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The project The Meaning of Things in New Hope, Pennsylvania is a custom commercial renovation that was led by Ralph Fey Architects in collaboration with Irwin Build. The goal was to create a distinctive space dedicated to showcasing “ quality lifestyle goods thoughtfully designed and curated for everyday rituals and traditions.”
The renovation aimed to transform while also maintaining the historical features of this 1800’s property, and craft a unique environment that reflects a commitment to quality and thoughtful design. Working on old structures often involves a delicate balance between preserving the historical integrity and introducing necessary modernizations. In collaboration with the owner, the goal was to feature some of the existing structure to showcase the historical significance, while creating a beautiful and functional remodeled space. Irwin Build paid special attention to retaining and enhancing key architectural elements, allowing visitors to appreciate the properties history.
Through the combined expertise of Ralph Fey Architects and Irwin Build, the space became a curated haven for individuals seeking refined and purposeful lifestyle products. The collaboration underscores a shared commitment for excellence and passion for creating spaces that goes beyond aesthetics. The completion of this project poised to offer a one-of-a -kind destination where quality goods harmonize with a thoughtfully designed environment, enriching the experiences of those who engage with it
We had the opportunity to delve into the fascinating construction techniques and historical features that defined this unique project that was built in the early 1800s. One notable aspect we encountered during the demolition phase was the presence of balloon framing in the walls and brick nogging (the exterior walls had the wall cavities filled with brick to help “insulate the home”) in the original foundation exterior walls.
Balloon framing was a popular construction method used in the early 18th and early 19th centuries. It involved long, continuous studs that extended from the sill plate at the foundation all the way up to the second-floor joists. These vertical studs acted as the primary load-bearing elements, while the horizontal top and bottom plates provided stability. This technique allowed for fast and efficient construction, as it eliminated the need for individual floor-by-floor construction. However, it also posed challenges in terms of fire safety and structural stability, as there were continuous cavities within the walls where fire could easily spread.
In our restoration efforts, we came across intricately crafted mortise and tenon joints throughout the demolition face. These joints were commonly employed in traditional timber framing methods and involved one piece of wood with a projecting tenon fitting into a matching hole or mortise of another piece. These joints were robust and durable, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. However, due to the wear and tear over time, we had to employ modern shoring techniques to reinforce and stabilize these joints, ensuring the long-term stability of the structure.
The exterior walls of the house consisted of multiple layers of siding, offering a glimpse into the evolution of architectural styles over the centuries. Initially, there was a layer of plaster and lath, which was a prevalent construction method of the time. This layer added a charming texture and served as a base for subsequent layers of siding. Above the plaster and lath, we discovered multiple layers of beveled cedar siding, reflecting the aesthetic choices made during later renovations. This layering of siding provided us with a rich history to work with while restoring the home.
Working on old structures often involves a delicate balance between preserving the historical integrity and introducing necessary modernizations. In collaboration with the owner, our goal was to feature some of the existing structure to showcase the historical significance, while creating a beautiful and functional remodeled space. We paid special attention to retaining and enhancing key architectural elements, allowing visitors to appreciate the home’s history.
Aging is a natural process for any building, especially one as old as this. We carefully worked with the natural aging of the structure, ensuring that it was incorporated seamlessly into the overall design. Additionally, custom moldings were crafted to maintain proper sightlines and ensure a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space. This attention to detail helped to highlight the inherent beauty of the original features while providing a sense of continuity with the remodeled areas.
It was a privilege to be part of the journey to bring this 200+ year old home into a new light. By preserving its historical elements and incorporating modern construction techniques where needed, we were able to breathe new life into the structure while honoring its rich heritage. The resulting space not only tells the story of the building’s past but also provides a unique and captivating experience for its occupants and visitors alike.
Irwin Build is a true leader in the restoration industry for over 35 years. We offer prompt and professional services to all our customers ensuring the highest levels of quality service.
