VCU SCOTT HOUSE Window Restoration

by Gepetto Millworks | Jun 9, 2024 | Architectural Millwork, Historic Restoration, Project Spotlight, Virginia, Wooden Windows

SCOTT House on VCU Campus

Window Restoration

Beaux Arts style Window Restoration

Authentic Craftsmanship

THE SCOTT HOUSE is one of Richmond’s most significant examples of American Renaissance architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was completed in 1911 and acquired by Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in 2001. The 18,000 sf mansion was built for Frederic William Scott and his wife Elizabeth Strother Scott. It was modeled after the Marble House in Newport, Rhode Island, which referenced the Petit Trianon at Versailles. Interior plasterwork is attributed to prominent sculptor and plaster contractor, Ferruccio Legnaioli.

VCU commissioned Glavé & Holmes Architecture (G&H) to provide a feasibility study to assess existing conditions, programming, and conceptual design. Subsequently, G&H was selected to provide a historically-sensitive rehabilitation to allow the building to serve as meeting and event space for visiting and University groups.

Goals for rehabilitation the Scott House included restoration of the exterior masonry and windows supplied by Gepetto Millworks Mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems were upgraded to modern standards. New restrooms, and conversions to office space and meeting rooms became part of the plans to serve the University Campus. While the rehabilitation will serve a variety of modern programmatic functions, the building’s historic fabric was restored in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and the University’s preservation philosophy for historic buildings.

Historic preservation seeks to find effective and artful ways of maintaining and reusing significant buildings, landscapes, and communities. Central to the discipline is the attempt to preserve cultural identity in the face of the threats of urban sprawl and loss of social diversity.

Maintain, protect, and repair authentic character defining features, materials, and finishes. If features are deteriorated beyond repair, replace them in-kind. Retain authentic historic building fabric to the maximum extent possible.

Historic building restoration respects the evolution of historic changes, fashion, taste, and use – do not try to “improve” the design of authentic building features.

Avoid installation of conjectural “historic” features.

Do not use maintenance methods or materials that damage significant building and landscape fabric.

Authentic Window Restoration Richmond

Richmond VA Authentic Historic Window Restoration

Scott House was built in 1907, and is a three-story, 40,950 square foot, Beaux Arts style mansion. The house is seven bays wide and is faced with a pale Indiana limestone. It features a central portico of four, giant Corinthian order columns and two Corinthian pilasters that dominate the highly formal, symmetrical entrance façade. Elizabeth and Frederic Scott bought the property from Lewis Ginter in 1903, Elisabeth Scott Bocock, moved into the house in the mid 20th century. While there, she founded the Historic Richmond Foundation, the 2300 Club, and the Hand Workshop (now known as the Visual Arts Center of Richmond). In the 1960s, the house was subdivided and used as dorms for VCU students, which continued into the 90s. A renovation in 2004 led to the Scott House opening its doors to the public, and the designation of the building as a Virginia Historic Landmark.

The historic Marble House in Newport, Rhode Island was chosen as inspiration for the Richmond structure, which was itself modeled after the Petit Trianon in Versailles. It stands proudly removed from West Franklin, an exception to the block’s density. The stately house, a handsome combination of limestone and terra cotta, is grounded by green-tiled wrapping terraces and a porte-cochére, shaded by trees in the house’s garden. Oxidized copper and careful cast iron work beautifully balance the gravity of the building’s exterior. Oversized fluted columns with Corinthian capitals give the mansion a sense of monumentality. The interior is a classic example of the American Renaissance style, originating in the 18th century. The occupant moves through the symmetrically divided rooms with no hallways on the first floor, structured around a main entrance stair which lies under a magnificent stained glass dome. Servants’ quarters are to the rear of the building, and a large English style carriage house is hidden behind the mansion. The Anderson Gallery, constructed in 1888 from the former Ginter House stables, also stands behind the Scott-Bocock House. The splendor of the structure is a reminder of Richmond’s insurance and banking glory days in the early 20th century, when it was an indulgent capital of the South.

Authentic Historic Window Restoration Virginia

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Clerestory restoration parts and service

by Gepetto Millworks | Nov 10, 2023 | Architectural Millwork, Project Spotlight, Virginia

Clerestory
restoration

Parts or SERVICE

Experienced restoration of historic clerestory & skylights by Virginia Carpenters. Gepetto has the experience and shop tooling to solve anything from water leaks to full rebuild and fabrication in our shop.

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Build

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Restore

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As an experienced carpenter specializing in the restoration of 18th-century clerestory buildings in Virginia, I’ve encountered numerous challenges that arise from a general misunderstanding of these historical structures by untrained builders. Clerestory buildings, characterized by their high windows above eye level, were designed to provide natural light and ventilation, a concept often overlooked in modern architecture. This fundamental aspect of their design is frequently misunderstood, leading to improper renovations that compromise both the aesthetic and functional integrity of these historic buildings.

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Clerestory windows illuminate many of Frank Lloyd Wright-designed interior spaces, especially the Usonian home designs, including the Zimmerman House and the Toufic Kalil Home. In addition to adding clerestory windows to residential structures, Wright also used rows of glass in more traditional settings, such as his Unity Temple, Annunciation Greek Orthodox, and the original library, the Buckner Building, on the campus of Florida Southern College in Lakeland. For Wright, the clerestory window was a design choice that satisfied his aesthetic and philosophic ideals.

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Clerestory windows have become a mainstay of modern residential architecture. From the 1922 Schindler Chace house designed by the Austrian-born R. M. Schindler to the student designs of the Solar Decathlon competition, this type of fenestration is a popular and practical choice.

Remember that this “new” way of design is centuries old. Look up at the great sacred places across the world. Heavenly light becomes part of the prayerful experience in synagogues, cathedrals, and mosques throughout the ages, from Byzantine to Gothic to Modern structures like architect Alvar Alto‘s 1978 Church of the Assumption of Mary in Riola di Vergato, Italy.

Clerestory Restoration

Another common issue is the mismanagement of the clerestory windows themselves. These windows are crucial for light and air circulation, yet I’ve seen many cases where they have been inappropriately sealed or replaced with glass that doesn’t match the period. Such alterations not only disrupt the building’s historical character but also its internal climate control, which was originally designed to rely on natural ventilation. It’s essential to use restoration techniques that maintain the original functionality of these windows while preserving their historical appearance.

In my work, I’ve seen many instances where untrained builders have attempted to “modernize” these structures without respecting their original design. For example, replacing original woodwork with modern materials not only detracts from the building’s historical authenticity but also affects its durability. The wood used in the 18th century was often old-growth timber, which is denser and more resistant to decay than most wood available today. Ignoring this, untrained builders often use less suitable materials, leading to a faster degradation of the structure.

Educating untrained builders about the historical and architectural significance of these structures is vital. Workshops and training programs on traditional carpentry methods and materials can bridge this knowledge gap. As someone deeply passionate about preserving our architectural heritage, I advocate for a collaborative approach where experienced craftsmen like myself work alongside newer builders. This not only ensures the structural and historical integrity of these clerestory buildings but also passes down valuable skills and knowledge to future generations of carpenters.

USING CLERESTORY in HOME OR OFFICE DESIGNS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Daylighting and Sunshading

Natural daylight from the northern window wall illuminates the entire building without glare, substantially reducing what is usually an room’s most significant energy cost, electric lighting. Ideally, overhead overhead lights won’t be needed during the day. Also, an open office layout allows daylight to be distributed throughout the building, providing more efficient heating and cooling. Eaves are designed to provide shade of interior walls in the summer reducing cooling costs dramatically.

Using Natural Ventilation

To reduce the need for electricity, a building is situated to receive maximum southern exposure for warmth and to take advantage of prevailing winds for natural ventilation. Using the sun’s heat in the winter and natural ventilation during warm months, the heating and cooling systems are not needed approximately 15 percent of the year if the natural design principles can be followed. Extreme examples of this design principle are found in the Earthship designs of Michael Reynolds in New Mexico successfully colling a building in the desert sun.

natural ventilation using clerestories and prevailing winds

pool house clerestory restoration Homestead VA

Homestead Resort Pool Clerestory

The Homestead Resort and Hot Springs were purchased by the Omni hotel group in 2013 and from October 2021 to October 2023, the entire resort underwent a complete renovation, costing over $150 million. Gepetto supplied many of the historically accurate elements to the renovation contractors.

Mount Vernon Fences

by Matthew Wiley | Oct 18, 2023 | Historic Restoration, Virginia

mount vernon historic restoration preservation millwork supplier

Full passthrough mortise joints.

Hand smithed historically accurate gate hinges.

hand turned post architectural decorative elements

handmade historic fencing with decorative flourish made to match historic records

historic mount vernon home under construction

Mount Vernon Historic Restoration Materials Supplier

Virginia, often referred to as the “Mother of Presidents,” boasts a rich historical heritage that includes the homes and estates of some of America’s most iconic figures. One such historic gem is the Mount Vernon Estate, the former home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Over the years, this treasured piece of American history has faced numerous challenges in its restoration efforts. Similarly, Gepetto Millworks, a renowned supplier of historic architectural millwork, has played a pivotal role in preserving Virginia’s historic architecture through their museum-quality restoration projects. The struggles faced in restoring the Mount Vernon Estate and the valuable contributions of Gepetto Millworks has made to historic preservation projects throughout Virginia are featured in these pictures.

The Mount Vernon Estate: A National Treasure

Mount Vernon, located on the banks of the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a place of immense historical significance. George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens is not only a symbol of the Founding Father’s legacy but also a testament to the architectural splendor of its time. The estate comprises the iconic mansion, outbuildings, lush gardens, and scenic landscapes. However, the preservation of Mount Vernon has been an ongoing struggle marked by various challenges.

Restoration Challenges at Mount Vernon

a. Weathering and Aging: Mount Vernon, like many historical sites, has faced the relentless effects of time and weather. Harsh winters, humid summers, and unpredictable weather patterns have taken a toll on the estate’s structures and architectural elements.

b. Preservation Costs: The financial burden of maintaining and restoring a site of Mount Vernon’s magnitude is substantial. Funding for restoration efforts often falls short, leading to the need for creative solutions and partnerships.

c. Historical Authenticity: Striking a balance between preserving the estate’s historical authenticity and accommodating modern visitor needs can be a delicate task. Restorations must respect the past while providing an educational and enjoyable experience for present-day tourists.

d. Skilled Labor Shortages: Finding craftsmen and artisans with the skills necessary for historical restoration can be a daunting challenge. The need for expertise in traditional techniques adds complexity to restoration projects.

e. Conservation Efforts: Environmental concerns and conservation efforts demand that restoration projects adhere to strict guidelines and sustainable practices. Balancing these requirements with historic preservation can be a struggle.

Gepetto Millworks: A Beacon of Expertise

Amid these restoration challenges, Gepetto Millworks has emerged as a beacon of expertise and quality in partnership with Museum Resources Kerry Shackleford. Founded with a commitment to producing museum-quality architectural millwork, our Virginia-based company has made substantial contributions to the restoration of historic buildings throughout the state.

Museum-Quality Restoration

Gepetto Millworks specializes in crafting architectural millwork with an unparalleled commitment to historical accuracy. Their artisans use traditional techniques and materials, ensuring that each piece is a faithful reproduction of the original. This dedication to museum-quality restoration has made Gepetto Millworks a trusted partner in preserving Virginia’s historic architecture.

Craftsmanship and Expertise

Restoration projects require a high level of skill and craftsmanship, often involving intricate details and historical accuracy. Gepetto Millworks employs master craftsmen who possess the knowledge and experience to recreate historical millwork with precision and authenticity. Their expertise is invaluable in maintaining the integrity of Virginia’s historic buildings.

Collaborations with Historic Sites

Gepetto Millworks has actively collaborated with historic sites across Virginia, including Mount Vernon, to provide custom millwork solutions. Their work not only enhances the aesthetics of these buildings but also ensures their long-term structural integrity. Such collaborations exemplify the company’s commitment to preserving Virginia’s rich history.

Sustainability and Conservation

In an era of increased environmental awareness, Gepetto Millworks incorporates sustainable practices into their restoration projects. Their use of locally sourced materials, eco-friendly finishes, and adherence to conservation guidelines aligns with the broader goals of preserving historic sites while minimizing environmental impact.

The Symbiotic Relationship between Mill & Installation

The relationship between the restoration of Mount Vernon and the contributions of Gepetto Millworks exemplifies a symbiotic partnership rooted in shared values. In historic time periods labor was more affordable, and hand tools were used for shaping – so the fence profiles where not machine or template consistent. You’ll see that small nuance if you look at the pictures closely now.

Historical Authenticity: Gepetto Millworks’ dedication to historical accuracy ensures that every piece of millwork they create for Mount Vernon aligns with the estate’s architectural heritage. Their work is a vital component in preserving the authenticity of this iconic historical site.
Addressing Restoration Challenges: The challenges faced in restoring Mount Vernon, such as the shortage of skilled artisans and preservation costs, are mitigated by Gepetto Millworks’ expertise and commitment. Their skilled craftsmen contribute to the restoration process while offering cost-effective solutions.
Education and Tourism: Mount Vernon serves as an educational resource and tourist attraction, and Gepetto Millworks’ contributions enhance visitors’ experiences. The meticulous restoration work adds value to the estate’s appeal, promoting historical education and tourism in Virginia.
Sustainability and Conservation: Both Mount Vernon and Gepetto Millworks recognize the importance of sustainable practices in historic preservation. By aligning their efforts with conservation principles, they ensure that the estate’s restoration is not only historically accurate but also environmentally responsible.

The struggle to restore the Mount Vernon Estate and the dedication of Gepetto Millworks to preserving Virginia’s historic architecture are intertwined stories of commitment, expertise, and shared values. Mount Vernon stands as a testament to America’s past, and its restoration challenges reflect the broader issues faced by historic sites across the nation. Gepetto Millworks’ role in providing museum-quality architectural millwork showcases the critical importance of skilled craftsmanship and historical accuracy in preserving our heritage. In the face of weathering, financial constraints, and the need for historical authenticity, the collaboration between Mount Vernon and Gepetto Millworks serves as a model for successful historic restoration projects. Together, they ensure that the legacy of George Washington and Virginia’s rich historical heritage will endure for generations to come, offering a glimpse into the past for visitors and an opportunity to learn from it.

Cape Charles, VA 23310 Historic Building Materials

by Matthew Wiley | Feb 1, 2020 | Architectural Millwork, Historic Restoration, Virginia

Cape Charles, VA 23310 Historic Building Materials

Code Compliant renovation of historic structures

Cape Charles, VA 23310 Historic Building Materials

All styles of wood materials fabricated for historic code compliance of Virginia historic restoration or renovation.

Cape Charles, VA 23310 Historic Building Materials

Historic Chesapeake Bay Coastal Estate Restoration Builder

by Gepetto Millworks | Sep 4, 2019 | Architectural Millwork, Historic Restoration, Molding and Trim, Shelving, Solid Wood Doors, Virginia

Historically restored Glen Roy Estate for Sale on the lovely Chesapeake Bay

Carter Real Estate Lists the property available August 2019

An architectural masterpiece built in 1853, meticulously restored by Gepetto craftsmanship honoring the original materials and techniques. A douse of imagination and thoroughly great taste add modern amenities like washers, driers and luxury bath amenities . Windows, woodwork, staircases, floors and plaster moldings all original design restored or renewed by Gepetto’s historic millwork services. You might see “Over-sized” windows bringing gorgeous views of the changing weather patterns over the bay into every room but then you’d remember this was built before light bulbs and realize how the architectural elements add natural light to almost all corners of the home. These details add up to living in the historically significant property. It’s not just luxurious living, it’s living closer to nature. The Impressive estate property can be upkept with a simple call to the craftsmen here who helped restore it, or you can add your own design or finishing touches with our master builders help.

In 1642, the land of Glen Roy was patented by a 600-acre land grant patented by English King Charles I. During the Civil War it was the site of the Battle of Glen Roy when the house was the headquarters for Union Soldiers. Today, Glen Roy encompasses almost sixty acres of farmland, woods, and sweeping lawns that extend to the shore of the Ware River in Gloucester, Virginia. Set high up and back from the water as historically safe from flooding.

The classic Greek Revival proportioned manor house presents the characteristic four-over-four Georgian floor plan with a three-section center hall. The central staircase will weave it’s tendrils around your heart as it winds three floors up to a sky-lit cupola with widow’s walk. The custom restored skylights are a unique bit of carpentry that manages airflow, moisture and light in a brilliant design that taught us some things about how well thought out builders of the era practiced their craft.

13 total rooms – with 15-foot ceilings downstairs and 14-foot on the second floor give spacious and airy feel to timeless proportions. Elegant and comfortable room size does not overwhelm but allows a moderate feel to a very spacious house. Along the west elevation on the river, the hall, living room and dining room open to a sixty-foot glass conservatory. The moderate room sizes are designed to be heated by the 12 working fireplaces as dictated by the time period. Living in the modern age, these small architectural differences show the natural elegance of architectural design that incorporates environmental factors.

The nineteenth-century carriage house was converted to a seven-room guest house with two bedrooms, dining room, living room, kitchen, and two marble bathrooms. The spirit of the original structure was preserved by transforming the front carriage entrance into an over-sized window, dramatizing the interior space and giving a full view of the water. The oldest building, with east gable entrance and west gable end chimney above a raised brick cellar, features oyster shell mortar, 5-course common bond, beaded weatherboard, and six-over-nine double-hung sash windows. Once a doctor’s office, it has been restored to a delightful library. Adjacent are the fascinating ruins of an early, circular brick dairy. The frame, two-bay garage has two rooms on the second floor – now smart offices — with bath and kitchen on that could accommodate household staff or security. The striking, antebellum grain barn displays a rich, picturesque patina. Also, included are an early 20th-century frame stable, sheep shed, and lawnmower shed.

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Exquisite original architecture, estate presence, and coastal lifestyle, Glen Roy exemplifies the ultimate Chesapeake Bay country experience.

Virginia Wood Window Restoration

by Gepetto Millworks | Feb 7, 2017 | Richmond VA Woodworkers, Virginia, Wooden Windows

The history of America beats from the heart of VA, particularly during the pre-Colonial period. Jamestown Virginia was founded in 1607 and was credited as the first permanent English settlement in North America while Henricus was even earlier, but was moved due to flooding. The surrenders ending both the American Revolution (Yorktown) and the Civil War (Appomattox) occurred in Virginia. The state is called the “Mother of Presidents” because eight U.S. presidents were born there. The colony nearly failed until tobacco emerged as a profitable export. It was grown on plantations, using primarily indentured servants for the intensive hand labor involved. The Virginia Colony became the wealthiest and most populated British colony in North America, with an elected General Assembly. The colony was dominated by rich planters who were also in control of the established Anglican Church. Baptist and Methodist preachers brought the Great Awakening, welcoming black members and leading to many evangelical and racially integrated churches. Virginia planters had a major role in gaining independence and in the development of democratic-republican ideals of the United States. They were important in the Declaration of Independence, writing the Constitutional Convention (and preserving protection for the slave trade), and establishing the Bill of Rights. The state of Kentucky separated from Virginia in 1792. [source: WikiPedia]

Wooden Window Restoration VA

Is our specialty because there are so many rich layers of history that can be preserved in architecture. Gepetto builds to order or repairs existing window frames, casings and sashes so that you can receive historic tax credits for your renovation or building budget.

https://gepettomillworks.com/virginia-wood-window-restoration

Richmond Virginia Wooden Window Restoration

Historic Virginia Wood Window Restoration Project

Charlottesville Virginia Wooden Window Historic Restoration

Historic Virginia Wood Window Sash Restoration

Virginia Wood Window Shutter and Casement Restoration

SCOTT House on VCU Campus

Beaux Arts style Window Restoration

Authentic Window Restoration Richmond

Virginia Window Restorers

Southeast US Window Rehabilitation

Clerestoryrestoration

Parts or SERVICE

Build

Restore

Repair

Clerestory Restoration

USING CLERESTORY in HOME OR OFFICE DESIGNS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Daylighting and Sunshading

Using Natural Ventilation

Homestead Resort Pool Clerestory

The Mount Vernon Estate: A National Treasure

Restoration Challenges at Mount Vernon

Gepetto Millworks: A Beacon of Expertise

The Symbiotic Relationship between Mill & Installation

Cape Charles, VA 23310 Historic Building Materials

Code Compliant renovation of historic structures

All styles of wood materials fabricated for historic code compliance of Virginia historic restoration or renovation.

Historic Restoration Builder

Wooden Window Restoration VA

Virginia Window Restorers

Southeast US Window Rehabilitation

Clerestory
restoration