Historic Building Tax Credits

by Gepetto Millworks | Dec 19, 2024 | Church Restoration, Historic Restoration, Historic Wood Doors, Old Window Restorer, Virginia, Wooden Shutters, Wooden Windows

Maximizing Historic Building Tax Credits with Gepetto Millworks’ Authentic Wood Architectural Elements

Restoring historic buildings is both a labor of love and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage. While the process is rewarding, it can also be financially daunting. One significant financial incentive available to property owners and developers is historic building tax credits. These credits can offset the costs of preservation and restoration, especially when using historically accurate materials and techniques.

Gepetto Millworks, a premier manufacturer of authentic wood architectural elements based in Virginia, provides an invaluable resource for those seeking to maximize these tax credits. This article outlines key considerations for qualifying for historic building tax credits and highlights how Gepetto Millworks’ custom-crafted products can be instrumental in achieving compliance with historic preservation standards.

Gepetto Project History of Tax Credit Projects

Understanding Historic Building Tax Credits

Historic building tax credits are financial incentives offered at both federal and state levels to encourage the preservation and rehabilitation of historic structures. These credits reduce the tax liability of property owners who undertake qualified restoration projects.

Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program

The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program, administered by the National Park Service (NPS) in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs), offers a 20% tax credit for the rehabilitation of income-producing historic buildings. Eligible structures must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places or located in a registered historic district. Arlington VA Historic Window Builder credits are an example of a historic district.

State-Level Tax Credits

Many states, including Virginia, offer additional tax credits for historic preservation. These credits can often be combined with the federal program, providing substantial financial benefits for property owners. In Virginia, for instance, the state’s Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit program offers a 25% credit for qualifying expenses.

Key Considerations for Filing Historic Building Tax Credits

To qualify for historic building tax credits, property owners must meet specific criteria and follow a structured application process that is often hindered by supplying historic restoration millwork! Here are the critical steps and considerations:

1. Determining Eligibility

Historic Designation: The building must either be listed in the National Register of Historic Places, contribute to a historic district, or meet specific criteria outlined by the SHPO.
Income-Producing Property: For federal tax credits, the property must generate income, such as through commercial use or rental housing.

2. Meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation

The NPS evaluates projects based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, which emphasize retaining and preserving historic character. Key principles include:

Repairing rather than replacing historic materials.
Ensuring new additions are compatible with the building’s historic character.
Avoiding alterations that destroy significant historical features.

3. Qualified Rehabilitation Expenses (QREs)

Only certain costs are eligible for tax credits, including:

Exterior and interior structural repairs.
Restoration of historic architectural elements.
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems integral to the building’s structure.
Architectural and engineering fees related to the project.

Non-eligible expenses typically include landscaping, new additions, and furnishings.

4. Application Process

The application involves three parts:

Part 1: Certify the property’s historic status.
Part 2: Obtain approval for the proposed rehabilitation work.
Part 3: Certify that the completed work meets approved plans and the Secretary’s Standards.

The Role of Gepetto Millworks in Historic Building Restoration

Gepetto Millworks specializes in manufacturing authentic wood architectural elements that are essential for restoring historic buildings to their original grandeur. Their expertise and dedication to craftsmanship make them a trusted partner for projects seeking historic building tax credits.

1. Authenticity and Craftsmanship

Gepetto Millworks employs traditional techniques and materials to create wood elements that match the original features of historic buildings. From intricately carved moldings to custom windows and doors, their products are designed to seamlessly integrate into existing structures while meeting the Secretary’s Standards.

2. Custom Solutions for Unique Projects

Every historic building is unique, requiring tailored solutions to address specific restoration challenges. Gepetto Millworks offers custom fabrication services to replicate original designs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with preservation guidelines.

3. Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a core value at Gepetto Millworks. They source premium, responsibly harvested wood and prioritize eco-friendly manufacturing processes, aligning with modern sustainability goals without compromising historical authenticity.

Key Products by Gepetto Millworks for Historic Restorations

Gepetto Millworks’ product offerings encompass a wide range of architectural elements critical to historic restorations. Each product is crafted with attention to detail and adherence to historical accuracy.

Custom Windows

Historical Accuracy: Gepetto Millworks replicates historic window designs, including sash, casing, and muntin profiles.
Energy Efficiency: Modern performance standards are integrated into historically accurate designs, ensuring energy efficiency without sacrificing authenticity.

Architectural Moldings

Period-Specific Designs: Gepetto’s catalog includes moldings that reflect the styles of different historical periods.
Custom Fabrication: Unique designs can be reproduced to match existing elements precisely.

Doors and Entryways

Handcrafted Quality: Gepetto’s custom doors capture the elegance and craftsmanship of historic entryways.
Variety of Styles: Options range from Georgian and Victorian designs to mid-20th-century modern aesthetics.

Staircases and Railings

Traditional Joinery: Gepetto employs traditional woodworking techniques to craft staircases and railings that embody historical authenticity.
Custom Components: Balusters, handrails, and newel posts are tailored to the building’s era and style.

Compliance with Preservation Standards

Using Gepetto Millworks’ products in your restoration project can simplify compliance with preservation standards, enhancing your chances of approval for tax credits. Places like Cape Charles, VA 23310 have Historic Building Materials local ordenances that keep the character of the whole town that you would know about as you purchased the property.

Adherence to the Secretary’s Standards

Repair Over Replacement: Gepetto’s focus on repairing and replicating original features aligns with the Standards’ emphasis on preservation. Our shop built wood products are built with the same solid wood mortise and tenon construction that was used 200 years ago. Most other products you will find on the open market do not use historically accurate building techniques, they shortcut the quality for speed of production in the factory.
Compatible Materials: Their use of authentic wood ensures compatibility with historic structures.

Documentation Support

Gepetto Millworks provides detailed documentation of their products’ historical accuracy and manufacturing process, which can be included in your tax credit application to demonstrate compliance.

Case Studies: Gepetto Millworks in Action

1. Restoring a 19th-Century Townhouse in Richmond, Virginia

Challenge: Replacing deteriorated windows while maintaining historical integrity.
Solution: Gepetto crafted custom wood windows replicating the original sash profiles and integrated energy-efficient glazing.
Outcome: The project received both federal and state tax credits.

2. Renovating a Historic Church in Alexandria, Virginia

Challenge: Restoring ornate moldings and woodwork damaged by decades of wear.
Solution: Gepetto’s team recreated intricate carvings using traditional techniques.
Outcome: The restoration earned praise from the SHPO and qualified for tax credits.

Steps to Get Started with Gepetto Millworks

Consultation: Schedule a consultation with Gepetto Millworks to discuss your project needs and goals.
Design and Fabrication: Work with their expert team to develop custom solutions that align with your building’s historical character.
Installation Support: Gepetto provides guidance to ensure proper installation and compliance with preservation standards.
Documentation: Receive detailed documentation to support your historic building tax credit application.

Conclusion

Securing historic building tax credits requires meticulous planning, adherence to preservation standards, and a commitment to quality restoration. Gepetto Millworks’ authentic wood architectural elements are a crucial asset for achieving these goals. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices, Gepetto Millworks ensures that every project not only preserves history but also meets the highest standards of excellence.

Partner with Gepetto Millworks for your next historic restoration project and unlock the full potential of historic building tax credits. Contact their Virginia fabrication facility today to learn how they can bring your vision to life while honoring the past.

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arched and elliptical window builder Virginia

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Round, Arc, Gothic Arch, and Bowed Windows Handcrafted in Virginia: When it comes to bespoke architectural woodwork, Gepetto Millworks stands at the pinnacle of craftsmanship in Virginia. Specializing in historically accurate, handcrafted windows, our artisans are...

Historic Building Tax Credits

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Carter’s Grove Gates

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VCU SCOTT HOUSE Window Restoration

by Gepetto Millworks | June 9, 2024 | Architectural Millwork, Historic Restoration, Project Spotlight, Virginia, Wooden Windows | 0 Comments

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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

Virginia Window Restorers

Historic Replica Windows Made to Order

Southeast US Window Rehabilitation

Wooden Window Fabrication

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.

agsdi-bitbucket

Build

agsdi-aspengrovestudios

Restore

agsdi-hand-leaf

Repair

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.

803-clerestory-builder-restoration-virginia

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.

813-clerestory-builder-restoration-virginia

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.