The old kitchen has an original cupboard painted in period colors.
Have you ever walked into a historical building and felt transported back in time? That's the magic of a well-preserved interior that captures the essence of a bygone era. In this article, we explore the restoration of an authentic Georgian interior and how it brings history to life.
A Journey Back in Time
This magnificent residence, located in a New England seacoast town at the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border, has a rich history that dates back to 1777. Over the years, it served various purposes, including being a family home and a religious school. However, by 2002, the neglected house was on the brink of destruction, until a passionate individual stepped in to save it.
Restoring Authenticity
The new owner, a dedicated enthusiast of Federal architecture, embarked on a mission to restore the structure with utmost historical accuracy. Every material used, from the wallpaper to the paint colors, was carefully selected to match the period. By adhering to the design principles of the Georgian and Federal styles, she created an interior that exudes authenticity.
Both the best and everyday parlors were hung—originally and again now—with the same wallpaper, but with different paint colors on trim.
Attention to Detail
The restoration process began with a small yet significant discovery—a scrap of wallpaper. This pattern, known as 'Votive Goddess,' was meticulously reproduced as a block print. The challenge arose when selecting a carpet for the parlors. The decision was made to use the same pattern and colorway for both rooms, but with the addition of a border in the best parlor, mirroring the luxury of the 18th century.
The owner's passion for period-appropriate lighting led her to sources throughout the Northeast. She commissioned meticulous reproductions of chandeliers and lanterns, strategically placed to recreate the ambiance of the era.
Bringing History Home
No historical interior is complete without the right furnishings. The owner, who had long been a collector of North Shore antiques, furnished each room with carefully curated pieces. Girandoles and mirrors, symbols of elegance and refinement, adorn the walls, adding a touch of splendor to the ambiance.
The patterns and colors may be unfamiliar to modern tastes, yet the harmony of design in this New England house is clear.
Timeless Bathrooms
Designing historically accurate bathrooms is no easy task, especially when aiming for an 18th-century aesthetic. The owner transformed one of the spare bedrooms into a luxurious bathroom, adorned with historical textiles and wallpaper. The illusion of history is present, but modern conveniences, such as hot and cold running water and a concealed HVAC system, ensure comfort without compromising authenticity.
Restoring the Exterior
The restoration efforts extended to the exterior of the building. Missing chimneys, dormers, and the front portico were meticulously replaced. Bricks from the original chimney, dropped down the flues to rest in the basement, provided a perfect match for the replacements. Archival photographs guided the reconstruction of the facade, resulting in a house that looks exactly as it did in 1777.
A Living Piece of History
Despite the scholarly approach to restoration, the interior of this Georgian house feels far from a museum. Each room radiates comfort, vibrancy, and a sense of being alive. The integration of historical accuracy with modern living creates a space that seamlessly blends the past with the present.
Restoration and preservation professionals played vital roles in bringing this Georgian interior back to life. Their expertise ensured that every detail, from historical wallpapers and period carpets to windows and millwork, was handled with utmost care.
Sources:
- Historical wallpapers: Adelphi Paper Hangings
- Period carpets: J.R. Burrows & Co.
- Windows, millwork: Architectural Components
- Architectural preservation: David C. Webb, Newbury, MA: (978) 462-9312
- Restoration masons: Richard Irons, Limerick, ME: rickirons.com
- Architectural conservation services: Andrew Ladygo, Manchester, MA: (978) 525-3090
- Preservation, decorative painting: Finch & Rose, Beverly, MA: (978) 922-4950
- Decorative arts: Will Perkins, Ipswich, MA: (978) 356-5171
- Restoration contracting: Vincent Richard Harrild/Harco Restorations, West Newbury, MA: (978) 462-4938
In conclusion, the restoration of this authentic Georgian interior serves as an inspiring example of how a dedicated individual can bring history back to life. By honoring the past and carefully crafting each detail, a piece of architectural heritage has been preserved for generations to come.
