Contemporary Classical Architecture comes to glorious life in 'Sacred Oak!' This magnificent custom Re-build / Restoration of a handsome 1905c. Dutch Colonial Revival Home in lovely East Oak Lane, Philadelphia- embodies the holistic movement of honoring and enfolding traditional lines and shapes into today's dynamic Urbanism. Enhancing and celebrating not just the original Builder-Artist's vision, but the greater Community's deep need for respectful connectivity, love of Beauty, and peaceful sense of place- this remarkable and sensitively re-constructed Home...feeds that City Soul. The Nobility of lived chapters by each precious family- are worthy of telling by preserving & showcasing the Best of its former contributors. Here, layers of tired past-serving life were carefully removed to reveal rock solid bones- now ready with Love to support this Property's next 100+ years. Where gone beyond salvage... custom-painted, hand placed Cedar shakes & imported Cedar planks were commissioned & installed in its place- the 'quick-fix vinyl siding option' of hiding time's sins- was not a choice for this project's orchestrators. New and thoughtful vision was divinely directed by a talented local Artisan whose mantra: "never rush the process..." became the rallying cry throughout this extensive renovation project. Collapsing porch planks were sustainably salvaged for re-use in a stunningly crafted wainscoting project in the 3rd floor Bath. Expert carpentry was implemented throughout- whether by the carefully mitred arrangement of freshly varnished wood on the welcoming Wrap-around Porch, or the built-to-last detailing of the newly added elevated back Deck- no shortcuts here! Textured walls were removed, reconditioned & glazed w/ metallic, then placed artfully throughout to add subtle movement and depth where required. Gorgeous plaster walls were retained & reconditioned where possible; while installation of brand new wiring, more effective lighting mapping, new plumbing systems, comprehensive room insulation, & updated HVAC w/ added dual Zoned Air Conditioning- offered opportunities for creating gorgeously re-configured rooms better serving today's needs. A total re-thinking of the 3rd floor Suite not only allowed for soaring vaulted ceilings, but revealed a long-forgotten Palladian window re-built to crown the epic spaces; and opened up to better showcase the Gambrel Roof line- allowing for maximum living choices. Curated antique, vintage & modern lighting fixtures illuminate w/ reverence each hallowed room in the Home's 4 levels. The preserved Art Glass of the first floor windows inspired accompanying choices of sculptural, refracting Halophane shades, or Bronze Chandeliers of provenance, Reeded Glass lamp shades, or delicious cascading Crystal Pendants...A sparkling 'Halo' serving the main Staircase pulls all together with a Holy wink! Perhaps not an accident, paint colors such as 'Blessing' incorporate for a fresh palate- though 'Smoke,' 'Cashmere,' & 'Dragon's Eye' balance the Home's naughty equation. The iridescence of the showpiece Mantel tiles inspired a cheeky take on the classic '1905 Green' in the glamorous new Powder Room. Rescued and precious old-growth Oak Flooring now re-built and stained to Dark Walnut perfection, adds foundation to the Joyfully high-ceilinged Dining and Living Rooms. Limestone floors w/ suede-like finish visually soften underfoot that KITCHEN! Newly designed arched passages, inspired by existing Bay Landing- elegantly directs the eye- from the enclosed Solarium Front Entrance to the rear exhilarating Atrium- and offer an abundance of treasured moments to come. Doors throughout have been authentically replaced- now w/ solid wood & period crystal or brass knobs. Lush high-end carpeting & deluxe Marvin Windows grace rooms above. Primary En Suite is magnificent w/ Balcony, Art Tile & Marble. A newly planted Scarlet Maple & Canopy Oak tie yesteryear to tomorrow...Here, life-sustaining Hope abounds!
