An outstanding example of Italianate architecture, this impressively sited, visually commanding residence was completed in 1867 for John Way Beede, a prominent merchant and citizen of Meredith. From the center octagonal cupola, with its round-arched windows and bracketed, flat roof with finial, one may enjoy excellent views east of the town and Lake Winnipesaukee. On the front, east-facing facade of the house are numerous decorative features typical of its style: a low-pitched roof with projecting, bracketed cornices; elaborate, corbelled brick chimneys piercing the roof planes; corner quoining and triangular gable ventilators of the left and right pavilions; and a center veranda with bracket supports. The floor plan is asymmetrical and U-shaped. Tree-shaded and graciously landscaped groups are enclosed by an original wooden Victorian fence. The property is a fine representative combination of elegant building design and a consciously planned exterior setting.
Directly across Highland Street to the north at No. 11 is the ventilator-topped former carriage shed (c. 1880) of Samuel Hodgson, in recent years converted to a dwelling. Richly embellished, the ventilator displays a cross-gable roof with wooden finials and a weathervane. Also present in the building are common Victorian features frequently tied to the Eastlake and Stick styles, including diagonal gable brackets, triangular window lintels, and applied circular, highly articulated medallions.