Maine architect John Calvin Stevens altered and expanded an existing carriage house to suit Homer's needs in 1884, even moving the building 100 feet for added privacy from his brother's neighboring summer home.

[3] The most dramatic element is a balcony the width of the building, from which the artist often painted in winter.

[2][6] The Portland Museum of Art acquired the building and surrounding grounds on January 31, 2006, closing both to the public during restoration projects.

[4] The Portland Museum of Art undertook significant restoration of the building.

The additions included plumbing and a restroom for visitors, electricity, security, and hidden steel reinforcements for the balcony (or piazza).