Remodeling of historic buildings and re-use of historic artifacts.
Harrison Woodfield Architects is particularly interested in preserving valuable links to our architectural and cultural past and in the recycling of building materials where this is practical, economic or aesthetically desirable.
A few examples of our work:
Remodeling of Historic Buildings
After a lifetime as a barn on a farm in New England, this building was dismantled beam by beam, transported to Sonoma in California and re-erected, where it has started a new life. Sara completely reconfigured the building as a two bedroom custom home with every modern amenity, adding the circular farm style silo as a staircase to the master bedroom and loft. There is a wonderful feeling of warmth from the old wood throughout this delightful new home.
Maybeck house
Just north of San Francisco, in Marin County, a home designed by the iconic architect Bernard Maybeck in 1906, is now under an historic preservation order. Years ago, before the home was designated an architectural treasure, alterations were made to the building which were not in character with the original Maybeck design. Sara was engaged to remodel the building in harmony with the true Maybeck concept. This required detailed designs, negotiations and approvals from the City to ensure that the finished house was historically authentic. The work was successfully completed, and the owners know that they have significantly improved the authenticity and the value of their home.
Historic Carriage House
Currently under design in San Rafael, this building was an original 1890’s carriage house for an estate that was later converted into a residence. We will be adding 166 square feet to the building, but in important places: expanding and rebuilding the kitchen, dining room and breakfast room, and creating a lovely second floor living room under the original gable roof. As a historically significant building our remit is to keep the building looking original and authentic, and to assure this we are involved in a complicated planning approval process with the city.
Front Door Entry
Polychrome terracotta door frame and wall medallions from an old Mid-West Restaurant, circa 1910.
Deck Rail & Interior Balcony
Solid iron railings from a demolished hospital and rail taken from a turn of the 19th century department store in New Orleans.
Antique Floors
Antique limestone paving stones from France, cut in random rectangles. Re-used terracotta flooring.
Stone Garden Sink
This antique basin is made of limestone and was brought from France. It probably started life as a cherished household or garden sink. We set it on new stone legs, and found an interesting faucet to provide cold water for washing vegetables and hands while working in the garden.