Case Study

A Timeless Transformation

Pennsylvania, USA

Nestled within a traditional Pennsylvanian Dutch farmhouse, meticulous attention to detail has transformed a simple bathroom into a serene sanctuary that resonates with both historical authenticity and modern luxury.

The home of a prominent American set designer, the interior draws on decades of experience in scenic design inspired by the compelling worlds of theatre production including notable milestones such as a debut production at the Metropolitan Opera and a Tony Award nomination for the musical “Grey Gardens” in 2007.

Built in 1814, the farmhouse stands as a textbook example of Pennsylvania German architecture. The original structure featured three rooms on each floor, reminiscent of Andrew Wyeth’s paintings, who lived just 50 minutes away in Chadd’s Ford. Over the past 17 years, the house has undergone sensitive renovations, preserving its historical essence while adapting it to modern living.

The owner’s two-story extension has added a spacious reception room on the ground floor and a luxurious bathroom on the second floor, transitioning the property from a weekend retreat to a full-time residence.

Aiming to maintain the architectural style of the house, which is actually more typical of the century prior to its construction, a working fireplace is visible from the bathtub, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. A collaboration with Joe Hammes of Red Oak Restorations played a crucial role in finalising the design, with meticulous attention to the size, proportions, and interior layout of the extension.

A careful collection of materials and decorative items harmonise with the house’s historical character. White Oak was opted for both the ceiling and flooring, seamlessly integrating with the rest of the house. The designer’s keen eye for antiques led them to acquire an 18th-century Pennsylvania Day Bed, placed in front of the fireplace, reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement of William Morris.

Decorative plates depicting various scenes from Richard Wagner operas added a personal touch beneath the row of small windows, originally sourced from the Bayreuth Festival’s gift shop in the late 1880s and 1890s. Large sheets of Italian tile provided a grout-free alternative to marble in the shower, balancing traditional aesthetics with modern practicality. Researched to enhance the room’s authentic appearance, the colour palette features Fine Paints of Europe’s oil-based Watermark for the trim and Farrow and Ball’s James’ White Estate Emulsion for the walls.

The choice of bath, vanity, and brassware from Drummonds was driven by the owner’s affinity for historic English plumbing. The cast iron bath, with its polished, lacquered exterior was thought to resemble old pewter and seamlessly fit into the farmhouse’s rustic yet refined aesthetic. Robust and durable, the Drummonds taps and shower mixers added to the room’s overall sense of authenticity and longevity.

The success of this renovation is a testament to the collaboration between the owner and a skilled team of craftspeople led by Joe Hammes. The cabinetmakers’ craftsmanship brought the vision to life, creating a bathroom that is both a nod to the past and a comfortable space for contemporary living.

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