The Junior League of Boston unveils the 2005 Decorators Show House

A 17th century farm, available for public use, receives a much-needed makeover.

Lisa LeFevre -- Interior Design, 4/18/2005 12:00:00 AM

Every year the Junior League of Boston (JLB),  a non-profit organization of women committed to education, voluntarism, and charitable actions for the community, selects a local historic residence, either privately or state owned, to renovate and refurbish. Prowse Farm is this year's lucky contender.

Founded in 1907, JLB has been renovating historic landmarks since 1971 as a fundraising initiative. Over the past 33 years, the league has transformed Boston area residences such as the Commandant's House at the Charlestown Navy Yard, the Commodore's Mansion in Watertown, and the Noah Brooks Tavern in Lincoln. All Show House proceeds benefit the league's service programs, which include health and educational outreach for women and children.

Originally the location of the Doty Tavern, the Prowse Farm is the site where the Suffolk Resolves--precursor documents to the Declaration of Independence--were drafted in 1774.

Today, the farm provides educational and recreational space for resident artists, Native American pow-wows, and city festivals. Every aspect of the site, from its long halls, patios, and bedrooms to its closets, has been creatively adapted to provide useful public space for community events. Over 20 local landscape and interior design firms will participate in the Show House, including Santini & Co, Logan Gowdy Interiors, and Gerald Pomeroy.

"All the rooms are unique--and have their own challenges," says this year’s Show House co-chair Laura Sjosten, citing in particular the kitchen and laundry room. Construction was aimed at modernizing the farm with "creative design in terms of functionality."

The Show House, on view May 5th through 26th, will kick off with a black-tie gala April 30th.