Before and After Amazing Restoration of Steele Mansion, built in ~1863
The restoration of Steele Mansion, built in around 1863, must be an extraordinary project! This historic property likely had a lot of charm and intricate details that required careful attention. While I don’t have specific images of the “before and after” of the restoration, I can imagine how such a grand, 19th-century mansion would have transformed.
Before Restoration:
Exterior: The building may have had aged, weathered materials, peeling paint, and worn-out trim. Perhaps there was damage to the stone or woodwork from years of exposure to the elements.
Interior: The original woodwork, plaster moldings, or wallpaper could have been faded, cracked, or chipped. The once-grand features—like fireplaces, chandeliers, and staircases—might have been concealed under layers of modern materials or fallen into disrepair.
After Restoration:
Exterior: The facade might have been beautifully cleaned and restored, with new or reclaimed materials in keeping with the mansion’s original architectural style. If the mansion was built in the Italianate or Gothic Revival style, for example, we’d see detailed cornices, bracketed eaves, and arched windows now restored to their former glory.
Interior: The intricate woodwork, stained glass, or even original wallpaper patterns might have been painstakingly revived. The once-dull floors could have been refinished to a high shine, and the vintage fixtures restored to their original splendor or thoughtfully recreated.
Architectural Restoration:
Exterior Restoration:
Facade: The original architectural features—whether a classic Italianate, Gothic Revival, or Second Empire style—would be carefully restored. If the mansion had a mansard roof (commonly seen in Second Empire homes), it would be meticulously repaired and re-shingled, likely with slate or other historically accurate materials.
Siding: If the mansion had original wood clapboard siding, it would have been stripped, cleaned, and possibly replaced in areas where damage was too severe. Paint colors might have been chosen to reflect period accuracy, often a more muted, historic palette.
Windows and Doors: Original windows might have been restored to their original sash style or replaced with high-quality replicas that maintain the period feel. These windows may have been fitted with energy-efficient glass to preserve both historical aesthetics and modern comfort.
Porches, Columns, and Balustrades: Many mansions from the 19th century had grand front porches with elaborate columns and balustrades. These elements, often carved from wood or stone, could have been restored or recreated to match their original designs.
Interior Restoration:
Original Woodwork: The wood moldings, paneling, and trim would have been stripped of layers of paint and refurbished to their original richness, with intricate details brought back to life. The restoration team would likely have focused on refinishing walnut, oak, or cherry woodwork, which were common in homes built during that period.
Flooring: The floors, if they were originally hardwood, could have been sanded down and refinished. If there was ornate parquet or inlaid wood flooring, this would have been restored to highlight the craftsmanship of the time.
Ceilings: Often, older mansions had elaborate plasterwork, with decorative cornices, medallions, and ceiling roses for chandeliers. These ceiling features would have been restored to preserve the grandeur of the rooms, or replaced if they had deteriorated beyond repair. A fine example might be a decorative plaster ceiling medallion in the dining or ballroom.
Staircases: Many mansions from this era had grand spiral staircases with ornate balustrades and carved newel posts. Such staircases would be restored, ensuring that each step and handrail returned to its original condition.
Restoring Historic Details:
Fireplaces: If the original fireplaces remained, they would likely have been restored, with mantels and surrounds refinished to match their historical style—whether that’s marble, wood, or cast iron. Fireplaces were often central focal points, and restoring these could dramatically impact the atmosphere of the home.
Chandeliers & Light Fixtures: Vintage or reproduction chandeliers, sconces, and light fixtures—made from brass or crystal—would have been either restored or sourced to match the period of the house.
Wallpapers and Paintings: Wallpaper patterns from the 19th century—floral, damask, or even more intricate murals—could have been recreated using historical techniques, and some rooms may have been lined with original wallpaper if it was still intact. Often, a restoration will incorporate modern paint colors to blend with the period feel, and to provide a modern aesthetic, while still reflecting the tones of the original palette.
Landscaping:
Gardens and Grounds: The landscaping of a historic property often plays a large role in the restoration. Mature trees, original pathways, and ornamental gardens might have been revived. Classic landscaping features like stone walls, wrought-iron gates, or fountains could have been restored or recreated to maintain historical integrity.
Outdoor Structures: Any remaining outbuildings, such as a carriage house, servants’ quarters, or a gazebo, would also be carefully restored to match the main house’s historical character.
Modernization while Retaining Character:
In many historic restorations, the aim is to blend modern amenities seamlessly with the original character of the home. Some of the key updates might have included:
Modern HVAC: A sophisticated climate control system would have been added, likely with discreet vents or underfloor heating to ensure that the mansion’s original features like fireplaces and grand ceilings were preserved.
Plumbing & Electrical: Upgrading the plumbing and electrical systems to meet current safety codes, but often without compromising the architectural integrity. For example, hidden wiring behind baseboards or within the walls might have been used to maintain a clean aesthetic.
Kitchens and Bathrooms: While kitchens and bathrooms would have been updated to meet modern standards, care would be taken to do so in a way that reflects the period. For example, incorporating custom cabinetry with historical influences, classic subway tiles, or vintage-inspired fixtures to blend with the home’s age.
Unveiling the Restoration:
When a project like this is completed, the results are often stunning:
Before: The mansion may have been in a state of significant disrepair, with peeling paint, crumbling brick, and missing architectural details. Inside, it may have felt dark, damp, and outdated, with many original features covered up or lost.
After: The finished product is often breathtaking. The restored mansion might now gleam with a new vibrancy while still exuding an air of historical importance. The craftsmanship of the past and the attention to detail in the restoration allow the Steele Mansion to once again shine as a symbol of 19th-century grandeur, while offering the comforts of modern living.
Community Impact:
A successful restoration of a historic mansion like Steele Mansion often becomes a centerpiece of the community. It can serve as a museum, an event venue, or even a private residence, and helps preserve the architectural history of the region.
If you’re able to find before-and-after photos or more specific details of Steele Mansion’s restoration, it would be exciting to see how these ideas align with what was actually done!
