Blog Archives

new roofs

5/27/2011

Once roof tiles and gutters are chosen, we decide on shade of chimney bricks.

Roofs need replacing, which we knew would be one of the major expenses. But who knew there were so many types of roofs to choose from? Only thing we're sure of is we do NOT want to go through this process again. Upon advice of architect and contractor, we decide on tin tiles in terra cotta color with a necklace of copper gutter pipes that will age beautifully to veridian. It's a "lifetime" roof, which means 90 years. I try to imagine the place in 2101. As impossible as it would have been for Gov. Holley to picture his cherished manse in 2011.

Rob the contractor helps us decide between brick samples by holding each next to roof tile and gutter.

everything of historical value is saved

5/23/2011

Even hooks from old closets. Can't you just see the parasols and boaters hanging from them?

lathing

5/22/2011

The house has been taken down to its bones, which means down to the lath in some cases. Lath and plaster walls were commonly used before the drywall method became popular after WWII. Thin pieces of cedar (called lath) were nailed onto 2x4 framing, then wet plaster was applied onto the lath in one to three applications.

Wall of center bath in upstairs hallway. It looks as if cedar strips are held together with icing.

all hands on deck

5/21/2011

It's been weeks since Donald and I have been on site, and are pleased to see how much progress has been made as we tour during a "summit meeting" of contractor, builder, architect and decorator.

In the photo, Donald takes an imaginary shower, trying on for size the stall planned for the center bathroom. Beside him, the architect and decorator review lighting plan.

kitchen access revamped for families without cooking staff

5/21/2011

For 150 years, the only downstairs access to the kitchen was via a long, narrow passage from the entry hall. This worked fine when the only ones who had to use it were narrow maids.

BEFORE: The architect makes notes for turning a closet by the fireplace into kitchen access.

AFTER: Now the door leads from living room to kitchen.

it ain't just paint

5/20/2011

After removing wallpaper in the dining room, painters prepare ceiling for primer.

Due to myriad lead paint safety rules, we must work with with specialists trained and licensed in lead removal. They wear specially fitted respirators and observe elaborate rules for containment and cleanup.

Jason prefers stilts to ladders in the tower bedroom.

incredible edibles

5/9/2011

The contractor shows us exotic crops growing in our back yard. Ramp greens and morrel mushrooms--two of the pricier items at farmers markets. "And you can just go outside and pick them for free!" But Donald observes that, actually, they're the most expensive groceries we've ever bought.

Ramps are a cross between leeks and scallions. Eating them ensures your own seat on a subway.

Morels are rare mushrooms sought after by French cooks and foodies and probably deer.

switch plan

5/2/2011

I've never seen one before. It's a tissue overlay on the architect's drawing that lays out where light switches and fixtures go. At first glance, I mistook the symbols for dollar signs--which seemed to be appropriate labels.

seeing the light

5/1/2011

Remember what I said about us keeping in place all the simple brass fixtures that are already there? (on the left) Forget that. Chris took another reconnaissance trip to PW Vintage Lighting and came back with wondrous finds. Like this sconce and its mate for the dining room, with glass shade that echoes Greek key design in revival door moldings.

We'll use the original sconces in bedrooms upstairs.

For the breakfast room, we're looking at quirky milk glass lanterns with "bonnets" on chains that servants used to pull up and down to refill when the fixture was gas. "It's similar to what might have been here originally, before they electrified it," Chris said.

Which made me wish aloud that the family had saved the fixtures that came out in 1915. "I wonder whatever happened to those," I said.

Chris's eyes twinkled. "You're probably buying them back."