Choosing the Right General Contractor for a Historic Renovation or Fix-and-Flip in Richmond, Virginia

by Gepetto Millworks | Sep 23, 2025 | Historic Renovation, Historic Restoration, Historic Wood Doors, Wooden Shutters, Wooden Windows

Richmond, Virginia, is a city steeped in history, with neighborhoods that showcase architectural styles from the late 18th century through the early 20th century. For homeowners, real estate investors, and architects, this makes Richmond a prime location for historic renovation projects and fix-and-flip opportunities. Whether you are breathing new life into a Church Hill rowhouse or restoring a Victorian in The Fan District, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is choosing the right general contractor.

But a contractor is just one part of the puzzle. Your project will only succeed if the materials match the home’s original design and construction methods. That’s where Gepetto Millworks comes in. Based in Virginia, Gepetto is not a general contractor, but they supply historically accurate windows, doors, and millwork, along with consulting expertise, to ensure that your contractor and architect deliver a result that preserves the property’s charm and historic value.

This guide covers everything you need to know about:

How to choose a good general contractor in Richmond for a historic renovation
Key factors for fix-and-flip investors to maximize ROI while preserving character
Why historically accurate building materials matter for long-term value
How Gepetto Millworks partners with contractors, architects, and homeowners to create historically faithful results

Why Historic Renovation Requires a Different Approach

Renovating a historic home is not like doing a typical remodel. Richmond’s historic neighborhoods are filled with properties that are over 100 years old. Many of them feature construction techniques that are no longer common today, including:

Mortise-and-tenon joinery in window sashes and door frames
Solid wood construction using species like heart pine, oak, and sapele
Custom molding profiles that cannot be replicated with standard stock trim
True divided-light windows that require proper glazing techniques
Plaster and lath walls instead of modern drywall

Your contractor must understand how to work with these materials and techniques—or at least know when to call in specialists. A contractor who simply rips out old windows and installs vinyl replacements may make the house less valuable, both historically and financially.

The Richmond Neighborhoods Where Historic Renovations Shine

When planning your renovation, it’s worth considering the context of Richmond’s historic neighborhoods, each of which has its own character:

A contractor with experience in these neighborhoods will already be familiar with Richmond’s historic district guidelines, zoning requirements, and common renovation challenges.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing a General Contractor

1. Look for Historic Renovation Experience

A contractor who has done kitchen remodels in modern homes may not be the right fit for a 1900s Victorian. Ask potential contractors to show you examples of past projects specifically involving historic properties. One fun element to work from are historic pictures, did they use historic reference and research in their design decision making?

2. References Return our Humanity

Request references from other clients, ideally those who have renovated homes in Richmond’s historic neighborhoods. No construction project goes perfectly, so it’s more valuable to have a contractor that will bring issues to light, discuss and resolve instead of shuffling under the carpet or taking shortcuts.

3. Check Their Relationships with Specialists

Many contractors will need to partner with specialists such as plasterers, wood window restoration experts, and millwork suppliers like Gepetto. Ask whether they have established relationships with these subcontractors and trades. See the video below for reference about how Matthew Wiley, the ‘wood’ expert – brought a masonary element into question in the drawing stage to unify the design around the windows. Collaboration builds.

4. Ask About Communication and Project Management

Historic renovations can uncover surprises—hidden damage, outdated wiring, or structural issues. Choose a contractor who communicates clearly, documents changes, and can coordinate with your architect to turn an unexpected upset into a success. We have seen to many of these problems attempted to be buried, and they will only come back to haunt you. It’s a common mis-conception that a contractor provides a ‘quote’ of a fixed price – that is ‘all in’. You need to choose a contractor willing to build the trust and communication to weather changes. Payment schedules in professional contracts are not ‘half upfront’ they include healthy milestones and checkoffs for each stage of the build. If you read online, you’ll see the sad stories of those that were quotes the lowest price and ‘paid half upfront’.

5. Get a Written Proposal and Timeline

Historic projects can take longer than anticipated, so set clear expectations up front. A good contractor will provide a detailed written proposal and realistic timeline. Professional contracts have milestones that break the project into smaller pieces, as well as the payment schedule so that you can see your project coming to life as you’re writing incremental checks.

Fix-and-Flip Considerations for Richmond Investors

If you are a real estate investor doing a fix-and-flip project, you face a balancing act: maximizing your return on investment while preserving enough character to attract buyers. Today’s homebuyers in Richmond love properties with original charm. Here’s why working with the right team matters:

Curb appeal sells homes. Gepetto’s historically accurate windows and doors make a house stand out in a competitive market.
Buyers notice quality. Solid wood doors, real divided-light windows, and custom trim elevate a property beyond the “builder-grade flip.”
Historic tax credits may apply. In Virginia, there are state and federal tax incentives for rehabilitating historic properties that can ease the high cost of diving into an historic property.
Long-term durability matters. Properly restored or replicated elements last longer and reduce call-backs after the sale. If the windows are 100 years old, our exact replicas would be expected to last the same duration with the proper maintenance. Don’t loose sight of the amortization against 100 years, instead of looking only at today’s profit.

Why Historically Accurate Materials Are Crucial

When renovating a historic home, the wrong materials can diminish its value. Vinyl windows, MDF moldings, and hollow-core doors might be cheaper upfront, but they detract from the authenticity of the property. Gepetto Millworks specializes in:

Sapele solid wood windows built with mortise-and-tenon joinery for century-long durability
Custom solid wood doors that replicate the proportions and panel profiles of the originals
Exact-match molding profiles that blend seamlessly with existing trim
Architectural consulting to ensure every detail is period-appropriate

Collaborating Early with Gepetto Millworks

One of the most effective ways to avoid costly mistakes is to bring Gepetto Millworks into the conversation early. Here’s why:

Pre-construction planning: Gepetto can work with your architect to design historically accurate elements.
Material lead time: Custom windows and doors take time to fabricate—ordering early keeps your project on schedule.
Contractor coordination: Gepetto can consult with your contractor to ensure proper installation techniques.
Cost management: Early dialogue helps balance authenticity with budget.

By calling Matthew Wiley at Gepetto Millworks before your project begins, you establish a partnership that can guide your contractor and architect toward the right choices. His number is 804.8938.2094 and amidst all the spam and promotions you’ll probably be receiving as you google your way through this building journey – Matt is and old fashioned real person on the other end of the line. His 25 years experience in Richmond is a living rolodex of referrals and expertise for you to connect with.

How Gepetto Supports Architects and Contractors

Gepetto doesn’t just supply materials—they act as a technical partner. Their team can provide:

Shop drawings down to the millimeter for every window and door opening
Guidance on joinery and wood species to match historical standards
Advice on finish options to replicate period-appropriate colors and sheens
Ongoing communication throughout the project

This level of support makes the contractor’s job easier and ensures that the final product meets both the homeowner’s and the historic district’s expectations.

Preservation and Long-Term Value

For homeowners who plan to live in their house long-term, preserving its historic character is not just about aesthetics—it’s about protecting the property’s value. Homes that retain original wood windows, doors, and trimwork consistently sell for more than those that have been stripped of their historic charm.

Additionally, Richmond’s historic districts are a draw for tourism and community pride. By investing in a thoughtful renovation, you are contributing to the cultural fabric of the city.

Getting Started: Your Next Steps

If you’re planning a historic renovation or fix-and-flip in Richmond:

Research contractors with proven historic renovation experience.
Schedule consultations and request detailed proposals.
Contact Gepetto Millworks early to discuss your material needs.
Start a dialogue between contractor, architect, and supplier to ensure everyone is aligned.

Your first call should be to Matthew Wiley at Gepetto Millworks. He can guide you through material options, introduce you to historically accurate solutions, and set your contractor up for success.

Final Thoughts

A historic renovation or fix-and-flip project in Richmond, VA, is an opportunity to create something beautiful, authentic, and valuable. Choosing the right general contractor is critical, but so is choosing the right partner for your windows, doors, and millwork. With Gepetto Millworks supplying historically accurate materials and offering consulting expertise, your contractor will have everything they need to execute a renovation that honors the past and sets your property apart.

By starting early, collaborating with the right professionals, and insisting on authenticity, you can ensure that your project will stand the test of time—just like the historic homes that make Richmond one of the most charming cities in Virginia.

RA Praught General Contractor for Historic Renovation

Virginia sawmill operators

by Gepetto Millworks | Aug 19, 2025 | Harvest to Kiln

The Need for Custom Milled Lumber in Producing Historic Replica Wood Products for Homes, Hotels, and Mixed-Use Properties

Historic buildings tell stories of craftsmanship, architectural vision, and regional heritage. From stately homes with hand-carved moldings to grand hotels adorned with ornamental wood details, each structure carries unique character. When these buildings undergo restoration, expansion, or adaptive reuse, architects, preservationists, and property owners often face a challenge: sourcing authentic wood components that match the originals custom milled lumber becomes essential.

Standard, off-the-shelf wood products rarely replicate the intricate details, species variety, and precise dimensions required for historic replica wood products. Whether the project involves restoring a Georgian-era doorway, recreating Victorian gingerbread trim, or producing millwork for a mixed-use redevelopment of a historic warehouse, custom milled lumber ensures that authenticity, durability, and architectural integrity are maintained.

In this article, we’ll explore why custom milled lumber is indispensable for historic projects, the process behind its creation, and how it benefits property owners, architects, and developers working with historic restoration millwork.

Why Historic Replica Wood Products Require Custom Milled Lumber

1. Standard Lumber Dimensions Don’t Match Historic Profiles

Modern lumberyards typically stock dimensional lumber in standard sizes—2x4s, 1x6s, or 4×8 sheets of plywood. Historic builders, however, worked with different milling practices and often used full-dimension lumber with hand-planed finishes. Window sashes, stair treads, or door stiles from the 18th or 19th century are often slightly thicker, wider, or cut with unique joinery that doesn’t align with contemporary production.

Only custom milled lumber can be matched to the original specifications. A mill shop can replicate exact widths, depths, and profiles, ensuring a replacement piece doesn’t look out of place or compromise the building’s historical authenticity.

2. Historic Properties Demand Architectural Accuracy

Preservation guidelines—especially in districts protected by local or national landmark commissions—often require that repairs and replacements remain faithful to original designs. Using mass-produced trim, stock crown molding, or factory windows can jeopardize approvals and reduce the value of the restoration.

By working with a craftsman experienced in historic replica wood products, property owners can be confident that every detail, from mortise-and-tenon joinery to decorative fluting, matches the original craftsmanship.

3. Many Historic Species Are No Longer Commercially Available

Centuries-old buildings often relied on wood species like heart pine, chestnut, or old-growth oak—species that aren’t commonly sold at today’s lumberyards. Custom milling allows artisans to work with reclaimed lumber or responsibly sourced alternatives that mimic the density, grain pattern, and durability of the originals. Accoya Acetelated wood is the only modern product bending the curve into better wood, as it is chemically altered to not absorb water!

For example:

Reclaimed heart pine beams can be remilled into flooring that matches Civil War–era homes.
Sapele or mahogany may be substituted for rot-resistant exterior trim when the original tropical hardwood is no longer available.
White oak can be quartersawn to mimic the shimmering ray fleck common in Arts & Crafts–era millwork.

The Process of Creating Custom Milled Lumber for Historic Replica Wood Products

Restoring or replicating historic woodwork is a precise and labor-intensive process. Unlike modern production lines that prioritize speed and uniformity, custom milling focuses on detail, flexibility, and one-of-a-kind accuracy.

Step 1: Site Assessment and Documentation

Architects and millworkers begin by surveying the property. Every molding, door stile, or window sash is measured, photographed, and cataloged. Shop drawings may be produced using AutoCAD or hand-drafted sketches. The goal is to capture the exact dimensions, joinery, and ornamental details.

Step 2: Lumber Selection

Choosing the right wood is critical. Preservationists balance authenticity with modern performance requirements. For exterior applications, rot resistance and stability may take precedence, while interior elements prioritize appearance and authenticity.

Step 3: Knife Grinding and Profile Matching

One of the hallmarks of custom milled lumber is profile replication. Specialized steel knives are ground to match the original profile of a molding or trim piece. This allows modern machinery to cut exact replicas that are indistinguishable from 150-year-old originals.

Step 4: Milling and Fabrication

Using planers, shapers, and moulders, raw lumber is transformed into historically accurate components. In some cases, hand tools are used to add the final detail or patina to match existing woodwork.

Step 5: Assembly and Joinery

For larger elements like historic replica windows and doors, traditional joinery methods—such as mortise-and-tenon or pegged joints—are reproduced. These not only provide structural strength but also honor the original methods of construction.

Step 6: Finishing

The final step includes sanding, staining, or painting. Some projects even call for custom finishing techniques to replicate the aged appearance of adjacent woodwork so that the replacement seamlessly integrates.

Applications of Custom Milled Lumber in Historic Replica Wood Products

1. Homes and Residential Properties

Private homeowners restoring historic residences often require custom millwork for:

Crown moldings and baseboards to match original interior detailing.
Custom windows and shutters designed with historically accurate joinery.
Staircases and banisters requiring hand-turned balusters or curved rails.
Doors and casings built with raised panels or specific architectural motifs.

2. Hotels and Hospitality Spaces

Grand hotels built during the Gilded Age or early 20th century often feature elaborate wood paneling, ballroom wainscoting, and carved ceiling beams. When these properties undergo restoration or adaptive reuse, custom milled lumber ensures that every lobby, guest room, and banquet hall reflects the elegance of its original era.

For boutique hotels in historic districts, the use of historic replica wood products also creates a sense of authenticity that appeals to guests seeking an immersive experience.

3. Mixed-Use Properties and Commercial Redevelopment

Across the country, developers are transforming warehouses, factories, and historic storefronts into mixed-use properties combining retail, office, and residential units. These adaptive reuse projects rely heavily on custom milled lumber to retain character while meeting modern code requirements.

Examples include:

Replicating storefront cornices for historic main streets.
Creating interior millwork that complements exposed brick and steel.
Designing historically accurate wood windows that meet energy efficiency standards.

Benefits of Using Custom Milled Lumber in Historic Replica Projects

Authenticity

Perhaps the greatest advantage is authenticity. Property owners avoid the “cookie-cutter” look of modern stock components, ensuring the finished project remains true to its origins.

Durability

Custom lumber can be milled from higher-quality, longer-lasting species, ensuring that restored woodwork stands the test of time.

Compliance with Preservation Standards

Local landmark commissions and preservation boards often demand accuracy. Using custom milled lumber demonstrates a commitment to historic integrity, increasing the likelihood of approval for renovation plans.

Increased Property Value

A historically accurate restoration not only preserves cultural heritage but also enhances market appeal. Buyers, investors, and tenants appreciate authentic craftsmanship that sets a property apart.

Sustainability

Reclaimed and responsibly sourced lumber used in custom milling reduces environmental impact while reusing materials that might otherwise go to waste.

Challenges in Producing Custom Milled Lumber

While the advantages are clear, producing custom milled lumber for historic replica wood products also involves unique challenges:

Cost: Custom milling requires specialized labor and tooling, which can be more expensive than off-the-shelf options.
Lead Times: Knife grinding, material sourcing, and fabrication extend project timelines.
Material Availability: Historic species may need substitutes that balance authenticity with availability.

However, most property owners find that the long-term benefits—authenticity, durability, and property value—far outweigh the initial investment.

Case Study Examples

Historic Hotel Renovation

A century-old hotel undergoing renovation required replication of 12-inch crown moldings and intricate ballroom paneling. Off-the-shelf products could not match the profiles. A mill shop used custom milled lumber with ground knives to create exact replicas, preserving the hotel’s grandeur.

Residential Restoration

A homeowner restoring an 1850s farmhouse needed historically accurate windows with true divided lights and hand-forged joinery. Custom milling provided sash frames that matched the originals while integrating energy-efficient glass.

Mixed-Use Development

Developers converting a tobacco warehouse into offices and apartments wanted to preserve the historic storefront façade. Custom milled lumber allowed replication of the original trim, pilasters, and transom frames, giving new life to the streetscape.

The Future of Custom Milled Lumber in Historic Replica Projects

As interest in historic preservation and adaptive reuse grows, the demand for custom milled lumber will continue to rise. Modern technology—such as CNC routers and 3D scanning—enhances accuracy, but traditional craftsmanship remains at the heart of the process.

Sustainability will also play a role. More projects are turning to reclaimed lumber, combining historical integrity with environmentally conscious practices.

For homes, hotels, and mixed-use properties alike, custom milled lumber remains the key to bridging the past and the present.

Conclusion

When it comes to preserving architectural heritage, there is no substitute for custom milled lumber. Whether the goal is restoring a historic home, renovating a grand hotel, or redeveloping a mixed-use property, authenticity and craftsmanship matter. Stock components cannot replicate the details, durability, or artistry of historic replica wood products.

By investing in custom milling, property owners ensure their projects meet preservation standards, stand the test of time, and honor the legacy of the structures they inhabit. From carved moldings to hand-crafted windows, custom milled lumber keeps history alive—one project at a time.

arched and elliptical window builder Virginia

by Gepetto Millworks | May 13, 2025 | Wooden Shutters

@gepetto.millworks
Gepetto craftsmen remade the exterior arc & historically accurate replacement windows on the Black History Museum in Jackson Ward. Originally fabricated in a time where construction was done by many hands sharing the work creative solutions like making a window to fit the arc of the exterior wall was a common practice 'in the trades'. Today, you'll need to turn to me and my team of trained craftsmen to make new windows that last another 200 years. If you are seeing complex overlight arcs or exterior bowed windows and wondering how to match give me a call at 804.938.2094 to chat about #historicrestoration #historicpreservation #Woodenwindows #historicvirginia
♬ original sound - Gepettomillworks

Arched windows and their many variations, including half-round overlights, Gothic arches, and elliptical forms, have been central to architectural aesthetics for centuries. In Virginia, from the early colonial period in the 17th century to modern architectural styles in the 21st century, these window forms have been adapted and reinterpreted to reflect changing tastes, technologies, and cultural influences. This document explores the appearances, styles, and contexts of rounded window forms as they appear in Virginian architecture from 1492 to 2025, offering comparative insight into how these forms evolved through history.

Early Colonial and Georgian Period (1607–1780s)

Though 1492 marks the start of European contact with the Americas, permanent architecture in Virginia began with the Jamestown settlement in 1607. Early structures were utilitarian, made of timber, and typically lacked ornate window treatments. As settlements grew and wealth increased, more elaborate styles emerged.

In the Georgian period (ca. 1700-1780), architectural influences from England dominated. Georgian architecture emphasized symmetry, proportion, and classical detail. Arched windows began to appear in high-status buildings, often in the form of fanlights—semi-circular or elliptical overlights—placed above central doors. These fanlights were not just decorative; they allowed natural light to enter entry halls. In Virginia, examples can be found in plantation homes such as the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg and Carter’s Grove, where arched windows framed in brick or wood conveyed classical elegance. The arches tended to be segmental or elliptical rather than Gothic, reflecting Enlightenment-era ideals of rationality and order.

Federal Style (1780s–1820s)

The Federal period retained the Georgian emphasis on symmetry but refined it with greater delicacy and lightness. Fanlights remained a hallmark of this style, often accompanied by sidelights flanking the door. Arched windows became more sophisticated, with thinner muntins and more intricate tracery. Elliptical arches grew more prevalent, aligning with the neoclassical revival that idealized ancient Roman forms.

Thomas Jefferson, Virginia’s most famous architectural mind, integrated arched windows in his designs at Monticello and the University of Virginia. His interpretation of Palladian architecture included Venetian windows (a central arched window flanked by two rectangular ones) and thermal windows (large, semi-circular windows) that drew from Roman precedents. Jefferson’s use of arched windows was both aesthetic and symbolic—an architectural assertion of Enlightenment ideals and republican virtue.

Greek Revival and Gothic Revival (1820s–1860s)

The Greek Revival movement, popular in Virginia from the 1820s through the Civil War, emphasized strong, rectangular forms and classical columns. Arched windows became less common in this period, with architects favoring pedimented frames and simple, rectangular openings. However, elliptical fanlights continued to adorn doorways, subtly maintaining the arched motif.

In contrast, Gothic Revival architecture reintroduced the pointed Gothic arch to Virginian architecture. Churches, in particular, embraced this style, with pointed arch windows filled with stained glass. The use of Gothic arches conveyed verticality, spirituality, and historical continuity. Examples include St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond and the Chapel at the University of Virginia, both of which feature lancet windows and tracery consistent with the Gothic Revival aesthetic. Unlike the classical round or elliptical arches, the Gothic arch is defined by its pointed apex, lending a different emotional and visual character—one more dramatic and evocative.

Victorian and Eclectic Styles (1870s–1910s)

In the late 19th century, the architectural landscape of Virginia diversified. Victorian styles, including Queen Anne, Romanesque Revival, and Second Empire, used a rich vocabulary of window forms. Arched windows were common but varied greatly in form and context.

Romanesque Revival buildings, such as the Old Post Office in Richmond, featured heavy stone arches with rounded tops and deeply recessed windows. These semi-circular arches conveyed strength and permanence. Meanwhile, Queen Anne homes might include arched windows in tower elements or as decorative gables, often with stained or leaded glass.

In this period, technological advancements in glass production and steel allowed for larger and more elaborate windows. The use of segmental, elliptical, and full-round arches became more decorative than structural, signaling the increasing role of aesthetics in residential and civic architecture.

Colonial Revival and Neoclassical Styles (1890s–1940s)

Colonial Revival architecture looked back to the Georgian and Federal periods for inspiration. As such, arched fanlights and Palladian windows reappeared in Virginia homes and public buildings. These forms were not mere copies but idealized reinterpretations, often with exaggerated proportions and decorative glass. For example, the Virginia Executive Mansion, remodeled in the early 20th century, includes numerous fanlight-style windows that evoke the state’s colonial heritage.

Neoclassical styles of the early 20th century, especially those used in banks, courthouses, and universities, often incorporated large, symmetrical arched windows to convey grandeur and civic virtue. The domed rotunda of the University of Virginia continued to inspire buildings across the state.

Modernism and Minimalism (1940s–1970s)

With the rise of Modernist architecture, arched windows became rare. Modernism emphasized function, simplicity, and new materials, favoring large rectangular panes and curtain walls. However, exceptions existed—especially in ecclesiastical architecture—where arched windows retained symbolic and aesthetic value.

Some mid-century modern homes and buildings incorporated abstracted versions of arched windows, often in the form of curved rooflines or minimalist, half-round clerestory windows. These nods to historical forms were subtle and reinterpreted within the modern vocabulary.

Postmodernism and New Urbanism (1980s–2000s)

Postmodern architecture allowed for the reintroduction of historical elements with a sense of irony or playfulness. Arched windows returned in exaggerated or stylized forms, often detached from their traditional contexts. In Virginia, suburban developments and public buildings adopted elements like oversized Palladian windows or rounded porticoes, mixing styles in eclectic combinations.

New Urbanism, which gained traction in the 1990s and 2000s, sought to revive traditional urban forms. In places like Reston and parts of Alexandria, arched windows appeared in buildings that mirrored early 20th-century styles, aiming to create walkable, historically resonant neighborhoods.

Contemporary and Sustainable Architecture (2010s–2025)

In the 21st century, architecture in Virginia reflects a blend of tradition and innovation. Rounded windows are used selectively to add softness to otherwise rectilinear forms. In luxury homes, arched transoms and elliptical overlights are often included to enhance natural lighting and evoke classical elegance.

In commercial and institutional architecture, designers sometimes employ large elliptical or circular windows as focal points, drawing on both classical and modern precedents. Sustainable design principles have also led to new interpretations of arched windows that maximize passive solar gain and energy efficiency.

Contemporary churches and cultural centers in Virginia occasionally revisit the Gothic arch, integrating pointed windows in a sleek, minimalist style that blends spirituality with modern sensibilities.

Arched windows across Virginian architecture serve as a visual and symbolic link across centuries of changing styles. The classical round and elliptical forms of the Georgian, Federal, and Colonial Revival periods communicate balance, order, and refinement. The Gothic arch, by contrast, is dynamic and emotive, typically associated with spiritual and ecclesiastical structures.

While early uses of arched windows were often structural as well as decorative, later periods employed them more for stylistic effect. Materials have shifted from hand-blown glass and wood to steel, aluminum, and high-performance glazing.

The variations—fanlights, Venetian windows, thermal windows, lancet arches, elliptical transoms—all tell stories of cultural aspiration, technological advancement, and aesthetic evolution. Whether in a rural plantation house, a downtown courthouse, or a sustainable modern home, these windows reflect Virginia’s layered architectural identity.

From the early colonial settlements to contemporary designs, arched and rounded windows have remained a consistent yet evolving element in Virginia’s architectural tapestry. Their forms—be they half-round overlights, Gothic arches, or elliptical windows—embody both continuity and change. In comparing these styles over more than five centuries, we observe not just architectural trends but broader cultural values, from Enlightenment rationalism to modern ecological consciousness. The story of Virginia’s arched windows is, ultimately, a story of adaptation, innovation, and enduring beauty.

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Bowed Windows Made in Virginia

by Gepetto Millworks | May 13, 2025 | Architectural Millwork, Wooden Windows

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 trusted by preservationists, architects, and homeowners alike. Among our most requested products are our round, arc, Gothic arch, and bowed windows—each style offering a unique aesthetic and functional value. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of a fully round window, the graceful curvature of an arc or bowed window, or the soaring lines of a Gothic arch, Gepetto Millworks captures the essence of historic Virginia architecture.

Round Windows: Architectural Focal Points Throughout the Centuries

Round windows have served as distinctive focal points in architecture throughout Virginia’s history. At Gepetto Millworks, our craftsmen meticulously re-create round windows to match the historic build style and quality ranging from small porthole-style accents to large oculi that dominate gable ends and facades in many prominant buildings. Fully round windows were especially popular during the Georgian and Federal periods as symbols of harmony and balance. The round, arc and elipsis windows appear above entryways or in pediments as focal features. In Victorian homes, especially in Queen Anne and Romanesque Revival styles, round windows added a touch of whimsy and light to stairwells, turrets, and attics.

If your historic Victorian home has a turret, the windows were likely crafted to fit, the exact outward arc to match the circumfrense of the turret. Gepetto’s craftsmen are specifically trained to reproduce the quality construction that has lasted a hundred years by using the highest quality sapele utilizing traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery true to the period. If you’re not familiar with Sapele it’s a similar wood to mahogony which comes from Africa, instead of South America. Sapele lumber is a hardwood sourced from the Entandrophragma cylindricum tree, native to Africa. It’s often used as a substitute for mahogany, especially South American mahogany, due to its similar appearance and properties. Sapele is known for its rich reddish-brown color, which can darken with age, and its natural luster. The grain can be interlocked, creating beautiful figures like ribbon, quilted, and pommele. Most important for windows, Sapele and Mahogany are used as they machine very straight, and have a high resistance to rot from absorbed water. The new choice for stabilized and rot resistant wood stock is called Accoya – read about the treatment of Acetylation for wood.

Arc Windows: Graceful Curves for Historic Spaces

Arc windows feature a curved top with straight sides. Often featured in church buildings, estate homes, and public structures across Virginia, arc windows bring an understated elegance like a flower at the top of a stem. In historic Virginia architecture, arc windows made their appearance during the late Federal and early Victorian periods as craftsmen were called on to fabricate the more elaborate designs of architects. Especially prevalent in Southern plantation homes, often installed above doors, you’re subtly familiar with their placement but as you start to google for a contractor to repair or replace them, you’ll find that it’s nearly a lost art! Not to worry, Gepetto’s staff are trained and experienced in the mathematical proportions, and the tooling needed to producing these complex shapes to exactly match your historic window. At Gepetto Millworks, our arc windows are handcrafted to match. We replicate traditional molding profiles, sash styles, and muntin patterns while integrating modern glazing technology.

Gothic Arch Windows: A Testament to Virginia’s Ecclesiastical and Romantic Heritage

Gothic arch windows are instantly recognizable by their pointed arches and narrow vertical proportions. Found in churches, academic buildings, and large estates, these windows are emblematic of the Gothic Revival movement. The Gothic Revival architectural movement in the United States swept into Virginia, occurred in the building furvor from approximately 1840 to 1880. Crafting a Gothic arch window requires immense skill and precision. Gepetto Millworks artisans sculpt each piece from premium hardwood, ensuring the pointed apex is structurally sound and visually perfect. These windows often feature intricate tracery and divided lights, requiring a high degree of technical craftsmanship that the shop at Gepetto keeps alive. Our Gothic arch windows grace both restorations of Virginia’s historic churches and modern homes that seek to incorporate classical drama. Whether you are restoring a cathedral in Richmond or adding a Gothic-inspired touch to a custom estate in Charlottesville, Gepetto’s windows are your go-to source.

Bowed Windows: The Victorian Love Affair with Curves

Bowed windows curve outward from a building’s facade, often found in Victorian homes, especially those with turrets and bay extensions. In Virginia, these outwardly bowed windows became especially fashionable during the mid to late 1800s as urban and rural homeowners sought to display their wealth and architectural savvy through the new homes they were building with the most intricate or ornate results. Bowed windows require a mastery of compound curves and precision framing. Gepetto Millworks brings over three decades of experience crafting bowed windows that seamlessly fit into historic turret structures in wood or stone. Our team works closely with architects and homeowners to ensure the curvature and mullion spacing complements the building’s scale and period for an exact match.

Each bowed window is assembled by hand using traditional joinery methods and features high-performance glazing for durability and energy efficiency. Our craftsmen have recreated bowed windows for homes in Alexandria, Norfolk, and Staunton—preserving the distinctive Victorian charm of their turrets and facades.

Federal Period Elipsis Overlights: A Distinctive Accent of Historic Virginia

Elliptical overlights—also known as fanlights—were a hallmark of the Federal period, providing natural light and architectural refinement above entry doors. In Virginia, these elipsis-shaped windows were often adorned with intricate muntin patterns and flanked by sidelights. Gepetto Millworks specializes in accurately recreating these elliptical overlights using historical blueprints, archival photos, or surviving fragments. Our reproductions have graced the doorways of plantation homes in Williamsburg, townhouses in Fredericksburg, and government buildings in Richmond. Using custom bending forms and precision-cut jigs, our artisans handcraft each elliptical frame, fitting it with period-correct glazing and mullion patterns. We also offer restoration services for damaged or incomplete overlights, ensuring these iconic features endure for future generations.

What sets Gepetto Millworks apart in Virginia’s landscape of historic window craftsmen is our relentless attention to detail and commitment to authenticity. Every round, arc, Gothic arch, and bowed window is a testament to our passion for historical accuracy and our dedication to artisanal woodworking. We collaborate with historical societies, preservation commissions, and homeowners who want their architectural features to reflect the period styles of Virginia’s diverse architectural heritage. From the coastal Georgian mansions of the Tidewater region to the highland estates of the Shenandoah Valley, Gepetto Millworks is proud to be the trusted name for period-specific window design and fabrication.

Our craftsmen utilize time-honored techniques:

Mortise-and-tenon joinery
Hand-carved moldings
Custom-milled sash profiles
Historically accurate glass lites and muntins
Fine finishing using natural oils and historically accurate paint
Each window is more than a product; it is a legacy piece that honors the architectural lineage of Virginia.

Monticello Region: In Charlottesville, a late-Federal style estate required a full set of elliptical overlights and arc windows. Gepetto Millworks used historic blueprints and archival photos to reconstruct each window, earning praise from the local historical society.

Downtown Richmond: A restored Gothic Revival church needed over a dozen custom Gothic arch windows, including tracery patterns unique to the building. Our craftsmen worked on-site to ensure a seamless fit and aesthetic harmony.

Norfolk Victorian Mansion: This turreted Victorian home received a full bowed window rebuild, fabricated in our workshop and installed with precision to preserve its dramatic street-facing curve.

Fredericksburg Federal Home: Damaged elliptical overlights were restored to their former glory, complete with fan muntins and clear restoration glass.

Architectural Continuity and Innovation

While our windows reflect historic aesthetics, they also meet modern performance standards. All Gepetto Millworks products are available with insulated glazing units, low-E glass, and weather-sealing. We believe that preserving Virginia’s architectural history should not come at the cost of energy efficiency. Our design team works in AutoCAD and Revit for precision planning, and we offer full shop drawings for complete sizing, fit, and approval for client visualization. Blending of old-world craft and modern technology makes Gepetto Millworks a leader in both restoration and new construction projects. From conceptual design through installation, Gepetto Millworks offers a collaborative and professional approach. Our window specialists consult on site-specific challenges, whether it’s ensuring a bowed window maintains the correct radius or replicating a Gothic arch to meet preservation board standards.

We welcome:

Homeowners restoring historic properties
Architects designing period-sensitive new builds
Contractors managing adaptive reuse projects
Preservationists requiring documentation and authenticity

Craftsmanship Rooted in Virginia History

Round, arc, Gothic arch, and bowed windows have each played a defining role in Virginia’s architectural evolution. At Gepetto Millworks, we honor that legacy with handcrafted windows built to exacting standards. Whether you’re restoring a Federal period home with elliptical overlights, adding a bowed window to a turreted Victorian, or installing a fully round window as a dramatic focal point, our team are Virginia natives that live in and pass by the history that has made us each day. Call Matt direct at 804.938.2097 to schedule your project into the pipeline. Reach out today to bring historical accuracy and artisanal detail to your project.

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