properties across the country, the former “This Old House” star once transformed 8 Highland St. for his own family. Now the stunning Shingle-Style Victorian is on the market for $7,450,000.

The six-bed, 8.5-bath home is in West Cambridge on one of the city’s most prominent streets. Measuring 5,878 square feet, the home was designed by renowned Boston architects Hartwell and Richardson and constructed in 1897 for a Harvard astronomy professor. Years later, Vila tackled the property and chronicled its transformation in 26 episodes on “Bob Vila’s Home Again.”

“He pretty much re-created the home,” said Lisa May of the May Group at Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty, who has the listing. Vila sold the home in 2003.

Now the property blends historic charm and modern comforts. Step inside, and you’ll find gorgeous spaces, like a bright and airy living room with tall windows that stream in natural light. The eat-in kitchen has elegant wood cabinetry, a two-tier island, and a butler’s pantry. You’ll also find a workstation off the kitchen with a built-in desk.

“It’s just this really nice spot to sit and work, and it looks out toward the garden,” May said.

There’s also a formal dining room with a fireplace and a first-floor home office that has a fireplace and a wall of built-in bookshelves.

Upstairs, the primary suite boasts a beautiful fireplace under a white mantel. The bedroom also connects to two dressing rooms with extensive storage, as well as two bathrooms. The remaining five bedrooms — four are on this floor — each have en-suite baths.

The attic has been transformed into a family room with numerous windows, beamed ceilings, built-ins, a wet bar, and a window seat. The sixth bedroom, which is also on this level, is set up as an office and boasts a window seat as well.

The stunning outdoor space includes a deck and a stone patio under the canopy of mature trees and lush landscaping. The home has three parking spaces in the heated driveway.